Global Business Prespective Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Global Business Prespective - Coursework Example Companies that follow the international strategy tend to sell locally produced goods and services in foreign market while making certain amendments to their offerings in compliance with foreign market needs. 2. Product shaping is one of the diversification strategies that can be implemented by an organization through strategic management. Organizations that adopt this strategy tend to indulge in the development of a new product for a market that already exists (Hitt, 2009). For example: In India there was a strong existing market for carbonated drinks that was being served by Pepsi Corporation. Later Coca-Cola Company even started offering carbonated drinks in India. This strategy may not always be successful because the current market may already be loyal to another organization that is satisfying their needs and may be reluctant in changing from the already present provider. 3. The term franchising is used to refer to the license that one company operating in a particular nation offers to another company an individual which allows them to operate a similar company in their local regions with the same name (Hitt, 2009). Franchisors can earn revenue from franchisees by obtaining fee revenue which is an upfront payment that a franchisee pays to the franchisor for opening up a franchise with the same name. Franchisors even earn through royalties which is a certain percentage of the total revenue that has been earned by the franchisee. 4. Micro loan is a term used to refer to the money that is lent by a financial institution or the government in order to decrease poverty in their nation (Hitt, 2009). The purpose of microloan is to provide money to the poor and needy people who cannot obtain loans from commercial banks as commercial banks charge higher interests and have a very stringent repayment solution. Micro loans

Teaching Non Native-English Speakers Essay Example for Free

Teaching Non Native-English Speakers Essay

Ritz Carlton marketing analysis

Ritz Carlton marketing analysis 1. Introduction: Ritz Carltons marketing conduct is a true paradigm that follows root rudiments of Marketing as a management discipline i.e. recognising, anticipating and satisfying customer needs profitability as defined by Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK (Cited in Brassington Pettitt, 2001). At same point of time, the activities undertaken by Ritz Carlton under its marketing strategy not only contribute to overall brand development but rather also exemplify innovative methods to promote products or services and most significantly how to satisfy claims promised to customers as part of the strategy. This assignment focuses to reveal current positioning of Ritz Carlton in industry, and discuss in depth important factors responsible for success of company. At same point of time, assignment will also examine the imperative factors that contribute to Ritz Carlton quality of service as perceived by customers. Finally light would also be laid down on how company tries to provide consistent -universal experience to its customer all round the world and factors that act as obstacle against it. Company Overview: Ritz Carlton is one of the most well known luxury hotels company in the world. Right from inception, Ritz Carlton has brought significant innovation in practises of hospitality industry (See The Ritz Carlton, 2010a).With history of existence and success of over 100 years, Ritz Carlton as a company currently adopts Limited Liability Company nature of ownership. Ritz Carlton LLC is subsidiary company of Marriot Hotel Incorporation. The parent company, Marriot Hotels hold as many as 18 brands including Ritz Carlton. The Ritz Carlton at presents manages 72 luxury hotels in 24 countries located in 5 different regions in the world, the USA and Canada; Mexico, Caribbean and South America; Asia-Pacific; Europe; and Middle East. Besides, the company has a number of further expansion plans specifically concentrated towards eastern world with a view to take advantage of booming market. (See Worth, 2009) Service Marketing With development of marketing as a discipline, the scope of marketing has also enhanced. Jacques et al (2007) rightly points out that it is organisations self interest that decide its future course of it action. This self interest of any organisation largely depends upon nature of business it adapts and therefore, it is extremely important to recognize with what range of organisation we are dealing with beforehand, (Like Consumer, B2B, Service, Small Business, Web based and so on) so that its marketing strategy can be woven around core goals. Ritz Carlton test on product spectrum offered by Brassington Pettitt (2007) indicates that the product that they deal with is characterised by extremely greater level of service or in fact pure services. RITZ CARLTON ritz_carlton_logo.jpg Intangibility Perishability Lack of Ownership Heterogeneity Inseparability Different customer will opine differently on their experience at Ritz. Customer involvement plays vital role. Customer need to come in contact with hotel -Service provider. No Exchange of any Items takes place as part of primary offerings. Simultaneous process of producing and consuming service. Essence of Ritz Carlton success measure depends on Experience of customers Figure 1: Position of Ritz-Carlton in the Product Spectrum Assumptions: Ritz Carlton as discussed above is not only a subsidiary of Marriot Hotel Incorporation but also a LLC that deals with various type of accommodation. This does not just include hotels but rather also involves Clubs and residence properties. This assignment specifically focuses on Ritz Carlton as chain of hotels. Moreover, analysis is completely based on its worldwide presence and not limited to any particular geographic market. This is intentionally done so as to understand marketing of Ritz Carlton as chain of hotels rather any specific unit. However, for understanding and justification purpose, region specific examples are cited in certain parts of assignment. 2. Exploring Secret behind Ritz Carltons Success: Ritz Carlton as an organisation offers its services across five continents. Right from USA to Asia its hotels at first look give us experience of beyond imagination architecture and provides stereotype of luxury and elegance. There is no doubt to the fact that physical surrounding (which include premises) in case of service industry act as one of the most important element, that define success criteria for influencing consumer behaviour (Bitner M.,1992) and portray what it stand for. Physical evidences i.e. tangible items add value to service being offered. However, it can be argued that it is not the lone measure responsible for hotels success. The basic reason behind this is, a customer never judges a hotel solely on foundation of its tangible infrastructure (Building, Technological availability, Type of Rooms etc) but rather there are number of other elements that play vital role. This part of assignments will try to identify such important factors responsible behind Ritz Carlton success. Successfully Targeting Segmentation: The need of customers varies for various reasons and therefore it is very important to identify prospective strategic customer for organisation, (Johnson et al, 2008) at same point of time organisation must also have calibre to satisfy the targeted group of customers. Ritz- Carltons continued success, behind the scenes depicts its ability to successfully targets it segmentation, offering perfect Marketing Mix elements. Moreover, it also ensures that modifications are made in marketing mix elements with changing scenario in market trends and both these factors act as key elements. Kotler et al (2009) emphasise on a point that, marketing is all about forming strategy towards consumer and customer needs and thereby offering service or product that satisfy those needs. Ritz Carlton as an organisation in true sense is perfect at following and applying this basic ideology. This assignment aims to identify success factors of Ritz Carlton in light of marketing mix elements with a view to jus tify above argument. Identifying Market Focus (Segmentation): Marriot Hotels has divided their business to number of segments where Ritz Carlton serves as Luxury Lodging (See Marriot Hotel Incorporation, 2008) and hence it is very evident from this fact that Ritz Carlton as a company exists to serve luxurious hospitality Ritz Carlton hotels are located at more than 70 destinations, the basic customer segment which Ritz-Carlton targets is, people with rich lifestyle in all aspects of life. Irrespective of any geographic location on earth, age, social-cultural belief, opinion of an individual, the common element that Ritz tries to concentrate is People with Lavish living. Therefore, it can be invariably noticed that Ritz Carlton adopts concentrated targeting method towards Psychographic segmentation. As Brassington Pettitt (2007) rightly points that lifestyle segmentation is very difficult to define, we came up with following attributes that Ritz Carlton try to target. (See figure 1.1). Psychographic Segmentation Ritz Carlton Figure 2 Targeting Customer Segmentation Factors Defining Success of Ritz Carlton: Perfect Offerings (Product): The product anatomy (See figure 3) of Ritz Carlton illustrates that it is not just a customary hotel which satisfies basic needs but rather, it aspires to provide unforgettable experience to its customers, which perfectly matches its target market. Most importantly, providing value added services as personalised attention very well justify its marketing appeal to customer Experience The Ritz, enabling it to exceed customer expectations. Moreover, this value added services acts as source of tremendous additional revenues for Ritz Carlton. (Baxter J, 2007) One of vital point to focus is product development undertaken i.e. offerings of special packages, with a view to attract more customers and adapt to current market situations. (See Appendix) Furthermore in hospitality industry, locations act as products, as it creates value to selling points and influence buyers behaviour as well (Brassington Pettitt, 2007). All properties of Ritz Carlton are majority placed in USA, China and Europe an countries which are strategically located as it intends to focus on top most tourism and business destinations of the world. (See UNWTO, 2006) Moreover, Ritz Carlton has its hotels at New York, London, Paris, and Dubai which are strongest cities in terms of highest occupancy rates of rooms. (Worth S., 2009) ritz_carlton_logo.jpg Figure 3 Product Anatomy of Ritz Carlton Directly getting in touch with end Customer (Place) In service industry generally, there exist direct selling between service provider and end customer and the basic reason behind this is core characteristics of service products by nature (i.e. Perishability, Intangibility, Heterogeneity, and Inseparability) as discussed above. (Cowell, 1984) The activity of providing service for hotels initiates as soon as customer triggers its efforts for bookings. Ritz Carlton recognises importance of rise in online booking which almost doubled in 2007 (Research by Travelclick cited in Baxter J., 2007) and offers easy access to its customer to book from its own website. Ritz Carlton has also entered into best available rate programmes with website as (such as Thomson.co.uk, InspiredLuxuryEscapes.com) to play with consumer confidence to get cheapest rates on web. This evidently suggests that primary focus of Ritz Carlton is to directly contact the customer which is vital need of service marketing i.e. to reach out customer and influence their behavi our encouraging them to experience your service (Brassington Pettitt, 2007). Pricing Concentrating towards Sub-Segmentations (Price) Price must convince customers perception towards compensation of service offered and value paid against it (Jacques et al, 2007) and therefore it is vital to ensure that pricing strategy is in synchronisation with segment targeted. As Javalgi et al (2006) rightly indicates that Ritz Carlton extends it services to industry executives, meeting and corporate travel planners, and affluent travellers, targeting sub-segments also plays important role. Ritz-Carlton has carved niche for itself which is evident from various range of prices its offer. At Ritz London one night accommodation costs from about  £250 up to  £3500, while similarly in USA markets the range exist between 200$ to 3000$ (As on 10 march 2010). This suggests that Ritz Carlton concentrates on sub segmentation acts as an advantage. However, base pricing is one of the areas where Ritz Carlton needs to seek improvements (See Current Positioning part) to attract more customers. Brassington Pettitt (2007) also brings to notice important issue that price is an important tool to manage demand. Understanding this vital point, during recent tough time company brought out number of attractive packages to influence more customer (Like package of 2 nights stay at 449$ per family) (See Schultenover J; Strout E, 2002) and that defines companys ability to alter marketing mix elements as per relevant conditions. Balance Innovative Endorsement (Promotion): Ritz Carlton involves itself with both form of promotional activities as referred by Berkowitz et al (1992) i.e. product oriented and institution oriented. It adopts a balance promotional strategy ensuring that using product oriented approach it continuously communicates with customers regarding its USP (Unique Selling Point) and recent offerings on other hand it uses Institution oriented approach to preserve Ritz Carlton as a Unique brand with historical excellence influencing consumer behavior. Impact of Promotion on Consumer Perceptions towards Ritz Carlton: High Expertise Premium Brand Life Time Experience Symbol of Status Going Beyond Expectations Respect For Brand A matter of Pride Innovative and benchmark for Quality Figure 4 Impact of Promotion on Consumer In addition to this, Ritz Carlton adapts PULL strategy (Brassington Pettitt, 2007) using perfect medium to directly communicate with customer. With rise in concept of Social marketing Ritz Carlton has tied up with Travel Click to actively manage its promotion over web. (Hospitality.Net, 2009) To target business travellers, paper adverts are given in leading business magazines (e.g. Business Traveller) along with television adverts and advertising in airlines. One of the important observations is Ritz Carlton uses its own Website as major promotional medium. All package brochures, promotional videos, Ritz Carltons own magazine are uploaded to website. (See The Ritz Carlton, 2010) One of the significant points of observation is Ritz Carlton provides innovative edge to its promotion strategy. One of the classic examples is, it markets its biggest asset i.e. Employees. There is not a single promotional videos which fails to give importance to its own staff representing them as creators and followers of high quality standards in industry terming them as Our Ladies Gentleman (See The Ritz London, 2008; Ritz Culture, 2007). Apart from this, instead of using simple adverts Ritz Carlton has created short films which are aired on televisions, hotel rooms, and websites to make people understand what uniqueness of its services is. (See The Delay, 2008; The Last Night, 2008, New Gold Standards, 2010, Audi and Tarma, 2007). Hence innovative and a balance promotional strategy is one of the important factors responsible behind Ritz Carlton success. Staff- A Biggest Asset (People) March, J.G and Simon (1958) emphasise on vital point that organisations are primarily formed and governed by people and therefore image reflection of organisation largely depend upon actions of its staff and this is especially true in case of service industry as it deals with process of interactive marketing (Kotler P and Armstrong G, 2004; Brassington Pettitt,2007). Ritz Carlton understands this vital point and implements customer focused approach. It aims at hiring right people, providing best fit to organisations culture of Putting Customer First who are characterized with a strong sense of values and overall desire to go beyond the call of duty. (Emerald Database, 2003) Furthermore, Ritz Carlton goes step ahead, as an organisation, it strives to get known for its excellent service and that act as a key to its success. Organisation best at this must try to invest their money, talent, time and attention to strengthen their current positing (Ferrell O.C; Hartline M., 2006) and that what Ritz Carlton does by investing in its people. In this process, over the year Ritz Carlton has developed and raised bars of customer services with help of their staff which itself now act as their behavioural core competence that cannot be easily imitated by others. (Johnson et al, 2008; Bacon, 2005) Internal Values Operations (Process) It is important for service industry to pay attention to both, employees and customer to successfully implement process of service profit chain. Ritz Carlton as an organisation aims to take extreme care and respect for their employees, with an understanding that, in return they will put up efforts to fulfil even unexpressed wishes of their customer. (Kotler P and Armstrong G, 2004) The employees are empowered, trained to develop gold standards (See Emerald Database, 2002) and are considered biggest strength of the organisation which produces exemplifying services towards customer. Employees are trained motivated to develop relational exchange with customer with a view to increase loyalty and development of brand. (Jain R and Jain S, 2006) Creating Value Internal Process CUSTOMER FOCUS Figure 5 Service Profit Chain for Ritz Carlton Another important contributing factor is Ritz-Carlton has been successful in developing its own culture of servicing (Kent W, 1990) which is now considered as gold standards (Benchmark) towards quality development in servicing industry. Ritz Carlton also uses CLASS database with purpose of registering likes/dislikes, Interests, preferences, previous problems faced, attitude of every individual customer to provide personalised service. Hence, putting all together, these are innovative process that enables Ritz Carlton to fully engage employees and generate a creative delightful experience to its customer on one hand and simultaneously developing an unique core competence for itself at other hand.(Timmerman J, 2009) 2. Current Positioning According to Kotler et al (2009), all marketing strategy is built on STP Segmentation, Targeting, and Positioning. A company discovers different needs and groups in the marketplace, targets those needs and groups that it can satisfy in a superior way, and then positions its offering so that the target market recognizes the companys distinctive offering and image. Positioning is process of analysing product or service, offered in context of competitive space (includes buyers and competitors) it works out. (See Brassington Pettitt, 2007; Kotler et al 2009) It is a way of creating and engaging a place in the mind of the target market by highlighting the companys offering, brand and image. The ultimate outcome of positioning is a flourishing establishment of a consumer focused value proposition, in other words a convincing reason why the target market should buy the product (Kotler, 2003) and therefore it act as base to companys success. This part of assignment aims to explore current positioning of Ritz Carlton in market. The basic idea is to understand customers perception towards our brand and towards our closest competitors. At same point of time identifying attributes that are responsible for creation of this illusion in minds of customer Identifying relevant attribute players: The various attribute offered by the brand represents its market position, which are viewed and compared against other brand. Brands that offer similar package of attributes are deemed to be in the same competitive set (Dev C.S et al, 1995) and therefore it is important to concentrate on direct competitors rather than industry as a whole. Efforts must be laid down to identify players with similar attributes competing on same values. (Johnson et al, 2007) It is a nature of the hospitality industry that most of the attributes offered are intangible which makes it tricky for the customer to differentiate the offerings of the competitor as such things can be experience only by staying in the hotel. A part of the positioning is also subjective, as it involves customers perception towards brand. Here, analysis is based on Marketing Metrix Hospitality Index* which reveals price and level of customer satisfaction from the feedback of more than 35000 customers across world. (See appendix) There are numerous players in hospitality industry targeting luxury segment and so it is decided to firstly filter relevant players on basis of tangible attribute i.e. area of market covered geographically, as analysis is based on worldwide scenario. This enables us to get core market competitors (See figure 2) (To an extent it influences customer choice of hotel, as it defines scope of service being provided and also impacts brand creation process in eyes of customer) Hotels Area Covered Number of Properties Ritz Carlton LLC Across 5 Continents 72 Fairmont Raffles Hotels International Group Across 5 Continents Around 65 Starwoods Hotel Resorts Le Meridien 16 Countries 116 Four Seasons PLC 35 Countries Across 5 Continents 83 InterContinental Hotel Group Across 60 Countries 166 (The Ritz Carlton, 2010; Four Seasons, 2010; InterContinental Hotels Resorts, 2010; Fairmont Hotels Resorts; Starwoods Hotel Resorts, 2010) Table 1 Identified Relevant Players on Basis of Geographical area The other two most important attributes identified from view point of customer are price and quality. Quality can be judged on several others important sub attributes (As Quality of food and beverage, physical appearance and in-room facilities, helpful and courtesy of staff, Technology etc.) and therefore this aspect is judged on basis of customer satisfaction index which provides comprehensive picture of it. About MMHI*: Based on 35,000 customer interviews conducted each quarter, the Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) is the largest and most in-depth measure of hospitality company performance available today. (MMHI, 2010) Taj Hotels Resorts rc_logo_en Industry Competitors Four Seasons Hotels PLC Starwoods Hotel Resorts -ST Regis Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Fairmont Raffles Hotels International Jumeirah Hotels Resorts Pan Pacific Hotels Resorts Wyndham Hotel Group Market Competitors Marriot Hotels Incorporation* Oberoi Hotels Resorts Rosewood Hotels group Inter Continental Hotel Group Starwoods Hotels Resorts Le Meridien Figure 6: Competitors analysis of Ritz-Carlton Starwoods Hotel Resorts*: Its Brands, St. Regis Le Meridien targets luxury segment within total of 152 properties across world. Marriot Hotels Incorporation*: Although Ritz Carlton is subsidary of Marriot Hotel Incorporation, it has got more than 18 brands and there is defiante possiblity that these brand may compete amongst each other and therefore Marriot Hotel Incorporation is also considered as Industry competitor. Perceptual Mapping: The graph represents all the players targeting luxury segment with widespread presence all over the world under hospitality industry. Yet, it must be noted that level of quality, prices offered would differ under this banner as well and it is this factor that differentiates best in comparison to average player in eyes of customer which can be clearly identfied below. Ritz Calton fall under the segment of offering High Quality with High Price. High Quality Oberoi Hotels Ritz Carlton Low Price High Price Four Seasons Inter Continental Le Meridien Low Quality Figure 7 Perceptual Mapping of Ritz Carlton Perceprtual Map enales us to find out gaps and provide us inights towards undertaking competitive action needed.(Brassington Pettitt) Gaps to be filled Up: Customer needs to be satisfied. Pricing Strategy: As discussed above Ritz Carlton concentrates on sub-segments that act as advantage however the minimum base price it offers is subject to risk. Ritz Carlton price starts at about 200$ while that of Oberoi hotels reporting maximum customer satisfaction (93.7) offers base price at 85$.Although, Ritz Carlton brand value is quite high compared to Oberoi group yet, Its a huge gap and therefore it must revise its pricing strategy. Moreover, all of its market competitors also offers relatively too low price, closest being Intercontinental group offering 156$ (See appendix). At same point of time Ritz Carltons closest rival Four Season offers almost equal quality of service (86.6) at price of just 141$ which is matter of worry as well. Improving Loyalty programmes: Ritz Carlton understands that complete customer satisfaction is one of the vital strategic to retain and maintaining long term relationship with its customer and it is best practising at that. (Bacon, 2005; Emerald Database, 2004) However, there is scope for improvement in its loyalty programmes as recent data indicates its loyalty program strength of 5% compared to industry average of 10 %. (See appendix). This will enhance its potential to gain increased customer loyalty. Attracting New Market by adapting service innovations: Ritz Carlton is aware of the fact that the key to a hotels survival is its ability to cater services with changing needs and life styles of customers. (Min et al, 2002) There is no doubt that organisation completely understands changing taste of consumers i.e. people are now becoming more casual compared to traditional formalin approach.(Gunter and Heather, 2007) But this needs to be communicated to customers and therefore, there is need for Ritz Carlton to presents itself as modern, technological hotel group supporting needs of modern, young travellers. At same point of time, as recommended by Victorino et al (2005) company must move further towards service innovation with use of technology to differentiate itself from others. Ritz Carlton has already started implementing steps towards this approach; however there is need for rapid actions and wide promotions with intentions to quickly change consumer perception towards its brand. 2000 Euros for Managing Guest Grievance A Strategic Move! Ritz-Carltons employees are allowed to spend up to $2,000 to redress a guests grievance. The employees are entrusted to spend the money to make a memorable stay for the guest in the hotel. Employees are encouraged to solve the guests complaints immediately on the spot. Permitting the employees to spend a sum of $2,000 shows how much the company trust the judgement of their employees and employees can even spend more than $2,000 with the permission from general manager. The basic logic behind such action is, with existence of fierce competition within the market it is always difficult for firms to increase their market share and therefore key to continue successful growth lies in devoting larger part of firms resources on existing customers with intention to retain them and gain their loyalty (Tepeci M, 1999) Moreover, such act adds value to brand creation and customer satisfaction and that encourages customer to become brand loyal. (Kandampully J and Suhartanto D, 2000) Most importan tly, the question of such spending exceeds overheads does not arise as it is obvious that it doesnt get used on every customer. It acts as meaningful amount yet, used rarely. (Reiss R, 2009). Customer satisfaction is the key to customer retention. A greatly satisfied customer stays loyal longer with the company and talks favourably about the company. A loyal customer is less sensitive to price, pays less attention to the competitors brand and cost less to serve than new customer. From the customers who registered a complaint, between 54% and 70% will do business again with the same company if their complaint is resolved, these number could be pulled up to an overwhelming 95% if the customer experiences that their complaint is resolved quickly. Customers who have complained to an organization and had their complaints satisfactorily resolved tell an average of five people about the good treatment they received (Philip Kotler, 1977), which indirectly contributes to attract further new customer. Expanding the customer retention rate accumulates the customer lifetime value, and therefore this means life time revenue for company. On other hand company, attracting new customers are costly as that include cost of promotions, advertising and so on which can be avoided. Therefore such action is termed as strategic Move by Ritz Carlton. There is also another point of view to this scenario which impacts internal working culture of within organisation. Allowing such amount to spend makes Employee feel that company respect them, trust them, considers them responsible and valuable and this generates feeling of empowerment impacting concept of service profit chain as discussed above. Employees get more engaged with company and works more responsibly ultimately resulting to exceptional customer service, which is the core aim of organisation. Appendix: Product Development by Ritz Carlton (i.e. to offer Special Packages) aims to attract more customers by influencing their behaviour and encouraging them to celebrate this important occasion with them and turn them to Life time Memories. (Festive Season Packages during Easter; Christmas, Valentine Day at Ritz, Summer Break Packages, Weekends Special, and Family Packages) Ritz Valentine photo.jpg (Rogers; Mark, 2009) Along with these Ritz Carlton also developed special packages for companies during times of recession to provide luxury at budgeted economy. Packages were upgraded to more facilities at lower price. Significant efforts were also laid down in promoting it and communicating it to end customers as well. This indicates Ritz Carlton ability to act as per changing external situations (Schultenover J; Strout E, 2002) MMHI Results: Market Metrix Hospitality index indicating customer satisfaction and average price results for hotels under luxury segment and Up Scale hotels. page0001.jpg (Source: MMHI Results, 2009) Video Bibliography: Official Ritz Carlton Promotional Videos: 1. New Gold Standard (2010) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IW70hBP5cIc (Promotional Videos at hotel rooms and Websites) 2. Ritz Culture (2007) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_iFSAAoQ-A (Interview of Diana Oreck, Vice President Global Learning and Leadership Center) 3. The Last Night (2008) http://video.yahoo.com/watch/2296201/7207129 (Ritz Carlton Short Film in association with America Express) 4. The Delay (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oFz8E5fbJQ (Ritz Carlton Short Film in association with America Express) 5. The Ritz London (2008) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQGlyhlhcK0 (Documentary on The Ritz London)

Ethnics and Heritage Destroyed George in Gloria Naylor’s Mama Day :: Gloria Naylor Mama Day Essays

Ethnics and Heritage Destroyed George in Gloria Naylor’s Mama Day It has been said before that opposites attract when it comes to love. In Gloria Naylor’s Mama Day, two people who would seemingly never end up together somehow find a way to form a relationship that eventually leads to a marriage. George and Cocoa, the two lovers featured in this book, come from backgrounds that could not be more unlike the other. How they end up falling in love is close to a miracle, but because of their huge difference in background, they bring to each other what they wish they could have in themselves. While George is a man who comes from the diverse and strictly governed big city atmosphere of New York, Ophelia is a woman who was raised on the island of Willow Springs which is inhabited by descendants of slaves and is subject to racism and disregard for normal conduct in society. New York is a place where science and facts control the decisions of life; Willow Springs has many rituals based on magic and superstition. Because the two locations are so incre dibly opposite from one another, it is difficult for George to believe in anything that Cocoa was raised on. However, in order for George to get Mama Day’s approval, he must believe and understand magic as it exists in Willow Springs both in its physical form and as a form of belief. The biggest influence of magic on the island of Willow Springs is Mama Day. A descendant of the legendary Sapphira Wade, Mama Day is said to have convinced her master to give the land that is Willow Springs to the slaves, for which she â€Å"†¦bore him seven sons in less than a thousand days, to put a dagger through his kidney and escape the hangman’ noose, laughing in a burst of flames.† (Naylor 3) The influence of Sapphira’s magic is carried over into Mama Day, as it is said that she could, â€Å"†¦walk through a lighting storm without being touched; grab a bolt of lightning in her hand; use the heat of lightning to start the kindling going under the medicine pot.† (Naylor 3) For a rational minded person like George, this and some of the other traditions can be hard to accept. One such example of George’s ideas of normal human behavior clashing with Mama Day’s occurs when Mama Day and Grandmother Abigail give the married couple a quilt made entirely of articles of clothing from past generations.

Childcare Level 4 Keeping Children Safe

Unit 4 – Keeping children safe E1/D1 Five main laws that underpin the provision of health, safe and secure environments for young children are: Health and Safety at Work Act 1974Under the act 1974, both employers and employees have duties. Employers must produce a written policy explaining how they will ensure the health, safety and welfare of all people who use the premises. Employees must cooperate with these arrangements and take reasonable care of themselves and others. Employers have a duty to display a health and safety law poster.The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrence Regulation (RIDDOR) 1995This regulation requires accidents, diseases and dangerous occurrence to be recorded. An accident book must be kept in order for staff to record an incidents occurred in the setting. It is very important to record any incidents that have happened in the setting. The purpose of doing this is to attend the child welfare and safeguarding. The records could be used by doctors if the child was to develop any further injury. Settings require parents to inform staff of any illness or allergies their child may have. This protects the child and staff.The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002This regulation states that substances which can make people ill or injure them must be stored and used appropriately. In a setting substances hazard to health are locked away and out of the reach for children. Only a few members of staff have the key and only they can open the cupboard unless given permission by someone else to. If someone new comes to work in the setting it is the supervisor’s duty to tell them where these substances are kept. Substances accessible to children are generally chemical and toxic free and safe to use.All objects safe to use either have a kite mare, lion mark or CE mark. The marks reassure that the product is safe for the child. Personal Protective Equipment at Work (PPE) Regulations 1992The reg ulation states employers must make sure there is suitable protective equipment available for employers who are exposed to a risk to their health and safety at work. Staff in a childcare setting should be provided with equipment if they are doing any activities that are a risk to there health. It is important that staff wear the protective clothing/equipment to prevent injuries.Equipment such as gloves, goggles, science jackets etc are there to prevent us from haring that part of our body. Gloves are used when handling bodily fluids to protect the hand from burns or reaction to the substance. Food Handling Regulation 1995This regulation states if you are preparing or handling food you must; Wash hands, Make sure the surface is clean and hygienic, Make sure food is stored at the correct temperature, Dispose of waist hygienicallyIn a setting cooks are requires to tie their hair back and wear hair nets and apron. There are different c olour chopping boards for dealing with different kin ds of foods, e. . meat and vegetables. Surfaces are cleaned thoroughly with bacterial sprays to ensure the food is prepared in the cleanest way. Food inspector’s regularly come in to settings to ensure cooks are storing food correctly and at the right temperature. If everything is done to satisfaction the setting is often awarded with a certificate. In the setting there are labels and signs to show what goes where and how they should be used. Children are encouraged to abide by this regulation as well, when they do cooking activities. Children are told to wash their hands when handling and consuming food.Staff will plan activates that will teach children how to safely prepare food. Staff ma organise with the cook to have the children watch how they prepare their food in the kitchen. E2 Bump on head –a bump on the head is a common injury in young children. If it happens in the setting it should be noted down in the accident book which every childcare setting must have. Then the injury should be treated with an ice pack. The child should be closely supervised as the injury could cause them to become drowsy. Parents should be given a copy of the accident form or a letter must be sent home.It depends on the procedure of the setting. The parent should always be informed of the accident when they come to collect their child. Asthma attack –a child having an asthma attack needs to be comforted and taken to a quiet place away from the other children. The child is then given an inhaler. Staff must call the parent/career straight away informing them about what has happened to their child. Staff should reassure the child by telling them every thing is going to be ok and try to steady the child breathing by breathing with them slowly which will allow air to get to their lungs. The child should never be left alone.Sickness and Diarrhoea – if a child has diarrhoea the parent/ career must be informed and ask to pick up the child immediately. If th e child has vomited then children should be moved away from the area and staff must clean it up, wearing protective clothing such as gloves which must be disposed after as it will protect them from infection or catching the illness. Personal Protective Equipment at Work (PPE) Regulations 1992. A child with diarrhoea should be given plenty of fluid; if the child cannot keep the fluid down then the child should be taken to the hospital as soon as possible.It is best the child stays of school for at least two days before returning. This is normally a health and safety procedure in a setting. E3 11 year old 9:00am The children are dropped of and say goodbye to parent. 9:15am A register is taken. This is done so that staffs are aware of all children who are in the setting on that day. 9:30am Children have social time. They play with each other and with activities set out for them in the baby room. 10:15am Children have their nappy change, their hands get washed and prepare them for snack time. 0:30am put the children in their baby chairs and give them milk, water, fruit or a snack to eat and drink. assist any child who needs help with feeding. 11:00am The children are taken out side for some fresh air. put the children in their buggies or if the weather is good they can crawl around and play in the sand pit. It is important staff check the outside area every day. 11:30am The children return back to the baby room. Change of nappies and clothing is done if needed and wash the face and hands of the child. 11:45am: Children are put in their baby chairs and are told what they are going to have for lunch.Staff in the kitchen should follow the Food Handling Regulation 1995, to make sure food is prepared safely. It is very important to check that the food prepared will not affect children with allergies. 12:00pm Lunch Time – Children eat their lunch and when they are finished they are put back in the baby room to play with resources around them. 1:00pm: nap time 2:3 0pm: The children have their nappies changed and their face cleaned. Staff must were protective clothing such as disposable aprons and gloves. 2:45pm Staff and children bonding time.Sing songs play with instruments, read books, plays with toys and communicate with them. 3:15pm: We prepare the children for home time. It is important staffs are aware of who is collecting the children. Parents who normally collect their child should inform the setting that someone else will be collecting their child. The setting should never give the child to anyone else if not permitted by the parent. E4 – Routine for a child age 39:00am Children arrives at nursery and is greeted by the teacher. 9:15am Children sit down on the carpet and the morning register is taken. Then issue each group their activity. :30am Children go off in their groups and do there activity each group has 30 minutes to do their activity before having to move on to do another activity. 10:00am Groups change to do a new ac tivity 10:30am Children tidy up there activity 10:45am Children put on their coats if needed collect fruit, snacks and drinks and go outside to play11:00am Children return back to the classroom and groups are change so their doing a different activity. 11:30am Groups change for the last time12:00pm Children are sent off to wash their hands and line up for lunch. Posters are placed in toilets on how to wash hands to promote hygiene.Washing hands prevents the children from infection and disease. 12:15pm Children eat their lunch. Staff are supervising the children at their table Meals are nutritional and should follow the health eating regulations. Once they have finished they go outside to play. 1:00pm Children return back to the classroom and an afternoon register is taken. 1:15pm Depending on which day of the week it is children will either have a music lesson or a P. E lesson or art lesson. A P. E lesson will allow the children to take risk and do challenging activities. It is impo rtant staff do risk assessment of any activities they have planned. :00pm Children go out to play to get fresh air and exercise. Children can explore the setting. There must be at least two members of staff supervising the children. 2:15pm Children return back to the classroom and either have golden time or free play. 3:00pm story or song time 3:30pm Children collect their jackets. Staff should only give the child to the parent or anyone given permission by the parent to collect the child. E5 In a setting staff try to offer an exciting range of experiences to the children which will stimulate and extend their skills in all areas of development.Child Care and Education. Tina Bruce. Pg 273in a setting staff should supervise the children; there must be enough staff to look after the children. All care in the setting should avoid danger in order to maintain the safety and security of the child. Children need challenging play in order to develop, risk taking will occur in these types of activities so staff must supervise these areas for the health and safety of the child. â€Å"Close supervision is the most effective way of ensuring children’s safety†. Care and Education. Tina Bruce.Pg 273Staff should always remember it is their responsibility to keep children safe in the childcare setting. Children are individuals and develop at different stages so we must have in mind all children may not be able to do the same thing at the same time. Children with special needs may need special equipment and playing resources in order to participate safely in activities in any setting. It is important we make all children feel included when panning activities in challenging environments at no time should a child feel different due to their needs or abilities.The weather can be an issue for planning. Before outdoor play, the area must be checked. Icy or slippery surfaces are dangerous for all activities planned for the children. If staffs do decide to let children p lay outside despite any weather children should be suitably clothed and equipped for it. Children should always be dressed according to the weather. A challenging environment will always involve risk and this is why staff should risk assess. Risk assessment is important however we need to create and enabling environment whilst thinking about the child’s safety.Before planning we need to think and asses the possible outcomes. An activity can be well planned but if a child get injured from it then the activity is worthless. There should always be a record of safety issues that occur E6/C1 Forest SchoolsChildren seem to thrive and their minds and bodies develop best when they accessible to stimulating outdoor environments for learning through play. A forest school is a unique educational experience. The purpose of it is to adapt an education curriculum to a participants learning style.The philosophy is to inspire individuals through achievable goals and make them independent. Th e benefit of a forest school are:   * that its child led and initiated    * it helps to work towards goals in the Early Years Foundation stage (EYFs)   * beneficial to children with emotional and behavioural difficulties   * encourages creativity and self awareness   * uses the child centred approach   * child need an interested is always catered toâ€Å"It is important that children’s basic needs are met before higher learning can take place†. Maslow Hierarchy of Needs.Forest schools are a unique way of building independence and self-esteem in young children. They originated in Sweden in the 1950s as a way of teaching children about the natural world. Children with challenging behaviour or identified as having additional or specific needs tend to develop control over behaviour, improved concentration and independence and develop their social and emotional skills. Children who are shy and timid and lack in confidence in a normal nursery environment become c onfident in their own abilities within the forest and lessen to rely on adults.Being in a forest school allows children to freedom, oxygen and space. Children can explore wildlife and the growth of things in the outside world. Children should learn and develop on first hand experience. Children are more social as they interact with the other children more. They become more confident in what they do and may speak to other children. The can explore together and discuss things they find. This can not necessarily be done in a classroom. Children respond to the sense of freedom given to them in the forest school.Children are encouraged to move away from adult interaction and become more responsible for themselves and others. Children take manageable risk in a forest school they use full size adult tools, light fires, and build dens and plenty more other challenging activities. The child knowledge and understanding of the world, language, mathematics, creative, physical, personal and soci al development underpins the whole forest school philosophy. Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC)In November 2006 the government launched the Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto.It was made so that children have a variety of high quality learning experiences outside the classroom. Learning outside the classroom thrives to:   * develop children learning in the environment   * nurture creativity    * provide opportunities for informal learning through play   * reduce behaviour problems an improve attendance   * stimulate, inspire and improve motivation   * provide challenging the opportunity to take acceptable levels of risk   * improves young children attitude to learning    * improves academic levels achievements   * develops skills and independence in a widening range of environment ( Tasoni, 2007. The government believes children should learn and experiment the world beyond the classroom. Children construct their own learning in the world around them. Learn ing is more engaging and relevant to the children. E7 Risk taking benefits the development of children as it influences their perception of themselves and self –esteem, it provides excitement and pleasure for the child. A child needs to take risk in order to develop risk competence.Children seem to have fewer accidents when they are more risk taking as they are more knowledgeable and skilled in assessing risk and can takes risks more safely. Panic ZoneLearning ZoneComfort ZoneOnce the appropriate risk assessments have been carried out in the setting, activities can be planned to enable children to learn from their environment while taking managed risks. Children must have the opportunity to explore their physical environment. By making children take risk we are playing an important role in developing their independence.It helps children to develop their physical development and social development as they can help other children to keep themselves safe. If we do not allow chil dren to take risk then they will not develop to the next stage of development. A child who is not allowed to take risk will not enjoy the thrill of achieving or try new challenges. The opportunity to play in and experience different environments is important in allowing children to experience challenges. If children are helped to take risk then they will develop their skill and confidence in what they do.Many settings thrive to manage risk and challenges and allow children to take risk by providing them with challenging play, experience and activities. Children learn through play. Climbing, building dens and tree housed, gardening, cooking, science experiment, bonfires etc allows the child to develop their control and coordination of their bodies. When you implement all these health and safety restrictions children will stop learning. Some parents may not allow their child to take risk as they are far too protective or scared of their child’s safety.This can prevent the child from having no independence and they will not be aware of their own danger when unsupervised and the risk they can actually manage, which may result to the child seriously hurting themselves. Children should have some awareness of the risk and challenges they can take. Being oblivious to risk is worse than a child taking risk, they can put themselves in serious danger as they don’t know the different levels of risk they can and cannot take. Parents should be the once to reinforce this. Children need to be supported by the adults to take risk.Children need to be told about any accidents that could happen so that when they are playing they are responsive of this. We as the adult in the setting should think about:   * talking to children about the potential risk in the environment   * encouraging children to think of ways to manage the risk the may come across. This can be done by making the child take upon some responsibility and indentifying and reporting hazards. * encou raging older children to take acre of younger ones where there are potential risks    * agreeing appropriate behaviour.Child Care and Education 4th edition, Penny Tasoni, 2007. Pg 195Children should always be reassured by the adult that they are here to help as this boost the child confident in what ever they do. If a child is scared to do something the adult should provide support and encourage the child to do it. The child then know they can do it and that the adult is their to help if something goes wrong. E8 D2 Each setting should have a Health and Safety policy. It should contain the overall guideline for employers, employees and any other staff.It should state the values of the setting regarding health and safety. It should state the procedures that are regarded to be followed in the setting. All procedures should be names in the Health and Safety policy. They should be regularly revised and all staff should be advised of the procedure of the setting before starting work. Ev ery childcare setting is required by law to have an accident book in a safe place in the setting and to maintain a record of accidents init.This makes the parents and staff aware of about any accidents that have happed. The book requires the following informationName of person injured: Date and time of injury:Where the accident took place:What exactly happened:What injury occurred:What treatment was given: Name and signature of person dealing with accident:Signature of witness to the report:Signature of parent:If an accident happens to the child you should call or send for first aide. He or she will provide the best care for the injury. If needed call for the supervisor as well.If the accident is serious parent/career must be informed immediately or if less serious inform them at the end of the day when they come to pick up their child. Record the accident in the accident book and ensure the parent signs it. The accident book should be kept in safe place where it is easy to access. Children contacts numbers should assessable in alphabetical order so any member of staff can find who the want quickly. In a setting there should normally be pictures of staff who are first aiders.The setting should be kept tidy so visitors and parents know there child is being left in a safe environment and staff should encourage children to tidy up after themselves as well. If a child is ill whilst in the setting the child should be removed from the classroom and taken to the first aider where the parents should be informed immediately and told to come and collect their child. If needed the child should be cleaned and changed and a member of staff should comfort him or her, until the parent comes for them. First aider should advice the parent to take the child to the family doctor if necessary.Signs of serious illness includes:   * High temperature   * Continual vomiting    * Unexplained pain   * Unusual crying in a babyChild Care and Education 4th edition, 2007, Pg 182Thi s is when a child should be taken to see a doctor. If a child has a contagious illness, e. g. swine flu, parents and local authorities must be notified that the illness is in there setting. Children who have on going illness e. g. have allergic reactions, should be kept a record of. Staff must have a have a note of all medication the child needs including how much the child needs to intake and how frequently the child needs it.All setting should have a policy of parents informing them of all the illnesses and medical attentions their child needs. Posters of the child should be made including information of what the child is allergic to, and should put up in staff rooms and places visible for all staff to see and be aware of. Children in the setting should be encouraged to keep hygienic therefore washing hands before meals and after play. The must know about germs and bacteria and how they spread and cause infections and illnesses if they don’t hygienically maintain there body as child like to but the hands in their mouth and dig their noises.If an emergency happens, e. g. a fire in kitchen, the fire alarm must be raised and everyone must evacuate the building immediately. Keeping the environment safe to support the procedure means keeping corridors clear and fire exits, ensuring everyone in the setting is aware of the assembly point children’s contact details are up t date and that it is always kept the same. It important that in the setting all staff know what to do in an emergency, practices need to be held regularly and signs and notices must be kept in visible places.Drills and practices should be taken seriously, as if it is really happening and should be recorded as the Early Years Foundation stage (EYF) states†¦http://www. eriding. net/resources/fndtn/management/101125_sclark_eyfs_safeguarding. pdf B1 There are many ways to maintain the safety and privacy of children. â€Å"Supervision is the most effective way of ensuring childrenâ €™s safety. † Child Care and Education, 2007, Pg 273Children should be treated as individuals as they have their own individual needs.Babies have no awareness of their danger and are totally dependant on their parent/carer for protection and safety. In a setting children are to be changed in a separate section in the setting and the practitioners should also be accompanied by another person just to protect themselves. When changing a child it should never be done in a place where the child is not exposed to other people and children, or where the other children are playing. Doing this is respecting the privacy of children, as the UN Convention states that all children have the right to privacy.All settings will have information about each child stating where they live and parent/career phone number etc this information should be kept in a secure place, insured to protect it from being disclosed to anyone other that member of staff in that setting. Doing this is respecting their confidential needs. Parents will inform staff about illnesses or personal information about their child and family this should not be shared with friends or other member of staff unnecessarily. Children have rights as the Children Act clearly states and it is important that we value and respect them and put them into practice in the setting.Practitioners must be aware of the policies and procedures in their setting as it inform staff how to keep the children safe. Abraham Maslow developed the Hierarchy of Needs theory. Safety needs is one on the five stages a human needs in order to for fill their full potential (self-actualisation) therefore; if a child does not feel safe they will not reach their full potential (self-actualisation) where personal growth and fulfilment takes place. The setting should always provide a safe and secure environment for the children meaning, ensuring the environment and equipment is checked and safe to use.Staff should check the outside area every day before the children arrive as needles, sharp objects and other harmful object can fall into the setting. Equipment in the setting should be tested if needed to make sure it work properly and in no way may harm the child using it. Toys in the setting should have a water mark on it clearly indicating that the toy has been tested and is safe to use. Special needed children may need special equipment and play resources in the setting, in order to participate safely in the daily activities or just need to have changes made to the environments to suit their need.However they should never be made to feel they can’t do things by themselves and they don’t always need assistance. We have to be careful not to scaffold the child to much as they can make choices for themselves. Staff in the setting or on duty can only deal with and watch over a certain amount of children at a time. It would be a good idea for staff to encourage children to be aware of their own safety and the s afety of others. So lessons on why and how to keep your self safe would be beneficial for the staff and more importantly the children. As they can use their own initiative and indentify what is and what is not safe to do.They become more self aware. There should be a time where staffs have one to one time with children in the setting. This time could be where children tell you how thy feel or about something that may be bothering them. What ever has been said in that conversation should only stay between you and that child as they choice to tell you because they knew that they can confide and trust you. If the child has told you something that is putting them in danger then that is the only time matter must be taken into someone else’s hands and it would be best to tell the child before doing so, just so that they are aware. A When working with children, a practitioner can have both negative and positive effect. Negatively the demands of a childcare job can seem extremely cha llenging. Tiredness, stressed, boredom, all factors that can’t be avoided in this type of job. Working hours are generally from 8:00am to 3:30pm and staff’s are always on their feet as children need consistent supervision. Children need routine and staff must stick to it†¦doing the same thing everyday becomes very boring. â€Å"Boredom is the deadliest poison. † William F. Buckley, JR.Stress can be caused by this type of work as practitioners have to maintain and work at high standards. â€Å"Stressed caused by work is the second biggest occupational health problem in the UK,† Child Care and Education, 2007, Pg 329. This is because staffs are unable to cope. The work load may interfere with private, social or family life, too much to do or simply believing childcare isn’t the right job for them. As well as the above, practitioners can be physically affected. Back problem is the biggest occupational health problem in the UK. Childcare involves picking up children.Continuously bending over and stooping to the child’s level. Children at a young age are not yet independently hygienic and are vulnerable to colds becoming ill and picking up infections. These things can easily be passed on to practitioners. Parents/careers put their child’s safety in the practitioner’s hands as they are mostly with the child during the settings hours. So a lot of pressure is on the practitioner, if any thing happens to the child accidentally or not they feel as if they where the one to blame and some parents are not very reasonable or understanding.Practitioners could become too attached to the child involving themselves in things that do not really concern them. This could be difficult for some. Some children in the setting may tell practitioners moving information. That their being abused, have difficulties, etc and they could then become emotionally attached to the child, showing love to the chid, love they may not recei ve at home or from their parents. Positively there are joys and happiness to the job. When children achieve and do well in things it makes the practitioner feel happy as they helped the child to achieve that goal.Learning new things from the children and putting it into practice. Bonding with the child finding out what they like and dislike show the practitioner that the child can confide in them and feels safe around them. Set routines will eventually develop the child to know what is coming next and they will independently get ready for it putting least pressure on the practitioner to have to run after them. Practitioner’s in the setting do all they can to support and care for the child that is why routines and doing things at certain time are in place.However some people may agree with the way the setting does things due to their own views and beliefs. Comparatively, all children need similar care but when working with different children who come from different background whose parents have different religious requirements or do not want their child eating certain foods; it can be difficult for the practitioner. Practitioners will have parents that will not agree with everything they have to say or made to feel uncomfortable with what is happening in a setting. If this happens the supervisor or tutors are there to support and discuss how you will need to deal with the ituation. The practitioner should keep themselves up to date with any changes in practices and legislations. Practitioners should not put themselves in risky situation e. g. being left alone with a child. Just to avoid accusations being made as â€Å"The number of children contacting a sexual abuse helpline service has increased by almost 50% in three years†. http://news. bbc. co. uk/1/hi/scotland/7877823. stm. There are websites and books available to practitioners that can support them and give information about how to deal with problems they have.In all setting there are polic ies and guidelines to help them meet the care needs of children such as health and safety, confidentiality and protection polices. It is vital that procedures are followed to protect themselves. This in itself causes fewer problems. E9 Books  * Bruce, T ,( 2007) Child Care and Education, * Pound L, (2005) How children learn, Step Forward Publishing Ltd (United Kingdom) * Tasoni P , (2007) Child Care and Education 4th edition, Websites http://news. bbc. co. uk/1/hi/scotland/7877823. stmhttp://www. eriding. net/resources/fndtn/management/101125_sclark_eyfs_safeguarding. pdf

Winter Storm essays

Winter Storm essays The white storm that I was caught in happened twenty-seven years ago. The natural disaster I refer to struck on Friday, January 28, 1977, The Blizzard of 77", or as author Erno Rossi, M.A. termed it White Death. What happened on that Friday so long ago was actually a winter hurricane. It had been such a cold, brutal winter. Lake Erie had been frozen solid by Christmas. With extreme temperature and record snowfall, the snow had piled up on top of the ice. So as the 50 mile an hour wind swept across Lake Erie, it blew the powdery snow off the lake, and into Buffalo and the surrounding counties. Into my county it came with a vengeance. I was working as an office clerk at a local linen factory. At that time I did not have my license to drive, so I had to depend on others for my transportation. On this particular day it was my Dad who drove me to work, and who would also drive me home. As we went to work that day it had been snowing heavily. Note enough for us hearty Upstate New Yorkers to stay home though. As the morning had progressed, so had the snow and the wind. My Dad had called me to let me know that he was leaving work early, everyone was being sent home. My Dad came and picked me up at about 12:00 noon. At which point the winds were even stronger and visibility was zero. There we were my Dad and I leaving the city of Batavia to make our six mile trek home in the storm. As we inched our way out of the city we were headed north to our home in Oakfield New York. When I say inched I mean it literally. The windshield wipers couldnt work fast enough to keep the snow off the windshield, the wind was howling around us. We couldnt see. I would roll my window down and pop my head out to see if we were still on the road, but that did little good. So we crept on. It seemed we were alone in this white vacuum. ...

Sergeant Alvin York essays

Sergeant Alvin York essays In the book Sergeant York: An American Hero, by Author/Historian David D. Lee produces an biography of the World War 1 soldier who single-handedly killed 25 and captured 132 Germans during the battle of the Argonne. .0Lees study also deals with Yorks long postwar efforts to bring schools and roads to his remote Kentucky/Tennessee hometown, and examines the hero-making process that followed York for the rest of his life. David D. Lee announces two purposes for this book. As a Historian, Lee wishes to prepare a scholarly account of Alvin Yorks story in order to penetrate the myth surrounding him and establish the facts of his life (p. xi). As a student of the hero-making process itself, Lee also intends to use York situations to illustrate how heroes are chosen, how they in turn manipulate the process, the characteristics heroes exhibit, and role institutions play in publicizing them (p. xi). David D. Lee book biographical dimension succeed admirably. Although sympathetic, Lee avoids romanticizing York, quickly sketching the formative years of a rowdy though family-loving youth whose wild ways and taste for alcohol (p. 7) finally yielded to his sense of sin, his mothers pleas, and his own love for Miss Gracie William. Lee convincingly accounts for Yorks transformations from Christian pacifist to Godly crusader and judiciously describes how man of social caliber would heroically capture 132 Germans. Home form France, York passed his life, except for publicity tours, in Tennessee, where he sought to bring education, religion, and prosperity to his hometown area of Fentress Country. Only the specialist will need to know more about York. The meager record of a poorly educated man living among similarly handicapped people suggest the difficulty of learning much more about Yorks inner life than Lee reveals. His slim books more ambitiou...

Surrogacy and How it Affects Families

Surrogacy and How it Affects Families Background Information The modern breakthrough in the medical field and specifically in the area of assisted reproduction has resulted in the emergence of new types of families in the contemporary society whereby genetic parenthood does not necessarily guarantee social parenthood (Golombok et al., 2004).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Surrogacy and How it Affects Families specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Surrogacy, one of the forms of assisted reproduction refers to an arrangement where one woman offers to bear a child on behalf of another person. There are two types of surrogacy arrangements; traditional surrogacy which involves situations where the surrogate mother donates her womb as well as her egg in order to provide a baby and this consequently renders the surrogate mother biologically connected to the child since they share genetic material (Ziegler, 2004). This method is widely preferred since it is consider ably less expensive than gestational surrogacy. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate mother lacks genetic connection whatsoever with the child since and her role is to donate only her womb to carry the child. Both the egg and the sperm are produced by the commissioning parents and the embryo is then created in the lab after which after which it is then transferred into the surrogate’s uterus (Ziegler, 2004). Although surrogacy has an ancient history dating back to the biblical times, the issue began to raise controversy in the contemporary society in the 80s with major concerns being raised regarding children welfare and women rights (Golombok et al, 2004). Surrogacy has been executed through artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization which has received a lot of opposition from the institution of family, religion and the society at large. In fact, of all the assisted reproduction procedures that are being utilized in the modern society, surrogacy remains the most c ontentious method prompting most legal systems in the world to formulate regulations to govern the practice (Golombok et al, 2004).Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Reasons for Prevalence Of Surrogacy in the Modern Society Some couples opt for surrogacy to provide a solution in case one of the partners is incapable of having a child either due to infertility or other factors (Jonsen, 1998). The female partner may e experiencing medical complications with her uterus, ovaries or other complications that may inhibit her ability to conceive children and use of a surrogate mother provides the couple with a means through which the couple can acquire a child who is related to one of the partners. In addition, the use of surrogate mothers provides an easier opportunity for the infertile mother to have a child while avoiding the bureaucratic and cumbersome procedures associated with traditional adoption and also provides her with an opportunity to raise a child who is genetically related to her partner (Jonsen, Veatch., Walters, 1998). Surrogacy also benefits the fertile partner by providing an opportunity for him to conceive and raise a child who is biologically tied to him and this further avoids ugly situations in marriages such as divorce, polygamy, and adulterous unions among others (Jonsen, Veatch., Walters, 1998). Further, the use of a medical practitioner in the entire process of surrogacy considerably reduces the above events and other factors that may promote destruction of the institution of the family. Proponents of surrogacy have argued that through surrogate motherhood, a child is given a chance to live and this would otherwise have not have been possible in absence of such arrangements and the child also benefits from being reared by parents who wanted the child so much that they were willing to withstand financial, legal and other hardshi ps to have this child. Further, One preliminary study revealed that about one third of the surrogate mothers may use the process to help them deal with past experiences that have negatively affected them psychologically. Women that may have undergone abortions or voluntarily given up their children for adoption may utilize this arrangement to derive psychologically satisfaction (Jonsen, Veatch., Walters, 1998).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Surrogacy and How it Affects Families specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Although there exists numerous potential risks associated with surrogacy arrangements, those risks can be understood by the prospective participants to weigh the effectiveness and drawbacks of using this method of assisted reproduction (Josen 1998). Surrogate motherhood has received extensive media attention in the recent past and has raised a lot of emotional reactions and ethical concerns in the modern so ciety. The issues raised range from inclusion of third party in the process of procreation and in the basic family set up to the psychological consequences of the arrangement to the parties involved especially the child. Unfortunately scholars lack adequate information to assess the impacts of these issues on the parties involved since the activities surrounding surrogacy such as sperm donation and infertility are still treated with utmost secrecy consequently limiting the scope of the study (Jonsen, Veatch., Walters, 1998). Effects of Surrogacy Arrangement on the Family There lacks a systematic controlled investigation on the consequences of surrogacy in family relationships but some studies conducted on assisted reproduction show no adverse effects of these methods on parenting (Golombok et al, 2004). Parents of genetically related children conceived through In Vitro fertilization have been found to display good relationships with their children and when differences have been fou nd to exist between IVF parents and natural conception parents, the differences have tended to reflect higher levels of anxiety among IVF parents of infants and preschool children (Golombok et al, 2004). These mothers who had their children conceived through IVF tended to be more protective of their children and they allowed their children less autonomy relative to natural mothers. Further these parents viewed their children as more vulnerable and special and also demonstrated less maternal efficacy than natural conception mothers (Golombok et al, 2004). Surrogacy arrangements are characterized by anxiety and uncertainties generated throughout the period of pregnancy until the commissioning couple receives the child. This results from lack of a guarantee that the surrogate mother will relinquish the child upon birth since in some past cases surrogate mothers have refused to give up the child to the intended parents (Golombok et al, 2004).Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Consequently the commissioning parents must ensure that there exists a mutually acceptable relationship between them and the surrogate and they may negatively impact on the couple’s relationship. Greater difficulties may be further experienced by the commissioning mother who may be neither the genetic nor the gestational mother and may feel insecure and excluded in their mothering role (Golombok et al, 2004). Moral Aspects of Surrogacy One of the dangers inherent surrogacy arrangements is that it may amount to commodification of children (Hendrick, 2010). The arrangement may serve to promote the perception that children complete a family like any other consumer goods. Some scholars have warned about the emergence of ‘capitalist baby industry’ which may result in commodification of children as well as the personal attributes such as sex, color height etc. However, the argument that surrogacy turns babies into a market commodity seems a little far fetched with some scholars acknowledging that the argument is to some extent exaggerated and the child exchange is valid only to the extent that the surrogacy is regarded as objectionable (Hendrick, 2010). Various arguments have been put forward to explain the psychological effects of surrogacy on children on the knowledge of their true identity. Negative impacts are especially likely to arise in situations where the children share a strenuous relationship with the commissioning parents and the knowledge that they had come to this world as a result of a commercial arrangement may cause further damage to the relationship and may also interfere with the child’s development and self esteem (Hendrick, 2010). However, due to lack of adequate and clear empirical evidence on the long term psychological effects of surrogacy, we can only make predictions about its long term impacts on children and the institution of the family. It is clear that even though surrogacy is problematic, it is just as probl ematic as any other conventional family and the dangers involved are neither inevitable nor insurmountable. Therefore, the society should focus more on regulation of the practice rather than involving themselves in pessimistic speculations of its outcome (Hendrick, 2010). Legal Aspects of Surrogacy Universal laws pertaining surrogacy are dynamic (Ziegler, 2004). It is therefore vital for the parties involved in the arrangement opt consult an experienced attorney in drawing and implementation of the contract. In the United States back in 2004, only two states were considered ‘surrogate friendly’; California and Arkansas, with California having the case law on how to handle such arrangements consequently making it the most favorable state for surrogacy arrangements (Ziegler, 2004). A considerable number of states lacked outlined laws governing surrogacy and most of them treated it like adoption while in other states such as Washington and New York criminalized paid surrog acy. Most surrogacy legislation fails to give a clear cut distinction in terms of provisions for gestational and traditional surrogacy (Sauer, 1998). As the traditional method continues to be the most preferred method due to its cost efficiency, most states requires stepparent adoption by the intended mother before a final adoption order is permitted and in some states it is subject to the surrogate’s change of heart. One of the most important components of an egg donor agreement is that it involves relinquishment of parental rights by the donor upon the birth of the child and under the agreement the child is considered to belong to the intended parents (Sauer, 1998). Where the contract for surrogate parenting is unenforceable, there are remedies provided for the parties involved (Freedman, 1991). The genetic father involved in the surrogacy is readily acknowledged as the biological father of the child and consequently expected to support the child and the surrogate if she ke eps the child. However, the burden of proof lies on the surrogate who should prove that the said person is the biological father of the child and may use the human leucocytes antigen test to resolve the paternity issue. In addition, she is needed to prove that the state statute that renders the sperm donor free of any responsibility to a child conceived through artificial conception does not apply in her case (Freedman, 1991). Reference List Freedman, W. (1991). Legal issues in biotechnology and human reproduction: artificial conception and modern genetics, UK: Greenwood publishing. Golombok, S., Murray, C., Jadva, V., MacCallu, F., and Lycett, E. (2004). Families created through surrogacy arrangements: parent-child relationship in the first year of life. Web. Hendrick, J. (2010). Laws and ethics in children’s nursing, UK: John Wiley and sons. Jonsen, R. A., Veatch, M. R., and Walters, L. (1998). Source book in bioethics, Washington DC: Georgetown University press. Sauer, V. M. (1998). Principles of oocyte and embryo donation. NY: Springer. Ziegler, S. (2004). Pathways to parenthood: the ultimate guide to surrogacy. London: universal publishers.

Corporate Governance Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Corporate Governance - Assignment Example The framework also contains the procedures for proper control, supervision, and information flows which are ought to serve as checks and balances system. Corporate governance provides a framework for attaining the objectives of the company. It makes it encompass practically every sphere of management, from internal controls and action plans to corporate disclosure and performance measurement. Most firms nowadays strive to have a high degree of corporate governance (Solomon, 2004). Most companies no longer desire to be only profitable but also demonstrate perfect corporate citizenship through ethical behavior, environmental awareness, and sound corporate governance practices. Corporate governance helps in streamlining processes and guides in giving people accountability. Corporate governance helps in the process of decision making. One of the primary goals of corporate governance is to explain clearly to the stakeholders, the board, and the shareholders what their responsibilities and duties are within the company. It becomes easier for the people within the firm to understand whatever they are accountable for, after understanding their duties and responsibilities. If the board has the responsibility for proper evaluation of the management of the company, then they are held accountable for it. If the companys management is poor, then the board is held accountable because it is its role to evaluate the management of the company (Sheikh, 1995). The blame will thus not be transferred to other members of the corporation and in this case the blame will be with the board. It thus helps in preventing situations in which there are no ways to know the accountable people for whatever actions. Accountability helps in decision making within the company setup. Accountability helps in finding out about who should get an acknowledgment for the good work done in their respective fields and who should get punished

English-LCS-In Civilization and Its Discontents, Freud argues that Essay

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Evaluate the authorities' handling of the 'Alex Nord' case. How would Essay

Evaluate the authorities' handling of the 'Alex Nord' case. How would you have handled this case - Essay Example Disturbed childhood with numerous problems in the house and parent-child relationship can greatly put a child at the risk of developing this disease (Rutter 1998). If a parent is suffering from this disorder or AOD misuse disorder, this can provide the child with a role model to follow, and can enhance his abnormal activities (MedicineNet). Discord between parents or between a parent and the child, or asymmetric parent behavior and attention patterns to the child can trigger an inclination towards antisocial behavior in the child (Rutter 1998). The diagnosis of this disorder is a crucial and very serious matter, as this disease, whereas grave in its nature, has no definite treatment (MedicineNet). People suffering from this disease do not readily opt for treatment and therapy, and often have to be forced to do so, especially by the law (MedicineNet). Medication has proved to be an ineffective means of curing the disease, as firstly, there is no definite medication for this, and secondly, any medicines that may be given can be, and often are, abused or neglected by the patient, so they prove ineffective (MedicineNet). The only workable method if treatment is through psychotherapy of the patient, either individual or in groups_ depending upon the particular case and the needs of the individual_ combined with in-house and outpatient treatments, vocational training programs, and participation in long-term group therapies (MedicineNet). This treatment method, though not completely curable, does help tremendously in leading the individual toward a more normal lifestyle, and helping him pinpoint his problems and abnormal behavior so that he can make an effort to abstain from such activities in the future. Often this disorder wanes with age, with patients reduced to just substance abusers (MedicineNet). The Alex Nord Case: the case under consideration is that of a 24 year old man, named Alex Nord, who has been diagnosed with antisocial

Information for decision making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Information for decision making - Essay Example Making decisions is an intelligent action that any normal human being performs several times each day, starting from the time one decides to get up out of bed and ending with what one decides to think about as one falls asleep at the end of the day. In between are thousands of decisions that are made following a few basic and simple rules, but these decisions may differ in their complexity. Some decisions are simple and have short-term consequences, such as deciding what to wear to school or at work, but some may be complex because they have long-term consequences, such as deciding what academic programme to take up in the university. The complexity of decision-making depends on several factors, of which the time frame – of making the decision and the consequences of the decisions made – is only one. Examples of other factors are the impact of the decisions on the person, the number of people involved in making the decision and who would be affected by the consequences of that decision, and the risks to which decision-makers are willing to expose themselves and their resources. Organisations, being made up of several people with a common set of objectives, are subject to these same factors that affect the way that decisions are made. However, unlike personal decisions that may affect only one person, i.e., the decision-maker, organisational decisions have an impact on everyone in the organisation, on the customers that the organisation exists to serve, the owners of the business, and on other parts of society in which the organisation operates. Thus, organisational decisions carry greater risks, which is the probability that the perceived effect of the decision would not be the same as or even close to what is originally intended. Decisions are made to achieve a specific outcome, and in the case of a business organisation, such an outcome is intended to be in line with the purpose and business of the organisation (Sitkin

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Democrats VS Republicans in Economy - Research Paper Example Republicans accept free endeavor has carried investment development and developments that have made this nation extraordinary. A government might as well encourage a business environment where individuals are allowed to utilize their talents Economic Growth Democrats: Democrat Party organizations have pushed for the centralization of force in Washington D.C., with just auxiliary thought for the privileges of both people and groups. Democrats have supported elected level intercessions that displace neighborhood-based results for neighborhood issues. These strategies have made some elected regulations and controls that are frequently in the hands of unelected functionaries, making an extreme disintegration of central power. Democrats accept that the economy is excessively entangled for people to go distant from everyone else. They accept that business choices ought to be guided by government authorities and to the greatest advantage of worker's guilds. Republicans on Federal Reserve Po licies: Inflation and the Federal Reserve play an important role in administering a stable economy. Inflation lessens the acquiring force of the dollar at home and abroad and is a concealed expense on the American individuals. On the grounds that the Federal Reserve's fiscal arrangement movements influence both expansion and budgetary movement, those movements ought to be transparent. In addition, the Fed's paramount part as a moneylender of the final resort may as well additionally be completed fairly. Exemplary social order requests that there is transparency in all government matters. In this manner, it would be possible for the party to develop substantive enactment that carries the responsibility to the Federal Reserve, the Federal Open Market Committee, and the Fed's dealings with remote midway banks.

THE EVOLUTION OF MACROECONOMICS IN THE UK Essay

THE EVOLUTION OF MACROECONOMICS IN THE UK - Essay Example In this sense, it can be implied that only in times of market failures are governments are justified to intervene. This paper will explore the different viewpoints of classical and Keynesian economic principles and concludes how prevailing economic policies are only transient and evolutionary. II. Fundamental Policy Issues A. Classical Economics The classical economic thought resides on the simple concept that the market can work effectively even without any form of human intervention. The market, as Adam Smith puts it, possesses an invisible hand that automatically puts the economy back into plump shape when otherwise with the guiding advocacy to let the government leave market activity into the interests of individuals (2009z: 400). Smith states that the â€Å"governments that intervene in the market activity only represent the wealthy and the powerful† rather than a mass (as cited in Sowell 1994: 23). Even to classical liberals such as Frederic Bastiat, state interference o n any activity which goes beyond its functions (i.e. maintaining order and justice) is a â€Å"usurpation upon conscience, upon intelligence, upon industry; in a word upon human liberty† (as cited in Haney 1911: 257). ... From this standpoint stemmed the principle of laissez-faire which would eventually resolve deficiencies in employment and output levels. B. Keynesian Economics According to the brainchild of Keynesian economics, John Maynard Keynes, the government is the only fundamental societal structure that can manage the aggregate demand from households, businesses, and the government itself to ensure price stability (Korten 2010). Keynesian economics assume the opposite of what classical economists theorise -- that a free market is not self-correcting so that it would result in unemployment in the process (the Great Depression, being the proof). Furthermore, market forces will consume a long period to bring back full employment because in the real -time market, demand is not sufficient to maintain full employment (Cowling & Sugden 1990: 108). Keynesian economists say that in order to efficiently sustain employment at full level, the government must push through monetary and fiscal policies (i.e . increase government spending and decrease taxation) in order to stimulate the aggregate demand for commodities, hence creating additional employment opportunities (Cowling & Sugden 1990: 108). When there is a right level of demand, the supply-side would look after itself (Cowling & Sugden 1990: 108). This would result in an increase of budget deficit (Cowling & Sugden 1990). However, Keynesian economists sustain that this is only justifiable. III. Theory A. Market Equilibrium: On Fluctuating Prices a.1. Classical Perspective Market clearing in both the labor and commodities markets is entirely possible because of equilibrium forces (Free 2010: 73). For instance, when the supply exceeds demand, the market reaches equilibrium if prices decrease which is only an inevitable

Information for decision making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Information for decision making - Essay Example Making decisions is an intelligent action that any normal human being performs several times each day, starting from the time one decides to get up out of bed and ending with what one decides to think about as one falls asleep at the end of the day. In between are thousands of decisions that are made following a few basic and simple rules, but these decisions may differ in their complexity. Some decisions are simple and have short-term consequences, such as deciding what to wear to school or at work, but some may be complex because they have long-term consequences, such as deciding what academic programme to take up in the university. The complexity of decision-making depends on several factors, of which the time frame – of making the decision and the consequences of the decisions made – is only one. Examples of other factors are the impact of the decisions on the person, the number of people involved in making the decision and who would be affected by the consequences of that decision, and the risks to which decision-makers are willing to expose themselves and their resources. Organisations, being made up of several people with a common set of objectives, are subject to these same factors that affect the way that decisions are made. However, unlike personal decisions that may affect only one person, i.e., the decision-maker, organisational decisions have an impact on everyone in the organisation, on the customers that the organisation exists to serve, the owners of the business, and on other parts of society in which the organisation operates. Thus, organisational decisions carry greater risks, which is the probability that the perceived effect of the decision would not be the same as or even close to what is originally intended. Decisions are made to achieve a specific outcome, and in the case of a business organisation, such an outcome is intended to be in line with the purpose and business of the organisation (Sitkin

THE EVOLUTION OF MACROECONOMICS IN THE UK Essay

THE EVOLUTION OF MACROECONOMICS IN THE UK - Essay Example In this sense, it can be implied that only in times of market failures are governments are justified to intervene. This paper will explore the different viewpoints of classical and Keynesian economic principles and concludes how prevailing economic policies are only transient and evolutionary. II. Fundamental Policy Issues A. Classical Economics The classical economic thought resides on the simple concept that the market can work effectively even without any form of human intervention. The market, as Adam Smith puts it, possesses an invisible hand that automatically puts the economy back into plump shape when otherwise with the guiding advocacy to let the government leave market activity into the interests of individuals (2009z: 400). Smith states that the â€Å"governments that intervene in the market activity only represent the wealthy and the powerful† rather than a mass (as cited in Sowell 1994: 23). Even to classical liberals such as Frederic Bastiat, state interference o n any activity which goes beyond its functions (i.e. maintaining order and justice) is a â€Å"usurpation upon conscience, upon intelligence, upon industry; in a word upon human liberty† (as cited in Haney 1911: 257). ... From this standpoint stemmed the principle of laissez-faire which would eventually resolve deficiencies in employment and output levels. B. Keynesian Economics According to the brainchild of Keynesian economics, John Maynard Keynes, the government is the only fundamental societal structure that can manage the aggregate demand from households, businesses, and the government itself to ensure price stability (Korten 2010). Keynesian economics assume the opposite of what classical economists theorise -- that a free market is not self-correcting so that it would result in unemployment in the process (the Great Depression, being the proof). Furthermore, market forces will consume a long period to bring back full employment because in the real -time market, demand is not sufficient to maintain full employment (Cowling & Sugden 1990: 108). Keynesian economists say that in order to efficiently sustain employment at full level, the government must push through monetary and fiscal policies (i.e . increase government spending and decrease taxation) in order to stimulate the aggregate demand for commodities, hence creating additional employment opportunities (Cowling & Sugden 1990: 108). When there is a right level of demand, the supply-side would look after itself (Cowling & Sugden 1990: 108). This would result in an increase of budget deficit (Cowling & Sugden 1990). However, Keynesian economists sustain that this is only justifiable. III. Theory A. Market Equilibrium: On Fluctuating Prices a.1. Classical Perspective Market clearing in both the labor and commodities markets is entirely possible because of equilibrium forces (Free 2010: 73). For instance, when the supply exceeds demand, the market reaches equilibrium if prices decrease which is only an inevitable

Enterprise System Essay Example for Free

Enterprise System Essay This report analyses a fast moving goods companys information systems. The report analyses the companys major types of information systems, including a more detailed assessment of its Decision Support System and issues relating to hardware and software technology and telecommunications. The company that will be analysed in this report is a subsidiary of large international fast moving consumer goods company. The business of the subsidiary company is the bottling and selling of mineral water in Vietnam. Information for this report is based on 2 interviews held with the recently retired Chair of the company (to be referred to as the Chair). The Chair had some reservations about being interviewed for this assignment due to possible commercial in confidence issues. Ron Williams agreed that neither the actual names of the subsidiary company (to be referred to as FMCG Ltd nor the international fast moving goods company (to be referred to as International Ltd) have to be used in the assignment. The report also includes an analysis of the Canberra Institute of Technologys website. Question 1 (a) Introduce the organisation. Describe the organisations features such as business processes, culture, structure, environment, business strategy FMCG Ltd has been operating for some 6 years in Vietnam and was the first entrant into the mineral market there. FMCG Ltd is managed separately from International Ltd and has an entrepreneurial culture and a flat management structure. It is highly profitable. The spring water market in Vietnam is now saturated, with a number of imitation products available locally. This makes further growth in market share by the company difficult to achieve. The companys main strategy is to increase profits through efficiencies in its supply chain. This has been achieved, in part, due to an improvement in business Information Systems (IS) through the establishment of an Enterprise System, which will be discussed in this report. The information system enables the company to maintain close control of the supply chain. FMCG Ltd has recently introduced its own sales staff to supply the retailers of its products. This has been critical in ensuring the products are effectively placed and promoted. This has enabled the company to increase its sales dramatically. The use of the companys own sales force allows important sales information to be gathered and fed into the companys information system. This information assists the company, the wholesalers and the retailers. The company closely supervises and assists the wholesalers, retailers and the company that is responsible for collecting the mineral water at its source. The Chair said that the Enterprise System is the heart of the company. The company uses the system to increase the companys efficiency and profitability. Fahy discusses the benefits of strategic enterprise systems (Fahy, 2001). He emphasises the importance of the management issues as well as the technical challenges associated with introducing such a system. The Chair said that he agreed with this comment. The Chair also said that the benefits of such a system as outlined by Laudon (Laudon, 2002) were experienced by FMCG Ltd .