Personal Leadership Philosophy Confucius - 1825 Words

Personal Leadership Philosophy Confucius said, â€Å"I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand† (Confucius). I know this quote from my background in education, however whether Confucius realized it or not, it greatly applies to leadership as well. Leaders are often held on a pedestal and recognized in their achievements and their mistakes, but never for their day-to-day work. Applying the quote to the actions of leaders, when we hear the words of effective leaders we don’t often remember them. There are obvious instances where we remember significant words of leaders such as, â€Å"I have a dream,† (King) but how many can remember the everyday words of leaders that are not special cases? When we see effective leaders we remember them; for instance, I could walk around with a picture of Steve Jobs, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, or Barack Obama, and most everyone -- if not everyone -- would recognize them, because of the leader ship roles they hold. We see their body of work and we remember their work, but once again we do not witness the everyday interactions that go into this body of work. Finally, recognizing it is what a leader does that is important, because it creates an understanding and that is what stays with people. Leaders actions, these day to day interactions, how they live their lives and how they are communicating these lessons to others, is what needs to be understood. Supporting this theory, I turn to the words of Maya Angelou, â€Å"IShow MoreRelatedU.S Goverment Essay670 Words   |  3 Pages American government When many people get to hear the term Confucius, they often relate the notion to wisdom, values, and clever phrases. Confucius’ teachings centers on philosophy and specifically deals with effective leadership ideologies. Confucius states that good government comprise of a ruler playing the role of a ruler; in that, each person having a leadership role is required to perform the delegated duties with diligence. This is because any person holdingRead MoreEssay on Confucius and Plato843 Words   |  4 Pages Confucius and Plato nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Confucius and Plato are two of the most respected and most widely studied teachers of history. There philosophies of how people should be governed and what characteristics make for a good leader. Both men’s ideas are good for the civilizations that they lived in, and they shared many similarities in their ideas. My own ideas of an ideal leader are a mixture of these two men’s ideas. The personal experiences of both men also play a key role in howRead MoreThe Influence of Ancient Chinese Philosophies such as Confucianism, Legalism and Daoism 2337 Words   |  10 PagesThrough the whole of history’s existence, religions, philosophies and personal belief systems have been around to shape and mold life into what it is today. Religions all around the world have their own belief systems, sometimes even more than one. And though one religion or philosophy may develop in a specific corner of the world, there is always at least two paths they cou ld travel. A system can either remain personally sacred to the founders, themselves, or it may become a popular belief to otherRead MoreConfucianism And Its Impact On South Korea2270 Words   |  10 PagesAmong all, South Korea is one that still follows Confucianism, and the society is still strongly influenced by this philosophy. According to the Chair of Sungkyunkwan, one of the top institute in South Korea, â€Å"over eighty percent of Koreans follow Confucianism† (Choi). The number is even higher than its origin country, China. Even though the country is very modernized with western philosophy, religion, and advanced technology, the people of South Korea are still living a lifestyle that consists the ideaRead MoreLeadership Effects On Business Ethics1589 Words   |  7 PagesLeadership Effects on Business Ethics Leadership is defined as a person who guides or directs a group of people. Throughout school, students are given the criteria to succeed, and are taught what attributes make a leader successful. But how useful are these tools? Quickly, think about your vision of a leader. What does this person look like? What is their personality? Leaders can have specific skill sets, and behaviors that everyone subconsciously connects with a good leader. All of these questionsRead MoreStrengths And Weaknesses Of Leadership1734 Words   |  7 Pagestake of leadership: â€Å"The test of a leader lies in the reaction and response of his followers. He should not have to impose authority. Bossiness in itself, never made a leader. He must make his influence felt by example and the instilling of confidence in his followers. The greatness of a leader is measured by the achievements of the led.† (Bradley, O.N., 1971). During my research for this paper, I found that General Bradley’s statement has laid the bedrock for my definition of leadership. This paperRead MoreA Historical Views Of Leadership1438 Words   |  6 PagesPart III – Historical Views of Leadership †¢ Modern attempts to understand leadership often ignore the considerable insights provided by great figures of the past. †¢ Bernard M. Bass demonstrates that leadership was a recognized phenomenon from the emergence of civilization. †¢ Sampling of thinking about leadership from different perspectives as well as from various time periods and cultures will be given. †¢ All voices used, highlight the key issues identified by Spitzberg: the importance of the leaderRead MoreSimilarities Between Confucianism And Christianity1849 Words   |  8 PagesTraditions Encounters: Chapter 8, page 185: â€Å"Confucius emphasized personal qualities like ren, li, and xiao because he believed that individuals who possessed those traits would gain influence in the larger society...only through enlightened leadership by morally strong individuals was there any hope for the restoration of political and social order in China† This quote demonstrates the main three principles that Confucianism was based upon are what Confucius believed would better society. These principlesRead More Meiji Restoration Essay1958 Words   |  8 Pagescore concept of abandoning or modifying traditional Japanese culture was a daunting task for the Meiji reformers. These socioeconomic traditions were instilled in the Japanese people over generations, reinforced by the philos ophical teachings of Confucius via the Shogunate, and practiced through strict punishment. The mention of Confucianism is particularly important because of the depth and value in which the Tokugawa Shogunate employed his teachings to their samurai. Further understanding the moralRead More The Development of Civilization Essay2264 Words   |  10 Pagesconflict. The Chinese were greatly influenced by the earth’s ways, rather than global issues and demonstrated this through their religion, Buddhism. The Han dynasty incorporated a Confucius government system into their legal system, and points toward a clearer understanding of their beliefs, attitudes, and philosophies. The Greek civilization contained many socially conscious issues in the city-states of Athens, Sparta, and Macedonia. The Athenians were superbly educated in the arts and sciences

Duty Of Care In Health,Social Care Or Childrens Settings Free Essays

Task A When looking after children you have a duty of care to them, this means it is your responsibility to keep the child safe and free from harm. The younger the child the greater the duty of care is,you need to be vigilant and pay attention to keep children safe. Mentally risk assessing situations as they arise will help you see any potential dangers to the child and help you plan to avoid any risk. We will write a custom essay sample on Duty Of Care In Health,Social Care Or Childrens Settings or any similar topic only for you Order Now You also need to be aware of a child’s feelings and help them develop them so they understand how words as well as actions can hurt others. Duty of care contributes to the safeguarding and protection of children as you have to follow certain procedures to keep children safe,such as safe guarding policies, risk assessments and precautions to avoid accidents or the spreading of infections. Assessments and observations on a children could alert you to any problems that may need addressing, these may then require discussions with parents and/or other professionals. Task B Potential conflict or dilemma: Child’s parents don’t want child taking part in certain activities due to their religion. How to manage the risk: Insure there are activities the child can take part in when the others are doing theirs, communicate with parents to avoid any such conflict. Where to get support and advice: Parents, online,library. Potential conflict or dilemma: Child swearing. How to manage the risk: Discuss with children about appropriate behaviour from the beginning. Where to get support and advice: Review ‘managing behaviour’ policy regularly. Potential conflict or dilemma: Child wants to watch telly all day. How to manage the risk: Discussion with child,offer alternatives. Where to get  support and advice: The child- find out likes and dislikes. Task C Have in place complaints procedure and policy. How to cite Duty Of Care In Health,Social Care Or Childrens Settings, Papers

A dream free essay sample

Oh America. Country of the dreams, of the opportunities. How long is been since I first came†¦You have opened me so many doors, show me so many things. And still seven months are not enough to get to know all of you.Im a Venezuelan girl, who decided to leave her home to look for a new perspective in life.I came here as an exchange student, with the purpose of learn the English language, the American culture, and be an ambassador of my own Venezuelan culture.In this period of time I’ve been experimenting lots of emotions. There have been days were I have feel happier than ever, however there had been times when I felt nostalgic, with the only desire of go back home.. But the worst part was go through all those moments by myself. As an exchange student I didn’t had other option that grow as an adult, now I’ve became responsible of myself. We will write a custom essay sample on A dream or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Before I came I dreamed I would have a story just like is shown in the movies, or TV shows. My expectations of the US were really high.I used to go to a private and catholic school, where the entire environment is healthy and safe, with an education based in the catholic doctrine. I knew coming to America was going to be different, but what I had experienced is nothing I pictured myself into. The American dream I had, was, just a dream. I was disappointed. With the time, everything was turning better; I was starting to have great memories. I had everything I could ask, My two amazing families, that love me and care about me, I had a great boyfriend, I was enjoying the experience many people want, honestly my life was way too good. But it didn’t last long.At Venezuela (my home country), the presidential elections were taking place in October. The hope of all Venezuelans was very strong, for both of the political parties. My wish was a change. A change of government, a new beginning with a new leader, because the one we had was way too negative for the society. Sadly the opposition side lost one more time. And the hope of many people was taken away again. And my fear of go back to Venezuela started to grow.Thinking about college in United States was just an impossible dream, all the people pictured to me as something unaffordable, hard to get in, hard to live.So I thought not everybody can do it, and I putted myself in the itll never do side. I had a really low self-esteem for my English. I wanted so bad speak the perfect English in such a short time, taking my accent away, I wanted to be different from all the other Hispanics in my school. Months later, my perspective of myself changed. Now what once was an embarrassment for me is something that makes me feel proud.The dream I thought as impossible, changed. People was starting to be accepted, was starting a new beginning in their life. The impossible barer was being removed. I saw people making it. Reaching what I want so badly. Weeks were passing and I realized I was being wrong about it before.Then, one of my friends talked to me. He was the last drop to fill the water cup. He showed me how everything in life is possible, he gave me the strengths, and he encourages me to try.Now, even knowing that is late, this’s a unique opportunity I don’t want to waste, is a decision that can change the rest of my life.I think dreams should be more than just an illusion, dreams should become goals. Once we decided to make them reality, what we have left is start a plan, with a list of objectives to accomplishment in order to reach the top, our goal, our dream. And of course never give up.

Was The Y2k Bug A Hoax Essay free essay sample

Was The Y2k Bug A Hoax? Essay, Research Paper Was the Y2K Bug a Hoax? Keith Best Possibly the biggest intelligence narrative of the 1999 was the Y2K bug. Many trusters in the Y2K bug panicked and took many safeguards, such as carrying up nutrient and H2O before the New Year. While their non-believer opposite numbers merely look at it as a regular New Year and planned to make what they would usually make on New Year s Eve. There was a batch of ballyhoo sing the alteration of millenary. Merely as there was when the twelvemonth changed from 999 to 1000. Many people were anticipating something large to go on, like judgement twenty-four hours or the return of Christ. Just as people were anticipating something large to go on on New Year s 2000. The Y2K bug came approximately when the people who built computing machines were programming them they didn Ts have a batch of memory to work with so to salvage infinite they shortened the day of the month. We will write a custom essay sample on Was The Y2k Bug A Hoax Essay or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page For illustration December 31, 1999 would be 123199 in the computing machine. Experts said that the job with this method is that computing machines can t distinguish 1900 from 2000. So when the day of the month changed from December 31, 1999 to January 1, 2000 it was said that computing machines would acknowledge 2000 as 1900, therefore believing that some files were 100 old ages old. When the day of the month changed to 2000 many experts thought that computing machines would misfunction or close down wholly. Some other jobs that were predicted to travel incorrect with the millenary bug were communication devices that fail, motor accountants for heat, chilling, and airing fail, scientific equipment fails, programmable devices such as VCRs, microwave ovens, and facsimile machines fail. It was besides thought that sellers upon whom we rely on to back up merchandises and services would be unable to make so. It was moreover feared that payroll checks would non be distributed. Some people prepared for the millenary bug and took it really serio usly while others thought the whole thing to be a fraud merely made up to make more occupations. On one peculiar web site ( www.novia.net/ todd/rap66.html ) a cat brings up some really interesting points. One point that truly caught my attending was that many computing machines were already utilizing the twelvemonth 2000 manner before 2000 got here. Some things that were utilizing the twelvemonth 2000 before it came were insurance policies, bonds, merchandise termination day of the months, budget spendings, fix agendas, driver licences, recognition cards and a host of planning plans. Another point that says the millenary bug was made up is that many concerns changed financial old ages from 1999 to 2000 during 1999 and there wasn T any intelligence about any large computing machine meltdowns. There was besides media talk about embedded micro chips in many contraptions neglecting. There are micro chips in merely about every electrical contraption and the thought of them neglecting would be awful, but that wouldn T happen since the huge bulk of embedded french friess have nil at all to make with clip and day of the months. I found it odd that the lone major thing that happened worldwide that could hold been attributed to the Y2K bug was an uneven power outage in Russia. If the Y2K bug was supposed to be this immense job that a batch of states were non making anything about or didn t have the resources to repair in clip for the twelvemonth 2000. If that were the instance wouldn T at that place have been more jobs with the Y2K bug? There is grounds to back up both sides of this statement. If the millenary bug was fabricated so it was a large success because it created tonss of occupations, was extremely publicized and it made tonss of money. Whether or non the Y2K bug was a fraud we may neer truly happen out. Bibliography hypertext transfer protocol: //www.novia.net/ todd/rapp66.html ( January 27th, 2000 ) hypertext transfer protocol: //www.wbn.com/y2ktimebomb/whatis97.htm ( January 27th, 2000 )

Praying Mantiss essays

Praying Mantiss essays Most commonly known as the Praying Mantis, order mantodea is a group of about 1800 carnivorous insects which prodominatley live in tropical regions of the earth. Though certain species can be found in locations with moderate climate. With an extremely striking appearence, mantids almost have human like qualities with the ability to hold an erect stance, and arms that face forward. A very efficient killer, mantids were created for hunting and killing prey. Order Mantodea is in the subclass Pterygota. As with all classifications there can be debates on where certain orders or species belong. Historically there has been some confusion on whether Mantodea deserves there own order. Some experts have placed Mantodea in the dictyoptera order along with cock roaches (Ramel 1996, Jaques 1981, Phoenix Zoo). Others say mantids belong in Orthoptera, which consists of grasshoppers. Experts say this is due to their large pro notum (Stokes 1983, Borror and White 1970). The emerging consensus around the position of Mantodea believes Mantodea constitute their own independent Mantids can be characterized by their triangular head, and filiform antennae. This head has the ability to turn 180 degrees. With their prominate pair of compound eyes located on the sides of the head, the mantis can almost see 360 degrees around. However the sharpest vision is located in the compound eyes center, for the mantis to optimaly see objects it must turn its head so that the eye is facing the object. These eyes are extremely sensitive to light, changing from light green or tan in bright light, to dark brown in the dark. The prothorax of the mantis is another aid in giving them their distintive appearence. This prothorax has the ability to bend and twist which aids in the mantids ability to see close The two long raptorial front legs are adapted to seize and hold prey...

Analysis Managing Dynamic New Melbourne Team

One of the essential activities of manager is forming a team to execute the task and managing the team effectively to achieve the goal and objective of the company. Effective team management is directly related with cohesive leadership, effective communication, common goal and defining roles and responsibilities of team members (Meredith, 2011). The major barrier in team management is the lack of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, lack of accountability and not paying attention to results. In the context of Dynamic, the team management of the new team at Melbourne is examined by task interdependence, importance of team cohesion and recommendation to manage the issue by Jeff at company. Task interdependence can be defined as a functional approach that explains the sharing of information, material and expertise between team members working to achieve the common goal of the team (Cannella, Park, and Lee, 2008). In the process of defining the task interdependence in some cases there is accelerated chance of conflicts between team members and it impacts the team cohesion. Team cohesion is the common bond between members of team and their joint effort to contribute to success of the team.   Thus team cohesion results in better cooperation and effective performance by achieving set goal. Lack of cohesion is harmful for the health of the team and impact the performance negatively by enhancing stress and non cooperation on the part of team members (Cannella, Park, and Lee, 2008). Thus in the long run cohesion in the workplace signifies success of team while lack of cohesion signifies failure of the team thereby impacting the performance and goal of the company. In the context of Dynamic the digital strategy director Jeff formed a team of eight members to execute the Burnfit account. The team is mix of members from Dynamic and MediaHype, the new acquisition of the former in Melbourne to expand the business in Australia (Dyer, 2007). As the project was crucial, team members were assigned roles and responsibility and three deliverables identified to be achieved by month end. The reporting structure of the team members was also clarified as they were directly reporting to the director to avoid waste of time by creating additional line of reporting (Dyer, 2007). Thus every step taken to make the team perform such as effective communication, common goal and defining roles and responsibilities of team members. But the problem was team cohesion among the members of the team. The problem associated with the lack of team cohesion within the Dynamic is outlined below As the team was formed by combining the staff from two different company namely Dynamic and MediaHype, there is difference in the culture and work approach resulting in lack of trust on each other and fear of conflict. Thus in first weak every member expressed positive feedback as part of formality (Mackin, 2007). Even Jeff found flow of mails between team members indicating the team is working towards goal as is evident from the case study. The first team meeting also exhibited the same with no team members raising any issue and problem. From the cash study analysis it was evident that the team from MediaHype and Dynamic did not coordinate and support each other effectively. In the second week meeting Anjana Singh –the web editor and content strategist complained that she did not get the feedback regarding the progress of new website from the Yuchou and Wen – the senior digital strategy consultant (Mackin, 2007). Similarly Mike –the social media manager also complained about Yuchou and Wen and stated that they were not serious about the project and informed to proceed as he feels without contributing their opinion. Similarly from the case study analysis it was evident that the Dynamic team Sydney and Dynamic team Singapore also exhibited lack of cohesion In the third week Yuchou and Wen complained that team of Sydney Franz and Amanda – Junior digital strategy consultant were not fit for the job and need to be replaced (Simsek et al., 2005). They also stated both of them lacked the confidence for executing the task and disturb them by asking questions all the time. Thus it is evident from the case study analysis that there is no bonding between the team members and it resulted in lack of communication and cooperation and it is root cause of the problems associated with the lack of team cohesion within the company (Simsek et al., 2005). Organizational behaviour (OB) is part of human resource management and it deal with the behaviour of people at workplace with regard to their act, feeling and thought process. It explains the leadership style and motivation to address problem and solve team conflict to improve cooperation thereby promoting team effectiveness (Wright, and Nishii, 2007). OB has many theories to handle the problem of team in the workplace and they can be classified into five major theories. They are explained below This theory of OB identifies the personality of individuals such as dispositional trait and behavioural dynamics to improve the team work in the workplace (Wright, and Nishii, 2007). This theory of OB identifies the inner urge of indiviaul and uses them to improve team work in the workplace. The theory of motivation has number of sub theory such as common sense theory, expectancy theory, goal setting theory, fundamental attribution theory, Herzberg’s two factor theory and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory (Burke et al., 2006). Based on the team requirement, the manager can select the appropriate theory to motivate members of team. This theory of OB identifies the Gestalt principles that shape the perceived though of an individual. It helps to address such as lack of trust, and fear of conflict in team members (Burke et al., 2006). This theory of OB identifies aims to adjust the attitude and behaviour of individual to develop common bond (Edwards, 2009). It uses organisational behaviour modification, single and double loop learning, reinforcement theory and social cognitive theory. In the context of Dynamic where the eight members team belong to three different category namely Dynamic Singapore, Dynamic Sydney and MediaHype leading to diverse attitude and behaviour owing to the earlier workplace practice (Bowditch, Buono, and Stewart, 2007). Thus using OB theory to analyse Dynamic’s problems it was identified that the attitude and behaviour of team members of three different work culture was the main issue responsible for lack of team cohesion (Rollinson,   2008). It is is resulting from the lack of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, lack of accountability and not paying attention to results (Bowditch, Buono, and Stewart, 2007). It resulted in no cooperation and coordination between team members impacting task and performance as evident from the case analysis of problem outlined above. To formulate solution to Dynamic’s problems, the Theories of attitudes and behaviour is helpful. In specific organisational behaviour modification theory can be used to change the attitude and behaviour of eight individuals and cultivate a common bond and shared goal towards the Burnfit account so that they coordinate and cooperate with each other by communicating effectively and providing feedback on time to make progress in the work and achieve the target set for the job (Mullins, 2007). The manager can also use the Theories of motivation to be more specific common sense theory that not supporting each other is failure of the team and it affects every individual in the team Thus it can be concluded form the above discussion problem associated with lack of team cohesion within the new team of Dynamic is outlined. It is mainly related with different work culture practiced by eight team members from three different group and lack of trust and fear of conflict that resulted in poor team cohesion (De   and Den ,2008). Based on the OB theory, the problem identified is attitude and behavioural aspect of team members and the solution suggested is using the organisational behaviour modification theory, their attitude and behaviour changed to develop common bond and shared goals related with Burnfit account. Bowditch, J.L., Buono, A.F. and Stewart, M.M., 2007. A primer on organizational behavior. Wiley. Burke, C.S., Stagl, K.C., Salas, E., Pierce, L. and Kendall, D., 2006. Understanding team adaptation: A conceptual analysis and model. Journal of Applied Psychology, 91(6), p.1189. Cannella, A.A., Park, J.H. and Lee, H.U., 2008. Top management team functional background diversity and firm performance: Examining the roles of team member colocation and environmental uncertainty. Academy of Management Journal, 51(4), pp.768-784. De Hoogh, A.H. and Den Hartog, D.N., 2008. Ethical and despotic leadership, relationships with leader's social responsibility, top management team effectiveness and subordinates' optimism: A multi-method study. The Leadership Quarterly, 19(3), pp.297-311. Dyer, W.G., 2007. Team building. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Edwards, M.R., 2009. An integrative review of employer branding and OB theory. Personnel review, 39(1), pp.5-23. Mackin, D., 2007. The team building tool kit: tips and tactics for effective workplace teams. AMACOM Div American Mgmt Assn. Meredith Belbin, R., 2011. Management teams: Why they succeed or fail. Human Resource Management International Digest, 19(3). Mullins, L.J., 2007. Management and organisational behaviour. Pearson education. Rollinson, D., 2008. Organisational behaviour and analysis: an integrated approach. Pearson Education. Simsek, Z., Veiga, J.F., Lubatkin, M.H. and Dino, R.N., 2005. Modeling the multilevel determinants of top management team behavioral integration. Academy of Management Journal, 48(1), pp.69-84. Wright, P.M. and Nishii, L.H., 2007. Strategic HRM and organizational behavior: Integrating multiple levels of analysis. CAHRS Working Paper Series, p.468.

The Impact of Globalization on the Global Economy and Global Business Assignment

The Impact of Globalization on the Global Economy and Global Business - Assignment Example From this paper it is clear that the Westphalian model of nationhood allowed different groups to form nations and maintain some degree of autonomy. The autonomy led to the creation of sovereign governments that were recognized locally in the nation and also internationally under the Westphalian treaty. Under this model, people and businesses had to be done within the confines of a given nation or state. In order to do any business elsewhere, the business needed to take up a charter or a kind of permit in the foreign jurisdiction. This provided serious restrictions for doing business borders. The Age of Exploration was pioneered by European sailors mainly from the Iberian nations of Spain and Portugal who found ways of reaching other nations by sea. This led to colonization and several international grasp of lands in foreign territories. In this era, businesses were organized strictly according to national lines and it was only the governments of the respective European nations who co ntrolled affairs in the overseas territories they had acquired. This led to serious tensions that led to several wars in the past three hundred years. The largest and most destructive of these wars fought over the control of national interests was the Second World War which was fought on the basis of trade restrictions and control of foreign territories. After the Second World War, the United Nations was formed to seek peaceful means of resolving issues and the promotion of human rights and the improvement of lives for people in societies around the world. Towards Modern Globalization The United Nations and other related entities like the IMF and World Bank set the foundation for the integration of nations and the unification of purpose of different businesses from different parts of the world. This marked the move towards the globalization that we have today. Globalization for the most part refers to the worldwide exchange of resources between nations and communities without restri ctions. As the study outlines globalization best refers to the elimination of borders and the disappearance of national restrictions on trade and other economic activities. Globalization has encouraged the harmonization of standards across borders and this has led to the maintenance of common systems and structures that aim at providing the best results for nations and peoples in different parts of the world. Globalization has affected global business and global economy in several ways. In other words, globalization has changed the world from the previous Westphalian model where citizens and businesses from nations could not operate in other nations without strict restrictions and limitations. There have been several changes that globalization has created in the general sense as well as the macroeconomic and microeconomic levels. General Trends of Globalization that Affects Businesses The fact that globalization, powered by the United Nations was inspired by the need to protect human rights and the dignity of people has led to a high degree of social consciousness.

Brunswick Distribution Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Brunswick Distribution - Case Study Example Factors attributed to the current crisis vary. Brunswick Inc faces numerous challenges associated with marketing, finance, and operation. They include; 1) retailers’ interests to buy directly from manufacturers 2) growing direct competition from other distributors 3) manufacturers’ rigid attitude to credits 4) retailers’ delayed payments and 5) issues related to giving and taking orders. Bradley Pulaski, the vice president of operations suggests expanding the service area across the Midwest because according to him, the company still gets service requests from potential customers of that region. However, it demands the construction of a new warehouse as distribution from the current facility will cause delayed deliveries. Bradley’s proposal would cost a total $12 million for property, plant, and equipment. In contrast, Mariana Jackson, the vise president of logistic thinks that providing timely service is the vital part in order to retain the existing customers. It involves empowering the distribution system with web-based technology like call center and integrated information backup. He envisages that the improved system would make distribution more cost effective as it can save up to 16% in shipping expenses and 16% in labor expenses annually. Finding both options inappropriate to the situation, Alex Brunswick determines to use a 12% cost of capital as discount rate when making financial decisions. Among the three options, Mariana Jackson’s suggestion seems more relevant to the case. If the firm’s information system is enhanced, it can avoid unnecessary delays in customer service and deliveries. Pulaski’s option flaws as it doubles company’s financial burden. Since the company is unable to give timely delivery, expanding its coverage to Midwest will cause more troubles. In the same way, Alex’s decision is also not a sufficient strategy. Two things are

Honour & Shame Essay Example for Free

Honour Shame Essay One Sunday morning I was driving my children back from their regular soccer game. It was a warm summer day, sun shining ever so brightly, making the uneven town picturesque. As I drove along in my Holden with rigid brown seats and the windscreen wipers that didn’t work, I looked over to my sixteen year old daughter sitting next to menodding and shaking her head rhythmically to, in her words, ‘legendary’ music band One Direction. An image of Asreen flashed through my mind†¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"Kiran?† the voice on my mobile phone was barely more than a whisper. â€Å"Kiran? Is that you?† .The train ride back home was a typical for Friday eveningIt was very busy Friday evening train ride back from work, â€Å"Are you able to speak up a little?† I asked, raising my own voice overagainst loud chatterschatters from fellow passengers and rattling noise from the train. â€Å"I found your number in Indus Age, My † the line went suddenly went dead. Indus Age is a local monthly newspaper. iIt has largest circulation to Indian and South East Asian community in the country. I was interviewed a week ago concerning about my plight with honour based violence. After two years of lengthy legal proceeding over evidence of injury which included tampered medical records I managed to get a divorce. I was sure that such crimeshonour based violence against women was prevalent and practiced behind closed doors, after my divorce I wanted to assist other women in similar situation and have my phone number published in the newspaper. I thought I lost her but then, few minutes later, she was back. â€Å"Sorry I had to hang up I thought someone was coming. My parents are forcing me to marry a 35 year old man who I don’t even know. I am a prisoner in my own house. I can’t take it any longer. I need help.† She stopped for breath. â€Å"Please help me,† she said in a trembling voice. She sounded frantic; it seemed that she was at the mercy of her family. I didn’t know who I was talking to but I knew I had to help. I spoke quickly, â€Å"Can you get out? There are all sorts of help available if you can get out.† I knew from my own experience that if a girl has made up her mind to run she usually finds a way to do it. This woman could be anywhere in the country but she was desperate and I had to reassure her. â€Å"There is help for you,.† I said. â€Å"There are women refuge houses, people to support. I would support you. You’ll be okay.† â€Å"But how†¦Wait, that’s Dad. He’s coming. I have to go† Her phone went dead. I felt anxiousiety, my pulse shot up as I tried as best I could to get on with my daily household choresroutine and parental responsibilities. Later in thethat evening while I was preparing dinner my phone rang again. I tried hard to understand but couldn’t make out anything except the gasping sound panting. I turned off my range-hood and enquired, â€Å"Hello?† â€Å"It’s me, Asreen,† she spoke, her voice penetrating as if she was right next to me. â€Å"I did it, I ran away† â€Å"Where are you?† â€Å"Redfern.† â€Å"Asreen, you have to call the police. DailDial 000† I had put my phone on speaker as I washed my hands. â€Å"No, I don’t want police. My family will never see me again. My community will disown me,† she said claimed almost hysterical. I could imagine why Asreen didn’t want police to be involved. She was in a state of fear and frustration. Her parents who loved her dearly until very recently changed overnight and now consider family’s honour more important than that of their daughter’s well-being and happiness. â€Å"Meet me at Redfern railway station in 45 minutes,.† I said cleaning up my kitchen. â€Å"Please don’t be late,.† she hung up. I called on my children and explained them that I need to go out on an emergency. I drove as fast as I could past the motorway speeding up to maximum limit. I reached Redfern at 8 p.m. it was crowded, people pushing one another to get ahead in line. Few country trains hurried past while the intercity trains stopped at the platform for passengerss dark and deserted. I walked across the automatic ticket machine to find myself staring at a tall slim woman leaning against the closed door humming what I could understand a very popular song. from Justin Beiber. She looked no more than sixteen dressed in a traditional outfit her head was covered in a veil. I caught her eye and she smiled and then waved at me. â€Å"Kiran,† she said enthusiastically. â€Å"Yes.† I walked closer I could see her eyes swollen lips dried smeared make up over her face. I offered her a bottle of water and walked with her to my car. No one spoke, the two minute walk felt like an eternity. Breaking the silence she spoke softly, â€Å"Thank – thank you Kiran. You saved my life. I read your story and only after I spoke to you I found courage to leave my house.† I didn’t know what to say, I was in a state of shock. I felt rage I could barely focus on my driving I wanted to say something. Asreen continued, â€Å"There were bolts on all doors and someone from the family was always home. I didn’t know how to get out. And if I did, where would I go?† We talked about family, food, school, fashion and many other issues on our way back. We talked as if we were best friends and had known each other for many years. I introduced Asreen to my children Maya and Vicky and offered her rice and lamb curry for dinner. It was close to midnight she looked very tired and fell asleep as soon as she sat on the lounge. I imagined her situation; it was her mother who arranged her marriage. She grew up knowing that one day the subject of her marriage would come up but didn’t expect it when she was sixteen. She was one of the smartest girls in her school; she wanted to become a psychiatrist. One day when her parents woke her up and told her that she was going to get engaged Asreen said bluntly, â€Å"But I don’t want to.† For the next few days I enquired at women’s refuge centre, department of community services, legal aid and other community based organisations. What followed was another court proceeding lasting more than 12 weeks. I became Asreen’s foster parent while she continued her education. Later that year Asreen and I started Honour to help other women from South East Asian family facing honour based violenceI sat next to her contemplating on the events of the day. I wanted to help Asreen and reach out to other women in similar situations confronting criticism and oppression from inside their communities and often close family members for not being obedient to the traditional rules set by men for thousands of years. â€Å"Are you alright?† Asreen said waking up suddenly. I realised that I accidentally dropped my glass on the wooden floor breaking it into pieces. â€Å"Why can’t I live like any other sixteen year old girls? Why can’t I have boy-friends like girls from my school?† she cried while cleaning up broken pieces of glass. It was close to two, I was so exhausted I could barely feel any strength in my legs. I could hear Asreen’s voice slowly fading away. With my eyes closed I tried to seek explanation for such acts against own daughter. The issue of status of women is always in question in a patriarchal society. For thousands of years people from Indian sub-continent had considered daughter a painful burden, a potential source of shame to her father. Family is vital principal group and marriage hallowed as sacred. Women are deprived of their freedom and those who rebel or go against the norms faces threat the people of the community so much so that they are even killed for honour. †¦perhaps this comes out as it makes it like a newspaper article, not a narrative. †¦ As we arrived home I hugged my daughter tightly and said with tears running down my cheeks, â€Å"I love you.† The time frame here doesn;’t work, you’ve already taken the story on years but now go back to the present†¦

John Locke On Property Essay example -- Empiricists, Empiricism

In the Second Treatise of Government by John Locke, he writes about the right to private property. In the chapter which is titled â€Å"Of Property† he tells how the right to private property originated, the role it plays in the state of nature, the limitations that are set on the rights of private property, the role the invention of money played in property rights and the role property rights play after the establishment of government.. In this chapter Locke makes significant points about private property. In this paper I will summarize his analysis of the right to private property, and I will give my opinion on some of the points Locke makes in his book. According to Locke, the right to private property originated when God gave the world to men. Locke makes the argument that when God created the world for man, he gave man reason to make use of the world to the best advantage of life, and convenience. What he means by that is, that God made this world for man, and when he made it he gave man the right to use what is in this world to his benefit. Locke explains that every man has property in his own person, and that nobody has any right to that property but that person. The author states that â€Å"whatsoever then he removes out of the state of nature hath provided, and left it in, he hath mixed his labour with, and joined to it something that is his own, and thereby makes it his property (Locke pg. 19)†. What Locke means by that statement is that once a person removes something o...

Review of Hunger Games Movie Essay

I thought that The Hunger Games movie was overall an â€Å"ok† film with just the right amount of special affects and action sequences to complement a decent story. The director and producers stuck very close to the book as far as the story goes. This explains why the movie runs for over two hours. Although the events were very accurate, there were certain things that were not explained properly in the movie whichmovie, which changed its interpretation. One thing that bothered me was lack of explanation behind Katniss’s and Peeta’s relationship. I was fortunate enough have analyzed the book so I, or course, knew that the relationship started off as fake in the beginning and kindled into actuality. As a person watching the movie, you would think that Katniss simply fell in love with Peeta as time passed. Within the movie, tThey also neglected to elaborate on the dog-creatures at the end of the story, which were genetically engineered from the dead tributes. The lack of this detail prevented the audience from fully understanding the depravity of the Capital and their general disregard for the people of the districts. Also, Rue’s death was made to look like it was not the fault of Katniss, but another tribute. Again, I think this hurt the movie because it did not depict the type of sacrifices struggles one had to make endure in order to survive the Hunger Games. While the movie lacked some details, others were added in their place to perhaps aid in telling the story the way it was meant to be told. One thing that was added was the behind the scenes meeting between the Game Keeper and the leader of the Capital. These meeting help to reveal the Capital’s hidden agenda with the Hunger Games, which otherwise would be unknown to a person watching the movie without having read the book. Also, they showed the districts rioting at the death of Rue. This is helps to illustrate the hatred and anger that the people of the districts have for the games and I suppose its easier to make that scene than it is to imply it through the houghts of Katniss and dialogue between the characters, like in the book. All in all, I think the movie stuck very close to the book and I found that to be very refreshing. Compared to most movie adaptations, such as the Harry Potter series, its sticks more closely to the story. In the Harry Potter movies, the studio took a fair amount of artistic license with the stories and changed many finite details. This was likely done because of lack of funding and screen time. The Hunger Games did not have this problem probably because the story if more realistic than that of the magic conjuring, broomstick flying Harry Potter. There is little need for computer generated imagery (CGI) in this movie and the book is kept at a reasonable length so the movie did not have to compromise too much. This to me is the thing that it did best and I look forward to seeing the next one.

Net Present Value/Present Value Index

Net Present Value/Present Value Index The management team at Savage Corporation is evaluating two alternative capital investment opportunities. The first alternative, modernizing the company’s current machinery, costs $45,000. Management estimates the modernization project will reduce annual net cash outflows by $12,500 per year for the next five years. The second alternative, purchasing a new machine, costs $56,500. The new machine is expected to have a five-year useful life and a $4,000 salvage value. Management estimates the new machine will generate cash inflows of $15,000 per year.Savage’s cost of capital is 10%. Required a. Determine the present value of the cash flow savings expected from the modernization program. Using the data from Appendix on page 1169 of our text 15000*3. 790787 = 47,385, which should be the PV cash flow savings expected from the first option of modernization program. b. Determine the net present value of the modernization project. I believe the NPV of the 1st project is calculated by subtracting current machinery, costs $45,000 from the figure above which equals 2,385. 00 c. Determine the net present value of investing in the new machine.This is determined by valuing the future cash flows. Using the same appendix in table 2 data, annual cash flow of 15,000 * 3. 790787 =56862. 00 Salvage cost of 4,000 * . 620921 (table 3 on page 523) = 2484. 00 Total=59,346. 00 less the cost of machinery 56,500 = 2486. 00 as the NPV d. Use a present value index to determine which investment alternative will yield the higher rate of return. PI= $15,000*. 620921/56,500 = . 16 This investment is not acceptable because it has a PI of less than 1. 0 therefore the modernization project or the first alternative will have higher rate of return.Exercise 24-4A Determining the present value of an annuity The dean of the School of Social Science is trying to decide whether to purchase a copy machine to place in the lobby of the building. The machi ne would add to student convenience, but the dean feels compelled to earn an 8 percent return on the investment of funds. Estimates of cash inflows from copy machines that have been placed in other university buildings indicate that the copy machine would probably produce incremental cash inflows of approximately $8,000 per year.The machine is expected to have a three-year useful life with a zero salvage value. Required a. Use Present Value Table 1 in Appendix A to determine the maximum amount of cash the dean should be willing to pay for a copy machine. Years 1 – 3; where N = 1 r at 8%, N =2, [email  protected] 8%, N = 3 r @ 8% 8000*. 925926 = 7,407. 41 8000*. 857339 = 6,858. 71 8000*. 793832 = 6,350. 66 Present Value / Ordinary Annuity = ($) 20,617. 00 Present Value / Annuity-Due = ($) 22,266 b. Use Present Value Table 2 in Appendix A to determine the maximum amount of cash the dean should be willing to pay for a copy machine.Based on table 2 in appendix a, the maximum am ount of cash the Dean should be willing to pay for a copy machine is ($) 20,617. 00 c. Explain the consistency or lack of consistency in the answers to Requirements a & b. The consistency in the answers are so seeing that table 2 in appendix A appears to be the sum of the PV for each of the 3 years in table 1. Exercise 24-8A Determining the internal rate of return Medina Manufacturing Company has an opportunity to purchase some technologically advanced equipment that will reduce the company’s cash outflow for operating expenses by $1,280,000 per year.The cost of the equipment is $6,186,530. 56. Medina expects it to have a 10-year useful life and a zero salvage value. The company has established an investment opportunity hurdle rate of 15 percent and uses the straight-line method for depreciation. Required a. Calculate the internal rate of return of the investment opportunity. YearExplanationCash FlowDiscount Factor 1 (hurdle rate of 15)DiscountDiscount Factor 2Cash Flow @Disc ount 0Cost to purchase some technologically advanced equipment(6,186,530. 56)(6,186,530. 56) 1,280,0005. 01877$6,424,0264. 6565,959,680Net present value$$237,495($226,851) b. Indicate whether the investment opportunity should be accepted. The Internal Rate of Return appears to be higher than the established investment opportunity hurdle rate of 15 percent therefore it would be a good idea to accept this investment opportunity. Exercise 24-6A Determining net present value Travis Vintor is seeking part-time employment while he attends school. He is considering purchasing technical equipment that will enable him to start a small training services company that will offer tutorial services over the Internet.Travis expects demand for the service to grow rapidly in the first two years of operation as customers learn about the availability of the Internet assistance. Thereafter, he expects demand to stabilize. The following table presents the expected cash flows. Year of Operation Cash Infl ow Cash Outflow 2006 $5,400 $3,600 2007 7,800 4,800 2008 8,400 5,040 2009 8,400 5,040In addition to these cash flows, Mr. Vintor expects to pay $8,400 for the equipment. He also expects to pay $1,440 for a major overhaul and updating of the equipment at the end of the second year of operation. The equipment is expected to have a $600 salvage value and a four-year useful life. Mr. Vintor desires to earn a rate of return of 8 percent. Year ExplanationinflowsoutflowsNet Discount @8%Discounted 2006 beginningCost of equipment $ – $ 8,400 $ (8,400)1 $ (8,400) 2006Operational cash flows $ 5,400 $ 3,600 $ 1,800 0. 925926 $ 1,667 007Operational cash flows $ 7,800 $ 4,800 $ 3,000 0. 857339 $ 2,572 2007Major overhaul $ – $ 1,440 $ (1,440)0. 857339 $ (1,235) 2008Operational cash flows $ 8,400 $ 5,040 $ 3,360 0. 793832 $ 2,667 2009Operational cash flows $ 8,400 $ 5,040 $ 3,360 0. 73503 $ 2,470 2009Salvage value of equipment $ 600 $ – $ 600 0. 73503 $ 441 Net present value of Investment Opportunity $ 182 Required (Round computations to the nearest whole penny. ) a. Calculate the net present value of the investment opportunity. . Indicate whether the investment opportunity is expected to earn a return that is above or below the desired rate of return and whether it should be accepted. General rule with NPV is that if NPV of a prospective project is positive, it should be accepted. However, if NPV is negative it should not be accepted. The calculations, If correct present a positive NPV therefore the investment opportunity should be accepted. Problem 19-24A Assessing simultaneous changes in CVP relationships Green Shades Inc. (GSI) sells hammocks; variable costs are $75 each, and the hammocks are sold for $125 each.GSI incurs $250,000 of fixed operating expenses annually. Required a. Determine the sales volume in units and dollars required to attain a $50,000 profit. Sales = Contribution Margin per Unit = Revenues per Unit – Variable Expenses per U nit = 250,000 + 50,000/125 – 75= 6,000 in units Verify your answer by preparing an income statement using the contribution margin format. Break-even Sales Dollars = Sales Price per Unit ? Break-even Sales Units Break-even Point in Sales Dollars = 125 * 6000 = 750,000 Income Statement Green Shades Inc. As of October 17, 2012 Sales750,000 Variable Costs(450,000)Contribution Margin300, 000 Fixed Costs250,000 Net Income 50,000 b. GSI is considering implementing a quality improvement program. The program will require a $10 increase in the variable cost per unit. To inform its customers of the quality improvements, the company plans to spend an additional $20,000 for advertising. Assuming that the improvement program will increase sales to a level that is 3,000 units above the amount computed in Requirement a, should GSI proceed with plans to improve product quality? Support your answer by preparing a budgeted income statement. Income Statement Green Shades Inc. As of October 17, 2 012Sales1,125,000 Variable Costs(765,000) Contribution Margin360, 000 Fixed Costs(270,000) Net Income 90,000 The company might want to consider going forward seeing the likelihood of profitability. c. Determine the new break-even point in units and sales dollars as well as the margin of safety percentage, assuming that the quality improvement program is implemented. Fixed Costs/Contribution Margin per Unit = 270,000/ 125-85 = 6750 Break-even Sales Dollars = Sales Price per Unit ? Break-even Sales Units Break-even Point in Sales Dollars = 125 * 6750= 843,750 Margin of SafetyMeasured in UnitsMeasured in DollarsSales @ Budged 90001125000 Break Even6750843,750 Margin2250281,250 281250/1125000 =. 25 or 25% Problem 18-17B Process cost system cost of production report At the beginning of 2004, Dozier Company had 1,800 units of product in its work in process inventory, and it started 19,200 additional units of product during the year. At the end of the year, 6,000 units of product were in t he work in process inventory. The ending work in process inventory was estimated to be 50 percent complete. The cost of work in process inventory at the beginning of the period was $9,000, and $108,000 of product costs was added during the period.Required Prepare a cost of production report showing the following. a. The number of equivalent units of production. Equivalent units of production ACTUALEquivalent Beginning 1,800 Additional units of product19,200 Total21,000 Ending6,000 @50%3,000 To be transferred15,000 @100%15,000 Total21,00018,000 b. The product cost per equivalent unit. Beginning is 9,000 added to production of 108,000 to total 117,000 c. The total cost allocated between the ending Work in Process Inventory and Finished Goods Inventory accounts. 117,000/18,000 = 6. 50 cost per unit 15000*6. 50 = 97,500 finished goods 000 of equivalent units above*6. 50= 19,500 Total 117,000 Problem 15-17A Identifying cost behavior Required Identify the following costs as fixed or varia ble. Costs related to plane trips between San Diego, California, and Orlando, Florida, follow. Pilots are paid on a per trip basis. a. Pilots’ salaries relative to the number of trips flown. variable b. Depreciation relative to the number of planes in service. variable c. Cost of refreshments relative to the number of passengers. variable d. Pilots’ salaries relative to the number of passengers on a particular trip. ixed e. Cost of a maintenance check relative to the number of passengers on a particular trip. fixed f. Fuel costs relative to the number of trips. variable National Union Bank operates several branch offices in grocery stores. Each branch employs a supervisor and two tellers. g. Tellers’ salaries relative to the number of tellers in a particular district. variable h. Supplies cost relative to the number of transactions processed in a particular branch. variable i. Tellers’ salaries relative to the number of customers served at a particular br anch. Fixed j.Supervisors’ salaries relative to the number of branches operated. Fixed k. Supervisors’ salaries relative to the number of customers served in a particular branch. Fixed l. Facility rental costs relative to the size of customer deposits. Fixed Costs related to operating a fast-food restaurant follow. m. Depreciation of equipment relative to the number of restaurants. variable n. Building rental cost relative to the number of customers served in a particular restaurant. Fixed o. Manager’s salary of a particular restaurant relative to the number of employees.Fixed p. Food cost relative to the number of customers. variable q. Utility cost relative to the number of restaurants in operation. variable r. Company president’s salary relative to the number of restaurants in operation. Fixed s. Land costs relative to the number of hamburgers sold at a particular restaurant. Fixed t. Depreciation of equipment relative to the number of customers served at a particular restaurant. fixed Exercise 15-6B Fixed versus variable cost behavior Professional Chairs Corporation produces ergonomically designed chairs favored by architects.The company normally produces and sells from 5,000 to 8,000 chairs per year. The following cost data apply to various productions activity levels. Number of Chairs5,0006,0007,0008,000 Total costs incurred Fixed$ 84,000 Variable 60,000 Total costs$144,000 Per unit chair cost Fixed$16. 80 Variable12. 00 Total cost per chair$28. 80 Required a. Complete the preceding table by filling in the missing amounts for the levels of activity shown in the first row of the table. b. Explain why the total cost per chair decreases as the number of chairs increases.Exercise 15-12B Effect of cost structure on projected profits Logan and Martin compete in the same market. The following budgeted income statements illustrate their cost structures. Income Statements Company Logan Martin Number of Customers (a) 160 160 Sales Reven ue (n x $75) $12,000 $ 12,000 Variable Cost (n x $0) 12,800 Contribution Margin 12,000 (800) Fixed Cost (6,400) 0 Net Income (Loss) $ 5,600 $ (800) Required a. Assume that Logan can lure all 80 customers away from Martin by lowering its sales price to $75 per customer.Reconstruct Logan’s income statement based on 160 customers. b. Assume that Martin can lure all 80 customers away from Logan by lowering its sales price to $75 per customer. Reconstruct Martin’s income statement based on 160 customers. c. Why does the price-cutting strategy increase Logan’s profits but result in a net loss for Martin? This is so in that when sales to 160 clients at 75 (12,000), more revenue is produced as opposed to sales to a lesser amount (80 clients) at 125 (10,000). Fixed costs contributes to Logans increases in sales revenue. Exercise 16-9A Allocating overhead cost to accomplish smoothingMimosa Corporation expects to incur indirect overhead costs of $72,000 per month and direc t manufacturing costs of $11 per unit. The expected production activity for the first four months of 2007 is as follows. January February March April Estimated production in units 4,000 7,000 3,000 6,000 Required a. Calculate a predetermined overhead rate based on the number of units of product expected to be made during the first four months of the year. MonthJanuaryFebruaryMarchApriltotalEstimated production in units 400070003000600020000 72000*4/20,000=14. 40 per unit b. Allocate overhead costs to each month using the overhead rate computed in Requirement a. MonthJanFebMarchAprilTotal Rate14. 4014. 4014. 4014. 40 Base4,0007,0003,0006,000 Cost57,600100,80043,20086,400288,000 c. Calculate the total cost per unit for each month using the overhead allocated in Requirement b. MonthUnits (A)Overhead (B)Cost (A*11)TotalCost Per Unit (d/a) Jan4000576004400010160025. 40 Feb70001008007700017780025. 40 March300043200330007620025. 40 April6000864006600015240025. 40

Endocrine System and Cortisol Essay

Endocrine System and Cortisol Essay Endocrine System and Cortisol Essay Husson University: Lisa Mazzarelli, Instructor Lab 1: Anatomy and Physiology Lab II Study Guide Endocrine System Anatomy and Physiology; Dissection Ex 3, pg. 721, and PhysioEx #4. 1 Introduction This week begins your study of the endocrine system. You will perform a dissection of a cat specimen to identify the major organs of the endocrine system. You will be using the same cat specimen for the duration of the semester, so it is important to start off on the right track. A good, clean, and careful first dissection will make the rest of them go much faster and easier! You will learn endocrine physiology through a PhysioEx simulation exercise. Note: Bring a laptop computer and the PhysioEx CD to lab. Recall from your study of the organ systems in the human body, the endocrine system works with the nervous system to coordinate the function of various physiological systems in the body in order to maintain homeostasis. The endocrine system consists of tissues and glands that secrete hormones. The major organs of the endocrine system are: Pineal gland, Hypothalamus, Pituitary gland, Thyroid gland, Parathyroid glands, Thymus, Adrenal glands, Pancreas, Ovaries, and Testes. Endocrine Anatomy: What to focus On Dissection Exercise 3: Endocrine Organs, page 721 You will be working in teams of 3. Sometimes it makes things easier to have one person cutting while another person assists with holding parts back or down, while the third person keeps relatively clean hands to page through and read the instructions or point out structures on the diagrams or pictures. It is advisable to alternate duties with each dissection exercise so that each member gets some practice with dissection, assisting , and reading directions. Activities 1 and 2.  Follow the instructions for opening the ventral body cavity of your cat specimen.  Identify the following endocrine organs on the cat: 1. Thyroid gland 2. Thymus 3. Pancreas 4. Adrenal glands 5. Gonads: Ovaries (female) or Testes (male): Make sure to observe a specimen of the opposite sex than yours. Also be sure to observe how different things look between the pregnant verses non-pregnant female specimens.  Identify the following endocrine organs on the brain model: o Hypothalamus o Pineal gland o Pituitary gland Husson University: Lisa Mazzarelli, Instructor 2 Endocrine System Physiology: PhysioEx Exercise 4 Information highlights for Activity 4: Adrenal insufficiency is an endocrine, or hormonal, disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of certain hormones. The adrenal glands are located just above the kidneys. Adrenal insufficiency can be primary or secondary. Primary adrenal insufficiency, also called Addison's disease, occurs when the adrenal glands are damaged and cannot produce enough of the hormone cortisol and often the hormone aldosterone. Addison's disease affects one to four of every 100,000 people, in all age groups and both sexes.1 Secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary gland, a bean-sized organ in the

The love song of J. Alfred Prufrock.(T.S.Eliot) Essay

The love song of J. Alfred Prufrock.(T.S.Eliot) - Essay Example Through an irregular rhyme scheme, Eliot presents emotional focus and certain sets of descriptions. â€Å"Lingered upon the pools that stand in drains, Let fall upon its back the soot that falls from chimneys, Slipped by the terrace, made a sudden leap†. Eliot tells the troubles of Alfred Prufrock through the city life to the ocean images that represent the way he moves from a normal life surrounded by people, to distance himself from humanity. Alfred sees himself as a second-rate individual after emotionally distancing himself from life and other human beings. He is absorbed in an inferiority complex and isolates himself from life. In addition, he is concerned with ageing in Eliot’s assertion, â€Å"With a bald spot in the middle of my hair — (They will say: â€Å"How his hair is growing thin!†)†. The transitions in the poem are mostly emotional rather than reasonable, as evidenced by the irregular reflections of the narrator. Even so, his enable Eliot to present the frustrations of a middle-aged man who cannot voice opinions, and eventually does not say anything. At times, it is hard to determine whether Prufrock is on his way to act, or whether it is visions running through his mind. This is evident in the line, â€Å"pair of ragged claws / Scuttling across the floors of silent seas†; the yellow fog that â€Å"rubs its back upon the window panes†; the evening â€Å"spread out against the sky / Like a patient etherized upon a table.† The stylistic devices and symbolism does not help much in his quest to express himself. His environment does not look friendly at all. Eliot tries to say that there cannot be a meaningful existence in the modern world full of characters who are careless about their surroundings or are too afraid to raise their opinions on matters that affect the society. The poem represents the disappointment and disheartened desires

The Influence of Marketing through Culture and Tradition in Kuwait Research Paper

The Influence of Marketing through Culture and Tradition in Kuwait (Gulf) - Research Paper Example The origin of Kuwait culture comes from diverse backgrounds and is very rich. In addition, the influences of marketing on customs and traditions of Kuwait is widespread as observed in many firms (Ahmed 16). This calls for conscious marketing especially for the international marketer since what a certain culture accepts may be regarded as a taboo in another. This paper will focus on the influence of marketing on culture and traditions in Kuwait. The importance of culture in marketing cannot be underestimated, the traditions, values, attitudes and religious beliefs of a people can affect greatly the promotion of a product. Most of the marketing mix components can only achieve great outcomes if the culture and traditions of the people is well understood, respected, and tolerated especially that of the target market. For instance, promoting a product is expected to increase customers and consequently the profits, therefore to achieve greater profits through promotion it is imperative tha t a company puts into consideration a people’s culture and traditions in order to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and be able to produce and market the products that suit their needs. The language of a people is a vehicle of culture and affects the consumer behaviour considerably (Victor 142). One of the marketing strategies is promotion; consumer acceptance of a product requires a language to promote the product. Therefore, promotional methods such as personal selling, advertising, publicity and sales promotion can only be successful through the use of a language. In Kuwait, Islamic is the commonly used language which among the most influential cultural elements (Ahmed 67). Other elements include religious beliefs and ethnic values, all these cultural elements have an effect on the marketing mix, pricing, promotion, product, and price. This requires multinational firms to make their promotions and products adaptable to the environment they exist to ensure persuasi ve marketing. A cultural bound firm is the one that is consumer-oriented, this is evidenced by cultural groupings, and inclinations that tend to purchase certain products calling for marketers to be responsive on cultural influences on their marketing strategies. In Kuwait, culture is related to all dimensions of the society (Ahmed 23). Therefore, appropriate marketing strategy has gained more focus from marketers who wish to promote their products in an effort to increase their market share. Culture and tradition has become a key component of advertisements for most products and services to attract more customers and retain existing ones. Some of the business that have embraced marketing through culture and traditions include the National Bank of Kuwait, Commercial Bank of Kuwait, and Zain which is one of the best telecommunication companies in the country. The use of cultural strategies to market themselves has not only helped these companies increase their sales but also attract new consumers while at the same time achieving and increasing customer loyalty. Another important aspect on the influence of marketing through culture and traditions in Kuwait observed in organizing employees principles as a national culture in order for them to understand their work and what is expected out of it and the manner in which the expect to be treated. This means firms have to act in

Marketing Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Marketing - Case Study Example Despite the fact that parking in the street is usually a problem, there is a metered parking behind the store although most customers do not seem to be aware of these parking lot. Throughout its existence, the expansion has brought positive gains but the last expansion did not bring additional sales. This paper will carry out a marketing analysis of Don Martin and this will be organized into three sections. The sections include problems and analysis, alternative analysis and a recommendations section. Problems and Analysis Don Martin Limited has always strived to expand thereby increase sales which would eventually translate to high profitability. To achieve this, the company has made several acquisitions given that initially it only had a total area of 45 meters squared (Grasby et al 379). The expansion has always produced an increase in the sales volumes but about three ago, a store that neighbored that of Don Martin Limited was floated for sales and the company bought it. After th e acquisition, Don Martin Limited brought down the wall separating the two companies and ended up with a large store. However, instead of increased sales; the new acquisition eventually led to losses. The expansion has necessitated the need for more staff members who are now currently twenty six and this has increased the expenditure by the company. In addition, the increased workforce makes it hard for the company to monitor the staff and the business in general thereby leading to loss of some goods. The proprietor of asserts that he is afraid that the company staff may be stealing. Things are further complicated for Don Martin given that he has approximately 500 suppliers which means that he has to spend about seventy five percent of his time. The company buys directly from manufacturers in small quantities which mean that the company cannot advantage economies of scale (Grasby et al 380). The customers coming to Don Martin Limited are trying to cut down on expenses given that the y are cash strapped. The services offered to customers no longer lead to higher customer satisfaction and most of them are ready to do without such services in order to save some money. For instance, previously whenever a customer came to the store of a sport’s equipment; there was a salesperson to help them but currently customer no longer seem to like this service. Despite the low reception of the company’s services by customers, Don Martin believes that such services have always attracted customers to the store. The company is incurring high expenses in maintaining these services where for instance the company has to pay $1,000 for gas not forgetting the pay to truck drivers (Grasby et al 381). Consumer Analysis Segment 1 Segment 2 Segment 3 Who Customers having low income Customers having cars External customers (Customers not living within the city) What These customers are cutting spending given that they low income. These customers require parking when doing the ir shopping These are customers who are not in close proximity to the business. When The company is losing these customers since the last expansion undertaken three years ago. Following the last expansion three years ago, Don Martin has a parking lot The company has been attracting this kind of customers since inception Where The company is facing competition for these customers from nearby stores. The parking lot for the Don Martin is

How Southwest Airlines Soars Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 17

How Southwest Airlines Soars - Case Study Example The second one is the participative theory, which suggests that leaders should encourage contributions and participation from members and make them feel relevant in the organization. During the Halloween, Kelleher encouraged the employees to get loose by decorating gates, wearing wacky costumes and munching on treat snacks, by this, he encourages the employees to participate on keeping the airline's spirit alive. Kelleher is both a manager and a leader. The view as a manager is portrayed by implementing tactical actions when the airline set off in 1971; he put up measures of cutting cost by avoiding extra expenses. When the fuel prices rose, he initiated cutting cost by asking each employee to find a way of saving $5 per day (Case Study). He is seen as a leader by inspiring, empowering and creating new opportunities. As the airline expands, he creates new job opportunities by personality testing and maintains the culture of the airway by choosing individuals who are able to make decisions, good communicators, optimistic and team-oriented.

Mcdonalds And Its Strategic Management Commerce Essay

Mcdonalds And Its Strategic Management Commerce Essay The vision and mission of the organization defines the expected position and the fundamental purpose of the organization. The purpose of this assignment is to understand the vision and mission of the case company and to identify and understand the strategic aims and objectives of an organization and investigate its progress towards the fulfillment of those aims and objectives. For this different alternative strategies available to the organization are also considered. To fulfill the requirement of this assignment the organization selected for investigation is McDonalds. McDonalds is the leading fast food restaurant chain of the world and is serving more than 58 million customers on daily basis. McDonalds Vision and Mission Statement Every organization must have a vision and a mission. Vision and mission statements are the short phrases which sets the whole direction of the organization. Vision statement provides the whole picture of the organizations desired future position in a single phrase. This statement then sets a whole direction of all the strategic aims and objectives of the organization. Below is the vision statement of the case company i.e. McDonalds: To be the worlds best quick service restaurant experience, being the best means providing outstanding quality, service, cleanliness, and value, so that we make every customer in every restaurant smile Mission statement clarifies the fundamental purpose of the organization. Off course the purpose is to achieve the vision of the organization, but mission statement goes in further detail and answers the question of the existence of the organization. Mission statement of McDonalds is: To be the best employer To deliver operational excellence Achieving durable profits Expanding the brand name and extending the strength of McDonalds system through innovation and technology. Analyzing the vision and mission statement of the case company it is clear that organizations focus is mainly towards the external and internal customers i.e. consumers and employees. Furthermore, the company is committed to innovate and use the latest technology to earn huge profits. McDonalds Strategic Aims and Objectives An aim is a broader statement which tells what an organization wants to become and the objectives are the specific targets or tasks which leads towards the fulfillment of the aim of the organization. It is very important for an organization to set such aims which are practically possible and which can be measured. If this is not the case the organization will put its efforts and resources in that direction which is not possible at all. For effective working and success for an organization the aims and objectives must be realistic and it must also be associated with some time frame as if it is not the case then there will be confusion within the organization regarding the time to complete the tasks and projects (Fred David, 2006). Furthermore, the aims should be measureable, as the progress towards the fulfillment of objectives should be easily measured as if this is not the case then it would be very difficult for an organization to know that whether the desired results are achieved or not. McDonalds key to success all over the world is their priorities, which are also mentioned on their corporate website. The top priority of the leading fast food restaurant chain is the customers. As per the McDonalds corporate values the reason of the existence of the business are their customers and they work only to fulfill the needs and demands of the customers. As per the company it is not the matter of sales rather it is the matter of providing quality products along with the best services to the customers in affordable prices. The second priority is their employees or workforce. The company believes that the employees make the dream of the organization come true. The employees are their valuable assets and it is just because of the skills and competencies of their employees which enables the organization to achieve the set goals and targets. The company also believes the quality of their business model. According to the corporate values of the company the business model is set to meet the dynamic customer behavioral changes. The strategic aims and objectives of McDonalds and mentioned below and these shows that what are the top priorities of the company and it gives a hint why the company is so successful all across the globe: To maintain the leadership in fast food restaurant industry To serve the customer with good food in a friendly and fun environment Providing the quality food and value of money to the customer Providing the shareholder a positive return on their investments To meet the social and ethical responsibility Strategic Plan and its Component parts Strategic plan of any enterprise is a picture of the desired position of the organization. Strategic plan gives a root path that how the organization will achieve the desired place or position in the given industry (Maches, B. 2010). Three major components of strategic plan include formulation, implementation and evaluation of strategy carries that information and plan which provides a direction towards the organizational objectives (Kim Warren, 2008). Strategy Formulation Strategy formulation process starts with the situation analysis of the organization. Situation analysis is an important part of strategic plan as it gives an overview of the existing position of the organization. Situation analysis includes the analysis of internal and external environment of the organization. Different strategic tools can be used to evaluate this situation i.e. SWOT analysis, PEST Analysis etc. This also includes the evaluation of current mission and vision of the organization. Vision statement clarifies that what an organization want to become and on the other hand mission statements shows that what business the organization operates. Mission contains the products and services, its markets and its employee management policy. The assessment of external factors of the organization involves the listing down of finite list of factors which are a potential threat or opportunities for the organization in the external environment. By finite list is meant that not all the factors are focused. The priority is given to those factors which have high level of impact or form which high returns can be gained. The internal audit is also done in the situation analysis where the internal strengths and weaknesses of the organization are listed down (Fred David, 2006). After the clear understanding of the organizations current situation the real work begins where the strategies are formulated. The best practice is to involve the employees in this process as the employees from all levels will share their views and a better strategic decision will be expected. Here the strategies are developed to capitalize the opportunities available which were assessed in the external audit and minimize the threat of the factors. On the other side the strengths of the organizations require such strategies which further enhance them and the weaknesses are tried to be overcome. The next step in the strategy formulation stage is setting the long term objectives. Long term objectives are those which are associated with the sales and market share growth, it can be the growth of assets; it can be attaining any award from the government body etc. This is a very important phase as the long term goals and objectives show a direction to the whole organization. Long term objectives are set after a through consideration of external and internal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the organization. The available resources and the expected resources are listed and based on those resources the long term but achievable, measureable and realistic objectives are set with proper timelines (Fred David, 2006). The final stage of strategy formulation process is the evaluation and selection of appropriate strategies to meet the long term objectives. In this the alternative strategies are also identified an evaluated and a contingency planning is also done. For instance in case of any external change which is beyond the change of organization such as change in legislations or change in market conditions then that contingency plan can be used. The existing strategies of the organization are the initial point for strategy evaluation. Strategy Implementation The next step in a strategic plan includes the strategy implementation. Developing an effective strategy does not ensures that the strategic plan will be successful. It was in the old times when the strategic planning was done only at the level of stagy formulation stage. Experiences of different organizations and further studies revealed that strategy formulation does not ensure the success of strategic plan. Implementation is another important part of the strategic plan. In the implementation phase the process of shifting the responsibilities to the middle and lower level of management is developed. As in the strategy formulation stage it was mentioned that to involve the employees of all the levels is important, so if any organization has done this during the strategy formulation them the strategy implementation process will be lot more easier. This is because the middle and lower level staff will have a clearer view of the strategies developed and they would be in a better positi on to implement those strategies in real practice (Kim Warren, 2008). Strategy Evaluation and Control After the implementation of strategic plan it is important like all other plans and project to evaluate the progress of that plan. Implementation phase end with the start of evaluation process. This is a continuous process until the strategic aims and objectives are not met (Fred David, 2006). There are many organizations such as McDonalds, who have strategic aims and objectives that shows continuity and a continuous process is required for that for instance one of the strategic objectives of the company is to provide the value to the customer. This is an objective which shows continuity as the fast food chain is aimed to provide the customer value to their money so for that strategy evaluation is required. This process ensures that the implemented strategies are progressing towards the achievement of organizational aims and objectives or not. In this process the required results or outcomes are compared with the actual results and if there is any kind of difference then with the cha nge in strategies of taking appropriate steps that difference is tried to be eliminated or at least minimized. Factors affecting McDonalds Strategic Plan Several internal and external factors can affect the strategic plan of McDonalds. These may include factors such as managements vision, financial factors, technological changes, legislative factors or market competition. As mentioned in the strategic plan earlier that the strategies are developed by considering the existing resources of the organization. It also includes the existing technology possessed by the company. If the existing system of McDonalds becomes obsolete with the introduction of newer version of the same system then the organization need to adapt that system to sustain in the market. In this case the strategic plan requires a change (Kim Warren, 2008). Same is the case with the market condition. If at the time of strategic planning the market conditions are evaluated and after implementation the market condition changes and requires a change then the strategic plan will also require a change. That is the reason it is suggested that McDonalds strategic plan should be flexible enough that can meet the changing market conditions. Furthermore the strategic plans are also depend on the vision of the management of the organization. If the management decides to go with a differentiation strategy because of the market need then the existing strategic plan will be changed. Financial aspects cannot be neglected in the strategic planning. Every strategy requires financial resources and if the financial resources are not sufficient enough to meet the new strategy then it will require a change in the strategic plan. However, these constraints can be minimized during the strategy formulation process by intensive research and evaluation of the internal and external factors, but still the dynamic market conditions and growing consumer needs cannot be predicted. McDonalds and Strategic Options If there is some change in the external environment of the company then in response to that the company opts strategic option. Moreover, strategic option is also chosen by an organization to grow and it tells that how the company wants to grow and what are the ways through which the completive advantage is taken by an organization over its competitors. By manipulating and taking advantage of the opportunities available for an organization the company can have a positive outcome. There are two renowned methods or ways which can be chosen by any organization to gain a competitive advantage over the other organization (Fred David, 2006). These two strategic options include the cost leadership strategy and differentiation strategy. Under cost leadership strategy the organization cut down its cost of production or cost of goods sold and hence increases their profit margins. As the business word today is highly competitive and inn the fast food restaurant industry the customers have so many options such as KFC, Pizza Hut etc. which are also providing high quality products. So in such scenario it is not possible for McDonalds to increase the prices of their products. So, cutting the cost of production and other operational cost will be the best strategy to increase their profit margins. The internal capabilities of McDonalds will require a focus and needs to be enhanced in order to achieve the goals of this strategic option. Another strategic option available for McDonalds is to offer such products and services which are unique in nature and are not available in the market. In this way the customer will have no other option to get the desired product or service. This will keep the customer intact with McDonalds and hence the profit margins of the organization will keep on growing. A best example of this is the ice cream provided by McDonalds. No other fast food chain provides the best quality ice cream and people are fond of McDonalds Ice Cream and this has been a unique product of the fast food chain which attracts millions of customers. Another unique feature of McDonalds is their quality customer services. In this era the customer service has gained utmost importance and McDonalds customer services is helping them to increase their market share. Even if the restaurant is packed with the customers the customer services quality remains the same which makes the fast food chain number one in the world. Strategic Option a Helping Hand to achieve Strategic Objectives Strategic options help the organization to achieve the organization strategic aims and objectives. However, a combination of the available strategic options is a good option for any enterprise as this can have a dual positive effect in the organizational performance and profit margins can also be increased with a wide margin. Using integrated strategic options allows the firm a more leverage to take decision on marketing mix. McDonalds can use either of the strategic option discussed earlier, but the more appropriate is to use the mix of both the strategic options. This will help to achieve the strategic objectives of the organization which were mentioned earlier in the document. Using a differentiation strategy, McDonalds will be able to charge the premium prices against the product features. However, keeping the legislation under consideration is also important before charging the premium prices from the customers (Kim Warren, 2008). On the other side of the picture the cost leader ship strategy will provide the company a more leverage to reduce their prices of provide discount offers to the customers as the company have more margin due to the increase in profit margin. McDonalds can offer different discount deals on their core products as these are also provided by their major global competitor KFC. So, if the fast food chain is following an integrated strategic option then it can attain competitive advantage on either side of the court. This will fulfill the first and important strategic objective of McDonalds i.e. to maintain the market leader position. As the fast food chain will be able to counter each offer given by its competitor and also can attack the competitor by offering new products and deals and maintain the market dominance. Furthermore, using the differentiation strategy the fast food chain can make their customer services so supreme that no other competitor can copy that. Along with the food quality which is already very unique can be improved further and new products can be launched which are not available in the market and not ever provided by any other organization. By suing this differentiation strategy the company will be able to achieve its another strategic objective i.e. to provide the customer with quality food and service. Cost leadership and differentiation strategies will improve the profit margins and the strategic objective to provide a positive return on investment of the shareholders and investors will be fulfilled. Concluding this discussion it is suggested to the McDonalds management to continue delivering the quality product and services and further reduce their operational cost without compromising the quality of their products and standard of their services. McDonalds Stakeholders Analysis Stakeholders are those bodies or parties which have direct or indirect interaction with the organization. These bodies are affected with the operations of the business positively or negatively. The major stakeholder for McDonalds includes their customers, shareholders and their employees. Customers Customers of McDonalds are the major focus of fast food chain. Mentioned earlier in the document that the companys corporate values indicate that customer is the king. The strategic objectives are also aimed towards the customer satisfaction by delivering value to them. Customer services is the important part of the McDonalds strategic planning as through quality customer services they are able to retain he customers. McDonalds branches and franchises are all over the world and they are huge in number. This is to facilitate the customer to provide the quality food with easy access. Furthermore the free home delivery service of the fast food chain shows that the organization is committed to produce their products and services at the door step of the customers. Shareholders Shareholders are another major stakeholder of the company. Strategic objectives of the company show that the company is committed to deliver return on investments. The company has adapted cost leadership and differentiation strategy which have given them a position of market leader and helped to increase the profit margins which is the major concern of the investors. Employees The employees are the key to success for any organization. At McDonalds it is not a different story. The company considers their employees as an asset like all successful organizations and is committed to facilitate their employees who in actual are the prime resources that leads towards the fulfillment of organizations strategic objectives. Five Competitive Forces Analysis of McDonalds Michael porter provided a frame work which contains the analysis of five different forces effecting the organization (Kim Warren, 2002). Through this analytical tool five different forces affecting McDonalds are evaluated. Figure 1 Porter Five Forces Model Threat of new entrants Fast food industry has gained a tremendous growth in the 21st century. Many fast food chains are operating in different countries. The major are KFC, Pizza Hut and Subway. However there are many local fast food chains that provide the same kind of products which these international fast food chains do. However, the quality and standard is not up to the level of these chains still these chains are able to grasp a handsome amount of market share. The entry in this business is not a difficult task; however, to launch a chain at the level of McDonald is quite difficult. Threat of Substitutes There are several substitutes available against the products of McDonalds, which are also liked by the consumers. So McDonalds also have to consider those substitutes while designing their strategies. Degree of Rivalry The competition in the fast food restaurant industry is intense. Having the major brands like KFC, PIZZA HUT and Subway , McDonalds really have to be up to the mark in terms of products and customer services to maintain the market leader position. Bargaining Power of Buyers Bargaining power of buyers in case of McDonalds is high as the customer has so many options so the fast food chains have to maintain their prices very competitive and keep the level of customer services up to the mark. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Bargaining power of supplier is not high in case of McDonalds. Suppliers try to add their names in the list of the big brand names such as McDonalds because of the frequency of their orders. Pest Analsyis of Mcdonalds Pestle analysis is to analyze the external forces which can affect the organization. Below is the brief analysis of McDonalds Figure 2 PEST Analysis Framework Political Forces Due to the global operations of the company there are several policies in different states which can affect the McDonalds policies and procedures. Economic Factors The global economy can affect the organization in many ways. The change in the fast food industry business can also affect the McDonalds in a positive or negative way. Social Factors Being operating in many countries across the globe, McDonald have to recognize the social and cultural factors. For instance in Muslim countries the fast food chain has to assure the community regarding the use of Halal chicken. Technological Factors The rapid change in technology will force the company to adapt it in order to survive in the competitive market. Furthermore, the introduction of new advertisement Medias gives a more chance to aggressively market the products through different channels. Conclusion McDonalds enormous success all over the globe is the result of their effective vision and mission which is leading the organization in the right direction. The selection of right strategies at the right time allows the organization to achieve the organization set aims and objectives. The progress of the company towards strategic aims and objectives is satisfactory. The selection of integrated strategic options will allow the company to progress more efficiently towards the achievement of strategic aims and objectives.

Little Brother Music :: essays research papers

Little Brother: The Listening Describing this CD in three words would be personal, stylish, and free. Not â€Å"free† like it comes with your purchase of fifty dollars or more at Best Buy but â€Å"free† as in no boundaries or limitations. When I first put this album in my CD player and pressed play I was completely entranced by the sounds that followed. That was back in 2003 and still to this day you might catch me blasting songs in the morning or humming their tunes to sleep at night. If I try to put my finger on why this ONE album can last so long with a person as picky with music as me it would come down to how well the two rappers, Phonte and Big Pooh, convey every aspect of their lives into their lyrics. Not only can they describe fully the pressures of having a growing family and a low paying job, but also let loose stories about groupie love, haters getting put in their place, and partying until daybreak; all this with clever wordplay that puts them in a class of their own! I wouldn’t call them underground hip-hop because they don’t make a conscious effort to be different. They’re not considered mainstream because their focus isn’t just on making music to be rich. They’re just an alternative, and it is refreshing to hear someone strive to be the best at what they do artistically, not by how well they can market themselves. At a business level, we all know the importance the actual beat plays with finicky listeners. Even the songs with sub-par lyrics and rhyme schemes can still become a hit when a famous producer is behind the scenes. Luckily, production is another criteria Little Brother controls so well. Their producer, and third member of the group, is named 9th Wonder for more than just the cool moniker: he represents his own unique sound not yet overused and exploited by the masses. With a pension for taking old school samples and churning out beats unbelievably hypnotic and hard-hitting, 9th lays the backdrop perfectly for each a nd every bit of musical art on Little Brothers’ first major release. Taking a different direction than sampling producers like Kanye West and Just Blaze, he has been steadily gaining fame ever since he produced the song â€Å"Threats† on Jay-Z’s final record, â€Å"The Black Album†. Because