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What Is Organizational Culture - 1204 Words

What is organizational culture? â€Å"organizational culture refers to the beliefs and values that have existed in an organization for a long time, and to the beliefs of the staff and the foreseen value of their work that will influence their attitudes and behaviors† (Tsai, 2011, â€Å"Abstract,† para. 1). Yafang Tsai (2011) defines it as â€Å"the belief that can guide staff in knowing what to do and what not to do, including practices, values, and assumptions about their work (para. 6). It can even be defined as â€Å"glue holding an organization together† (as cited in Tsai, 2011, â€Å"Background,† para. 8). It is often considered as a precondition to teamwork (Korner, Wirtz, Bengel, Goritz, 2015, â€Å"Organizational Culture,† para. 1). Teamwork is a major†¦show more content†¦Culture is also maintained through a process called attraction- selection- attrition (ASA) (Principles of management, n.d.). In this process employees are firs t attracted to organizations where they have similarities with other employees or with the values of the organization. The next step is selection, where companies scrutinize potential employees for characteristics that abide with the current culture. Employers hire people who they feel will fit in with the culture. Sometimes this doesn’t work out and an employee is hired who does not fit in with the culture. This is when attrition takes place. Attrition is the â€Å"natural process where the candidates who do not fit in will leave the company† (principles of management). What is connection between organizational culture and organizational behavior? Organizational behavior studies the impact individuals, groups, and structures have on human behavior within organizations (boundless). While organizational culture is the shared values, beliefs, or perceptions held by employees within an organization (as cited in Korner et al., 2015). â€Å"Because organizational culture reflects the values, beliefs and behavioral norms that are used by employees in an organization to give meaning to the situations that they encounter, it can influence the attitudes and behavior of the staff† (Tsai, 2011, â€Å"Background,† para. 1). If all employees follow and agree with the organizational culture than there will not be anyShow MoreRelatedWhat ´s Organizational Culture Essay623 Words   |  3 PagesOrganizational Culture: An organization’s culture is as a rule at the foundation of achievement or failure. It underlies difficult individual’s related issues in interchanges, co-operation, strength, profit, motivation, mo rale, non-attendance, security, injuries and protection claims. It is exceptionally basic for the business to flourish in the business. Corporate culture assumes a critical part in the execution of strategy in regular operations of the business. The meshed beliefs, shared qualitiesRead MoreWhat is an organizational culture? Explain both how the culture of an organization might evolve and why an understanding of organizational culture is important?1577 Words   |  7 PagesA culture is a pattern of assumptions and beliefs deeply held in common by members of an organization (Schein, 1985). Culture comprised of assumptions, values, norms and tangible signs such as artifacts of organization members, slogans, logos and observable behaviors. It is difficult to express culture distinctly but you can tell the culture of an organization by looking at the member s clothes, the arrangement of the furniture and how they communicate with each other. Different organization hasRead MoreWhat is Organizational Culture? Explain both how the culture of an organization might evolve and why an understanding of the organizational culture is important1618 Words   |  7 PagesWhen we hear the word culture , what appear on our minds are traditions, which have lived and been practiced through the generations of a certain race, tribe or people, for examples, top-spinning and traditional wedding for the Malays. In the following paragraphs, I will be explaining what organizational culture actually is, as applied to the organizations nowadays. According to R.W. Griffin, in his book Management, he defines organizational culture as a broad form of culture, which comprises ofRead MoreWhat Is Organizational Culture? And Why Should We Care?908 Words   |  4 PagesOrganizational culture is the lived experience of organizational members that consist of values, beliefs, and ways of behaving and communicating (Dainton and Zelley). According to Michael D. Watkins in his article, â€Å"What is Organizational Culture? And Why Should We Care?† he explains that while every one knows that Organizational culture exist â€Å"there is little consensus on what organizational culture actually is, never mind how it influences behavior and whether it is something leaders can change†Read MoreWhat Is Organizational Culture And Discuss Factors Associated With Understanding An Organization Is Its Success1353 Words   |  6 PagesCulture of the organization is its success The following essay examines the meaning of organizational culture and discuss factors associated with understanding an organization s culture, with examples presented to show my discussion points. This essay will therefore discuss some of the main reasons why it is important for organisation and when it should be changed. In the era of globalization, exploring and understand the culture and behavior of the organization have become very important, asRead MoreWhat Is the Relationship of Organizational Structure, Control and Culture? When Would a Company Decide to Change from a Functional to a Multidivisional Structure?593 Words   |  3 PagesAssignment 8 What is the relationship of organizational structure, control and culture? When would a company decide to change from a functional to a multidivisional structure? Between the structures, the controls and the culture is a relationship that works like a chain that is locked to itself. Organizational structure specifies procedures, controls, and decision-making authority. It is critical to match organizational structure to the company strategy. The structure have the purpose of manageRead MoreThe Importance Of Culture And Organizational Culture1647 Words   |  7 PagesThe importance of culture in the organization The organization culture as a leadership concept has been identified as one of the many components that leaders can use to grow a dynamic organization. Leadership in organizations starts the culture formation process by imposing their assumptions and expectations on their followers. Once culture is established and accepted, they become a strong leadership tool to communicate the leader s beliefs and values to organizational members, and especially newRead MoreEmployee Organizational Culture Essay667 Words   |  3 Pagesemployees create what is known as organizational culture. A strong culture constructs a unified employee atmosphere, whereas a weak culture lacks a shared sense of distinction between employees. An employee’s heritage or individual culture, although different than, affects the overall organizational culture of companies. Like society, sub-cultures exist within organizations. Formed by departmental function, geographical location, and/or the personalities o f employees, sub-cultures include employeesRead MoreLeadership and Organizational Culture Essay1310 Words   |  6 PagesLEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE In this paper I will discuss the effects and responsibilities leaders have on an organizational culture. I believe leaders have an enormous effect on the well-being of an organizational culture. Leaders must take an active role within their organizations culture. Whether positive or negative, in an organization, things tend to follow suit down hill. A leader has the power and influence to maintain, create, or repair an organizational culture. However, thisRead MoreOrganizational Culture And The Social Environment Of The Workplace1590 Words   |  7 PagesFoundation Organizational culture was discovered to be an important factor in the social environment of the workplace. The attitudes and beliefs of employees and management are what have shaped the culture of an organization. The culture of an organization has been particularly important in the healthcare setting because it has shaped the type of healthcare that the patients receive within the healthcare organization (Sovie, 1993). The construct organizational culture was developed after the

Discuss the Impact of Newly Industrialised Countries Free Essays

Geography Past Paper Question: June 10 * Discuss the impact of Newly Industrialised countries (NICs) on the global economy. The NICs originally attracted a lot of inward investment such as FDI from TNC’s which originated from MEDCs. The reasons were that NICs had a large labour force which worked for cheap wages. We will write a custom essay sample on Discuss the Impact of Newly Industrialised Countries or any similar topic only for you Order Now They also had cheap land, friendly govt legislations, cheap available raw materials and reduced import and export tariffs. The manufacturing industry was first to move and so the NICs became more focused on the secondary sector while the source countries (MEDCs) became tertiary sector economies. This is a disadvantage for most of the MEDCs as they will face periods of structural unemployment where the unskilled workers who could only do manufacturing work will be unable to find jobs. The NICs will have reduced unemployment since a lot of jobs will be made available; requiring low levels of work based skills. On the other hand, due to the lower costs of production for the TNCs, they will be able to sell products for cheaper prices and so this will benefit the global economy. It will also benefit the NICs as they will face increased demand for their services and their population would face glowing job prospects. After a while, the NICs tend to become countries where TNCs originate from. Examples of this could include â€Å"TATA† from India which operates in many sectors such as communications and information technology, engineering, energy, consumer products and chemicals. TATA are now trying to move out of India as it is becoming increasingly expensive to operate in the country. They are moving to other developing countries such as Brazil and Mexico who are now considered as NICs themselves. According to Rostow’s model, we can see that most NICs will go through the stages of specialisation and industrialisation after which they will start to not rely on investment and imports from other countries. The Asian tigers have already gone through the stages and now are able to provide for themselves rather than relying on investment. China and India are currently receiving growing investment but a few TNCs from those countries have started to outsource from other countries who are in the transitional stages such as Brazil. China and India will soon become developed countries such as the Asian Tigers and the focus will then shift to the other ‘BRICS’ countries. To conclude, NICs have a largely positive impact on the global economy as they enable TNCs to provide goods and services for cheaper prices to international markets. On the other hand TNCs cause increased unemployment in the country they move production from. However, most of the affects are positive as NICs are allowed to become developed countries in the long term and new countries can then go through the same process such as India and Brazil respectively. How to cite Discuss the Impact of Newly Industrialised Countries, Essay examples

Roman Architectural Advancements free essay sample

Many centuries before the birth of Christ, the city of Rome grew, prospered, and developed Into a thriving Republic; the feats of Roman engineers were spectacular, and many structures built by this culture still stand today. As in most cultures, Romes buildings became more elaborate and impressive The Romans developed fantastic building technologies and ideas. With knowledge borrowed trom the Greeks, Rome made Impressive architectural advancements. These were major attributes of bulldlngs, colossal structures, and d legacy that would Influence later structures. According to legend, the city of Rome was founded in about 753 B. C. , by a group of shepherds. It sat at an ideal location, along 7 hills on the Tiber River 15 miles from the Mediterranean Sea in present day Italr (Hall . Situated in an ideal defensive location, the city grew. Roman rule spread throughout the Italian peninsula due to Its military strength and diplomacy. The first settlements discovered In Rome were on Tiber Island, later the sire of d temple to Aesculapius, the god of healing. Little Is known of early Roman history because its first historical literature wasnt recorded until 200 B. C. The earliest structures that were inhabited by the ancient Romans were crude uts. At the end of the seventh century 8C_, these huts were demolished. This made way tor a decidedly more urban aspect ot construction with permanent stone temples, houses, and various other public buildings. dulldlng was encouraged by the leader Tarquin I who lived from 116 to 579 B. C. He made grants of land to be used as building sites. Tarquin promoted the developmentof shops and porticoes. Servius Tullius, his successor, expanded the city greatly. He surrounded it with a wall. The city of Rome further developed into a large power. The ancient Romans created and borrowed fundamental types ot concepts that ade up buildings, The Ideas the Romans borrowed were basic Ideas such as the column. A column Is d vertical shaped pillar with the chief design concern of supporting a building. Most columns consist of three parts: the base, the shaft, and the capital. The shaft is usually cylindrical in shape. The Greeks had three basic types of columns: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. All three types had narrow fillets on thern These were small vertical slits that ran the length of the column The Romans modified the column and added two types: Truscan and Composile. The columns became widely used In homes and temples In Greece and later In Rome. The Romans also borrowed from the Creeks other major structural designs. Romans worked wonders with noble arches and plebeian concrete (Arch Inform 2)2. On the top of a column on most temples and public buildings rested an Entablature. This is a classic triangular shaped fagade, or front of a building. The Entablature consists of four parts. The lowest part is the Architrave, which sits on top of the capital or upper part ota column. on top of that, the frieze was typically decorated with horizontal bands. The Cornice forms the upper part of the Entablature and protrudes beyond the frieze on the sides. On the very top sits a Pediment, a triangular segment between the lower Entablature and the roof. The Romans borrowed the concept ot the arch but utilized it tully. An arch is a curved structure used to support the weight above it. At the top of an arch, there is located a keystone, which is a stone that holds the other parts in place. To construct an arch, the Romans supported the blocks with wood until the keystone was inserted into the arch. A series of arches is called an arcade. Roman leaders built arches called triumphal arches, to honor their leaders. Arches were used more functionally o support aqueducts. Romans put the arch in architecture (Boorstin 2)3. The Romans also developed the vault. A vault is an arched ceiling or roof. Most common was the Barrel Vault, but there were two other types. These two other types were the Groined Vault and the Ribbed Vault. A later type of vault that developed was the dome. A dome is a curved roof situated on a circular base. Perhaps the most famous building in Rome with a dome is the Pantheon. Columns were sometimes used in domes, but only as a decoration. Rich Romans lived in fairly large houses. A courtyard called an atrium served as a reception room. An opening in the atrium roof allowed light in. Water collected in a pool in the floor of the atrium. The dining room and bedrooms surrounded the atrium. The atriums were decorated by Mosaic walls and floors. A second courtyard called a peristyle included a garden, fountains, statues, and often a pool. Some houses had an enclosure at the rear of the house with fruit trees and vegetables. Roman walls stretched great lengths and fortified the extreme boundaries of the great Roman Empire. By the year A. D. 100, the Romans had built a wall that extended into present-day Germany and Romania. Another wall built by the Romans as Hadrians Wall. It was built starting in A. D. 120 and stretched 13 miles. Parts of this wall still stand. Roman walls were built by Roman soldiers before Rome was an empire. Hadrians Wall was 10 feet wide and 20 meters tall. It was made of stone and turf. Hadrians Wall was rebuilt three times and defended until A. D. 400. Rome was home to incredible buildings. One of these buildings was the Circus Maximus. It was built during the Augustan Age. It was of tremendous size, two thousand feet long by three hundred feet wide. It could seat 20,000 people. The stands were divided up into three sections. The people were protected from animals by a broad channel of water. A wall ran its length, dividing it in half and providing a track for chariot racing which took place there. The building was faced in marble. The bowels of the stadium provided living quarters and shops. This area was favored by Horace, a great poet, as a place to absorb a vulgar atmosphere. Romes other great stadium was the Colosseum. It was also called the Flavian Amphitheater, and it was the largest outdoor arena in the city of Rome. It survives today as one of the most impressive feats of Roman engineering and architecture. The Colosseum was constructed during the reign of Emperor Vespasian. It was dedicated in A. D. 80, and until the year A. D. 404, it was the site of battle between gladiators, fake naval battles, and other forms of entertainment. During the Middle Ages, stone was taken from it to be used in the construction of new buildings. The Colosseum is oval-shaped and could accommodate 50,000 people on four stories on wooden and marble benches. The Colosseum is 157 feet high, 510 feet wide, and 620 feet long. A wall 15 feet high separated the spectators from the arena. It was made ot brick and concrete witn stone on the exterior. On the first three stories, there are arches supported by columns. The fourth story was added at a later date for decorative purposes. Awnings were supported by poles on the fourth stories and protected the spectators from the elements. The Colosseum had 80 entrances, two of which were reserved for the emperor 8. A network of passages and rooms existed beneath the structure. Another famous Roman building is the Pantheon. It was built by the emperor Hadrian in AD 126. The Pantheon was dedicated to all of the Roman gods. It was constructed from brick and concrete and is circular. It measures 142 yards in iameter and its dome shaped roof rises 142 feet. A rectangular porch protrudes from the front of the building. The porch has a triangular roof supported by eight Corinthian columns. The interior is lit by an opening called an oculus at the top of the dome. A large amount of the building is original. It later served as a Christian church from A. D. 609 to A. D. 1885. It then became a burial place for famous Italian heroes. The Romans built arches called triumphal arches to celebrate victories and other events. Perhaps the most famous was the Arch of Constantine at Rome (Trajans Rome: The Man, The City, The Empire 1)4. It was built to mark a victory over Maxentius, the usurper, in A. D. 312. It was constructed of 2nd Century pieces of sculpture, but new construction was added also. The sculptures on the arch gave a narrative of the campaign against Maxentius. One detail from the arch is Constantine demonstrating his liberality. Another famous arch was one erected by Athenians of Greece in A. D. 130. Hadrian had it built because he saw himself as the new founder of the city. On one side of the arch was the inscription, This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus. On the other side is the inscription This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus (Arch Inform 2)5. This arch stands on a road by the temple of the Olympian Zeus. Another triumphal arch is the Arch of Galerius which celebrated his victory over the Persians. On this arch are typical scenes of military and religious life. Another great arch is the arch at Timgad which once marked the entrance to the original colonial foundation on the road leading to Lambaeis. The ancient Forum of Rome is home to the arch made in 203 to honor Septimius Severus and his sons Caracalla and Geta. It also shows scenes from Severuss campaign against the Parthians and Arabs. Another triumphal arch is the Arch of Saints which bears upon its frieze the commemorative inscription of C. Julius Rufus. He was priest of Rome and Augustus at an altar at Lugdunum. He contributed to the building of an amphitheater there. The Romans built majestic temples to honor their gods and past leaders. The earliest surviving example of a temple in Rome is the circular-shaped one at the Forum Boarium. It is purely Greek in style and was built in the 2nd century B. C. A similar shaped temple is located at Tivoli. It was built at around the same time, too. Another early temple is the one at Perigueux dedicated to the goddess Vesunna. It was circular shaped also and was constructed very early in the history of the Roman Republic. Lesser deities accordingly had smaller temples. An example of this is the temple of Fortuna Virilis, the deity of a remote harbor. Many temples became Christian churches in the Middle Ages. In addition to the Pantheon, the Temple ot Antoninus and Fautina became Christian churches in the Middle Ages. The Romans built amphitheaters of all sizes, but most of which employed great architecture. An early amphitheater was located in Italica. It was dedicated to Hadrian and could seat 25,000. Another large theater built by the Romans was the one at Augusta. Amphitheaters changed as communities grew. This amphitheater was no exception. It was first very small but later enlarged toa capacity of 8000. Roman colonies soon had their own amphitheaters. Perhaps one of the best examples in Asia Minor is the theater of Aspendus in Pamphylia. It was built in the 2nd century A. D. and greatly illustrates the importance of these monuments to the Roman people. Surprising numbers of amphitheaters were located near harbors. One example is the great theater along the Aradiane Harbor at the city of Ephesus. Aphrodisias is home to another tremendous theater that later became a Byzantine fortress. Walls and a rectangular arena were added so gladiatorial shows could be held. The amphitheater at El-DJem was among the largest in the empire. As was common, it was built on the site of a similar structure in the early 3rd century. The Romans built baths in most towns as a place to bathe, relax, and socialize. These were located generally on the outskirts of the towns. The most famous one, though, is the Bath in present day Britain. These baths were fed by Roman conduits. Baths were generally 8 meters in depth, as was the one at Bath. These baths brought prosperity to many Roman settlements; the waters were thought to have medical properties. All peoples used these facilities. Recently, some have been uncovered and it turns out that the waters were contaminated by bacteria. The Romans were masterful builders of aqueducts (Kleiner 1)6. An aqueduct is defined as an artificial channel through which water is conducted to the place where it is used. Some aqueducts are tunnels dug through the earth. Others are channels of water forced through suspended structures. Rome was one of the only ancient cities that was readily supplied with water. In the year A. D. 97, a ninth aqueduct was added to bring water to Rome. These nine aqueducts brought 85 million gallons of water a day to Rome from mountain springs. Five more aqueducts were added later. Over 200 cities in the Roman Empire had aqueducts. One of these aqueducts was the Aqua Claudia, which was constructed from A. D. 38 to A. D. 50 . It was begun by Caligula and finished by Claudius. It carried water to Rome for a distance of 68 kilometers . One of the most famous Roman aqueducts is the one at Segovia in present day Spain. It brought water to Segovia from a source 16 kilometers away. This aqueduct in particular had the full cooperation of the citizens of this town. Another famous aqueduct is the one over the River Gard that delivered water to Nimes from a source near Uzes. The accuracy of the engineering of this aqueduct is very impressive. The water dropped only 17 meters over a distance of 50 kilometers, the length of the aqueduct. When aqueducts arrived at cities the water was collected in a basin. On the bottom of the circular basins were holes that led to pipes, these fed into essential civil locations. Private users were connected to the basin by pipes on the sides of the basins. Romes Punic Wars enemy, Carthage, was conquered, and then an aqueduct was constructed that conveyed water over 50 kilometers from a source near Zaghovan to Carthage . When water needed to be directed toa location that was at a lower level than the place where the Romans needed it to be directed to, they found a way to raise the water up. They used waterwheels to lift the water. The wheels themselves were powered by treadmills. Romes mill architecture was also very genius. They used waterwheels to turn millstones and produce flour. One mill could produce enough flour to satisfy a population of 80,000. Roman architecture forever shaped our modern architecture. Architecture in the Middle Ages was also influenced by it. Some of the worlds most famous buildings were built by Romans or influenced by their structures. With knowledge borrowed from the Greeks, Romans made impressive architectural achievements. These were namely major attributes of buildings, colossal structures, and a legacy that would influence later buildings. The Romans succeeded in building some of the most architecturally sound buildings of ancient times. Their ideas were the forerunners of architectural practices today.

The Disease of Autism

Introduction Autism is mental disorder disease that affects the development of a child’s ability. The disease is manifested in children in their first three years after birth.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Disease of Autism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The disorder is characterized by impaired communication, social interaction and repetitive or restricted behaviors among the sufferers. As such, the problem affects information processing in a child’s brain leading to problems in organizing and making connections between different things and events. This is one of the disorders in the autism spectrum (ASDs) apart from Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder-Not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) (Krebs, Mike, and Richard 23). However, despite these, mental diseases such as Autism Spectrum are not as problematic as one may think as they can be treated. Mental Disease Defini tion Autism us a neural development disorder that affects children below the age of three years. The disease affects the brain of a child hampering information processing. This, therefore results to impairment of social interaction and affects communication. A child is also faced with a problem or repetitive behaviors. Complications The disorder results into speech retardation, impairment of social interactions and display of repetitive behaviors. The disorder sometimes may be complicated and challenging to deal with it on its own. These complications make it complex for treatment programs. Some of the complications of the disorder include sensory problems as a person suffering from this disorder may be sensitive to sensory input which at sometimes are painful ad discomforting (Mental Disorders para. 6). These problems may also fail to respond to react to pain, heat, and cold. Seizures is another common complications and usually begins in young children with the disorder. Others inc lude tuberculosis sclerosis which causes tumor to grow in the organs like brain, mental retardation includigng fragile x syndrome, a common mental retardation problem exhibited in males. Others include aggression, digestion problems and not common eating or sleeping habits among children. Types There are different types of autism that have been recognized in the autism spectrum (ASDs); autism, Asperger syndrome which is exhibited in young children. The children lack or delay in their language and cognitive development. The third type is the pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) (Morrison 45). This is only diagnosed when the other two disorders; autism and Asperger have not been metAdvertising Looking for research paper on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Autism Spectrum Definition Autism spectrum is a developmental disability that is caused by an abnormality in brain. People suffer ing from this disorder have difficulty with communication and social interactions. Origin The word autism came into limelight in 1938 when Hans Asperger adopted the terminology of Blurter’s of autistic psychopaths during his lecturer on child psychology in Germany. He was investigating on the ASD now Asperger syndrome. The word in his 1943 reports called infantile autism Kanner used the word in reference to children who exhibited striking behavioral similarities. However, the words became widely used and known as a separate diagnosis in 1981. Types There are a number of types of this disorder. This includes autistic disorders or classic autism, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified or atypical autism, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder and Asperger syndrome. Asperger Syndrome Definition This is one type of autism and has some slight difference with autism. People suffering from this disorder have a problem in their language development. The la nguage is either lacking, or delays or is deviance (Frey and Kathleen 3). They further lack cognitive delays and in most cases they develop an obsession in one topic of interest or activity. Other symptoms related with these disorders include inappropriate social behaviors, uncoordinated/clumsy poor movements, peculiarity in their speech and language, repetitive routines and many others. Origin The disorder is one of the new diagnoses of the autism. The disorder is named after Asperger Hans (1906-1980) a psychiatrist and pediatrician from Australia. The disorder or the term was recognized in formal manuals of diagnostics in 1990s. Effects Because of these, disorders, people suffering from this disorder have problems with interacting/associating with others. There, language and speech is impaired, have impaired social behaviors among many other characteristics that enable their interaction impossible. Rett Syndrome Definition It is a neuro-developmental disease that affects the grey matter in the brain of a person. This disorder appears in females only (Ishmael 5). The disorder is characterized by a number of deficits after the child is born. On its onset, the disorder is associated with decreased growth of head, the child losses the hand skills. The disorder also results to loss of language and social engagement and lastly there is also poor physical coordination.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Disease of Autism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Origin The syndrome is named after its discoverer Dr. Rett Andreas in 1983. He noted that children with the syndrome normally developed well between their first 6-18months of their development. Effects The people that suffer from this disorder are at risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders. Most of them also suffer from seizures and have nonverbal skills. Other effects of the disorder are constipation and growth failures that may be a problem to the lives of the individual. Pervasive Development Disorder Definition This is a pervasive disorder that is exhibited among children. It affects the cognitive ability of children hampering effective social interactions and communication (Frey 32). In this disorder, its signs are visible in babies but can only be diagnosed after the child reaches four years. Origin Pervasive development disorder is one of disorder on the autism spectrum. Its origin is associated with a Swiss psychiatrist Blueler Eugene in 191. The concept since then has developed by other psychiatrics and pediatricians who carried out researches and investigations such as Kanner. Effects The disorders affect the social functioning skills of children. For instance, a child may be very eager in interacting with friends or classmates but may act socially different from the main stream peers hence making un genuine connections (Samuels 31) They also have a problem with understanding figurative languages/ speech and sarcasm. They also does not speak at the recommended age and their speeches is repetttive Detection Lack of social skills Children or individual suffering autism are detected from their behaviors. One of the aspects that is used to identify these people is their lack of social skills. These infants show no or less attention to social stimuli in their environment. For instance, they rarely smile, they are shy and look at others less, and they are known to respond less to their names. These children are also less talkative and will not form relationships with others. Speech Complications Speech complications are yet another way of detecting the disorders among children. Differences in speech may be evidence for the first year after their birth. This may include unusual gestures, delayed beginning of bubbling, and diminished responses, unsynchronized vocal patterns that do not resonate to their caregivers. These children often repeat same words because of the lapses in their nerves hence affecting their speech.Advertising Looking for research paper on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More No eye contact These children have impaired social interactions behaviors. For instance, they cannot sustain an eye contact because of their disorders. They also have less turn taking and cannot use simple movements as a way of expression such as pointing at something that they may want. This disorder is a result of the mental lapse that halts effective coordination of the child. Effects Dependent on other People suffering from this disorder cannot support themselves for their own upkeep. They therefore have to depend on caregivers to provide them with basic needs and help them in per taking their day-to-day lives. They cannot sustain themselves because of the lapses in their mental ability. Lack of friends Because of the stigma and lack of enough sensitization, people suffering from these disorders are alienated. They lack friends because of their conditions that is perceived to be abnormal. Therefore, this widens the gap between them and the mainstream society making such people t o be looked upon as being of no value to the society. Lack of full education Most of children suffering from this disorder are not taken to school by their parents. This is because of social stigma that the society has attached to the mental health problems (Autism- a Developmental Issue, Not a Curse [interview para. 5). Parents and caregivers, hide the children, hindering them from being provided with health care. This therefore, affects the children as they canto access to education in their condition. Treatment No known cure Discovering or learning that your child has an autism spectrum disorder can be an overwhelming experience to caregivers and parents. Even though, despite the efforts and research, still there is no known cure for the disorder. However, certain treatments and education programmes/approaches maybe used in reducing the challenges that are associated with the problem. For instance, use of interventions in reducing/lessening disruptive behaviors and educating on s elf-help which allow for independence may play a significant role in containing the prevalence of the disorder. No real treatment No single treatment is effective in treating people on the spectrum. However, people should use positive aspects of their conditions for their own benefits (â€Å"Autism.† Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection para. 5). Nevertheless, treatment needs to begin at an early stage and be tailored to the person’s /child unique weaknesses, needs and strengths. Behavioral and educational approaches can be used; communication, sensory and other interventions can be used. Furthermore, biomedical treatments such as addition of minerals and vitamins, immune systems, modification of diet, immune system regulations, gut treatments among many others. Research/Public Awareness CDC campaigns Many people are not aware of the autism disorders. Ignorance is one of the factors that have led to increased cases of late identification of the disorders. Therefore, i t is important that campaigns and sensitization campaigns are done to inform the public on the disorders and where they can get treatment and education. Center of Disease control and Prevention (CDC) campaigns have helped to greater height in educating and sensitizing the public on the disorders (Samuels 6). The centre has played an important role through educating the public through seminars and workshops around the globe. Autism Awareness Month (April) Autism awareness month is normally in April. During the month, the public is sensitized about the disease. Various media are used such as television, radio, internet among many others. Parents are mostly targeted as they are the ones who stay with their children more. Coping with Autism/Autistic Family Member Influence on siblings The disorder has negative influence on children as well as the parents and the general family members. Therefore, coping with the disorder is a difficult experience in most of the families with such cases. Sibling rivalry One of the challenges is witnessed among the siblings. There is always a tendency of children to demonstrate rivalry between themselves and this often leads to conflicts among them. There is down look on other siblings that have these disorders by those that are normal. Sibling relationships The relationship among children in a family with children suffering from this disorder varies from family to family. Some children will be supportive and offer assistance to their fellow colleagues while others will show resentment and will always distance away from them. Therefore, this may lead to negative relationships in the family between the siblings. Influence on parents Parents play an important role in ensuring that children with these disorders are well taken care off. Therefore, their support is important. Stress between parents Many parents with children with such problem are often stressed. It is an incidence that is not expected by them. Therefore, they are agonize d with the problem and in most of times, they blame one another. This incident may result to a conflict making the relationship to break. It is also a stressful situation that makes the parents to hide their children under carpet for fear of stereotype from society. Divorce, separation, or improved marriages The disorder may also lead to either divorce, or may improve the marriage of the parents depending on different circumstances. Many people will not want to be associated with the problem hence as a way of de-linking from the problem or for fear of ridicule by the society they may decide to divorce or separate (How to Solve Three Puzzles para. 5). Furthermore, the increase in the resources and expenses in maintaining/supporting the children compels many parents to separate. However, other parents may unite and support each other in ensuring that the child with the disorder is well maintained and provided with the necessary requirements. Extended Family Effects/Influence Extended families are also faced with these problems. In this setting, children are not accorded the attention that is required because of the increased responsibility of maintain others. Many children with these disorders may not receive the required attention hence making them suffer more. Nuclear families may provide the support as opposed to the extended families. Conclusion Autism like any other disorder should be accorded the attention that is deserved. The conditions can be discovered in early life of a child. Proper treatments and diagnosis is important. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the required treatment and diagnosis to provide early medication. Health groups should ensure that there is enough sensitization and awareness campaigns to inform the parents on the disorder. This will help in reducing the rates of the disorder. Furthermore, parents need to support their children by providing them with the requisite needs. Works Cited â€Å"Autism- a Developmental Issue, Not a Curse [interview].† Africa News Service 13 Dec. 2011. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. â€Å"Autism. Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection. Gale, Cengage Learning†, 2010. Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Web. 14 Feb. 2012. Frey, Rebecca.â€Å"Pervasive Developmental Disorders.† The Gale Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders. Ed. Brigham Narins. 2nd ed. Vol. 2. Detroit: Gale, 2005. 1007-1010. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. Frey, Rebecca, and Kathleen, Fergus. â€Å"Asperger Syndrome.† The Gale Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders. Ed. Brigham Narins. 2nd ed. Vol. 1. Detroit: Gale, 2005. 113 116. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. â€Å"How to Solve Three Puzzles.† Newsweek 21 Jan. 2008: 64. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. Ishmael, Holly. â€Å"Rett Syndrome.† The Gale Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders. Ed. Brigham Narins. 2nd ed. Vol. 2. Detroit: Gale, 2005. 1114-1116. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. W eb. Krebs, Mindy, Mike, McDaniel, and Richard, Neeley. â€Å"The Effects of Peer Training on the Social Interactions of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.† Education 131.2 (2010): 393+. Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Web. â€Å"Mental Disorders.† Current Issues: MacMillan Social Science Library. Detroit: Gale, Cengage Learning, 2010. Web. Morrison, Erin. â€Å"A Review of Research on the Use of Weighted Vests with Children on the Autism Spectrum.† Education 127.3 (2007): 323+. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. Samuels, Christina.â€Å"CDC Campaign Focuses on Autism Awareness.† Education Week 2 Mar. 2005: 4. Gale Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. This research paper on The Disease of Autism was written and submitted by user Maxton Merritt to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Invention and History of the Colt Revolver

Invention and History of the Colt Revolver Samuel Colt invented the first revolver, a gun named after its inventor Colt, and after its revolving cylinder revolver. In 1836, Samuel Colt was granted a U.S. patent for the Colt revolver, which was equipped with a revolving cylinder containing five or six bullets and an innovative cocking device. The History of the Colt Revolver Before the Colt revolver, only one and two-barrel flintlock pistols had been invented for handheld use. Colt revolvers were all based on cap-and-ball technology until the Smith and Wesson license on the bored-through cylinder (bought from Rollin White) expired around 1869. According to www.midwestgunshows.com: Horace Smith Daniel Wesson formed their second partnership (SW) in 1856 for the development and manufacture of a revolver chambered for a self-contained metallic cartridge. During this development period, while researching existing patents, it was found that a Rollin White had patented a bored through cylinder for a paper cartridge sometime earlier. A licensing agreement was arranged between Smith and Wesson and Rollin White. In 1855, Rollin White patented the bored-through cylinder. According to www.armchairgunshow.com: The Rollin White patent covered the right to make a revolver cylinder bored-through end to end - an obvious requirement for an effective cartridge revolver. This fact didnt slow down some firms, who proceeded to make the highly popular cartridge style revolvers. Some used their own designs, and some just produced outright copies of the Smith and Wesson pattern. Smith and Wesson pursued redress in court, resulting in several US makers being required to mark Made for SW or words to that effect on their revolvers.

MBA-International Accounting and Finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

MBA-International Accounting and Finance - Essay Example This means that they try to achieve quick realization of credit sales and delay the payment of the payables. By way of this they try to maximize â€Å"net float† (Brigham & Ehrhardt, 2008, pp.958). In a business it is important that the financial resources are channelized effectively. This is facilitated by the financial managers who allocate the resources to the various departments as per their requirement. Besides the need based allocation of the resources it is important that the business does not lose out a possibility of earning an additional income on the surplus cash balances. To ensure that the cash balances do not remain idle the financial managers invest these cash balances temporarily to earn positive returns. The multinational companies like their domestic counterparts employ the same procedures for the achievement of the above mentioned goals. This indicates that the basic objectives of the multinational and domestic companies are the same but the task of multinat ional companies is far complex. When it comes to investment of funds the domestic companies generally think with respect to domestic securities whereas the financial managers of the multinational companies are expected to be aware of the investment opportunities across the world. The multinational companies generally work in association with the international bankers and their staff and are thus in a position to make gains out of best available rates anywhere in the world. Policies relating to credit are more crucial for the multinational companies as compared to the purely domestic firms. For instance trade in US involves poorer or developing nations. In this kind of a situation ‘granting credit’ is the necessary norm for business. Moreover the developed nations impart credit facilities to their foreign customers for making their manufacturing firms globally competent. When it comes to granting credit the risk of the multinational companies is higher than

The Shawshank Redemption Movie study assignment

The Shawshank Redemption Movie study - Assignment Example Even when he is about to give up on ever getting the freedom he desires, Andy comes in and reignites that hope. He eventually gets his application granted. The importance of hope in one’s life is shown in the movie through various scenes that show the effects of hope on the lives of the prisoners. In his first night in prison, it is hope that comforts Andy. Although he is serving a life sentence, he still has hope that he will taste freedom again. It makes him calm and able to think and reflect on things thus coming up with great ideas in the process. When writing to the state senate to ask for funds to expand the prison library, hope pushes him to keep writing even when he gets no reply until finally he gets a response. The news that Tommy once met the man that killed his wife and her lover pumps new energy into Andy. His hope of getting out rises as he sees an opportunity to appeal his sentence. In addition, it is the hope of getting out someday that keeps him drilling a tunnel through the prison wall using a rock hummer for several years until he achieves his aim. Hope is also used to bring out the determination of Red to get parole despite his application being rejected repeatedly. It is hope that makes him keep applying for parole without giving up. When Brooks is released from prison, he is lost in a world he is not familiar with. He finds life hard outside prison, as he cannot adjust well. Due to a lack of hope in life, he decides to end his life by hanging himself. The verse that the warden told Andy when he first visited him in his cell was John 8:12. This verse says, â€Å"I am the Light of the world. He who follows me should not walk in darkness but will have the Light of Life.† This is the use of allusion as the warden alludes to the Bible verse to talk about his importance in the prison. He is indirectly referring to himself as the light within the prison and that whoever associates with him will get an easier time

Magic Carpet Airlines Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Magic Carpet Airlines - Case Study Example They used the League of Flight Attendants to articulate their issues with the management. The other stakeholder in the case was Magic Carpet Airlines team that represented the company with whom these issues were being addressed (Kennedy, 2007). Compensation was one of the major problems in this situation. The base wages for Magic Carpet Airline’s flight attendants were relatively low and the data that they collected from Monthly Labor Review helped them conclude that the base wage was not matching the cost of living that had gone up. The airline’s flight attendants observed that the company’s wage scheme was fixed and was contended for a five-year wage review (Guasco, 2007). Job security was the other major issue in this situation. The flight attendants felt that they risked losing their seniority if the deal between Magic Carpet Airline and RCA went through. The company did not provide a clear way of reassuring its flight attendants that their contract was binding and this made them feel like they could lose their jobs anytime (Kennedy, 2007). The third major problem in this situation was working conditions. The company assigned its flight attendants a prolonged trip trading lead-time of five days but they felt that it should be reduced to one day. The company provided $6 monthly for the maintenance of flight attendants’ uniforms but they felt that the about needed to be raised to $20 (Shell, 2006). The fourth major problem in the negotiations was the disparity between the wages and wok rules, and Magic Carpet Airline’s financial performance. The league of flight attendants demanded for the harmonization of the company’s wages with its financial performance. I would recommend that the League of Flight Attendants utilize quarterly meetings with the board of directors of the company in order to discuss their issues. This would provide a platform for them to air their grievances before they escalate. Secondly, I would

Research into Independent University Learning

Research into Independent University Learning Hazel Christie, Paul Barron and Norma D Annunzio-Green published an article Direct entrants in transition: becoming independent learners in Studies in Higher Education, 2013. It examines students who have come from College having undertaken one or two years of equivalent education, then transitioned directly into a second or third year of a degree in University. Information was taken from direct entry students in their first year of study at University identifying what factors helped them succeed in studies. It identified that students who adjust quickly to new education environments understand what independent learning entails. The challenge for direct entrant students is adjusting to the different learning environment at the university level, where students are required to function considerably more independently than they are used to at college.   A critical factor of success is the ability to be flexible in adapting to new learning environments and adopting the attributes of an independent learner.   Other characteristics of success are students concepts of assessment and time management. Not only understanding the contents and required format prove challenging for students, but also managing their time effectively to allow for sufficient preparation and timely submission of assessment items is vital for academic success. This study was undertaken by Edinburgh Napier University located in Scotland over the 2006-2007 years. The study was made up of sixteen women and four men of which, six entered the second year and fourteen entered third-year studies. Eleven took business studies with the rest undertaking other related courses. Twelve were mature aged, working part time and or raising families. Eight students pathway went through school, college then to university. Interviews were taped and then transcribed at the end of the first year, discussing previous learning environments and their perceptions and preparedness for studies. Information collected was on initial expectations of the new learning environment at the university, the extent to which their expectations were met, and issues around teaching and learning. The study found two key success factors in transitioning to university and becoming successful learners, coping and succeeding in module assessments, and good time management skills. Results identified three groups. Group one found transition reasonably smooth, the second found it hard to adjust, the third found it overwhelming and struggled to cope. The overall transition experience was challenging coming from structured and directed learning to independent learning. Group one were flexible and adapted quickly to the new learning style. They were confident and able to prioritise their time to separate study, work and family life. They believed this was imperative to their success. Students recognised the need to prepare for lectures and tutorials in advance, and the need for feedback on performance to critique themselves for self-improvement. The second group had high expectations but found difficulties in making the transition. They struggled with independent research, the conventions of essay writing, referencing and putting the material together. Students struggled to achieve a balance between their studies and other commitments. By putting things off they engaged in crisis management or adopted a do enough approach. Again, this group identified the need for independent learning and time management skills. They reflected on the need to improve on this if they wanted to be successful at university. The final group was struggling to understand independent learning and found it difficult to take ownership of their learning. They experienced crises which made some consider leaving. None were nervous about starting university, more so they struggled to adjust to university study. They had limited understanding of what independent learning demanded and struggled with time management, interlinking work, social and academic time. Expectations were, they would study the same way as in college, relying on lecturers to guide them and advise on reading material needed. Likewise, lecturers were not aware that they had direct entry students who were unaware what university required. Twenty students were interviewed about their experience of entering university directly from college into a second or third year of a university qualification. There was an assumption from the university that there would be a smooth transition, moving from one education framework to the next. Some students transitioned rapidly however others had difficulties with this transition. These students believed that support would continue, like what was provided at the college. Overall, students need to develop independent learning and time management skills to be successful in the transition to university. Universities need to identify and provide support to those students transitioning from college to university. Characteristics Time management Prior to commencing this course, I felt I was ready to study. I knew I would have trouble with chemistry and biology, but I believed I was ready. After the first week, I soon learnt I was wrong. I then drew up a study timetable and highlighted in different colours each course with lectures, tutorials and study. I utilised the semester planner and diary plotting my course timetable and assessment dates. On Sundays, I now print out the weeks PowerPoint presentations and go through these with study materials to support my learning prior to attending classes. With my prior work experience, I rapidly adapt to change. My family has started encroaching into my study schedule. I have since adjusted some of my study time to after the children are in bed.   I have found some lectures hard to follow, I now watch the recordings from Sippy Downs. I attend the recently introduced weekly consultation support for chemistry and biology to aid my learning. From discussions with co-students, I now utilise YouTube videos to assist my chemistry and biology learning. I have a weakness in writing, so I am using an online grammar spell checker Reverso. With these strategies in place, I have been successful in keeping a study family life balance. Preparedness for Classes The following information has supported my preparedness for classes. On my study wall, I have a timetable outlining lectures and tutorials. A weekly planner has been created setting out each course, highlighted in a different colour showing the day and times scheduled for lectures, tutorials and study. My weekly planner has been amended due to the need of additional time required for the study. This will be monitored and adjusted as changes are needed. A semester planner detailing due dates for each assessment and how they are to be submitted is also on the wall. I update my diary each week with each weeks classes and any additional information as it comes to hand. I attended the two-day skills workshop the week prior to studying studies and I have enrolled in upcoming skills workshops that are available throughout the semester. I have read the TPP101 Course Outline and I review it as we progress through the semester. I access Blackboard which has my e-lectures, quizzes, lecture recordings and PowerPoint presentations, assessment criteria and due dates. These materials are supporting my preparation for classes. The Task 2 Toolkit supports my preparation for not only each week leading up to the assessment submission date but also requirements for the upcoming assessment. The workbook is providing me with opportunities to practice and check on my understanding of key points. Going through these study materials has allowed me to prepare for the class as well as identify questions which can then be asked face to face at the lecture or tutorial.

Gun Control Essay -- Second Amendment The Right To Bear Arms

Since the early days, gun control has been a never-ending debate. It is because of the fast increase in crime, the fight for the right to own a hand gun, the introduction of legislation for gun control in order reduce the crime in the United States, that this issue has been hotly debated in recent years. The streets of America are now a war zone especially right here were we live. ?Florida has the highest crime rate of any state and the sixth highest homicide level?(www.guncite.com). A sad fact but true. Many people feel that gun control violates their right to own a gun the second amendment says so: ?the right to bear arms?. I personally share that point of view for it would not be in the constitution to begin with. However, there is no doubt that something must be done in order to reduce violence and to make America a freer country to live in. I believe that gun control should not take place for it does not reduce crime, it only increases the debates and as an alternative there sho uld be a stronger education. First, gun control does not reduce crime. After doing my research I was impressed to find that guns and violence are not as linked as much as people think they are. Curtis Lovelace confirms that Both Australia and England have already banned personal ownership of guns, but violent crime is not down in either country. In fact, in Australia violent crime is up in every category. From 1997 to 1999, murders were up 6.5%, and attempted murders rose by 12.5%. Increases w...

Universal Health Care

AP Eng Lang & Comp – 4 442 Precis Source A In the article, Where in the World Can You Get Universal Health Care? , Park informs the reader about the countries that the governments provide health care to their citizens. Park develops the article by listing the countries and giving general details about them. Park's purpose is to provide information about countries where people can get health care in order to make the reader to consider how universal health care can change our nation in positive ways. By using concise and short sentences, the author is writing to a person who wants to know briefly about countries with health care.Source B In the article, Pros ;amp; Cons of Free Universal Health Care, Ireland contrasts the different arguments about universal health care by giving pros and cons. Ireland provides benefits and drawbacks to the type of universal health care system to develop his neutral position. Ireland's purpose is to inform the reader about the positive and ne gative effects of universal health care in order to make them decide whether the government should provide it to all Americans. By using simple sentences and diction, Ireland is writing to a person who wants to have general ideas of universal health care. Source CIn the article, What Are the Benefits of a Universal Health Care System? , Sykora emphasizes all the benefits the citizens can get form universal health care system by listing and give brief explanations about them. Sykora's pro position is developed by all the beneficial factors of universal health care she talks about in the article. Sykora's purpose is to inform about the benefits of a universal health care to the reader in order to make him or her support it. By giving only the benefits of a universal health care, Sykora is writing to a person who has a general idea of both negative and positive view points about it.Source D In the article, Universal Health Care Effects, Uzoma emphasizes how universal health care can ha ve a significant effect on people's health and finance. Uzoma supports universal health care by explaining how a universal health care system can prevent unnecessary suffering and deaths, disability and financial difficulty. Uzoma's purpose is to persuade people who are against a universal health care system in order to have a health system that provides health care benefits to every citizen of the nation. By utilizing detail, Uzoma is writing to the teens and the adults who are interested in this subject. Â   Universal Health Care The main purpose of this paper is to describe and elaborate more on the need to communal or health care for all in America. America is the only developed state that does not provide universal medical cover for its citizens. The paper aims at looking at some of the general aspects on the universal health care, the percentage population of Americans without this cover, government commitment and the cause for hiking prices of premiums and reduced coverage to employees.Beside that, the paper aims at describing the significant problems experienced by the state toward delivering health care services to the entire citizens. UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE This is the medical care and services provided entirely to the citizens through state funding. The government intention is to offer health services to all citizens through tax payers’ money. Some times patients may be forced to meet specific but minor costs. On the other hand, private health care is the medical care and services provided by p rivate hospitals.This hospitals may be entirely private or a corporate entity with the government. INTRODUCTION The main purpose for universal health care for all is to provide medical services to the entire citizens without discriminations. The government offer health services on minimum cost in order to enhance equal quality health services and medical care for all. If the government can afford to offer a communal health care, the entire citizens would have access to medical care. Therefore they can afford to be screened on various diseases that are not affordable to many people.This way the government streamlines and makes living standards of Americans easy, enjoyable and they can have a longer life span. On the other hand, the government won’t spend too much in treating chronic infections in the future if all victims can afford to meet the bill of such infections. On the other hand private health services can be allowed to offer health services to those who can meet their conditions and terms of operations since their medical services are very expensive. Sub-problem 1: Does the provision of health services to the entire citizens by the government meet the desired quality of health care services?Sub-problem 3: Does the degree on the nature of treatment in public hospitals leads to patients’ satisfaction and assurance of healthy life? THE GOVERNMENT OF USA SHOULD IMPLEMENT UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE BECAUSE OF THE FOLLOWING REASONS. In the first place, USA is capable of meeting the cost of universal coverage. The government of USA needs to adjust itself on the amount of money spent in war and defense and set aside money for servicing universal health care for all citizens without sidelining others. In USA, the government operates some organizations for veterans, disabled, children and the most poor.Otherwise, the state encourages payment of health insurances privately (Paul Ramsey, 2003). This should be discouraged and USA should adopt universal hea lth coverage. Another point is that US has been unable to monitor the cost of premiums beside its encouragement to purchase premiums privately. There has been a continuous hike in the cost of insurance premiums. In addition to that, the employers have reduced coverage to employees especially in the civil servants, only the military servants and government officials that are fully covered.Note that American government is the main employer in this case. Because of failure to access proper medical care coverage, most people opt to do away with coverage especially due to high costs experienced in the process. For example, most Americans seek coverage through private bodies through employer-sponsored organizations; employees are not satisfied with this method. They accuse the employers for hiking the coverage levels. Again, the current proposals have little efforts to increase coverage to the poor workers.Assessment of America data shows that there is provision of a broad variety of serv ices in tertiary and secondary level. This is at community hospitals. The government of USA can afford to invest in the latest technologies in their operations. This is according to the Canada Study Medical Imaging 2004, (64-65) available at www. cmaj. ca Therefore, it is possible to implement universal health coverage without spending too much on gross domestic income because of advanced technology application. (Ryan S. on the public-private Debate, Dalhousie Medical School).However, this is a challenge because the government of Canada spends more than 55% of what US spends on health care. Again, Canadians have higher life expectancy as compared to Americans and lower infant mortality rates. The people of US would like to have the same life expectancy and lower infant death. However, according to statistics by Canadians institute for health information, Canada has a fewer doctors per capita than US. But health outcomes and expectancy are better and accessible than in America. (Gond en H. Guyett, 2007). Therefore, America can afford to offer the same services as Canada.Actually, the cause for the above-mentioned differences in health care provision and diversion between these two states is because; Canada was able to introduce a publicly funded medical system that was easily adapted. Again; the government of Canada is able to pass her legislative bills with a lot of ease. The US government honestly provides universal health care coverage for a quarter of the entire population. In USA, the government operates some organizations for veterans, disabled, children and the most poor. Otherwise, the state encourages payment of health insurances privatelyAccording to report by Common wealth fund policy foundation, 43 percents of the working populations were not covered in the 2005. As the population increases, the percentage number increases. The negative side of it is that uninsured people suffer great harm and torture as they try to access medical care. If they meet the cost of hospital bills, they are overwhelmed by other expenses. It is unfortunate that non covered individuals are unable to meet the cost of recommended health screening unlike their counterparts who are covered. Again they cannot access regular physicians like those covered.In 2004, 46 millions Americans were not covered (U. S. survey Bureau). Under the net of income, 52 percents of workers earning 20,000 were not covered. The total number of people without coverage was 27 percents. Due to lack of insurance cover; victims of chronic infections such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and asthma do not have access to proper medical check up. They either do away with the dosage or take half the dose since they cannot meet the cost. Therefore, universal health coverage would eliminate some of the pending problems (Collins, 2005).Failure to implement the system of universal coverage can lead to more problems in the near future since the government will spend too much on treating the disabled and chronic infectious diseases. In general health ministry will have lasting problems. Currently, the government of US spends more than 15% OF Gross Domestic Product on health coverage. This is great value and it can be adjusted to meet the basic needs in providing universal coverage. Even if USA is a rich state, persons aging between 20-63 or 60 millions adults are not covered.This exposes the whole population to spend too much on health care. Insurance companies spend between 4. 5- 8. 5 percents on health insurance premiums. This indicates that the costs of premiums on health coverage are rising drastically than the rate of inflation or than the earning incomes of the individuals. This makes the cost of health care very high. According to NCLR 2003, Hispanic Americans are less likely to be insured than their counterparts Africans and white people in American universal health care.The main cause of this racial segregations is that much of Hispanic population in Americ a is composed of illegal immigrants hence they are denied that service of coverage. The same case applies to other races in the continent. Beside that, most foreigners in America are considered to be poor such that they cannot offer the required standard of the working benefits to the nation. Therefore they cannot re-service for their coverage since they are the working poor who cannot offer health coverage and employees benefits to the government. . CONCLUSIONCOMMUNAL HEALTH CARE EXPECTED OUTCOMES IN THE FUTURE The above analysis of public health care dictates where to seek medical attention. The provision of quality and reliable medical care and services to all is the only control as to where to seek help. This is what the USA is aimed at. But due to too much delay, there are several outcomes such as increase of private health care (Jonathan L. 2006). Lack of implementing this bill on time denies poor patients right to seek medical care. Again, there is abuse of human rights. Fail ure to access health care can lead to loss of lives.However, it is a noble idea if the state is able to provide a universal health care and services that are reliable without discrimination, since patients and the entire Americans will benefit from the government. Therefore, they will be able to seek medical attention where they are assured of safety and better outcomes as a patient. However, it is very true that America is composed to a large number of ethnicity backgrounds. However, all citizens should be treated the same. Reference: Ethnicity and racial background, retrieved on 29th November 2007, available at www. pubmedcentral. nih. gov/Hispanic, Caucasians and African-American, retrieved on 29th November 2007, available at www. springerlink. com Hispanic children and adults uninsured, retrieved on 29th November 2007, available www. klru. org/bythepeople/ Joseph Lois (2004), a noble vision for USA, University Academic Press More Americans than Caucasian eligible for federal hea lth coverage, retrieved on 29th November 2007, available at www. ingentaconnect. com Paul Ramsey (2003), Facts on Private vs. Public Healthcare, Miller New York Truman P. and Christian B. (2005), America universal coverage beyond survival, Miller New York

ww1 commentary essays

ww1 commentary essays War is both a time of triumph and devastation. It is a time that can bring either tears of joy or tears of sorrow to a mothers eyes. War separates the men from the boys and that is why so many teenagers sought to fight for their country. They all fought to defend the honor of their country and to try to show that they can survive the rugged and harsh conditions. Reality did not quite hit these boys, until they found themselves fending for their own lives. Like many of these naive teenagers, their parents are also unaware of what is happening on the battlefield because the news is usually somewhat sugarcoated. Many British poets helped expose the grim realities of war and did not always receive positive feedback. The experiences and writings of British poets such as Rosenberg, Owen, and Sassoon, brought forth both negative and positive criticism and ultimately helped shape early 20th century views on war. Throughout the early 20th century, hostilities between countries such as Austria and Serbia started to grow. It was not until the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir Austro-Hungarian throne, did the war begin. Ferdinand was assassinated on June 28, 1914 in Sarajeva by a Serbian (Duffy 1). The Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand is what triggered the war. It was used to justify the war, when in reality, the war seemed almost inevitable. As the war progressed, alliances started to form. The Allies Powers included Romania, Russia, Serbia, United States of America, Belgium, France, Great Britain, Greece, Italy, Japan, Montenegro, and Portugal (Moore 1). The Allies Powers went against the Central Powers which included Austria, Hungary-Bulgaria, Germany, and the Ottoman Empire (Central 1). Predicting the outcome of the war is quite simple after looking at which countries fought on which side and comparing the amount of countries on each side. Also after a series of fatal moves made by the Central ...

History of Antiseptics & Legacy of Ignaz Semmelweis

History of Antiseptics & Legacy of Ignaz Semmelweis Antiseptic technique and the use of chemical antiseptics is a recent development in the history of surgery and medical treatment. This isnt surprising since the discovery of germs and Pasteurs proof that they could cause disease didnt occur until the last half of the 19th century. Wash Your Hands Hungarian obstetrician Ignaz Philipp Semmelweis was born July 1, 1818 and died August 13, 1865. While working at the maternity department of the Vienna General Hospital in 1846, he was concerned with the rate of puerperal fever (also called childbed fever) among the women who gave birth there. This was often a deadly condition. The rate for puerperal fever was five times higher in the ward that was staffed by male doctors and medical students and lower in the ward staffed by midwives. Why should this be? He tried eliminating various possibilities, from the position of giving birth to eliminating a walk-through by a priest after patients died. These had no effect. In 1847, Dr. Ignaz Semmelweiss close friend, Jakob Kolletschka, cut his finger while doing an autopsy. Kolletschka soon died of symptoms like those of puerperal fever. This led Semmelwiss to note that the doctors and medical students often performed autopsies, while the midwives did not. He theorized that particles from the cadavers were responsible for transmitting the disease. He instituted washing hands and instruments with soap and chlorine. At this time, the existence of germs was not generally known or accepted. The miasma theory of disease was the standard one, and chlorine would remove any ill vapors. The cases of puerperal fever dropped dramatically when doctors were made to wash after doing an autopsy. He lectured publicly about his results in 1850. But his observations and results were no match for the entrenched belief that disease was due to an imbalance of humours or spread by miasmas. It also was an irritating task that put blame on spreading disease on the doctors themselves. Semmelweis spent 14 years developing and promoting his ideas, including publishing a poorly-reviewed book in 1861.  In 1865, he suffered a nervous breakdown and was committed to an insane asylum where he soon died from blood poisoning. Only after Dr. Semmelweiss death was the germ theory of disease developed, and he is now recognized as a pioneer of antiseptic policy and prevention of nosocomial disease. Joseph Lister: Antiseptic Principle By the middle of the nineteenth century, post-operative sepsis infection accounted for the death of almost half of the patients undergoing major surgery. A common report by surgeons was: operation successfully but the patient died. Joseph Lister had been convinced of the importance of scrupulous cleanliness and the usefulness of deodorants in the operating room; and when, through Pasteurs research, he realized that the formation of pus was due to bacteria, he proceeded to develop his antiseptic surgical method. The Legacy of Semmelweis and Lister Handwashing  between patients is now recognized as the best way to prevent spreading illness in health care settings. It still is difficult to get full compliance from doctors, nurses and other members of the health care team. Using sterile technique and sterile instruments in surgery has had better success.

Case Analisys Report - Microsoft Antitrust Battles Essay

Case Analisys Report - Microsoft Antitrust Battles - Essay Example ses the primary stakeholders in the case, a legal analysis, as well as an ethical analysis of the different issues surrounding the antitrust case against Microsoft. It also includes a discussion of different factors that may have contributed to Microsoft’s display of unethical behavior as well as factors that need to be addressed to resolve the issues. The paper gives recommendations on what actions are needed to deal with the legal/ethical issues as well as policies that the company can adopt to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future. Although the partnership between William H. Gates (more commonly known as Bill Gates) and Paul G. Allen has been established in the year 1975, it was not until a year after that the trade name Microsoft Corporation was officially registered in New Mexico with the Office of the Secretary of the State (Microsoft, 2005). Since then, Microsoft has become renowned worldwide for their extensive range of original products and software as well as their laudable skills in marketing and advertising their products. As popular the reputation of Microsoft Corporations might be, they have been face with numerous cases regarding alleged violations of ethical and legal matters. These issues have cropped up in connection with Microsoft’s control of certain markets related to the selling of computer and software. The earliest inquiry was way back in the year 1990 regarding breach of the Clayton and Sherman antitrust laws. Since then, other complaints from several large corporations such as Apple Computer, Sun Microsystem, and Netscape Communications have been brought against Microsoft Corporation. The most recent antitrust complaint was from Opera Software ASA in the year 2007 with regard to Microsoft’s manipulation of web browser by combining the Windows operating system with Internet Explorer, thereby going against accepted web standards (Opera Software, 2007). These complaints have had an effect on Microsoft financially, when

Decision Making and Rationality in the Modern World Essay

Decision Making and Rationality in the Modern World - Essay Example Cognitive psychologists define ‘decision making’ as a mental task that occurs in weighing relevant information or selecting among options. However, decision making is highly vulnerable to failure due to individuals’ cognitive design (Hardman 2009, 117). Primarily, individuals often evaluate the probability of a situation by the simplicity or convenience with which models can be created in mind. The manner an issue is constructed usually radically influences individuals’ judgments. Individuals perceive, understand, and commit to memory information that confirms their original beliefs (Shapira 2002, 4). Individuals are also hesitant to discard a choice once they have put too much time, effort, and resources in it. Individuals are also very much inclined to have improperly high regard for their skills and knowledge. Â  Cognitive psychologists from different schools of thought have the same opinion that individuals have an inadequate capacity for performing mental activities. Individuals can only hold a limited amount of information and they can process it in sequence, and retain in short-term memory (Plous 1993, 13). This essay tries to illustrate some of the factors that hinder good decision making, namely, (1) cognitive dissonance, (2) memory bias and hindsight bias, (3) context dependence.

Vogue magazine Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Vogue magazine - Research Paper Example Although the possibility of development of a celebrity culture is largely dependent upon the duration and extent to which a given media exerts its influence on a given population; it is yet certain that the effects of such media exposure cannot be escaped with ease and as media continues to exert its influence on a population, the development of celebrity culture becomes a reality. A prominent example of such medium is the Vogue Magazine, which has been influencing the lives of people of the society since 1892, when immediately after its inception, it succeeded in attracting the attention of the aristocrat class of the New York city, which at that time lacked a class of society that value the ritualistic and â€Å"ceremonial side of life†. Taking a closer look at the history of the magazine reveals that the magazine remained under continuous evolution throughout the years post-inception. Keeping in view the fact that a class which admired ritualistic aspects of life was non-existent when Vogue started makes one wonder about the risk that Vogue’s founder took in 1892 (Weiss, 2014). The subsequent years however saw a dramatic rise in the number of Vogue’s readers; this was a clear indication that a class which appreciated such notions of life was evolving with the passage of time. Right from the start, the magazine focused on issues related to the beauty of the female class of the society. In this regard, the magazine attempted to define female beauty and set aesthetic standards which corresponded to establishing social norms regarding the beauty of females. Additionally, the magazine continued to highlight the powerful figures of the world; specially the females, e.g. â€Å"A Rose in the Desert† which was an article about the Syrian first lady. If judged in retrospect, one can clearly understand that the subjects of this

Survey of Mathematical Methods Essay Example for Free

Survey of Mathematical Methods Essay This week’s assignment is about the use of misleading statistics. Companies and individuals use statistics in a variety of way in order to provide information on certain things. The use of misleading statistics, while not ethical, could be viewed as valuable, if it increases profit margins or awareness of the stated topic of the statistic in a biased way. Question number 8 provides a statistic that Vitamin E is an antioxidant that may help fight heart disease and cancer. (Bluman, 2011) The phrase â€Å"may help† does not include any specific sample groups. It is not known in whom the vitamin will fight heart disease and or cancer in. the reader could imply that vitamin E would fight both cancer and heart disease without any concrete supporting evidence. The graph in question number 2 is considered misleading for representing sales of pumpkins in 2000 by using a much larger picture of a pumpkin than they did in 1990. It is using a 2D image, instead of a one dimensional bar. This could be misleading as we could look at the overall area of the pumpkin, instead of just the height, and see an extremely large increase in sale, and not the actual increase. (Bluman, 2011) I chose question 8 because of its prevalent use today. I have seen hundreds of TV and magazine advertisement that use the same exact phrase â€Å"may help†. With this study I have become more circumspect of those advertisements and would home that in the future I will not be as easily influenced by â€Å"may help†. Question 12 caught my attention also, as it is used primarily in print for implying small increases in the topic at hand. I tend to read fast and have many times, implied a large change due to the misleading graph. The two dimensional use of graphing is targeted at people such as myself. I usually glance at a graph, not taking time to look at the values for â€Å"x† and â€Å"y†. I am unsure of how many times this has occurred, but I will be more watchful for this technique and the other listed in this section.

UK Insurance Industry Analysis

UK Insurance Industry Analysis Discuss the background to change that exists in todays economy Abstract: This case study focuses upon AEGON in the UK, AEGON specializes in the insurance sector which was created in 1983 in the United Kingdom, as a result of merger between a Netherlands based Dutch insurance company called AGO Ennia. AEGON has a long history for instance it operates in the United States, which is based in Baltimore and has been insuring people since 1858, while in the United Kingdom, AEGON Scottish Equitable has been in existence since the early 1830s and since then it has a remarkable history of providing excellent insurance packages to the general public AEGON has recently expanded its international presence, gaining access by providing its services in new growth markets such as the Americas, the Central and Eastern Europe and Asia in particular, presently AEGON has its business interests in more than 20 countries across the globe AEGON is one of the worlds largest leading providers of life insurance, investments and annuities companies which also specializes in pensions, life insurance, asset management and adviser businesses in the UK. This particular case study basically illustrates the success that embracing and pursuing change has brought to AEGON in the UK. AEGON has a motive goal of becoming the best long-term savings and protection business within the UK. The AEGON Group has more than 27,000 employees and more than 25 million customers worldwide. The major share market for AEGON is in the United States of America and Netherlands. Since 1994, United Kingdom has become another major and increasingly important market for AEGON, In recent years mainly due to recession the life insurance and pensions industry, in which AEGON operates, has had a poor reputation. Some organizations have been accused of mis-sellingby not providing consumers with the best product for their needs. To prevent similar situations arising in the future, (FSA) the Financial Services Authority has put significant amounts of regulation on the industry, many of the service products which falls within the financial sector are quite often difficult to understand. Most of the People who choose the range of financial products and services are not sure where to seek support advice for their investments. Keeping in mind the falling values on the Stock Exchange have considerably affected the investment return on some of the insurance products, namely mortgage, endowments etc. that is to say for instance some people the product they bought has not delivered the financial return which they have expected, due to which it has created uncertainty in regards to the financial services industry. Industry has also been characterized by intense competition. AEGON faces competition as in other businesses which sell directly to consumers which are better known in the UK. AEGON who distributes its products services to customers mainly through its appointed financial advisers, AEGON with its reputed brand image had to overcome and address these industry related issues in order to remain competitive over its competitors Historically AEGON had been successful however with the Government imposed restrictions related to price controls which had reduced its profitability, comparing with its competitors, AEGON had developed good products and services and had a good reputation with distributors specially in the pensions sector, unfortunately other than pensions AEGON was not well recognized in other areas such as offshore investment products which were more profitable. Today if a consumer wants to invest for a product in the long term, first they want to make sure and know more about the organization which they are going to deal with for example they would like to recognize the brand understand more about the brand, its value which it represents, AEGON is financially strong which is rated AA by Standard Poors rating agency Evaluate the strengths and weakness of the organization Abstract: The strength and weakness related to a business or organization is its positive elements, which they do something well and within their control, the strengths and weakness of a company or group is based on its values which gives it the edge in areas over their competitors Following is an outline and main strengths of AEGON Making alliances with strong popular businesses is a major plus point for AEGON as it helps in bringing new customers and make business more effectively Keeping the overall costs lower than their competitors and maintaining the cost advantages helps AEGON to pass on some of the benefits to its consumers AEGONs marketing strategy has proved to be very effective which helped in raising Profiles Profits which is one of its major strength AEGON has a large extensive customer base, which is a major strength in regards to sales and profits Being financially strong {rated AA by Standard Poors rating agency}helps AEGON deals extensively with any threats problems arising in profits and can out perform their rivals Keeping competitive pricing is one of the vital element for AEGONs overall success, as this keeps them ahead of their competitors Riding high in the highly competitive insurance industry and has helped boost AEGON which raised its reputation and turnover AEGONs continuous innovation over its products keeps it as a front-runner in the insurance sector with its regular tuning of new patents and proprietary technology AEGON has a strong brand image which is well recognized and respected By providing high quality products and services it is a vital strength which in turn ensure customers to return to AEGON AEGONs with its vast distribution chain can be listed as one of their strengths and links to its success AEGON is equipped with experienced employees which is a key success of AEGON helping to drive them forward with expertise and knowledge in their respective field AEGON keeps high percentage of the market share due to its brand image which keeps them ahead of their competitors Products and Services which is offered by AEGON are authentic/original, which means people will turn to AEGON to purchase or obtain them Online presence for AEGON is strong which means it is ahead of many competitors AEGONs with its international operations has a wider customer base, strong brand image with its presence in the global market Innovation and Development is the prime concern for AEGON in regards to the products and services which is a major strength for its overall performance With its high quality offices, advanced modern equipment and well trained personnel which ensures the job is done to the utmost standard, which is a big strength AEGON AEGONs has a strong reputation which the consumer / people view it with respect and believe in their products services A weakness for any company or organization is needed to be improved for better performance which is under their control. Weaknesses can also place behind the competitors, when a company or organization stops to meet their objectives Following is an outline and main weaknesses of AEGON Limited customer base is considered as a major weakness for AEGON which means they have fewer{less} people to sell their products in the market The weak market position for AEGON is a limitation to their overall success, as they will be considered behind their rivals. A serious weakness for AEGON means that their services or products are of low quality, and then people opt for better-quality substitutes. Reputation is very important, and once its damaged for AEGONs it will be a major weakness where consumers will not trust the firm anymore and will not borrow their products By not reducing costs the same way as their competitors which means AEGON is outlaying more for their profits, maintaining higher costs than their competitors will be considered as a major weakness If AEGONs Research development {RD} work is low and insignificant, which is a major weakness in insurance as it is constantly creating new products Lack of inexperienced staff will be a major downfall for AEGON as it could lead to mistakes and negligence which could tarnish the image of AEGON in the long run Unstable with stock exchange are a weakness for AEGON as they need to keep up with demand Online presence is vital for success these days, and lack of one is a limitation for AEGON Overpricing is one of the reasons and setting higher prices for AEGON products/services could make them uncompetitive, which is a major weakness. The lack of business alliances is a major weakness for AEGON, as they will struggle to get deals, favors and partnerships. AEGON is in a poor financial position which makes it weaker than its competitors. AEGONs lack of innovation limits its success, as there is no forward thinking. Good companies need loyal employees, but AEGON has a poor relationship with staff which affects performance. If AEGON does not function internationally, it will have an effect on its success, when they do not reach consumers in overseas markets. AEGONs underdeveloped distribution chain has a marked effect on performance as it affects the distribution of their products/services. Lack of original services products is a major flaw in AEGONs future success, as it shows a blinkered outlook. AEGONs location is weakness for the firm, as it means they miss out on many opportunities. AEGONs lack of patents/proprietary technology puts it behind its rivals and is deemed as one of their weaknesses. The weak brand name compromises success for AEGON as it doesnt inspire people to buy their products/services Compare alternative forms of organizational development Abstract: With the impact of change which affects the organization in both ways internally and externally this is influenced on how people behave and also how they communicate with each other and when the organization becomes more focused on the customer. With such emphasis of making clear information for the customer in order to understand the company of making business easier, to embed such values and behaviors, AEGON established a new relationship with Shirley Robertson, the famous yachtswoman and the only British female athlete to have won gold medals at consecutive Olympic Games. By associating AEGON with an individual who embodies similar values, it was able to bring the values and behaviors to life for their staff, AEGON had to further develop their brand and its reputation, which AEGON maintain in couple of ways for example AEGON carried out external promotional campaigns in order to emphasize the relationship between Scottish Equitable and AEGON which helped to reinforce the local knowledge and the global power of AEGON within the United Kingdom with such refreshing of the brand internally and externally resulted in strong positive feedback AEGON also launched newer and innovative products for instance the 5 for Life annuity which helped to change the way in which consumers look at their retirement income support which provides with more certainty levels of income for the consumer, providing the levels of return as promised by AEGON of being responsible for any risks associated with doing so AEGON today with its brand image has a position within the financial services industry which over the years has posted record results with significant growth in the underlying earnings, AEGON has also increased its business across a mix of their profitable products and services, reflecting its continued strengthAcronyms Terms The alternative forms of organizational development which AEGON had figure out is to fully integrate organizational structure where employees are best integrated while their service offerings are best coordinated cross-selling opportunities and best tracked and pursued, with the recent analyses of organizational development which suggests a growing concern with the tempo of change, pattern of work or activity, such a change which is in contrast with continuous change on such basis of implied metaphors of organizing Develop systems for understanding and involving others in the process of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  change. Identify systems to involve appropriate stakeholders in the introduction of change Abstract: In todays developing environment any product development is a complex process which needs to be consider new demands from different stakeholders which can be analyzed how these demands can be fulfilled while sharing appropriate stakeholder information is important, however it can only be beneficial when the information is used effectively. When an induction of change arises the information must be shared across stakeholders, such process relies up to a large extent on the individual common understanding for stakeholders involved in order to help balance the interests of different stakeholders and their related functions. With such a process we need to identify the relevant stakeholders and their relation to the product, normally such a requirements from different Stakeholders can be negotiated and balanced in order to develop a competitive product In order to make a well-balanced product it is therefore necessary to take a broader approach by taking into consideration not only the end-users, but also all the other stakeholders throughout the products life cycle hence the stakeholders play according to their interest they use such power and influence the product in the direction they desire. A stakeholder can be defined as an individual or a group of people and a stakeholder could either be external or from the internal organizational stakeholders could also be addressed or regarded such as Primary or Secondary wherein primary stakeholders are those stakeholders who has a direct stake in an organization and to its success, secondary stakeholders are those who have a special or public-interest stake in the organization. Stakeholders interacts each other in different ways such as exchanging information, products, providing supporting tasks, instructions etc. Stakeholders can also be external or internal; AEGON had historically been successful however with the government-imposed price controls which had reduced profitability over its competitors, AEGON had developed good products and services and had a good reputation with distributors, particularly in the area of pensions which were a key strength of AEGON Culture refers to the personality and attitude of an organization. It also includes the shared beliefs, values and behavior of the employees. These determine the ways in which the organization and its people make decisions and solve problems. The goal of AEGONs CEO helped to provide a vision for change. Financial objectives were important as the path for future developments depended upon these. It was also important to create more clarity about who AEGON was. With limited awareness of AEGON in the UK, it was important to explain what it had to offer, how big the organization was within the UK and how strong it was globally. At the heart of this strategy was the need to: Simplify financial services and provide more customer focus. It was important that consumers understood more precisely what they were buying, as well as the benefits and services they received Develop the workforce. The objective was to develop the skills needed within the business to help it change. AEGON also created opportunities for progression from one job to another in a way that provided individuals with a coherent career path. Create a more distinct presence within the marketplace. This involved refreshing the AEGON brand in a way that made it more distinctive from its competitors and more attractive to customers. Analyze and evaluate these systems Abstract: In order to analyze and evaluate such systems it is important to understand the environment in which key issues which needs to be responded in order to improve decision-taking which reduces uncertainty. In recent years few industries have experienced such changes in their external environment especially in the financial services sector. Saving for retirement is a good concept that is sometimes difficult for people to understand. Within the United Kingdom life expectancy has risen in recent years where people can be expected to retired in the long run, there are many examples where an individual have not planned properly for their retirement and later in their life they may experience a shortfall in the amount of money available to them, there is also a drive by the government to reduce dependency on the State in old age with such uncertainty looming over many companies have introduced less expensive pension schemes and has insisted on employee pension contributions which did not exists in the past, with such factors people have to make wise decisions to invest properly at an early stage of their lives. Keeping in mind of the old age investing in the future helps people to prepare financial security towards their old age Life insurance and pensions industry, in which AEGON operates, has had a poor reputation in recent years. Some organizations have been accused of mis-selling by not providing consumers with the best product for their needs. To prevent similar situations arising in the future, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) has put significant amounts of regulation on the industry People do not always feel equipped to choose between the range of financial products and services as financial services products are often difficult to understand, most of them are not sure where to seek support and advice. With the recession falling values on the Stock Exchange have affected the investment return on some products, such as mortgage etc, which for some people means the product they bought has not delivered the financial returns as they had expected. The financial industry has also been characterized by intense competition where AEGON is no exception and in terms of competition with organizations which sell directly to consumers and which are better known in the UK. AEGON distributes its products and services to customers mainly through financial advisers. AEGON being a reputed company had to address and overcome these industry-wide problems to remain competitive among their competitors Adapt an appropriate model for change Abstract: AEGON had a good historically record of being successful however with the government-imposed price controls which had reduced profitability comparing with their competitors, AEGON was not well known by consumers. It had developed good products and services and had a good reputation with their distributors, particularly in the area of pensions which were a key strength of Scottish Equitable. If consumers are to invest in a long term product, they need to know more about the organization they are dealing with. They need to recognize the brand and understand more about the brand values that it represents. As AEGON traded under a number of brand names it was not always easy for financial advisers and consumers to recognize the breadth and depth of the company in the UK, however, AEGON had to develop the brand and its reputation by carrying out the following tasks: AEGON carried out external promotional campaigns in order to emphasize the relationship between Scottish Equitable and AEGON. This helped to reinforce the local knowledge and the global power of AEGON in the United Kingdom Chief Executive Officer talked to the media about the need for change. The refreshing of the brand internally and externally resulted in strong positive feedback. AEGON has launched new and innovative products. For example, the 5 for Life annuity has helped to change the way in which consumers can look at their retirement income. It provides more certainty about levels of income for the consumer, with AEGON providing the levels of return promised and being responsible for any risks associated with doing so. Today the AEGON brand has a position from which it is influencing the financial services industry. It has posted record results with significant growth in underlying earnings. It has also increased its new business across a mix of profitable products and services, reflecting its continued strength. Change is continuous. The process of change is a journey. External factors will always be there to influence business organizations. AEGON responded well to such factors by simplifying, clarifying and strengthening its brand in the UK. As organizations change, their patterns of behavior and business culture develop. As AEGON is concerned as an organization it has to move positively towards achieving its full potential and to remain competitive in an increasingly difficult market How was the plan implemented, its process and outcomes Abstract: AEGON underwent a discovery phase with its new Chief Executive (CEO) in place. The main purpose of this process was to find out what it had to do to meet the CEOs goal. This goal was to build the best long-term savings and protection business in the UK. The discovery focused on three main key questions such as What do we stand for in the UK? AEGON owns life and pensions, asset management and advice businesses. AEGON name to be known for helping their customers build better financial futures and as a result they are actively raising their brand profile in the UK. What do we want to stand for in the UK? AEGON responded to these factors by simplifying, clarifying and strengthening its brand in the UK What should we be doing about it? This has helped AEGON as an organization to move positively towards achieving its full potential and to remain competitive in an increasingly difficult market Describe the purpose of the eight behaviors Abstract: The main purpose of eight behaviors for AEGON is to develop a behavior framework to support its brand values, it was designed keeping in mind to influence how people at all levels within the organization could work and make their decisions. Such behaviour would emphasize the values of the organization which AEGON have helped to build its culture and to be influenced its performance Following are the eight behaviours: Decisive action Work together Learn and grow Relate and communicate Think customer Embrace change Encourage excellence Act with integrity Evaluate the role of an audit within and outside an organization. To what extent can a process of audit form the basis for a business strategy? Brand audit To answer these questions AEGON undertook a brand audit. This audit looked at two aspects: the company internally how the organisation was positioned externally. The purpose of the audit was to find out more information about the organisation. This helped AEGON to provide a more informed approach to the decisions that were needed to start the process of change. The audit showed that AEGON was solidly placed within the market. Its staff were known for their considerable expertise, innovation and clarity of communication. The external audit also helped to discover where AEGON was positioned in relation to its competitors. People who were aware of AEGON saw it as being a refreshing and different organisation. However, there was evidence that people were confused about the breadth of what AEGON did because it traded under a number of different company brands