Virgie Ammons Patents a Fireplace Damper Actuating Tool

Virgie Ammons was an inventor and woman of color who invented a device for dampening fireplaces. She received a patent for a fireplace damper actuating tool on September 30, 1975. Little is known about the life of Virgie Ammons. One source says she was born on Dec. 29, 1908 in Gaithersburg, Maryland and died on July 12, 2000. She lived in West Virginia for most of her life.  Ammons filed her patent on August 6, 1974, at which time she was living in Eglon, West Virginia. There is no information to be found about her education, training or profession. One unverified source says she was a self-employed caretaker and a practicing Muslim who attended services in Temple Hills. Fireplace Damper Actuating Tool - Patent US 3,908,633 A fireplace damper actuating tool is a tool that is used to open and close the damper on a fireplace. It keeps the damper from opening or fluttering in the wind.   If you have a fireplace or stove, you may be familiar with the sound of a fluttering damper. A damper is an adjustable plate that fits in the flue of a stove or the chimney of a fireplace. It helps control the draft into the stove or fireplace. Dampers could be a plate that slides across the air opening, or it could be fixed in place in the pipe or flue and turned so the angle allows more or less air flow. In the days when cooking was done on a stove that was powered by burning wood or coal, adjusting the flue was a way of controlling the temperature. Virgie Ammons may be have been familiar with these stoves, given her date of birth. She may also have lived in an area where electric or gas stoves were not common until later in her life. We have no details as to what her inspiration was for the fireplace damper actuating tool. With a fireplace, opening the damper allows more air to be drawn into the fireplace from the room and convey the heat up the chimney. More air flow can often result in more flames, but also in losing more heat rather than warming the room. Keeping the Damper Closed The patent abstract  says Ammons damper actuating tool addressed the problem of fireplace dampers that flutter and make noise when gusty winds affected the chimney Some dampers do not remain fully shut because they have to be light enough in weight so the operating lever can open them easily. This makes small differences in air pressure between the room and the upper chimney draw them open. She was concerned that even a slightly open damper could cause a significant loss of heat in winter, and could even result in loss of coolness in summer. Both would be a waste of energy. Her actuating tool allowed the damper to be closed and held closed. She noted that when not in use, the tool could be stored next to the fireplace. No information was found as to whether her tool was manufactured and marketed.

The Cold War During World War II - 854 Words

The Cold War was a major event in the U.S. and Soviet Union’s history. The main reason that these two countries entered into the Cold War after World War II was power. The USSR and United States had two very different perspectives on power coming out of World War II. This disagreement ultimately caused the Cold War. Russia’s perspective after World War II was influenced by Joseph Stalin. Stalin, the leader of the USSR at the time, was a merciless dictator. His main concern was maintaining power and assuring the Soviet Union’s influence worldwide. During WWII, the Soviet Union lost more than just lives. In addition to the deaths of 20 million citizens, they lost a large amount of their agricultural and industrial resources. Stalin wanted those who were responsible for this mass destruction to pay and rebuild the Soviet economy. The United States had a very different perspective than the Soviet Union. During WWII, the U.S. experienced far less casualties than the USSR at only 400,000 deaths. It also managed to avoid gunfire on the U.S. mainland. These factors influenced the U.S. perspective after the war. Harry S. Truman was a major influence on the U.S. perspective after World War II as well. He came into the office with very little experience internationally and believed that the U.S. needed to have overseas opportunities in order to have a flourishing economy. To ensure this economic prosperity, the United States had to work well with countries that had few tradingShow MoreRelatedThe Cold War During World War II930 Words   |  4 PagesThe Cold War was political hostility between the United States of America and the Soviet Union through threats, propaganda and series of warfare incidents that made these superpowers of the time suspicious of one another. With the sources of the reader I will explain whoâ €™s to be at fault for the Cold war, the United States or the Soviet Union. The term â€Å"Cold War† according to Heonik Kwon in his document origins of the Cold War â€Å"†¦ refers to the prevailing condition of the world in the second halfRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II Essay1185 Words   |  5 PagesThe Cold War was not a military conflict, but was an ongoing political conflict involving both military and economic competition between two superpowers advancing rapidly wanting to be number one. The evolvement of the Cold War began during and after World War I, although the official beginning of the Cold War was in 1945, at the Yalta Conference after World War II. There were many causes of the Cold War, but can be summed up as a battle between capitalism and communism. Also, along with PresidentRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II Essay1298 Words   |  6 PagesThe Cold War was the name given to the non-aggressive conflict between The United States and Russia that began after World War II. However, there is disagreement over the exact dates of the Cold War. Nevertheless, it took place somewhere between the end of World War II and the early 1989 (Wendt n.d). The Cold War brought about a number of crises in the decades that it lasted. These crises include: Vietnam, the Berlin Wall, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. The Cold War itself was the result of the UnitedRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II1397 Words   |  6 PagesWar is the result of hate and brutality that can affect people in a negative way. The Cold War relates to the war in the Butter Battle book as it demonstrates hate, which should not be taught to kids in children s books. Conflict and competition can lead to war. The Cold War was a 45 year long rivalry between the Western powers, led by the United States and the Soviet Union. The United States formed a military base to protect them from other threats such as the Soviets. The expansion of the SovietRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II1324 Words   |  6 PagesWhen World War II ended, the last thing the countries imagined was another worldwide conflict. But that’s exactly was soon ensued when the Cold War erupted between the Eastern powers and the Western powers. The Eastern powers consisted of the Soviet Union and the Western powers consisted of America, Britain and France. During World War II, these allies had a common ground to work together in effort to fight against Hitler and the Nazi Party. The Cold War wasn’t an actual war where battles were fought;Read MoreThe Cold War During World War II Essay1632 Words   |  7 PagesThe Cold War was a clash of culture, ideologies, and a standoff between the world s two greatest nuclear powers. The argument of the American side was based around Capitalism and a hunger for ever growing business while the Soviet Union’s was structured around Communism and it’s powerful theocracy that stated it must be spread to every country on the planet. As a result, there has been much debate about whether the U.S. initiated the Cold War through their usage of the atomic bomb in World War IIRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II1760 Words   |  8 PagesEssay One During World War II the United States and the Soviet Union were allies, but by 1950, their relationship had disintegrated and the two nations were engaged in a â€Å"Cold War.† The â€Å"Cold War† occurred due to efforts by both nations after the war to maintain influence in regions like Eastern Europe for the Soviets and Turkey and Greece for the United States, but the â€Å"Cold War† wasn’t limited to these disputes. The â€Å"Cold War† was influenced by many factors on the United States side including theRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II970 Words   |  4 PagesThe Cold War was a period of 44 years of both military and political tension after World War II. There were many ideals and events that lead to the Cold War. Nationalism, poor economic conditions, and a strong desire for democracy and human rights are the primary reasons that many believe the Cold War started. However, these are just a few of the reasons for the Cold War. Events s uch as the Yalta Conference, Truman Doctrine, Potsdam Conference, and the Marshall Plan also greatly influenced the startRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II2261 Words   |  10 PagesThe Cold War was a period of rivalry short of armed confrontation. Tensions oscillated between former allies of the World War II, Russia and America, leading to the infamous cold war. It is rather difficult to determine the starting point of the Cold War because the East-West relationship had been deteriorating since a long time due to their conflicting ideologies and aspirations. However, the circumstances required for them to form an alliance in World War II, but this friendship was short livedRead MoreThe Cold War During World War II Essay2497 Words   |  10 PagesThe Cold War was one of the most fear-inducing situations in American history. Post World War II, the superpowers of the world, namely the United States and the U.S.S.R, struggled to settle issues that arose from initiatives and re sponses after the war. These created the climate of tension and distrust between the two nations (Sibley 1). The United States held tightly to its liberal-capitalist beliefs while the Soviets â€Å"†¦professed fervent belief,† in their Marxist-Leninist ideology (Sibley 1). Many

Applied Business Research for Arthur Barnett Ltd - myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theApplied Business Research for Arthur Barnett Ltd. Answer: Introduction The research problem emerges because there are certain issues faced by employees in Arthur Barnett Ltd which is located in Melbourne branch, Australia. Arthur Barnett Ltd is one of leading Retail Company that delivers the superior products to their consumers from a very long time. There are a large number of employees who engaged in the branch of Arthur Barnett Ltd from last five months[1]. But, from last 2-3 month, they have been suffering from certain issues within an organization. It can be evaluated that whole productivity of company is worsening day by day. Another issue that is faced by employees is managers pushed them to work more. The company has placed fewer employees for a particular job which creates conflicts and complexities for performing the task in an appropriate manner[2]. Along with this, it is considered that people get less compensation for overtime work and also getting fewer amounts in return for doing the work in the store. This research will help the organization to understand that productivity is declining due to stress at the workplace. It will also develop understanding regarding depth analysis of stress at the workplace and how its impact can be overcome[3]. Therefore, this research will use literature review to create effective knowledge about the concept of stress and helps the readers to eliminate this concern. For conducting the literature review, different peer-reviewed journal article will be used by a researcher. Literature Review Human resource is a significant element at the workplace as it may directly affect the productivity of that particular company. In the current business scenario, dynamic changes take place within an organization which can influence to get competitive and sustainable advantages. But, in the fast-paced world, these changes create different issues for employees in the particular workplace[4]. The concern which is faced by an organization may have a serious impact on the performance of employees. Moreover, if a workforce is stressful and dissatisfied then they cannot provide the good quality performance and work. For instance, those workforces who have fewer stress levels may get higher job satisfaction at the workplace[5]. Significance of Stress at the workplace There are several types of research which have emphasized on the behavior of a company such as job stress and its impact on the performance of employees. Both these factors play a vital role to assess and evaluate the result and productivity of a corporation. Job stress is defined as detrimental physical and emotional responses which can arise due to mismatch of the resources, capability, and needs of the employees with the job requirement. This type of stress is developed when a specific person become aware of the personal dysfunction[6]. It could be the result of certain circumstances that are ubiquitous in the workplace and are conveyed with psychological with physiological acts. This can create threats to employees at the workplace. In certain situation, it is analyzed that people who are engaging at the workplace may react with the non-productive physical. Employees can also demonstrate their emotional responses in case the characteristics of the task do not match with their cap abilities, skills, resources, and expectation[7]. It can be evaluated that the term employee performance indicates that a specific person can complete those projects which are predetermined by a corporation. As well as, this specific project is completed as per the standard of management. Along with this, optimum utilization of resources relies on the specific task of the company. It also stated that how employees stress has an impact on the optimum utilization of resources in the specific job scenario[8]. But, at the same time, formal service cannot be ignored in a company while performing entire activities. In this way, it can be stated that employees who performed formal activities may gain time to time experience regarding psychological and physical environment together with social factors which can demonstrate them to become extremely stressful[9]. Stress can be two types which are favorable and negative stress. In this way, favorable stress is also called eustress and negative stress is also called distress. It is analyzed that when eustress exists at the workplace then it performs as a stimulator and improves the performance of the company. It also leads the workforces in a favorable way hence they can make required efforts which as essential for business growth and development[10]. It can be stated that while distress exists at the workplace then it may create several negative impacts on health along with the performance of workforces and other staff who are engaged in the particular branch of the corporation. From this, negative outcome will be obtained due to declining effectiveness of workforces and organization. In this way, it can be stated that workplace stress can raise the number of accidents for employees[11]. There is a number of studies which define the concept regarding workplace stress and its impact on the employees performance. All these research demonstrated a single concept that performance can be improved via offering better job circumstances and avoiding the stress. Further, it has become an essential part of the recent business phenomenon. To understand the impact of job stress on the job performance, it is required to understand the different type of stress[12]. There are different studies which indicate that whether or not job stress could be avoided and what can be the impact of this on organization performance. Job stress has become one of the major topics which are widely happened in all organization as it has a direct and huge impact on the mental competencies of workforces. The job stress can obstruct the organizations performance and can also impact on the effectiveness of the particular branch[13]. It is evidence that job stress within a company may directly associate with the work performance of the different person who engaged in an organization. In this way, job stress could be incorporated as independent variable and employees performance could be considered as a dependent variable. But, there are several factors which are affected by work stress as compared to employees performance which creates less encouragement amid workforces with respect to task, and also reduces the employees turnover[14]. Impacts of workplace stress on employee performance It can be evaluated that when an individual goes through stress at the workplace and job environment then it declines the competencies of making a judgment. Because, in this case, employees do not create self- motivation and encouragement for making judgment hence they do not make new and innovative ideas regarding issues. In most of the circumstances, it is observed that stress does not associate with mental competencies and the internal state of mind however it has an impact on the activities of distinct people who deal at the workplace. Since, when a person suffering from stress then there are several thoughts come to the mind of a person[15]. These beliefs can depend on different circumstances and the environment by which person deals. Moreover, all these beliefs and perceptions that come to the peoples mind can be either bad or good and can either build or destroy the behavior and attitudes of that person. This is the big reason that why a lot of people emphasized on the behavio r[16]. In this way, it can be stated that good or bad behavior can lead to making the change into practices which could be demonstrated by other people and these people can be engaged outside and inside the organization. This is the main cause of using different motivational theories at the workplace because it can aid to overcome the stress issues and also support to enhance the attitude with respect to innovative ideas and initiatives within an organization[17]. There are a large number of companies which decided to implement the reward strategies for their employees which they have been expecting from them. But, at the same time, there are still certain corporations which do not want to implement this strategy. Therefore, employees makes negative image regarding the companys policy. At the same time, it creates job stress among employees and also ultimately impact on their performance. In certain condition, it is analyzed that job stress can improve the performance of employees and also improves the competencies of the employees[18]. This situation rises while manager declines a given deadline and increase the degree of stress among employees for working harder and attain the goals efficiently in a specified duration. In this circumstance, they become extremely encouraged and inspired towards work even make harder practices next time hence they can accomplish the goals in an effective way. Therefore, it can be stated that there is a large n umber of companies who observes that by putting the reasonable stress amount in peoples mind, they can enhance their performance and overall productivity in an efficient and effective way[19]. But, the organization should understand from this circumstance that all workforces are not alike in the workplace and hence they cannot take stress in a similar manner. Thus, it can be stated that this situation can discourage the certain employees and adverse impact on the health of people. As a result, they might not be competent to meet their accountabilities in an appropriate way[20]. On the other hand, the main cause of job stress at the workplace is that there are several interactions have done in specific branch and the interaction incorporates both people and environment in which these people are performing. In this way, it is analyzed that while job stress is raised due to ineffective interaction then it can generate adverse perspectives in peoples mind. In this way, it can be stated that when an individual has built an adverse perception in the mind then physical condition of people will also go through alteration and will persuade then in several manners by both psychologically and physiologically[21]. When workforces have bad mental and physical condition then it ensures that they will not be competent to give their best towards job task and it will ultimately impact on the performance of people. Along with this, people should feel protected as well as safe regarding their task to do well but if an individual is suffering from job stress then they cannot f eel safe and secure in their projects. Hence, it could be recommended that all companies should assess the degree of stress among their workforces as their performance is lucrative for a corporation. Workplace stress can be originated from different factors. This can be annoying co-workers, angry customers, long commutes, demanding boss, hazardous situation, never-ending workload, and rebellious students. Furthermore, employees performance is also influenced by characteristics of stressors like finances, family relationships, and a shortage of sleep created due to fears and anxieties regarding future. In addition, how a company can handle the impact of stress is relying on whether it is easier to alter the circumstance and change the attitude towards job stress[22]. It can be evaluated that favorable side of stress can lead and encourage the employee to perform their task more rapidly with respect to awaiting deadlines. In addition to this, it can be evaluated that inadequate peer support, overwhelming workload, and too many demands can create job stress among employees[23]. But, it is analyzed that contribution of sense of annoyance and panic can create complexities to do the task of employees in sufficient time. Job stress can create a condition of overtime, having to take home based work. As well as, stress can unable employees for time management and can also decline their efficiency towards the work. Together with, job stress may adversely affect the commitment and loyalty of employees at the workplace[24]. Research Questions Followings are research question which would be addressed through this research: What are the causes of job stress at the workplace? What is the impact of job stress on the employees? Conclusion From the above interpretation, it can be concluded that job stress can be incorporated as an essential element with respect to employees performance. It can be evaluated that when an employee is not acting effectively then it can impact on the overall companys performance and organization will not be competent to accomplish its targeted objectives. From the literature review, it can be summarized that the employees performance in Arthur Barnett Ltd, Melbourne is declined because the company had been putting the high extent of stress among employees with respect to revenues, turnover, and marketing. Besides this, it can be illustrated that company does not try to overcome the stress as it led to an impact on the psychological and physiological health. Consequently, it declines the job performance of employees at the workplace. Bibliography Abbas, M., Raja, U., Darr, W., Bouckenooghe, D. (2014). Combined effects of perceived political and psychological capital on job satisfaction, turnover intentions, and performance.Journal of Management,40(7), 1813-1830. Aikens, K. A., Astin, J., Pelletier, K. R., Levanovich, K., Baase, C. M., Park, Y. Y., Bodnar, C. M. (2014). Mindfulness goes to work: Impact of an online workplace intervention.Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine,56(7), 721-731. Bakker, A. B., Demerouti, E., Sanz-Vergel, A. I. (2014). Burnout and work engagement: The JDR approach.Annu. Rev. Organ. Psychol. Organ. Behav.,1(1), 389-411. Baron, R. A., Franklin, R. J., Hmieleski, K. M. (2016). Why entrepreneurs often experience low, not high, levels of stress: The joint effects of selection and psychological capital.Journal of management,42(3), 742-768. Beehr, T. A. (2014).Psychological stress in the workplace (psychology revivals). UK: Routledge. Bono, J. E., Glomb, T. M., Shen, W., Kim, E., Koch, A. J. (2013). Building positive resources: Effects of positive events and a positive reflection on work stress and health.Academy of Management Journal,56(6), 1601-1627. Cooper, C. L., Marshall, J. (2013). Occupational sources of stress: A review of the literature relating to coronary heart disease and mental ill health. InFrom Stress to Wellbeing Volume 1(pp. 3-23). UK: Palgrave Macmillan. Dane, E., Brummel, B. J. (2014). Examining workplace mindfulness and its relations to job performance and turnover intention.Human Relations,67(1), 105-128. Driskell, J. E., Salas, E. (Eds.). (2013).Stress and human performance. USA: Psychology Press. Dutton, J. E., Ragins, B. R. (Eds.). (2017).Exploring positive relationships at work: Building a theoretical and research foundation. UK: Psychology Press. Epstein, M. J., Buhovac, A. R. (2014).Making sustainability work: Best practices in managing and measuring corporate social, environmental, and economic impacts. UK: Berrett-Koehler Publishers. Fu, W., Deshpande, S. P. (2014). The impact of caring climate, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment on the job performance of employees in a Chinas insurance company.Journal of Business Ethics,124(2), 339-349. Goetzel, R. Z., Henke, R. M., Tabrizi, M., Pelletier, K. R., Loeppke, R., Ballard, D. W., Serxner, S. (2014). Do workplace health promotion (wellness) programs work?.Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine,56(9), 927-934. Jensen, J. M., Patel, P. C., Messersmith, J. G. (2013). High-performance work systems and job control: Consequences for anxiety, role overload, and turnover intentions.Journal of Management,39(6), 1699-1724. Kadushin, A., Harkness, D. (2014).Supervision in social work. UK: Columbia University Press. Landy, F. J., Conte, J. M. (2016).Work in the 21st Century, Binder Ready Version: An Introduction to Industrial and Organizational Psychology. USA: John Wiley Sons. Schaufeli, W. B., Taris, T. W. (2014). A critical review of the Job Demands-Resources Model: Implications for improving work and health. InBridging occupational, organizational and public health(pp. 43-68). Netherlands: Springer. Schultz, D., Schultz, S. E. (2015).Psychology and work today 10E. UK: Routledge. Theeboom, T., Beersma, B., van Vianen, A. E. (2014). Does coaching work? A meta-analysis on the effects of coaching on individual level outcomes in an organizational context.The Journal of Positive Psychology,9(1), 1-18.

Information Technology and Logistics Management

Abstract Information technology is a factor that no firm can afford to ignore given the wake of globalization. Each firm is going global and management of every sector is not as simple as it used to be in the past.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Information Technology and Logistics Management specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Moreover, efficiency and effectiveness as regards delivery of services are given much weight than they were given in the past. As far as logistics management is concerned, there has been renewed urge for exceptional performance. The paper looks at the concept of information technology. It begins by defining what information technology is and goes on to enumerate the components of information technology. Thereafter, it gives the advantages of information technology in logistics management. Introduction There is virtually no organization that can operate without information systems in the curr ent economic environment, where keeping up with the level of changing technology is a necessity. A firm can operate efficiently hence reducing costs if a state-of-the-art information system is put in place. Though information needs are different in various organizations, it is a general agreement that all these firms depend on the information system just as a car depends on the engine. Different sections of an organization have different roles; hence, they require different types of information systems. Logistics management has proofed to play a key role in cost reduction as well as improving relationships between a firm and its partners in the market, consequently boosting a firm’s competitive advantage.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In this regard, information technology has been found to have immense benefits on logistics management. Information Technology The wa y businesses operate has highly changed and the necessity of information for the survival of organizations has increased. Due to advancement in technology, employees of all levels in any organization require smooth flow of information in order to make informed decisions besides measuring their performance. For this reason, organizations have found it paramount to put in place information systems to monitor the flow of information (Joia, 2003). An information system not only integrates business processes and computes knowledge for processing and storing, but also facilitates transmission of important information for the decision-making process in the organization. On the same note, an information system assists in coordination, visualization, control and analysis in an organization. For an organization to keep up with the changes in the business environment, it must have in place an effective information system function which should be able to come up with new software that matches w ith the level of technological advancements (Rushton, Oxley Croucher, 2000).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Information Technology and Logistics Management specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This role is performed by programmers who are specialists in software engineering. In addition, the raw data that is received by the information systems is processed into useful and easily understood data by the system analysts. Moreover, there is need to have a continuous evaluation of the current programs and either advance their use or come up with new ones in order to ensure organizational progress. To meet this need the information systems unit through the knowledge officers seeks for new sources of information, or ways through which the current information can be made more useful for the benefit of the organization. It is important for any organization to try as much as possible and prevent leakage of its important and confidential information because this could be misused by its competitors or even enemies (Sudalaimuthu Raj, 2009). As a result, the role of information system function includes ensuring security of the information systems as well as making the management aware of the existing security threats. Components of Information Technology Infrastructure Components of information technology infrastructure can be divided into five broad groups which include computer hardware, computer software, data management technology, telecommunications technology and networking. To ensure efficiency and effectiveness of the information systems, all these components of the information technology infrastructure must work in synchronization with each other (Sheffi, 2012). Computer hardware is composed of the technology that inputs, processes, stores and outputs data.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It also includes the equipments that are used in the process of data collection as well as those used in delivering the processed information to desired destinations. In addition, information technology infrastructure consists of the programs which instruct the computers on the type of functions to perform at any given point in time. These programs, which are known as computer software, can be divided into system software and applications software (Wang, 2012). While some firms may choose to have their software custom programmed, others choose to purchase them from outside. A firm’s data needs to be organized and be made available to users in a form that the users can easily interpret so that they can be able to take necessary actions. This function is achieved through the help of data management technology, which not only processes but also manages and organizes business data. On the same note, an information technology infrastructure is also composed of telecommunications t echnology and networking (Horch, 2009). Besides providing data, these components also provide voice and video connectivity not only to employees but also to suppliers and customers of the firm. In addition, these components provide the technology of maintaining web sites and internal networks as well as enabling connection to other computer systems. Advantages of Proper Logistics Management Logistics management is the process interconnection among organizations, which involves the flow of resources of production, information, finances and finished products that helps in facilitating production, marketing, and selling of goods and services. It is a two way process and can either be downstream where it begins from the supplier of raw materials and flows through the manufacturer to the wholesaler the retailer and lastly to the consumer, or upstream in which case the chain starts from the consumer passing through the retailer, the wholesaler, the manufacturer and ends at the supplier. L ogistics management is for that reason, the management of the supply chain system to ensure efficient, smooth running and well coordination of the chain of supply in order to take advantage of it (Sinha 2009). Furthermore, Logistics management involves the incorporation of important aspects that add value to the consumer over and above that of the partners in the supply chain. Producers expect to receive inputs of production at the right time, to ensure that production process is carried on without interruption because interruption interferes with the entire supply chain since the commodity will not be available for delivery to buyers. In addition to that, higher inventory kept by producers, higher storage costs and consequently lowered the profit margin. Therefore, producers desire to maintain at its minimum possible quantity in order to reduce storage costs. At the same time, suppliers expect to receive payment in time to cater for their expenses and therefore enable them to cont inue supplying. On top of that, wholesalers, chain stores and other retailers expect a Continuous supply of commodities to ensure that they do not run short of any commodity, while they want the level of inventories to be at minimum since huge inventory increases storage cost but bring no income (Bolstorff Rosenbaum 2012). On top of that, it is to the advantage of the producers, wholesalers and retailers if consumers find the commodity they are looking for on the shelves of their local retail shops always because this will help in boosting consumers’ confidence. On top of that, availability of commodities near to consumers’ locality all times is very important not only in maintaining current consumers, but also in attracting new ones. These expectations can only be realized if proper and efficient management of the supply chain is put in place thus making certain that the flow either downstream or upstream is continuous, well-timed and cost-effective (Sinha 2009). Inf ormation Technology in Logistics Management For an organization to succeed in the highly competitive business environment, it should be prepared to react to the changes that take place efficiently. It is the applications of an organization that controls the execution of functions within the organization and also directs the operations in various departments. Information technology ensures that all applications of an organization are working properly. Furthermore, the flow of information to and from various units of the organization as well as from the external business environment is highly influenced by the organizational applications (Cao Zhang, 2012). Generally, the enterprise applications allow for consolidation of organizational operations across different units or departments for easy management. Examples of enterprise applications include the logistics information system which combines the important business processes into a single central data handling unit. This eliminates data fragmentation that complicates data management, thus enhancing information sharing among various business units. On the same note, logistics application makes management of suppliers easier by ensuring that information about all aspects related to the relationship between the organization and the suppliers is easily accessible when needed (Radhakrishnan, 2001). On the other hand, intranet increases consolidation of information besides speeding up the flow of information between different business units. The integration between one department and the others is very essential for timely decisions and making of follow-ups whenever necessary (Wang, 2012). In this regard, intranet comes in handy as it enables internal connection among various departments of the organization thus allowing smooth communication besides securely storing the organization’s policies and programs. Present also is the position control system, which is used to identify various job positions present i n the logistics department, current employee serving the position and the job title within the position. This helps the manager in knowing which positions are supposed to be filled. Information technology is also crucial in screening of job applicants, evaluation and selection in order to fill open positions. It is important to note that, performance information system is present and contains data related to appraisal, and productivity information of each employee (Sheffi, 2012). To cope with the dynamic job environment, the organization deemed it essential to continuously train their staff as well as encourage skill development through employee training and development system. The system enables the manager to ensure that the training offered matched the specific requirements within the organization, and that it was directed to those who were bound to benefit from it according to the skills inventory system. The level of integration in the supply chain system highly depends on the number of components that are involved as well as the complexity of each component. It should be noted that every aspect of the supply chain should be taken care of properly for the benefits of the firm (Cao Zhang, 2012). Information needs to be incorporated in the system as it helps in collection of feedback from the customers so that effective action can be taken in time to avoid any losses that might be imminent. Products must reach the consumer who is the final person in the chain and therefore anybody or firm that can help in delivering the product to the final consumer efficiently should be integrated in the system (Sinha, 2009). Information technology helps in ensuring information to all stakeholders and feedback is efficient. Ability of the firm to secure competitive advantage over its competitors enables the firm to emerge the winner during competition, and this can be achieved through proper management of the supply chain of the firm. Supply chain management requires that a firm carries out its competencies but outsource what requires specialization (Bolstorff Rosenbaum 2012). Additionally, information technology hastens turnover expansion through value addition by involving manufacturers in assisting retailers to reduce their costs of operation especially by delivering commodities just when they are needed thus reducing the retailers’ cost of holding inventory. When a partner organization in the supply chain recognizes that there is a possibility of reducing operation costs by being in the system, it becomes more willing to be part of the system hence increasing competitive advantage (Bolstorff Rosenbaum 2012). Additionally, through proper supply chain management, a company is capable of realizing areas of weakness of the partners. The firm can, therefore, rectify the same by helping in these areas and in turn the partner will be forced to stick with the firm; hence, gaining competitive advantage over the competitors. On the same note, sup ply chain management helps in the reduction of operational expenses especially costs of maintaining high inventories of either raw materials or finished products or the transportation costs which mostly increases because of sending low quantities of a commodity each time (Cao Zhang, 2012). By efficiently managing supply, transportation is well-coordinated and as a result goods are sent only when they are required, and this is always harmonized in a way that retailers in the same area can be supplied at the same time thus, eliminating chances of vehicles wasting space on their supply trips. It should be noted that efficiency and effectiveness are key when it comes to logistics management. A problem in one department can make the whole business to come to a halt. Consequently, speed detection of any factor that may seem to hinder execution of duties is crucial. Information technology is very vital because it helps in speeding up the process of problem detection as well as problem-sol ving. Moreover, information technology hastens the process of decision making thus reducing time wasted and enhancing productivity (Sudalaimuthu Raj, 2009). Similarly, there is need of speed in the current business world given the high level of competition. Additionally, firms have gone global and there is increased need to link services between one branch and the other. Information technology offers a platform through which all these questions can be answered. Cycle time is arguably one of the most sensitive factors to consider when it comes to logistics management. This directly affects inventory levels and consequently storage costs. However, by improving distribution channels, information technology is able to reduce cycle times, thus reducing the levels of inventories held at a particular moment (Wang, 2012). This tremendously reduces the costs of all stakeholders. On the same note, information technology makes it easier for the stocks held by stores in a particular region to be known. As a result, transportation to these areas can be merged thus reducing not only the number of vehicles on the road but also transportation costs and other risks involved (Rushton, Oxley Croucher, 2000). On the same note, implementation of change is a very crucial process and must be handled carefully. If change is wrongly administered, the probability of the whole process failing is very high. Many organizations, therefore, struggle to know the best method of implementing any change. Nevertheless, information technology helps logistics managers to know which section is not performing well and what is required to increase output (Sheffi, 2012). Knowing the exact change that is required is also made easy. Moreover, information technology streamlines the whole process of change implementation. Notably, with many firms now opting for electronic business, no sector should lag behind. E-commerce has gained popularity among many people. It reduces the distance that one has to wa lk to shop for goods and services (Horch, 2009). Moreover, it reduces paperwork and increases market share of a firm. In this regard, information technology is inevitable given that all business partners will want to go online. Consequently, information technology has to form part of logistics management (Sinha, 2009). Factors Affecting Information Technology Capacity planning and scalability form the main issues in management of hardware and software technology. Capacity planning is concerned with ensuring that the firm is able to meet its current and future computing needs. Scalability, on the other hand, means taking into consideration the possibility of increase in the firm’s scale of operations in the future (Joia, 2003). Therefore, the infrastructure installed should have the ability to expand and accommodate increased number of users without breaking down. On the same note, the issue of costing is paramount in management of infrastructure. It is important to ensure tha t the cost of installation, maintenance costs, technical support costs and all other costs related to the housing of the technology are included in the total cost of ownership. Therefore, when valuing the software and hardware all costs, including direct, indirect and hidden costs should be taken into consideration. On the other hand, any firm needs to consider the benefits that it can get if it outsources some services and the cost implications of the same. If it is feasible to outsource, then it is advisable to do so for this helps in elimination of other costs that could have been incurred (Radhakrishnan, 2001). On the same note, a firm can also consider the possibility of maintaining optimum capacity and hire the extra services during peak times. Similarly, the firm can also choose to rent software functions or buy them depending on their needs and the cost implication. Emerging Issues in Supply Chain Management Globalization has brought about new challenges into the process of supply chain management hence, forcing the organizations involved in the supply chain system to come up with new ways of tackling supply chain issues. To begin with, globalization has brought about internationalization, where companies have ventured into international markets where tax structures are different from those in their home countries. This has necessitated supply chain management to take into consideration the tax structures of various countries where the partners of the chain system will be operating, because it has been depicted that tax structures highly influences the profit margins (Bolstorff Rosenbaum 2012). As a result, a new strategy of supply chain management, known as tax efficient supply chain management, which ensures that global firms take advantage of the difference in tax structures to increase their profits has been developed. The need to go beyond delivery of the commodity to the consumer and look at how waste materials are disposed as well as environmen tal sustainability also poses a new challenge. This has led to the emergence of the concept of reverse logistics, which also should be taken into consideration. On top of that, traditionally linear supply chain management was very effective because substitutes were minimal and competition was not stiff. On the contrary, globalization has increased competition as well as substitutes and linear supply chain management system availability is no longer feasible which has compelled firms to look for a new mode of management (Sinha 2009). Conclusion Information system is inevitable in any organization, and therefore efforts must be made towards customization of the systems to fit the requirements of the organization. Supply chain management plays a key role in increasing competitive advantage of any company, therefore, increasing its profit margin; consequently, it is very important today’s management. Unfortunately, expansion of international trade has made the business environmen t to change continuously thus compelling firms to work day and night and come up with advanced ways of managing the supply chain in order to remain competitive. Employees may lack the knowledge needed to run the information systems, hence a specialized department of information technology should be incorporated in the organization, to ensure that everything involving the information system is given proper concern. References Bolstorff, P. Rosenbaum, G. R. (2012). Supply Chain Excellence, New York: AMACOM Div American Mgmt Assn. Cao, M. Zhang, Q. (2012). Supply Chain Collaboration: Roles of Interorganizational Systems, Trust, and Collaborative Culture. New York: Springer. Horch, N. (2009). Management Control of Global Supply Chains. Norderstedt: BoD-Books on Demand. Joia, L. A. (2003). IT-based Management: Challenges and Solutions. Hilliard: Ideal Group Inc. Radhakrishnan, P. (2001). Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Mumbai: Allied Publishers. Rushton, A., Oxley, J. Croucher , P. (2000). The Handbook of Logistics and Distribution Management. London: Kogan Page Publishers. Sheffi, Y. (2012). Logistics Clusters: Delivering Value and Driving Growth. Cambridge: MIT Press. Sinha, A 2009, Supply Chain Management: Collaboration, Planning, Execution and Co-ordination, Mumbai: Global India Publishers. Sudalaimuthu, S. Raj, S. A. (2009). Logistics management for International Business: Text and Cases. New Delhi: PHI Learning Pvt. Ltd. Wang, J. (2012). Information Technologies, Methods, and Techniques of Supply Chain Management. Hershey: IGI Global Snippet. This essay on Information Technology and Logistics Management was written and submitted by user Zackery Acosta to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Truth or Fiction 11 Biggest Fears About College

Truth or Fiction 11 Biggest Fears About College There’s really no fiction involved when it comes to the legitimate fears that current and aspiring students experience about college. In this article we’re going to get to the truth behind the 11 most common college fears so that you can rest easy and make an informed decision. Sound like a plan? We thought so. Let’s do this. 1. â€Å"I Don’t Know What I Want to Be!† This is by far the most common. Students have no clue what they’ll be doing four, five or six years down the road. They have no clue where the economy will be. The speed of technological innovation is compounding uncertainty like nothing else. What major should they choose? Is it good enough? How will it impact their career? Wait†¦career?! Relax. You don’t have to make a decision from the get-go and many of those who do end up changing their minds anyway. A very tiny percentage of people know what they’re destined to be. That’s a fact. For the first year just get the basic core classes out of the way and while you’re at it do some dabbling (if you can afford it or don’t mind extra debt). Or, you could just hold back from going to college for a little while until you have a better idea. 2. â€Å"I Won’t Know Like Anybody† Social anxiety and fear of not being accepted is common. It follows us everywhere in life beginning in grade school all the way through adulthood. When you step back and look at another way, it looks like this, â€Å"I Won’t Know Freaking Anybody!† That’s right, it’s a chance for a fresh start which is always cool. You’re going to be in college so meeting people is going to happen whether you want it to or not. It’s par for the course so to speak. You’ll meet people. You’ll make friends. You’ll get into relationships. You know†¦life. 3. â€Å"OMG, This is Expensive!† True. Whether you’re paying it with cash upfront (who does that?) or by using a mixture of loans, grants and scholarships. The cost of higher education is inflated by leaps and bounds, over 130% in the last 30 years alone. If you’re worried by how expensive it is, GOOD! Then this should help you fail less classes, take the ones you need as a junior and senior, and make smarter decisions. 4. â€Å"Am I really Ready for This?† The balancing act of priorities during college is meant to prepare you for what it’s like in the â€Å"real world.† So at the end of the day you can’t escape it. Part of growing up is taking on more responsibility and if you’re going to live within society you really can’t go away scot free. Don’t worry, juggling a job, classes and friends is actually an amazing experience. It really is. You’re so productive! You’re in school bettering yourself. You’ve got a social life happening. And, you’re working part/full time so there’s some extra cash laying around. It’s awesome. You’re as ready as you choose to be. No more, no less. 5. â€Å"What if My Roommate Totally Sucks?† You can get a new one. 6. â€Å"What If I Can’t Hack the Classes?† There’s no class you cannot pass. That’s the flat out truth. I don’t care if we’re talking quantum mechanics, organic chemistry or some sort of advanced theoretical astrophysics. If you truly dedicate your mind to passing that class it will happen. Yes, your IQ does determine things to a certain degree. More categorically than anything else. But, we’re all aware of how powerful the human spirit is as well. Don’t fear classes. Don’t fear intellectual challenge. Yes, you can do it. The real question is, â€Å"Do I have the passion it’s going to take to succeed in this major?† 7. â€Å"I’m All On My Own.† No you’re not. Not by a long shot bub. 8. â€Å"I Don’t Want to Get Fat!† Getting fat, or being obese isn’t technically a good thing regardless of where you happen to be. That’s life. If you’re worried, make sure to exercise and eat smart (yep, big shocker). 9. â€Å"What if I Lose Touch with Home?† If you’re going to school on the other side of the country or perhaps in the other hemisphere, you’ve got modern technology to keep you connected. It’s not as good as in-person, but it’s working wonders for the human species. Try it! 10. â€Å"What if I Pick the Wrong University?† Hmm. Yeah about that. In all honesty, focus more on the quality of your education rather than the educational institutions themselves. For the lion’s share of us, our potential employers only care about the knowledge and what results we can bring about. If it’s a reputable college you’re going to be fine. Now, if it’s just the flat out wrong university altogether, then don’t stick around for two years before working up the nerve to bug out. If it’s just purely not a good place for you, leave immediately and fine a better school for you. 11. â€Å"What If My Dream School is a Nightmare?† See #10 pretty much, but this does happen. What you thought was the best school ever for your particular goals ends up being a nightmare. Bail! Does that pretty much cover it or are there some fears you have/had about college that we missed? Let us know!

Make Colored Easter Eggs Using Natural Dyes

Make Colored Easter Eggs Using Natural Dyes Its fun and easy to use foods and flowers to make your own natural Easter egg dyes. The two main ways to use your own dyes are to add dyes to the eggs when boiling them or to dye the eggs after they have been hard-boiled. Its a lot faster to boil the dyes and eggs together, but you will use several pans if you want to make multiple colors. Dyeing the eggs after they have been cooked takes as many dishes and more time, but may be more practical (after all, most stoves only have four burners!). Try both fresh and frozen produce. Canned produce will produce much paler colors. Boiling the colors with vinegar will result in deeper colors. Some materials need to be boiled to impart their color (name followed by boiled in the table). Some of the fruits, vegetables, and spices can be used cold. To use a cold material, cover the boiled eggs with water, add dyeing materials, a teaspoon or less of vinegar, and let the eggs remain in the refrigerator until the desired color is achieved. In most cases, the longer you leave Easter eggs in the dye, the more deeply colored they will become. Here is the preferred method for using natural dyes: Place the eggs in a single layer in a pan. Add water until the eggs are covered.Add approximately one teaspoon of vinegar.Add the natural dye. Use more dye material for more eggs or for a more intense color.Bring water to a boil.Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.If you are pleased with the color, remove the eggs from the liquid.If you want more intensely colored eggs, temporarily remove the eggs from the liquid. Strain the dye through a coffee filter (unless you want speckled eggs). Cover the eggs with the filtered dye and let them remain in the refrigerator overnight.Naturally-colored eggs will not be glossy, but if you want a shiny appearance you can rub a bit of cooking oil onto the eggs once they are dry. You can use fresh and frozen berries as paints, too. Simply crush the berries against dry boiled eggs. Try coloring on the eggs with crayons or wax pencils before boiling and dyeing them. Happy Easter! Natural Easter Egg Dyes Color Ingredients Lavender Small Quantity of Purple Grape JuiceViolet Blossoms plus 2 tsp Lemon JuiceRed Zinger Tea Violet Blue Violet BlossomsSmall Quantity of Red Onions Skins (boiled)Hibiscus TeaRed Wine Blue Canned BlueberriesRed Cabbage Leaves (boiled)Purple Grape JuiceButterfly Pea Flowers or Tea Green Spinach Leaves (boiled)Liquid Chlorophyll Greenish Yellow Yellow Delicious Apple Peels (boiled) Yellow Orange or Lemon Peels (boiled)Carrot Tops (boiled)Celery Seed (boiled)Ground Cumin (boiled)Ground Turmeric (boiled)Chamomile TeaGreen Tea Golden Brown Dill Seeds Brown Strong CoffeeInstant CoffeeBlack Walnut Shells (boiled)Black Tea Orange Yellow Onion Skins (boiled)Cooked CarrotsChili PowderPaprika Pink BeetsCranberries or JuiceRaspberriesRed Grape JuiceJuice from Pickled Beets Red Lots of Red Onions Skins (boiled)Canned Cherries with JuicePomegranate JuiceRaspberries

Your Reading Experience Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Your Reading Experience - Essay Example In addition, all the five works take characters that have a background of African origin. In this essay, the themes of isolation and alienation, materialism and social position, race and African identity will be discussed by means of the five works and their analysis. Othello’s being an Alien in Venice and the gulf of culture, race and complexion—that exists between him and the Venetians—in an important theme in the tragedy in Othello. The theme of race and the themes of isolation and alienation can be combined because it is because of the race that the character of Othello considers himself alienated from the Venetian society. Shakespeare forced his audience to see Othello with the â€Å"bodily eye† of Iago. Othello tries to attach himself to the Venetian society on the basis of universal virtues such as love and loyalty. However, Iago’s attempt in realizing himself as an alien makes him to a step that takes him to his tragedy. Therefore, it is quite clear that Othello has evidently awareness of his race and color as different to Desdemona. This racial difference becomes a cause for his consideration that Desdemona has illicit relationships with Cassio. He also considers himself alienated from a society, which is not his. He tries to be a part of that society but he is always aware of his being different due to which, he is alienated and isolated. Like Othello, the themes of isolation and alienation in Everyday Use can also be assembled with the theme of race. The family of Maggie and Dee has an African background while Maggie remains stick to her traditions and culture while Dee wants to stay away from her culture, which is quite impossible. Dee belongs to African culture and she cannot deny this fact. Dee makes many friends, out of which, no one is sincere to her according to Maggie. Due to this fact, Dee is alienated from the society in which, she lives because of

Discussion Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 58

Discussion - Assignment Example The drum-kit is focused lightly, and the choruses added in the song bring tune and music. As far as the folk version of the song is concerned, the lyrics are more appreciable, and the background music provides an ominous melody as it is a song in a low moan. Examining the history of the song, it is seen that the version shows more sentimental side of music, which was present in Anglo and African American roots showing broken, hearted country ballad. The Leadbelly’s version makes the music cover horrific conjecture of the time of the music at the time of wake of Southern racism in America (Garofalo and Waksman). Hence, the songs follow the tastes of consumers at the time of their emergence. The Leadbelly’s versions take you at the time of Depression and unplugged version follows the tastes of current consumers. The emergence of different versions has made the music business enjoyable as people relate the music to their lives and their time (Garofalo and

Canadas Policy of First Nations Essay Example for Free

Canadas Policy of First Nations Essay Canada is a nation built upon legislation that not only believed there would be no future in society for its First Nation peoples, but specifically created colonial policies that would ensure that this future become reality through the process of assimilation. These policies were created without First Nation input in an in effort to destroy First Nation culture and were used to undermine First Nation treaty rights especially with regard to land distributions by way of the Indian Act. Following the second world war, however, a new outlook of human rights grew in society that highlighted discriminatory policies against First Nation peoples. After government sanctioned study called the Hawthorn report was released raising concerns about the overall health and welfare of First Nation people, the newly elected Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau issued his response to First Nations problems in his controversial 1969 White paper . Unfortunately, 1969 White paper proved to be not only a politically motivated policy objective benefiting the Federal government in the future, by relinquishing its responsibilities following treaties, and inevitably avoiding future law suits, but was yet another attempt to do away with the First Nation culture through assimilation into the dominant society. The signing of the treaties and the misconceptions by both parties entering into them, the First Nations bands and the Canadian government, has served as a platform for future politics problems still going on today. First Nation people understood treaties to mean allowing settlement by non-native people. [but] at the same time, native people would retain large tracts of land on which they would govern themselves [and where their] language and culture would flourish (Bird, Land and Macadam 5). The Canadian government, on the other hand, seen it by way of the Royal Proclamation of 1763 which the British Crown recognized that any lands possessed by First Nations in what was British North America, would be reserved for them, unless or until they ceded that land to the Crown (Bird, Land and Macadam 6). This to the Canadian government, following treaties, gave them the right to act in a paternalistic fashion towards First Nation people, who needed assistance to assimilate into mainstream society. This way of thinking, led the Canadian government to establish the Indian Act in 1876 which would unleash a series of policies created to destroy First Nations culture and further the Canadian governments own agenda regarding expropriation of First Nation lands. Due to Indian Act policies, First Nations people endured many years of social problems within their communities, problems that became published in a government sanctioned study called the Hawthorn report.

Mexican Lives by Judith Adler Hellman Essay -- Mexican Lives Judith Ad

Mexican Lives by Judith Adler Hellman   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The author of Mexican Lives, Judith Adler Hellman, grapples with the United States’ economic relationship with their neighbors to the south, Mexico. It also considers, through many interviews, the affairs of one nation. It is a work held to high esteem by many critics, who view this work as an essential part in truly understanding and capturing Mexico’s history. In Mexican Lives, Hellman presents us with a cast from all walks of life. This enables a reader to get more than one perspective, which tends to be bias. It also gives a more inclusive view of the nation of Mexico as a whole. Dealing with rebel activity, free trade, assassinations and their transition into the modern age, it justly captures a Mexico in its true light. All walks of life are presented, from prevailing businessmen of white-collar status, to those of the working class and labor industry, as well as individuals who deal in the black market of smuggling illegal immigrants across the border into the U.S. Hellman’s work explores the subject of Mexico’s economic situation in the 1990s. NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) closely tied the United States and Mexico during this period, as well as similar policies such as GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade) that were also created. These issues pertaining to economic policies between the two nations, Mexico and the United States are seen highlighted throughout her work. Hellman opens with three individuals at three different times. The reader is first introduced to Lupe Gonzalez at 3 A.M., whose story is a harsh reality for many. She lives in the vecindad of San Miguel Iztacalco where â€Å"eighteen families in eighteen single-room dwellings share a single water tap in the courtyard†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (pg.15) This is the daily life for many other Mexican families, as well as families from all over Latin America. She lives in a single room home with six children and her second husband. The reason for the set time is due to a schedule that each family must abide by, in order to obtain a simple necessity of life, water for their â€Å"drinking, bathing, cooking, and household cleaning.† (pg.15) With this the reader witnesses how there isn’t even enough water for all members of the community and city for constant usage. They share three beds for all eight family members and make considerably less then minimum... ...ople extort from others. It’s a way of life†¦ The NAFTA treaty isn’t meant to rescue people like us, it’s meant to help the rich" (pg. 157) Later, the reader learns that Maria was driven out of business by competators after NAFTA took effect. Mexican Lives is a rare piece of literature that accounts for the human struggle of an underdeveloped nation, which is kept impoverished in order to create wealth for that of another nation, the United States. The reader is shown that the act of globalization and inclusion in the world’s economies, more directly the United States, is not always beneficial to all parties involved. The data and interviews, which Hellman has put forth for her readers, contain some aspect of negativity that has impacted their lives by their nation’s choice to intertwine their economy with that of the United States. Therefore it can only be concluded that the entering into world markets, that of Mexico into the United States, does not always bring on positive outcomes. Thus, one sees that Mexico has become this wasteland of economic excrement; as a result it has become inherently reliant on the United States. Work Cited: Judith A. Hellman: Mexican Lives.

Coconut: the most economically important member of the great palm family Essay

CHAPTER 1 (BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY) In this modern world considered as the era of comforts, we also face poverty and scarcity of resources because of over population. So, people today are searching for some easier and better ways to save money through substituting commercialized products with improvised and homemade products, economizing, etc. In short people today are just being practical on what they will buy or what they will do to meet their needs. The coconut is the fruit of the most economically important member of the great palm family, Palmae. The genus Cocos are Southeast Asians and contain only one species, Cocos Nucifera.  Cultivated in tropical lowlands, almost always near the sea, the coconut has long been distributed throughout Southeast Asia and along the Tropical African and American coasts. The coconut is known for its great versatility as seen in the many uses of its different parts. For centuries, the coconut pal has supplied the people of the Pacific Islands with food, drink, shelter, and most of their needs. The durian is the fruit of several tree species belonging to the genus Durio. There are 30 recognised Durio species, at least nine of which produce edible fruit. Durio zibethinus is the only species available in the international market: other species are sold in their local regions. Regarded by many people in Southeast Asia as the â€Å"king of fruits†, the  durian is distinctive for its large size, strong odor, and formidable thorn-covered husk. The fruit can grow as large as 30 centimeters (12 in) long and 15 centimeters (6 in) in diameter, and it typically weighs one to three kilograms (2 to 7 lb.). Its shape ranges from oblong to round, the color of its husk green to brown, and its flesh pale yellow to red, depending on the species. Corn (Zea mays) has been grown in the northeast for generations, and is a demanding crop but one that is highly-valued for its use. Corn, Zea mays, is an annual grass in the family Poaceae and is a staple food crop grown all over the world. Corn is the second most important crop in the Philippines. About 14 million Filipinos prefer white corn as their main staple and yellow corn accounts for about 50% of livestock mixed feeds. Some 600,000 farm households depend on corn as a major source of livelihood, in addition to transport services, traders, processors and agricultural input suppliers who directly benefit from corn production, processing, marketing and distribution. Shoe shining is the process of applying an external substance to the surface of a shoe to improve the materials and make it shinier. Shoe shining has been a part of shoe care for hundreds of years. Adding a shine to a shoe brings polish to an outfit. Shoe polish products are low-value items are frequently purchased as a single but might last for several days. The researchers wanted to produce shoe polish out of the coconut husks, durian husks and corn cobs because we found another use for them. This leads to conduct an experiment using the ashes of coconut husk, durian husks and corn cobs for shoe polish. If these products would be successful, it can help in recycling coconut husks, durian husks and corn cobs and can lessen them to avoid them scattering all over our community. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM This study aims to make an effective shoe polish out of ashes from burned coconut husks, durian skins, and corn cobs. Specifically, the study would like to answer the following: * What are the components that are present in the ashes? * How effective is the shoe polish in terms of: – Shine that it could give – Life Span – Color of Polish compared to other brands * What is the difference between the commercial shoe polish from the shoe polish out of ashes from the coconut husks, durian skins, and corn cobs? ASSUMPTION The researchers believed that Coconut husks, Corn Cobs and Durian Skins are effective alternative shoe polish and can make it a source of income. HYPOTHESIS There was no significant difference between the efficiency of our product to the commercial shoe polish that was sold on the market. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY One of the main benefits of a shoe shine is that it helps preserve the material that shoes are made out of. Polishing products also provides the coating of wax on the leather that helps in keeping it waterproof and reduces the dirt accumulated on the leather. Shoe polish also gives a moisturizing effect to the leather and proper care may help in lasting the shoes for several years. Since coconut, durian, and corn is abundant in our country, people can make it a source of livelihood. SCOPE AND LIMITATION The study is focused on the effectiveness of the alternative shoe polish and aims to shine shoes at a long period of time. Furthermore, this study is only limited to the effectiveness, color, shine, duration, and the odor it can give. METHODOLOGY The purpose of this chapter is to present the experimental assumptions underpinning this research, as well as to introduce the research strategy and empirical techniques applied then the materials used in conducting this  study. The chapter defines the scope and limitations of the research design. Materials The researchers utilized the following materials in accomplishing the project: Coconut husks, Corn Cobs, Durian Skins, Coals, Matchsticks, Ashes, Tongs, Strainer, 3 Basins, Pitcher, Water, Measuring Cups, Detergent Bar Soap, Knife, Frying Pan, Spoon, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Dye, and Kerosene. The sun was used as the source of heat to dry the Coconut husks, Corn cobs and Durian skins. The coals and matchsticks are used to burn the three different fruit shells and tongs was used to protect our hands from getting burned. The strainer was used to remove big particles and for us to gather fine ashes. The 3 basins were used as containers of the ashes. The pitcher was used as a container for the water. The measuring cups were used to measure the quantity of the water, citric acid, glycerin, dye and kerosene needed. The knife was used to cut the bar soap. The frying pan and spoon were used in heating up the whole mixture. Procedure The researchers gathered (1) one sack coconut husk, (1) one sack corn cobs and (1) one sack durian skin. After collecting the three different fruit shells the researchers let them stay under the sun for three days to get totally dry. Then after three days the researchers prepared the materials for the burning process. The researchers burned the three different dried fruit shells separately and collected the ashes. Afterwards, they inspect the ashes and they remove the big particles using a strainer. 1.Burn the dried coconut husk, corn cob, and durian skin separately and collect the ashes. 2.Inspect the ashes and remove the big particles. 3.Measure a certain amount of water. 4.Cut the bar soap into small pieces and dissolve it on water. 5.Add the ashes. 6.Heat the mixture until it boils, then stir evenly. 7.After few minutes add the citric acid and the glycerin. 8.Pour into a container. The mixture needs to settle for a number of hours before used.

Managing Across Culture

{draw:rect} {draw:rect} 000579613; 000573398; 000573202; 000583118;000527971 {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} {draw:frame} Managing Across Cultures- Group Report on Case Study Analysis of Alcatel-Lucent BY TEAM: Meenak*shi Mukherjee* 000579613 Carlos Andres Serna 000583118 Quasirat Hasnat 000573202 Sangeet Premkumar 000573398 Imran Shahzad 000527971 Executive Summary This paper examines a case study sprouting mergers of two firms Alcatel and Lucent technologies. This paper provides an insight into the French and American cultures taking into consideration the parent company cultural imbroglio. Alcatel, an American company, was previously owned by the technological giant, the AT&T group. However in the year 1996, the company parted ways from the group of AT &T and merged with the French company, Alcatel. Alcatel, headquartered in France, provides hardware-software services to the telecommunications sector involving service providers and enterprises. On the 1st December, 2006, Alcatel- Lucent merged to explore greater productivity by utilizing jointly owned resources, products and services. Cross-cultural barriers hindered Alcatel-Lucent’s strategic advantageover its competitors. In this paper, the Alcatel- Lucent merger will be critically analysed with help reference frameworks and cultural tools such as Hofstede’s dimensions, Trompenaar’s theories on culture and related articles from newspapers. In the recent years, companies have been adopting the strategy to expand their markets globally with different strategies such as mergers and acquisitions, strategic alliances, licensing etc. However, companies trying to achieve synergetic benefits often fail in their process of expansion due to the cultural problems revolving between the host and home countries. Introduction Alcatel-Lucent, headquartered in Paris, France, is the Telecom giant with over 77,000 employees in its payroll a with annual revenue generated as reported in the financial report standing at a staggering 16. 98 billion Euros. The merger of parent companies Alcatel and Lucent was anticipated to be the ‘shining star’ of mergers and was aptly phrased as a merger of equals (Sutherland, 2006). This paper discusses the importance of cultural differences and indicates the problems that can be create when different cultural interaction occurs between different strata’s of organizations. Short Brief about different cultures Culture can be considered to be a vast word having no unified idea that can summarize the true essence of it. Some scholars and researchers define Culture as a part of our environmental conditioning, usually distributed among members of similar nations, regions and areas (_Sorensen_, 1984). This case study is used to communicate the study of cross culture and its related problems. In regards to job environment, the French Culture believes in providing security for the members of the society. The Culture is competitive yet assertive but however is risk averse and consumes too much time to take decisions to deal with a situation. On the contrary, the American Culture is easy going and flexible. Americans believe in quick decision making with a â€Å"win-lose† approach and as a result accept uncertainties in a positive manner. In a recent article, Holstein (2007) stated, that the two parent companies addressed the issue of crisis taking measures differently. In times of crisis, the Americans believe in reducing costs through scaling down job opportunities whereas the French have a supportive approach towards their employees with the government acting as the back bone to resolve such issues making the process of decision slow but unaffected by the crisis piling on the company with additional operational costs. The inclination of the American Culture is towards achieving short term goals such as profit making, however, the French culture denotes a negative aspect of doing business with haste. The French decision making processes are long and tend to measure each step taking important aspects into consideration. Literature review The Dutch anthropologist, Trompenaars , conducted a research over 10 years and eventually publishing his work in 1994. Expatriates in an organisation can benefit from his dimensions by having knowledge on the managing tasks in different cultures (Trompeenars et. al. , 1997). Universalism Vs Particularism: According to Trompenaars , Universalism and Particularism are terms used to denote a culture which is governed by rules and relationships. In the words of French (2007), rules are flexible in particularistic societies and relationships are given more importance than rules. Trompenaar’s classifies of USA as aUniversalistic society bound by rules. Hence, Lucent as a company believes in developing rules, codes and standards that can be applicable to everyone in every situation without any modification. In USA, negotiation takes place in written agreements, shows that a formal procedure is to be followed to do business. However in a particularistic culture, the type of relationship determines the business. Whereas the French culture is average in Universalism indicating Alcatel, the French company is neither too particularistic nor too universalistic and rationally develop inter personal relationship and trust bearing in mind the expected standards (Gesteland, 2005). Affective/ Emotional Vs Neutral: Affective and Neutral are terms used to represent emotions with in a culture. In affective cultures individuals tend to show their emotions explicitly in public like the American culture. However Neutral cultures believe in implicit behaviour towards their emotions. According to French (2007), different cultures exhibit different behaviours when it comes to emotions. American people tend to deliver their disgust spot-on using verbal communication where as the French do so with sign language such as frowning and smirks. The US and French cultures are both alignedvery close to each other in terms of how emotional or neutral they are. Both of them are moderately average, which means people working in Lucent as well as Alcatel neither express their feelings too enthusiastically nor do they try to hide their feelings (Gesteland, 2005). Specificity Vs Diffuseness: According to Hampden (1998), Specificity is a term used to represent cultures where difference between work life and personalised life are applicable. In diffused cultures, the society is non- segregated as work and personalised life are closely interlinked. According to Guirdham (1999), the French are diffused in their cultural believes hence personal and professional life is considered to be a part of the culture whereas the Americans believe in keeping the two separate. Achievement Vs Ascription: Trompenaar describes cultures which believe in achieving status through performance with a generic belief that status can be gained and lost if performances are not measured accordingly. Ascribed status is where people believe that status is gained through inherent right and not according to what they perform in everyday life(French,2007). Achievement oriented societies formed by individuals who believe in achieving goals independently. For example the reigning President of the United States of America, Barrack Obama is an individual who became the president with his qualities and perseverance. In Ascribed societies, people believe in the status and the background of individuals. This juxtaposes the idea that in France one can participate in politics only if their family has been inclined politically in the past. The American culture is achievement oriented thus at Lucent, social status or position of an employee is derived from his/her achievements. The employees in Alcatel could grow only if their business links with the superiors are concrete (Guirdham, 1999). Sequential Time vs. Synchronisation: The word, sequence, is used to describe time where events follow one another whereas in synchronised time, events are arranged at a parallel basis. Multi-tasking is the main feature of synchronisation. Lucent being a North American company follows monochromic time that is tangible and divisible. They view time as a narrow spectrum of distinct, consecutive segments. Hence they perform only one activity at a time with greater focus, keeping a strict schedule of appointments and showing a strong resistance from deviating their plans (Gesteland, 2005). Whereas Alcatel being a Mediterranean country follows Polychromic time, for them time is indivisible and flexible. Time is viewed as a norm and people perform multiple activities simultaneously which makes them distracted very easily. For them appointments are approximate and can be changed at any point of time, schedules are not as important as relationships are. Future Vs Past Orientation: Lucent focuses more on the present and the immediate future than what has happened in the past. They concentrate on achieving result within a short span of time. In Alcatel, the present and future are valued by looking at events that occurred previously. Any given situation is compared to the previous happenings. Time orientation does matter a lot when companies operate in different cultures. It creates chaos specially in taking long term decisions. High Vs Low context cultures: Lucent (USA)- as a company possesses the attributes of a low context culture where it relies on information explicitly provided, detailed communication and even higher detailed instruction at workplace. However at Alcatel (France), employees practice moderate levels of cultural context interms of communication, information and even instruction at workplace. Alcatel being a French company practices very high power distance, which means a wide gap exists between leaders, subordinates and management decisions are made at the top level only without the consent of fellow employees. Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Dutch Anthropologist, Geert Hofstede defines culture as â€Å"The collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of one category of people from another† (Hofstede, 2001). Using his survey at the IBM involving employees from world over, he formulated the cultural dimensional framework. High Vs Low Power Distance: Power distance is related to a society which is divided into classes and ranks. In USA, ranks are least important to individuals as they believe in Equality. Organisational ranks often make employees feel uncomfortable and are not practiced widely. In France such distinction between classes and ranks are acceptable. Though high organisational ranked employees believe in respecting employees of lower ranks but make sure that the distinction is clear. In such countries it is wise for a subordinate to use terms such as ‘Sir’ or ‘Madam’. Whereas, at Lucent- a US based company, power distance is relatively low. The gap between superior and subordinate is minimal likewise salary and decisions are made consulting with everyone, though organizational hierarchy exists but for convenience. High Vs Low Uncertainty Avoidance: The term Uncertainty denotes societies that are risk averse and risk takers. In US, the culture believes in taking risks and with France, risk taking is not a wise decision and is often followed with monotonous long-term decision making. The French are known for high uncertainty avoidance. Hence at Alcatel people prefer not to take risks unnecessarily, they usually are loyal to their employers and have long work records. The organization is structured with explicit rules and regulations with the employee (French, 2007). Therefore, Lucent as an organization is not well structured and people are eager to take risk, thus being flexible that makes them not loyal enough and are clear indicators of short term employees. As France is extremely cautious about uncertainty decisions, thus employees at Alcatel are extremely concerned about job losses. In a recent article Sutherland (2006) stated that: â€Å"About 10 percent, or 8,800 employees, will be laid-off. Lucent could not answer which percentage of the job losses will be borne by the U. S. Company, but French laws tightly control when employers can fire workers† (Cited in, Sutherland, 2006). Individualism Vs Collectivism: In Individualistic societies, individuals tend to look after their family and themselves. Organisational goals are based on individualistic performance and not on the group effort. Team works are performed with individual rewarding system. Collectivist countries believe that the essence of good performance is based on team work. Individuals must sacrifice their personal interest for the benefit of the team. Rewards and bonuses are according to the team’s performance on activities. The French and American individualistic characteristics are common, causing a clash of cultures while working in conglomerate companies such as Alcatel-lucent. Individualism evolved when the two companies merged because the people started thinking of their own self interests instead of considering the company on the whole. This leads to chaotic asynchronous processes that are disruptive for productivity (French, 2007). Masculinity Vs Femininity: Masculinity and femininity are characterized by behaviours such as assertiveness, competitiveness, caring and loving. Masculinity is a composition of tough values whereas Femininity shows tender traits. Both the nations are masculine in nature but the roles of women in the two societies are very different. In USA, Women can reach the top layers of the organisation whereas in the France it is the other way round and men are given more precedence as the society male dominant. In an article Holstein (2007) stated that: â€Å"One is that there is confusion about who’s in charge. Russo became CEO of the combined entity and Tchuruk became chairman. In American cultural terms, that means Russo runs the company. After all, she’s the CEO. But in a European context, and particularly a French setting, the chairman is the boss. Confusion at the top is deadly† (Cited by, Holstein, 2007). Masculinity is relatively high in Alcatel compared to Lucent. At Alcatel, people believe in competition, performance and male dominance. Whereas at Lucent ,people seek equal opportunity, better quality of work, solidarity over other factors including competitive behaviour. Patricia Russo, a successful business entrepreneur from the USA is an example of a Masculine dominant society where women scale the height of opportunities. According to Verwaayen (2008), decisions making in Alcatel-Lucent remains a crucial factor as the two companies have different reporting standards. In Alcatel the Chairman is the head who takes the final decisions relating to a company and in Lucent the CEO is the person who delegates decisions. The two different distinct approaches have clearly confused the role of employees in both the companies. Verwaayen (2008) also stated that in mergers, long distances usually creates trauma as processes cannot be co-ordinated hence provides freehand edge to competitors. According Gubbins (2007), it is important for the government to have a top- bottom flat structured system so as to make the operations of the company smooth and efficient to survive the competitive environment. Cultural clashes were so evident that Patricia Russo, the chief executive decided to leave the company and stakeholders expected changes after his reign. This can be analysed from the newsfeed of Alcatel-Lucent (2009) stating that: â€Å"We hope that a new CEO will be able to bridge the cultural divide between the Americans and the French and get all sides pulling together† (Cited in, Windsor, 2008). Analysis of Opportunities, *Challenges,* Considerations Opportunities Alcatel-Lucent partners a project phrased as the â€Å"Cercle Passeport Telecoms†,in France, which is a business program for corporate mentoring of multicultural students from humble backgrounds in their pursuit for higher academic opportunities (Alcatel-Lucent,2008). As a part of the recruitment opportunities, Alcatel Lucent revamped its business training programs into sessions that integrated technical training with hands-on experience on security products and data transmission . Further emphasis on sales methodologies, reaching out to partners to engage with the end-users and to carve out solutions to address their needs. In order to convert innovative ideas into reality products or services, Alcatel-Lucent launched the Entrepreneurial Boot Camp housed in Belgium in the spring of 2006. Aimed at a constructive build of a global knowledge base where creativity blossoms, a business foundation like the Boot Camp is a grooming factory for all the budding business developers of the next generation. Alcatel-Lucent’s strategic security partnership with renowned financial sector reseller Abraxas Partners paves wave for new job opportunities showering prosperity in the near future (Alcatel-Lucent, 2008). Considerations The primary objective of a merger is the integration of skills, resources, and business networks and their harmonic implementation. Taking into account Cultural differences, mergers are drafted, and contingency plans are prepared in order to tackle such differences. When cultural differences arise at higher level of the organizational hierarchy, the execution of these pre planned contingencies become haphazard(Turner & Trompenaars, 2000). The analysis of this uber-merger case study has given us a clear insight in to the detrimental situations aroused by unsuccessful execution of mergers. The cultural differences seem irrelevant considering the fallacies involved with it are not redundant while assessing shifts in fiscal trends. The persistent pressure enforced a moral obligation, convincing the American chief executive, Patricia Russo and the French Chairman, Serge Tchuruk to step down. (Ruitenberg,2008). The ignorance of demographic and geographic interests might have had a negative impact on the merger. Previous acquisitions and mergers may have misunderstood the merger as a change in organizational goals. According to Jolly (2008) ,Alcatel-Lucent’s current vision can be quoted as â€Å"CSR is about being a value driven company, where values are not words on pieces of paper but things we do automatically . It’s about being a company that is inclusive and has respect for the individuals, respect for differences and respect for cultures â€Å". Challenges Mergers and Acquisitions have a tendency to confront various issues and involve constant reframing of policies. Differences can be resolved at the nascent stages of the Merger or Acquisition only. Alcatel-Lucent faces a challenge in restoring their longstanding relation with their previous collaborators like Bell Labs, Packet Engines and Xylan who might have experienced difficulties while the management underwent changes, so that they may continue providing and developing their services. They also face the challenge of retaining existing customers especially those who might have endured inept services while the organization resolved its differences. The merger of the parent companies has taken a toll of time and the company has experienced positive development in turnovers, cultural integration thus reoccupying the held market share and brand goodwill. Internal Organization Alcatel-Lucent’s design and consultancy service convolutes the vital processes necessary to ensure an integration of cost-effective, flexible network infrastructure. Business Consulting, Operations Consulting, Applications Consulting, Security Consulting, Network Consulting & Design, Network & Service Optimization are Business units and processes that constitute this esteemed organization (Alcatel-Lucent,2008). Conclusion and Recommendation Complications usually occur when two companies from two different countries merge to benefit synergetic effects. In terms of Alcatel- lucent, the two parent companies follow an individualistic approach which motivates employees to work towards individualistic goals and often the objective of the company is not taken into mere consideration. The essence of good successful business is to adopt a collectivistic approach giving the goal and the mission of the company at the top priority. Team work will motivate employees of Alcatel- Lucent to take decision jointly (Alcatel-Lucent, 2008). To bridge the gap between America and the France, it is important to reduce the distance by sending employees of each company onto expatriate missions. To understand a culture, it is important to stand in the threshold of the other. Managers in expatriate missions will gain better understanding of the French and the American cultures thus adjusting to the new inter-cross culture. Leadership should be vested in hands of one and not many, therefore confusion at the top should be avoided by integrating processes with clear objectives. Employees should be made to report to only one superior. It is important for the company, Alcatel- Lucent, to use new technologies such as video conferencing to reduce communication barriers between the employees of the two countries. In this time of financial crisis, it is important to cut costs to sustain in the global business market. Top heavy structures in the company with higher pay packs to the employees could create operational loss. In the reduction of financial position, the competitors would benefit by reaping advantage of the situation and overlapping it by way of acquisition. As the French are more protective about the job loss scenario, the company should take effective measures such as putting employee rolls stagnant thereby reducing its financial cost. References French, R. (2007),â€Å"Cross Cultural management in work organizations,† Kerry Press LTD, London. Hofstede, G (2001) â€Å"Cultures and organizations: software of mind† McGraw Hill, New York. Turner,C. H. & Trompenaars,F. 2000) â€Å"Building Cross cultural Competence,† John Wiley &Sons Inc, USA. Alcatel-Lucent, (2008) â€Å"Alcatel-Lucent launches new channel recruitment drive in UK and Ireland and announces security partnership with Abraxas† [Online] Available at: http://www. subtelforum. com/articles/? p=190 (Accessed on 2nd Dec. 2009). Alcatel-Lucent, (2009) â€Å"Alcatel-Lucent announces Chairman Serge Tchuruk a nd CEO Pat Russo to step down† [Online] Available at: http://www. alcatellucent. com/wps/portal/! ut/p/kcxml/04_Sj9SPykssy0xPLMnMz0vM0Y_QjzKLd4x3tXDUL8h2VAQAURh_Yw!!? LMSG_CABINET=Docs_and_Resource_Ctr&LMSG_CONTENT_FILE=News_Releases_2008/News_Article_001159. xml (Accessed on 2nd December 2009). Fons,T. , Turner,H. , Charles, (1997), â€Å" Riding the waves of culture†, Gardners [Online] Available at: http://www. businessmate. org/Article. php? ArtikelId=5 (Accessed on 10th Nov. 2009). Gubbins,E. (2007), â€Å" UBS: Alcatel faces mobility decline, culture clash† telephony online: Penton media online press [Online] Available at : http://telephonyonline. com/wireless/news/alcatel_mobility_revenue_121907/ (Accessed on :23rd Nov 2009). Hall,E. T. and Hall,M. T. (1990), â€Å"Understanding Cultural Differences, Germans French and Americans† , USA, pg 129;130. Holstein,W. J. (2007), â€Å"Lucent-Alcatel: Why Cross-Cultural Mergers Are So Tough†New York Times [Online] available at: http:// www. nytimes. com/2007/11/01/business/worldbusiness (Accessed on 10th nov. 2009). Jolly,D. (2008), â€Å"Culture clash hits home at Alcatel-Lucent† New York Times [Online] available at: http://www. nytimes. com/2008/07/29/business/worldbusiness/29iht-alcatel. 4. 14867263. html? pagewanted=1 ( Accessed on 1st December 2009). Ruitenberg,R. 2008),† Alcatel-Lucent's Russo, Tchuruk to Quit; Loss Widens† Bloomberg[Online] Available at: http://www. bloomberg. com/apps/news? pid=20601085=a6fn02kzojwE=europe (Accessed on, 20th November 2009). Sorensen,G. (1984) â€Å"How much Poison is Another Man's Meat? † Notes on the Logic of World Systems Analysis, page 29. Sorensen,O. J. (1984) â€Å" Marketing Systems a nd Economic Development. An Institutional-Structural Approach† page 41. Sutherland,E. (2006), â€Å"Lucent Brushes Up on French With Alcatel Merger† Internetnews [Online] Available at: http://www. internetnews. com/bus-news/article. hp/3596246 (accessed on 23rd Nov 2009). Verwaayen ,B. (2008), â€Å"Alcatel-Lucent: New CEO, Same Three Problems† The Wall street journal. Windsor. R(2008), â€Å"Alcatel-Lucent confronts its cross-cultural challenges† BBC News[Online] available at: http://leaderswedeserve. wordpress. com/2008/07/31/alcatel-lucent-confronts-its -cross-cultural-challenges (Accessed on 5th Nov. 2009). Managing across Cultures, INDU 1033 – Team Reflection – Questions to guide the Team Presentation and Written Report Draw on your experiences: how would you qualify the teamwork in terms of {text:list-item} Keeping in mind the scarcity of information available in journals and online web content a strategic plan was devised to search online material using key trigger words that would facilitate in text referencing. The presentation time being short was a challenge for me in my role( Meenakshi Mukherjee) as group leader to define specific roles to my team mates to quantify the case study of Alcatel –Lucent keeping in mind the cultural heritage both companies’ native countries share. A well defined work with ample support from team members in way of skills and research makes me happy and feel good as a budding manager graduating from this esteemed university. {text:list-item} I would like to reflect on the fact that our team being truly multicultural, representing various nations of the world knit as family segregating this task into sections of expertise . Taking the reference frame work set forth by the respected lecturer and tutors, each subtopic in the case study was carefully classified and analysed. Disputes about the content were usually friendly group discussions in a professional manner. How much could difficulties be related to national variations in approaches to group work ? Multicultural teams like ours have different rational thinking capabilities . Innovative ideas streamlined. But the pipeline for these ideas was the standards we must set . Work can be left to interpretation. A consensus of the group eradicated doubt and hesitant notions. What elements of the process would you do differently next time. NB various approaches may exist among the different members of the team The data collection was done in large qualities from various limited resources. The case of Alcatel Lucent is primarily neglected in the business world. Careful selection of the company of reference could have been more articulate and the constrains of time and word limited was a real burden . Optimum utilization of resources can be improvide in future. The following members of the team declare to have fulfilled a