Carrie Chapter Twenty

Q. You deny you had prior knowledge of Carrie White's whereabouts? A. Of course I do. It's an absurd idea. Q. Oh? And why is it absurd? A. Well, if you're suggesting some kind of conspiracy, it's absurd because Carrie was dying when I found her. It could not have been an easy way to die. Q. If you had no prior knowledge of her whereabouts, how could you go directly to her location? A. Oh, you stupid man! Have you listened to anything that's been said here? Everybody knew it was Carrie! Anyone could have found her if they had put their minds to it. Q. But not just anyone found her. You did. Can you tell us why people did not show up from all over, like iron filings drawn to a magnet? A. She was weakening rapidly. I think that perhaps the †¦ the zone of her influence was shrinking. Q. I think you will agree that that is a relatively uninformed supposition. A. Of course it is. On the subject of Carrie White, we're all relatively uninformed. Q. Have it your way, Miss Snell. Now if we could turn to †¦ At first, when she climbed up the enbankment between Henry Drain's meadow and the parking lot of The Cavalier, she thought Carrie was dead. Her figure was halfway across the parking lot, and she looked oddly shrunken and crumpled. Sue was reminded of dead animals she had seen on 495 – woodchucks, groundhogs, skunks – that had been crushed by speeding trucks and station wagons. But the presence was still in her mind, vibrating stubbornly, repeating the call letters of Carrie White's personality over and over. An essence of Carrie, a gestalt. Muted now, not strident, not announcing itself with a clarion, but waxing and waning in steady oscillations. Unconscious. Sue climbed over the guard rail that bordered the parking lot, feeling the heat of the fire against her face. The Cavalier was a wooden frame building, and it was burning briskly. The charred remains of a car were limned in flame to the right of the back door. Carrie had done that. She did not go to look and see if anyone had been in it. It didn't matter, not now. She walked over to where Carrie lay on her side, unable to hear her own footsteps under the hungry crackle of the fire. She looked down at the curled-up figure with a bemused and bitter pity. The knife hilt protruded cruelly from her shoulder, and she was lying in a small pool of blood – some of it was trickling from her mouth. She looked as if she had been trying to turn herself over when unconsciousness had taken her. Able to start fires, pull down electric cables, able to kill almost by thought alone; lying here unable to turn herself over. Sue knelt, took her by one arm and the unhurt shoulder, and gently turned her on to her back. Carrie moaned thickly, and her eyes fluttered. The perception of her in Sue's mind sharpened, as if a mental picture was coming into focus. (who's there) And Sue, without thought, spoke in the same fashion: (me sue snell) Only there was no need to think of her name. The thought of herself as herself was neither words nor pictures. The realization suddenly brought everything up close, made it real, and compassion for Carrie broke through the dullness of her shock. And Carrie with faraway, dumb reproach: (you tricked me you all tricked me) (carrie i don't even know what happened is tommy) (you tricked me that happened trick trick trick o dirty trick) The mixture of image and emotion was staggering, indescribable. Blood. Sadness. Fear. The latest dirty trick in a long series of dirty tricks: they flashed by in a dizzying shuffle that made Sue's mind reel helplessly, hopelessly. They shared the awful totality of perfect knowledge. (carrie don't don't don't hurts me) Now girls throwing sanitary napkins, chanting, laughing, Sue's face mirrored in her own mind: ugly, caricatured all mouth, cruelly beautiful. (see the dirty tricks see my whole life one long dirty trick) (look carrie look inside me) And Carrie looked. The sensation was terrifying. Her mind and nervous system had become a library. Someone in desperate need ran through her, fingers trailing lightly over shelves of books, lifting some out, scanning them, putting them back, letting some fall, leaving the pages to flutter wildly (glimpses that's me as a kid hate him daddy o mommy wide lips o teeth bobby pushed me o my knee car want to ride in the car we're going to see aunt cecily mommy come quick i made pee) in the wind of memory; and still on and on, finally reaching a shelf marked TOMMY, subheaded PROM. Books thrown open, flashes of experience, marginal notations in all the hiergglyphs of emotion, more complex than the Rosetta Stone. Looking. Finding more than Sue herself had suspected-love for Tommy, jealousy, selfishness, a need to subjugate him to her will on the matter of taking Carrie, disgust for Carrie herself, (she could take better care of herself she does look just like a GODDAM TOAD) hate for Miss Desjardin, hate for herself. But no ill will for Carrie personally, no plan to get her in front of everyone and undo her. The feverish feeling of being raped in her most secret corridors began to fade. She felt Carrie puffing back, weak and exhausted. (why didn't you just leave me alone) (carrie i) (momma would be alive i killed my momma i want her o it hurts my chest my shoulder o o o i want my momma) (carrie i) And there was no way to finish that thought, nothing there to complete it with. Sue was suddenly overwhelmed with terror, the worse because she could put no name to it: The bleeding freak on this oil-stained asphalt suddenly seemed meaningless and awful in its pain and dying. (o momma i'm scared momma MOMMA) Sue tried to pull away, to disengage her mind, to allow Carrie at least the privacy of her dying, and was unable to. She felt that she was dying herself and did not want to see this preview of her own eventual end. (carrie let me GO) (Momma Momma Momma oooooooooooo 0000000) The mental scream reached a flaring, unbelievable crescendo and then suddenly faded. For a moment Sue felt as if she were watching a candle flame disappear down a long, black tunnel at a tremendous speed. (she's dying o my god i'm feeling her die) And then the fight was gone, and the last conscious thought had been (momma i'm sorry where) and it broke up and Sue was tuned in only on the blank, idiot frequency of the physical nerve endings that would take hours to die. She stumbled away from it, holding her arms out in front of her like a blind woman, toward the edge of the parking lot. She tripped over the knee-high guard rail and tumbled down the embankment. She got to her feet and stumbled into the field, which was filling with mystic white pockets of ground mist. Crickets chirruped mindlessly and a whippoorwill (whippoorwill somebody's dying) called in the great stillness of morning. She began to run, breathing deep in her chest, running from Tommy, from the fires and explosions, from Carrie, but mostly from the final horror-that last lighted thought carried swiftly down into the black tunnel of eternity, followed by the blank, idiot hum of prosaic electricity. The after-image began to fade reluctantly, leaving a blessed, cooling darkness in her mind that knew nothing. She slowed, halted, and became aware that something had begun to happen. She stood in the middle of the great and misty field. waiting for realization. Her rapid breathing slowed, slowed, caught suddenly as if on a thorn And suddenly vented itself in one howling, cheated scream. As she felt the slow course of dark menstrual blood down her thighs.

Request for funding of a community development project Essay

We at the Ottawa Foundation, Toledo Ohio would like to apply for the annual grant for financing a short term project of upgrading the community park located at the heart of the city. We are primarily a nonprofit catholic organization with strength of 50 active volunteers and we work in collaboration with local businesses and other volunteer organization such as Habitat for humanity , University of Toledo social service group etc. Our primary objective is to drive community development programs using the help of local community members and local neighborhoods. Though we are well funded by local business groups, the current economic slowdown has compelled us to search for alternative funding sources to fuel our projects. As Collins Foundation exists to improve and give greater expression to the religious, educational, cultural, and scientific endeavors in the state to assist in improving the quality of life in the state we thought that there could be no better organization that could understand and support our objectives towards the final goal of community development. So we would like to submit a detailed proposal of our plans and cost analysis to your organization for approval of a grant amount of approximately 7000 USD. We would appreciate your prompt response and would be highly obliged if we are supported in this endeavor. Thanking you, Regards, Christy Grandowics, CEO- Ottawa Foundation, Toledo, Ohio The Ottawa Foundation is a nonprofit catholic community which unites 20 civic organization, businesses and institutions to improve the areas in and around Toledo, Ohio. The major achievements accomplished in the past years include upgrade of Play pens at various local government day care centers, such as Apple tree Foundation run by University of Toledo, Sunshine at Toledo Children’s hospital. We are under the Tax Exemption Act#22 , Toledo Taxation Policy. The current project’s objective is primarily to upgrade the Wildwood metro park located at the south east part of the city. The trail starts from University of Toledo Campus and continues for about 30 miles to the crossing of Central and Reynolds. The service area includes 28 neighborhoods, with a total population of over 35,000. The neighborhoods include both multi- and single-family housing. Wild wood Park has seen extensive use by youth and adult sports leagues, trail advocates, dog trainers and general community park users. The proposed project will improve access and durability of the park, enhance patron safety, upgrade critical facilities such as children’s playground and shelter, and provide a buffer to the adjacent neighborhood. It also serves as a natural habitat for deer, rabbits and various seasonal birds and smaller animals. The park also includes different varieties of wood which are donated annually to â€Å"Small Homes & Shelter† a foundation serving the North West Ohio by providing shelters for homeless during the winter months. This project would involve the redevelopment and renovation of 5 acres of the existing 30-acre David Douglas Park in central Vancouver. Renovations will include the re-alignment of the main entry drive and expansion of parking facilities, re-alignment of trail segments, and installation of new play equipment, picnic shelter, vegetative screening, invisible dog fencing and support facilities such as night patrol for enhanced security measures. Though Ottawa Foundation is a nonprofit organization and is being supported by various flourishing local businessmen, and the state government the current economic recession has led to cost cutting of funds and so we would need some financial help urgently to fuel this project. As Wildwood Metro Park has maximum footfall during the months of April-October we would like to start the renovation during the months of October till mid December before the onset of heavy snowfall. Currently we are looking for nonprofit construction firms and student bodies like â€Å"Habitat for Humanity† to get the construction work done at a minimum cost to us. The blue print for this project is currently being looked upon by Dr Jim Weiss who serves as a faculty in the civil engineering department of University of Toledo and had served in various firms prior to his appointment as a faculty member and is experienced in transportation and construction engineering. He has his team of five graduate students who have agreed to volunteer for this current project development.

Organizational Behavior in the Workplace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Organizational Behavior in the Workplace - Essay Example 3). While these three steps aim to improve a product, they also compel the manager to learn about organizational behavior. Organizational behavior refers to â€Å"the study of factors,† which influences employee behavior, as well as the factors that affect the response of the organization towards the behavior displayed by the employees. In reality, employees have positive and negative experiences in the workplace environment that may affect their motivation (George & Jones, 2012, p. 3). This situation makes it necessary for managers to develop organizational behavior tools, which may be taken up in the short term, and long term; tools that hopefully may mitigate the negative, and increase the positive experiences of employees in the workplace environment (George & Jones, 2012, p. 4). The manager has to begin at the individual level, and apply short term organizational behavior tools that will help unveil an employee’s personality. Personality inventories may be conducte d to gauge the personality of an employee. In this method, the reaction of employees regarding statements that are in line with personality dimensions will be asked that will reveal their level of agreement or disagreement (Ashraf, n.d., p. 157). An assessment centre can also be developed that will guide employees in their career choices (Folsom & Boulware, 2004, p. 21). These tools will help the manager in developing motivational strategies that are in keeping with the preferences of the employees. Personality inventories and the evaluations done in the assessment centre are usually administered for a short period. After the individual level, organizational behavior tools that are intended to address issues at the group level have to follow, and be implemented for a long period. After the process of personality evaluation and enhancement, the manager has to focus on work motivation, and this has to include all employees. One way to enhance employee motivation level is by building q uality circles. Quality circles refer to â€Å"semi autonomous work groups† comprised of employees from the same work areas who regularly gather to talk over issues connected with their work responsibilities (Ashraf, n.d., p. 158). Constant communication is imperative to build a socially-dynamic workplace environment. The manager should encourage subordinates to form quality circles to inspire employees to engage themselves in activities that will help them connect with other employees and the company. It will be hard on the part of the managers to implement changes if employees do not fully trust them or the organization. Trust is something that can never be bought through extravagant rewards, or through flowery words. The trust of the employees to the capacity of the managers in dealing with the happenings within the organization is essential to keep them motivated and to retain them for a long period. As one of the foundations of an organization, the manager has to take pa rt in shaping â€Å"a culture of trust† (Pride, Hughes, & Kapoor, 2013, p. 203). This is an effective big picture strategy that if applied will bring positive transformation in the workplace environment. When there is a culture of trust, rapport is increased, and the relationship between the manager and employee becomes better. One way to build the trust of employees

Read and answer question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Read and answer question - Essay Example From this, the whole organization would benefit and remain with their misconducts. In application of the individualism approach to decision-making involving a long-term serve of self-interest, Antonio would tell of the fraud to the insurance company, which despite ruining his job at Express Luxury Lines, would create ethics in the organization. Putting myself into Antonio’s place, I would make a decision of the individualism approach though ethical of stopping the fraud against the insurance company by Express Luxury Lines. This is a decision in the post-conventional level of moral development, which involves making decisions with principled conscience as long as the decision is ethical without fear of the social consequences attributed to it. In the event that Antonio and Kevin are fired from Express Luxury Lines because of them reporting Expresses’ fraud, it would not be justified for them to remove all traces of their employment at the Cruise line from their resumes so as not to explain it to the prospective employer. Contrary to that, this should be an opportunity for them to ascertain their ethical behaviors in decision-making processes, making it known to the prospective employer that it is due to their strong ethical stand that they were fired, hence are the best placed employees in ensuring sanity in the

Software Company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Software Company - Essay Example Strengths†¢ Good knowledge about different software development languages and platforms†¢ Owner is aware of cross cultural diversity and may adopt a new marketing and management strategy†¢ Ability to forecast increases the chances of survivability for the company during financial recessions†¢ High-quality product and cost-effective price†¢ Interested and passionate about software development†¢ Professional Web design and information architecture†¢ Good company locationWeakness  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Lack of reputation in (country name) market†¢ Owner has to prove himself in (country name) market†¢ Because company is a sole proprietorship, may be slow response time for customers†¢ Limited production rate†¢ Limited growth rate†¢ Services are limited to medium-sized and large companies  Opportunity  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Software development is a thriving industry†¢ Future strategic alliances†¢ Retainer contractsThreats  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ New comp etitors entering markets†¢ New technological changes†¢ Economic slowdown†¢ Political, legislative, and regulatory changesActions for addressing weaknesses: To increase the responsiveness of the company, the owner will always carry small tablet with him at all times.Future growth opportunities will be considered, such as becoming a registered company to increase product rate and growth.

Political Continuities and Discontinuities in the World between the Term Paper

Political Continuities and Discontinuities in the World between the Colonial Period and the Present - Term Paper Example In a simplistic perspective, colonialism pertained to the acquisition, perpetuation, and management of the overseas territories referred to as colonies by the people from other countries, most commonly happening to be denizens of the Western world. Colonialism was a process by which the people of a Western country established sovereignty over a foreign land and the colonizers went to a great length to alter the politics, social norms, culture and economic dynamics of that colony to strictly suit their vested interests and designs (Wesseling 1997, p. 29). Inequality was indeed the basis of colonialism and the inequality between the colonizing nation and the colony and between the colonizers and the natives was the crux of all the colonial logic. Colonialism did have a multidimensional impact on the individual rights, politics, cultural norms, economics and religion of the colonized nations and gave way to institutions and concepts like slavery, economic exploitation, religious enforce ment and ethnic alienation. Though these norms and concepts have greatly ceased to exist in a strictly colonial form, they indeed tend to continue in altered forms and designs in the contemporary times. This paper intends to trace the continuities and discontinuities associated with these institutions and concepts in a current perspective. Slavery Colonialism relied for its political and economic sustenance on the subjugation and exploitation of the colonized. Slavery was an immensely unfortunate and inhuman aspect of colonialism that tended to dehumanize the people from colonized lands to run the economic machinery of the colonial nations (Walvin 1994, p. 7). The essential essence of slavery in the colonial times was that it methodically degraded the culture, traditions, social institutions and religions of the colonized races to consider them equal to being animals. The colonial forces had to somehow justify the exploitation of subjugated races as slaves, and the one plausible way of doing so was to prove and establish that the people from colonized races were inferior to the Europeans. The foundations of slavery and the slave trade were laid in the beginning of colonialism and the commensurate rise of mercantile powers (Walvin 1994, p. 56). Slavery was utterly devastating for the colonized races in a long term context as it significantly shrunk their populations, made the colonized lands and races more vulnerable to and dependant on colonial powers, decimated any chances of modernization of the enslaved races and brought far reaching political consequences, whose reverberations could even be heard in the present times. The institution of slavery devastated farming and industry in the colonized nations. There is no denying the fact that the institution of slavery in its colonial context, where the individuals from the enslaved races were owned and managed by the Western vested interests has seized to exist in the present times. However, it goes without sayin g that the historical momentum that accompanied colonialism and imperialism and the accompanying institutions and practices like slavery still continue to shape the present world in ways and forms that is utterly disturbing and annoying. It would not be wrong to say that there are far greater numbers of slaves serving the cause of the Western economies today than that existed during the zenith of slavery. Today the

About a movie called (The Brother Grimm) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

About a movie called (The Brother Grimm) - Essay Example The two move to a part of Germany occupied by the French in the 19th century and set up a phony witch. They use the fake witch to trick the residents of the Karlstadt of their mystical powers. The two brothers do their tricks so successfully that when a trouble befalls the city, the French General Delatombe summons them and tasks them with resolving the mystery. However, the mystery is an actual problem with real risks. A supernatural queen needs to drink the blood of young girls in order to regain her beauty. She, therefore, captures young girls from the village. The general tasks the two brothers with finding the queen, defeating her supernatural powers and rescuing the girls. The adventure thereafter is exhilarating as the two brothers fail twice and are on the brink of losing their lives. However, they eventually succeeded after a series of attempts. They rescue the village from the horrific queen. The film is an independent production directed by Terry Gilliam. Terry Gilliam is an American film director, actor and screenwriter. He contributed to writing and later directed the film. He has directed numerous other films some of which are adventure films. The Adventures of Baron Munchausen produced in 1988 was one of the adventure films he directed. However, The Brothers Grimm is unique as the director adopts a fiery tale approach in the development of the film. He produced the Brothers Grimm in 2005, a period when the film industry globally was burgeoning. The film, therefore, portrays the development of the film industry as Terry Gilliam revamps his creativity in authoring the script and directing the film. The developers of the film employ various elements of film development strategically thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the film. Key among such elements in the film is lighting. Lighting plays an integral role in illuminating the setting among other

Toxicology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Toxicology - Essay Example This paper declares that pleasure can be described as a â€Å"state or feeling of happiness and satisfaction resulting from an experience that one enjoys.†. Pleasure can serve to promote addiction. The process is a complex neurobiological one, which relies on the reward circuitry or limbic activity. These processes involve dopaminergic signalling. Endorphins and endogenous morphinergic mechanisms may also play a role. Addictive drugs are able to act directly on the reward pathways. Reward pathways are linked to the brain’s limbic system. The euphoria induced by drugs enhances the activity of the brain’s pleasure and reward systems. This discussion stresses that various species show differences in the rate of development of tolerance and physical dependence. Even in the same animal, tolerance develops to drugs at different rates, which rules out the possibility of an alteration in drug absorption, metabolism, excretion, etc., as a basis for the tolerance. Although tolerance develops to many of the effects of the opiates, miosis appears to be resistant to tolerance development. The pupil may be always sensitive to opiates because of the existence of different types of opiate receptors whereas the drug receptors on the cells of different tissues become less sensitive to the drug at different rates. â€Å"The most important point is that tolerance and dependence develop to different effects of drugs at different rates†.

Techniques Used In The Animated Film Development Movie Review

Techniques Used In The Animated Film Development - Movie Review Example During Paleolithic period, the phenomena of motion were captured in drawings where the animals were often depicted with many legs in superimposed points attempting to explain the aspect of the action. Ancient Chinese records cover numerous mentions of devices which were claimed to give an illusion of movement to animal figures or human, yet these accounts are not clear and may refer to the real movement of the images through space (Parent 11). According to Parent (12), the only animated devices in the 19th Century included phenakistoscope, zoetrope, and praxinoscope that gave an illusion of motion from a sequence of many drawings. The use of Phenaskiscope failed to lead to the emergence of the cinematography, which included a projector, camera, and a printer, on a single machine that allowed moving images to be displayed effectively on a screen. This was invented by the first filmmakers, Louis Lumià ¨re, and Augusta in 1894. The initial animated projection or screening was fashioned in France by Reynaud Charles-Émile, who was a science teacher in France (Parent 12). Reynaud fashioned the "Praxinoscope in 1877" and then the "Theater Optique in 1888". In 1892, Reynaud publicly projected his first animation known as "Pauvre Pierrot" in Paris. This film was remarkable since it applied film splashes (Siman-Tov 23). Most of his films did not have photographs; they were drawn straight onto the transparent strip. In Europe, Émile Cohl, a French artist, formed the first animated movie by applying what was later recognized as traditional animation formation methods," Fantasmagorie of 9108" (Parent 18). The film majorly consisted of one stick image moving about and meeting all manner of changing objects, like a wine bottle that transforms into a flower. In addition, there were also segments of live action whereby the animator’s hands made an appearance into the scenes (Parent 20). The film was formed by drawing one edge on paper and later shooting the other side onto a negative film that gave the image a blackboard look.

What is wrong with the education system Research Paper

What is wrong with the education system - Research Paper Example Moreover, the quality and quantity of services provided by teachers can be directly linked to the aspect of teacher tenure and union of education, considering that these aspects focus on the welfare of teachers while overlooking the welfare of students and the education system as a whole. Teacher Tenure The biggest factor in consideration with teacher tenure is the fact that it enhances complacency of teachers being covered by the tenureship policy, since they cease to fear placing their jobs under risks. In consideration to enhancement of complacency among teachers, it becomes certain that quantity and quality of services being offered by these teachers may be compromised. More so, teachers who are seen to openly compromise quality and quantity of work cannot be easily fired, since, compared to regular teachers, it is more expensive and hard to fire tenured teachers. This is due to the fact that there is a lengthy and complex documentation process that seeks to prove that unsatisfac tory and poor performance of the tenure teacher to be fired. Other than proving and documenting the poor performance claims of a tenured teacher, a court of law must critically scrutinize the allegations agree to the claims (Nixon, Packard and Douvanis, 2007, p. 43-45). Administrators often seek to weed out poorly performing teachers in an effort to improve education standards; however, weeding out under performing teachers who are tenured is more costly than retaining them. This aspect of retention leads to accumulation of non-performing teachers and thus consequently affecting the education system as a whole. The education system is in a crisis considering the fact that teachers’ performance is critical to the success of the students and the education system as a whole. The profession of teachers needs to recruit and retain the brightest and best teachers with promotion, security and other benefits being emphasized on merit. Although teachers need security and employment as surance from unjustified lose of job probably from political influences, the systems should not overprotect them to the extent that performance issues are compromised (Philips, 2009, p.3). Retaining the best teachers needs to start from the principals being able to evaluate and fire their teachers with regards to student achievement and performance standards of teachers. Poor performance of teachers needs to be critically dealt with given the fact that many students come from unstable homes and therefore highly in need of well performing teacher in order to boost their quality of education irrespective of their unstable lives. Teachers should be judged based on the teaching services they render and their ability to impact positively on the lives of students in the classrooms they teach. Teacher tenure negatively impacts on the education system although the policy was basically meant to establish fair procedures to protect teachers from political, discriminatory, and personal treatme nt by employers. The policy has however been misused to protect incompetent teachers rather protecting competent teachers to enable high retention of best teachers for fostering high education standards. However, employers can overcome incompetence factor by hiring competent teachers who are qualified with regards to real performance issue. Teacher tenure should only be used to protect teachers from injustice and politics school boards and external powers may use against them and ensure teachers

Cache Level Essay Example for Free

Cache Level Essay Describe the purpose of ONE (1) setting that is statutory provision for each age range. A statutory provision for under 5’s could be a nursery as it is fully funded by the government. The government dictates that education must be provided for all children under 5 although it is the parents’ wishes to send children to nursery. The intention of a nursery is so that they educate the children before they start school, also they can help develop their social and their motor skills so that they are nearly fully developed ready for starting school. The role of the school is to support parent’s wishes and access children’s educational needs. â€Å"The Foundation Phase is a statutory framework for children aged 3-7 in Wales. At our school we are committed to the holistic development of each child, looking at where they are in their stage of development and teaching them the skills they need to reach their full potential†-(http://www. cogannursery. co. uk/#/curriculum/4540401886)-10/10/12 A primary school is a statutory provision for ages between five and seven. This setting provides full time education by following the national curriculum â€Å"The National Curriculum, taught to all pupils in state or maintained schools, is made up of blocks of years, known as key stages† All local authorities in England and Wales must provide a choice of schools for children to attend. D2: Describe the purpose of ONE (1) setting that is a different type of provision for each age range. A different provision for under 5’s could be a private nanny, a private nanny works in the home of the children and lives in or out of the home depending on the parent’s decision. A nanny looks after children from birth onwards although this depends on the parents’ wishes. Nanny’s work in a private working agreement, so the parents of the children pay the nanny directly and also pay their taxes and national insurance. A purpose of a nanny is so that in out of school hours the children are looked after and cared for; a nanny is purposed for busy working class parents. â€Å"Nanny is responsible for the entire care of the children of their employers. This includes anything from washing the childrens clothes and tidying the childrens rooms, to supervising homework and preparing childrens meals, as well as taking children to and from school and activities. A nanny is available 24 hours a day, unless their employment contract states otherwise. †- (http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Nanny)-10/10/12 A different provision for children between five and seven could be an out of school club. An out of school club doesn’t educate children although they do offer a range of activities. It is the parent’s choice to use the school club as it is fully paid by the parents. All out of school clubs follow health and safety rules. â€Å"Our aim is to provide quality accessible  out of school childcare offering a range of play activities in a friendly and  welcoming atmosphere. †- (http://www. debsoutofschoolclubs. co. uk/ )- 15/10/12 D3: Describe the work of a professional or an agency working with children. A professional role which would work with children would be a children’s nurse. A nurses’ role is varied and sometimes challenging. Support is a major factor for the role of a nurse; children’s nurses will work as part of a team including doctors, hospital play staff, radiographers, healthcare assistants, new-born hearing screeners, psychologists and social workers. â€Å"This branch involves everything from nursing a sick new-born to an adolescent road accident victim. The challenges are very varied, with family care and support a key element. †- (http://www. nhscareers. nhs. uk/explore-by-career/nursing/careers-in-nursing/childrens-nursing/ ) A Children’s nurse helps and supports children by evaluating patient needs to provide the best possible care. Nurses also support families of the patients they educate and advise children about treatments and implications also to provide support and training to help deliver follow-up care at home. â€Å"It is a privileged position which allows you to help families when they can be at their most vulnerable†- (http://www. dayinthelife. org. uk/Default. aspx? pageid=322) D4: Describe how to keep information about children and families confidential. It is important to be confidential as it is a legal requirement in some cases. The policy for confidentiality means that information about children or families should not be shared amongst others. Everyone who works in a childcare setting must know about the confidentiality policy and follow the rules. The policy also states that all information and facts about the child must be stored in an secure safe place, information and facts about each individual child should be stored and locked away and only to be used when needed by the teachers or staff when given permission. Contact details of each individual child should be stored away this includes their name, age, number, address etc. Also other paperwork of each child should be stored away too, such as school reports, grades/levels, medical notes, etc. â€Å"Anyone working with young children, whether in a nursery setting, a school or in a family home, will need to practice confidentiality. Confidentiality is respect for the privacy of any information about a child and his or her family†- An Introduction to Childcare and Education, Carolyn MeggItt, Jessica Stevens, Tina Bruce, ISBN 0-340-78007-X, 215pg- Monday 8th October 2012 (Date Found), Year 2000 Published. D5: Explain how to prepare to work in a placement with children. To prepare for work placement with children always be prepared, call placement at least two days before you start to confirm what time you are due in and finish and what you are supposed to wear and bring to placement. When meeting you supervisor for the first time always make sure you look neat and tidy, by tying your hair back, make sure nails are short and well cared-for, wear natural make up or none if possible, take all excessive jewellery out e. . facial piercings, also dress appropriately e. g. smart pair of trousers/leggings, with a black or white t-shirt/polo shirt, jacket or cardigan and a sensible black pair of shoes. D6: Give TWO (2) different ways in which you can show that you understand the importance of valuing each child as an individual. There are many ways of treating children as individuals. As a practitioner you could meet the child’s needs by talking to a child one to one as this could stren gthen the child’s self-confidence and esteem. Every child learns differently a child could learn by auditory (Listening, being told things), kinaesthetic (doing practical activities), visual (being shown things or remembering information by drawing) or read/writing learning (prefer to read instructions than being told what to do), as a practitioner you need to be aware of this. Going down to a child level could make it easier for them to understand the task being asked as they will feel more comfortable and also the teacher can understand what they find difficult. Listen to the child and treat them accordingly to their wishes and needs. All children should be treated equally and activities set differently according to their abilities. When planning an activity at the setting I must make sure that each child participates in the activity like making â€Å"Christmas â€Å"cards, some children do not celebrate Christmas so find another sort of celebration card or activity for them to do. Diversity could be shown within children nurseries creches, day-cares and schools. Every child had different religions and beliefs to follow so encouraging children to understand the different religions and beliefs to understand why other children celebrate these other celebrations. Practitioners and teachers should do certain activates with the children which involve different religions so the children have more of an understanding of the religions around them e. g. do painting activities including different symbols of religions, playing games from religions, reading books of religions etc. C1: Give TWO (1) examples of when you should refer information about children and families to professionals in the setting. You should only share information about a child and their family if you are concerned that the child is in harm, this could be through abuse, neglect or violence. If you have concerns that a child may be in this situation you should inform a higher member of staff who then can contact the police and social services. Social services and police work together as a multi-agency which is where two or more agencies work together to make an impact. If a professional in a childcare setting may be concerned that a child is in danger, or has seen any bruises of physical abuse he/she should report it to a higher member of staff. A professional may also reveal confidential information to other staff/professionals if it may put other people/children in harm or it may affect the child’s behaviour and emotions such as stress within the family. Another example of when a professional might share personal information is when a Childs routine may be changed e. g. changes have been made to picking up or dropping off a child. Staff would need to know this information as so they are able to let the child go at a differ time or with another guardian or the child. B1: Explain why the first impressions that you make in the setting are important. The first impressions when starting placement first time is important because this is what you are remembered by and what people judge u on. You should wear appropriate comfortable smart clothing which is suitable for when doing activities with the children. Most nurseries/day cares expect their employers and practitioners to dress smartly e. . black trousers, white smart shirt. A good appropriate attitude is also important when making a first impression; you should be enthusiastic eager and always make sure you look like you’re enjoying yourself whatever you’re doing. Making a good impression shows that you value the job/placement. Team work is needed through of life it’s a needed life skill it is important especially when working with children. B2: Explain suitable ways in which you can show positive attitudes when working in a childcare setting. Within a childcare setting you can show a positive attitude by involving yourself with the children. You should wear suitable comfortable clothing for working with children, this might be a pair of stretchy smart trousers and a white polo top and a pair of black smart shoes. A: Explain the importance of keeping information about children and families confidential. It’s important to keep information about children and families confidential at all times. As practitioners you are never to discuss matters or concerns about children and their families outside the working environment. It important to maintain confidentiality about children and their families secure and safe as it is your responsibility as a professional. When sharing information about a child or their family you’re not just breaking the rules and policies of you working placement you are also putting a child at risk and harm. A*: Reflect on the importance of recognising your own learning style and using this knowledge effectively in your studies. After learning about learning styles I found out that my learning style is visual, this mean that I would prefer to learn through seeing e. g. eing shown things through pictures, slide shows and diagrams. Recognising your own learning style will help you by finding out the best way for you to learn and understand things. There are three different types of learning styles such as visual, auditory and kinaesthetic. Visual learning style mean that you learn better by recognising things e. g. pictures, posters, watching a programme. Auditory leaning st yle means that you learn better and understand more by listening to other people. A kinaesthetic learner learns by practical learning for example moving around and doing the activity not just writing notes about it. Bibliography http://www. cogannursery. co. uk/#/curriculum/4540401886 10/10/12 http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Nanny -10/10/12 http://www. debsoutofschoolclubs. co. uk/ 15/10/12 http://www. nhscareers. nhs. uk/explore-by-career/nursing/careers-in-nursing/childrens-nursing/ 15/10/12 http://www. dayinthelife. org. uk/Default. aspx? pageid=322 23/10/12 An Introduction to Childcare and Education Carolyn MeggItt, Jessica Stevens, Tina Bruce, ISBN 0-340-78007-X, 215pg- Monday 8th October 2012 (Date Found), Year 2000 Published. Word Count 1,497

Objectives For An E Business Strategy

Objectives For An E Business Strategy Investigation, critical analysis and formulation of e-business strategy for Under Study who manufacture, maintain, service and support scientific machinery and accessories.   (Jump to) Task A To generate research and formulate an e-business strategy for the company by means of applying five analytical tools in strategic management. Task B Discuss the challenges of adoption of e-business and evaluate the critical success factors for e-business in relation to the company Task C Critically review the process analysis in relation to operations with a view to improving performance. Executive Summary (Synopsis) The aim of the project is to investigate the current state of the company with a view to investment. The intention is to identify and set objectives for an e-business strategy. The company under study has a workforce with over 150 years of experience in manufacturing, maintaining, service and support of scientific machinery and accessories. It is part of a larger group of five privately owned companies. The company aspires to expand its operations into new countries and produce innovative products with exceptional quality however it currently operates with dated and obsolete equipment with no long term business to business agreements, minimal profit margins and no e-business strategy. The report will review a process analysis of the company in relation to expanding its operations into a new country with a view to improving performance. The first part of this report applies five analytical tools in strategic management concluding with an evaluation of a proposed approach. The second part of this report details the challenges of e-business adoption ending with an evaluation of the critical success factors. The third part of this report is a critical review of the process analysis. Task A The objective of this task is to formulate a suitable E-business strategy for the company. Competition has always been central to the agenda of companies. Strategic planning has now become widely accepted as the important task of charting a long term direction for a company. Strategies offer a frame work for understanding position and the underlying forces of competition (M Porter). Reviewing Information Systems (IS) and Information Technology (IT) are used in business to add value and achieve objectives (McKay and Marshall, 2004). Identifying internal and external forces is essential to understanding and defining strategic goals and objectives. The rate of change in both internal and external environments of manufacturing firms is increasing, which necessitates that increased attention be paid to strategic planning and strategy formulation. The approach for this task will mirror that suggested by McKay and Marshal who recommended that internal and external analysis can create an e-v ision. An appropriate devised e-business strategy can then be proposed. McFarlans Strategic Grid In 1993 McFarlan and McKenney provided a strategic grid to examine the strategic role of information technology. The tool is useful in balance decision making. Analysing and understanding the companys information technology and information systems will be vital in terms of how the company does its business currently and how its business model or e-business strategy is formulated for the future. Factory: High operational impact, low strategic impact, this quadrant is about operational improvements that affect large portions of the firm, and are aimed at improving performance or decreasing cost. Turnaround: low operational impact, high strategic impact. This quadrant is about exploiting new technologies to provide strategic opportunities. Strategic: High operational impact, high strategic impact. IT organisations that have most projects in this quadrant understand that IT can both improve core operations of the firm while simultaneously generating strategic options. Application of Model. Figure 1.0 Illustrates the companys position in the McFlaranss strategic grid as strategic quadrant. The company has identified that information technology and information systems are an important part of their future. This has been identified by the companys desire for an e-business strategy. If the company utilised IS IT more then the business will perform more efficiently and potentially gain a competitive advantage. Future investment in IT IS is a necessity for the companys growth. It can not be ignored that the company is positioned close to the turnaround quadrant but on analysis the company has identified its needs for growth thus strategic planning is of higher importance. Pest Analysis When analyzing the macro-environment, it is important to identify the factors that might in turn affect a number of vital variables that are likely to influence the organizations supply and demand levels and its costs (Kotter and Schlesinger, 1991; Johnson and Scholes, 1993). The radical and ongoing changes occurring in society create an uncertain environment and have an impact on the function of the whole organization (Tsiakkiros, 2002). Kotler (1998) claims that the PEST analysis is a useful tool for understanding market growth or decline, and as such the position, potential and direction for a business. A PEST analysis is a business measurement tool. PEST is an acronym for Political, Economic, Social and Technological factors, which are used to assess the market for a business or organisational unit. The PEST analysis headings are a framework for reviewing a situation, and can also, like SWOT analysis, and PorterHYPERLINK http://www.businessballs.com/portersfiveforcesofcompetition.htmHYPERLINK http://www.businessballs.com/portersfiveforcesofcompetition.htms Five Forces model, be used to review a strategy or position, direction of a company, a marketing proposition or a proposal. As PEST factors are essentially external, completing a PEST analysis is helpful prior to completing a SWOT analysis, a SWOT analysis Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats is based broadly on half internal and half external factors. PEST ensures that companys performance is aligned positively with the powerful forces of change that are affecting business environment (Porter, 1985). PEST is useful when a company decides to enter its business operations into new markets and new countries. The use of PEST, in this case, helps to break free of unconscious assumptions, and help to effectively adapt to the realities of the new environment. The results can be used to take advantage of opportunities and to make contingency plans for threats when preparing business and strategic plans (Byars, 1991; Cooper, 2000). Application of Model (P)olitical Factors The company opening in new countries must consider political factors such as regulations and legalities; for example an e-business may not be eligible to trade or have premises in a new territory. Chinese regulations for example have limited Googles search engine, excluding Googles You Tube. In March 2010 China banned Googles search engine only to lift the ban a day after. The company must monitor the new Countrys policies or regulations to ensure the way it conducts business is politically acceptable and thus not limiting any future strategies or goals. Ensuring the selected country has a stable political environment will aid company stability. Many countries have restrictive polices which are designed to protect local manufactures from larger organisations. Such policies often hinder foreign companies from entering into these markets. The company should form a strategic alliance with a local company to circumvent any limitations in opening in a new country. (E)conomic Factors The industry is in growth, this is indicated by the company wishing to expand and develop an e-business strategy. Funding in new countrys can be affected by monetary and fiscal rates. Changing inflation rates and currency fluctuation can determine the profitability of the company. A depressed economy will generally be a luxury which results in a number of organisations going out of business, it can provide opportunities for some (Robinson and et al., 1978; Thompson, 2002). If the company is restricted by political issues this would be considered if an alliance was required to set up operations in a new country. A depressed economy could also give an advantage on labour due to high unemployment. Energy availability and cost will require analysing for suitability in the new country. This could affect the e-business strategy in a negative or positive way. (S)ocio Cultural Factors Recruitment in a new country will have to consider technology limitations due to education. Higher educational standards will raise the probability of technology advancement thus having a competitive edge. Consumers attitudes towards online transactions may negatively influence the e-business strategy however if the new country is emerging as an online leader due to political influences such as investing in IT then this could gain a competitive advantage. Cultural attitudes towards e-business across the globe may affect the company objectives. (T)echnological Factors Safer online transactions will aid online communication thus improving business to business communications and orders. Internet accessibility can determine whether the companys e-business strategy will work. Some locations may have limited services or none at all. This can also be a competitive advantage if the area is in development or an internet provider is expanding. Technology advances could potentially aid the company in being more efficient and lean. Becoming a lean world class business will aid the company in being financially competitive. Government investment in technology and research will aid growth. SWOT Analysis SWOT has an extensive history as a model of strategic and marketing analysis. It has featured in strategy books since 1972. SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats in a project or in a business venture. It involves identifying the internal and external factors that are favourable and unfavourable to achieve that objective. The technique is credited to Albert Humphrey It advocates say that it can be used to gauge the degree of fit between the organisations strategies and its environment, and to suggest ways in which the organisation can profit from strengths and opportunities and shield itself against weaknesses and threats (Adams, 2005). The tool is relatively simple to use but its impact if used academically could be influential in a new business strategy. A weakness is that SWOT, having been conceived in simpler times means it does not cope very well with some of the subtler aspects of modern strategic theory, such as trade-offs (De Witt and Meyer, 1998). Strengths: characteristics of the business or team that give it an advantage over others in the industry. Weaknesses: are characteristics that place the firm at a disadvantage relative to others. Opportunities: external chances to make greater sales or profits in the environment. Threats: external elements in the environment that could cause difficulty for the business. Application of Tool The tool has been applied to the company to establish the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. (S)trengths 150 Years workforce experience. Good company name. High quality production and service. Constantly lowering costs to compete. Informative website Desire to grow the business into new territory. Competent workforce Strategic growth into new country / territory Supply directly to customer After sales service Privately owned International customer base Service and support is world wide (W)eaknesses Limited resources. Website is designed for marketing, no transactions. Limited investment. Bricks and mortar organisation no web transactions Skills shortage or little innovation. Weak marketing with no e-commerce or e- business strategy. Dated processing of supply chain management, lack of information technology and information systems. Profit margins are set to compete for business Still using some dated equipment (O)pportunities Competition is unwilling to take on less important projects. Mergers or strategic alliances in new country IS and IT improvements for competitive advantage enhancing a professional company image. Website sales developing market. International market LTA (long term agreements) with suppliers and customers. Educated general manager. Logistics / transportation. Diversification Up to date technology manufacturing. Potential to open new site. Development of new technology, processes and materials. Faster manufacturing with less power (competitive pricing) Environmental leader Unsaturated market IT director with 20 years experience in e-business (T)hreats Language barriers in potential new country Competitive rivalry in global market for larger contracts. Fluctuation in global monetary policy fiscal/interest rates could leave the company exposed (supply chain). Cheap labour abroad. Fierce competition from larger companies. Possibility of a competitor developing new technology. Porters Five Forces Model of Competition The Porters Five Forces model is a simple tool that supports strategic understanding where power lies in a business situation. It also helps to understand both the strength of a firms current competitive position, and the strength of a position a company is looking to move into. Despite the fact that the Five Force framework focuses on business concerns rather than public policy, it also emphasizes extended competition for value rather than just competition among existing rivals, and the simpleness of its application inspired numerous companies as well as business schools to adopt its use (Wheelen and Hunger, 1998). The original competitive forces model, as proposed by Porter, identified five forces which would impact on an organizations behaviour in a competitive market. These include the following: The rivalry between existing sellers in the market. The power exerted by the customers in the market. The impact of the suppliers on the sellers. The potential threat of new sellers entering the market. The threat of substitute products becoming available in the market. Understanding the nature of each of these forces gives organizations the necessary insights to enable them to formulate the appropriate strategies to be successful in their market (Thurlby, 1998). Application of Tool Rivalry Amongst Existing Firms Strong amount of rivalry within the companys chosen products/industry. Rivalry is evident by the presence of larger businesses in the same industry. Competitive pricing indicates fierce competition. Bargaining Power of Buyers Buyers can approach the company and the competition (larger companies) thus creating competition and fierce pricing strategies. Long term agreements are essential to long term stability. The company accepting minimal profit demonstrates the bargaining power of buyers. The company doesnt hold a niche product thus the cost of a buyer switching supply will be minimal. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Suppliers could strategically integrate forward for example assemble the product and sell direct to customer. The World Wide Web (www.) reduces the possibility of suppliers rates being overpriced and uncompetitive. The company can access the www to research suppliers and costs to ensure the right price is being paid thus forcing the supplier to have less bargaining power. If the cost of switching supplier is high e.g. switching from one component supplier to another though there is no evidence of this to the company, it shouldnt be overlooked. Threat of New Entrants The high set up costs and technology reduce the risk of new entrants. This is indicated by larger organisations as competition. The desire to develop the business into a new country indicates that competition is minimal. Competitors could retaliate when made aware of the company establishing itself in a new country. Threat of Substitute Products The threat of a substitute product is high. The company are manufacturing dated products. New technology could eliminate the need for the dated product thus ending the majority of the companys revenue. The threat of the customer not needing the dated part, designed out of the end product. There is no evidence to support the threat but choosing to ignore it could be costly. McKinsey 7S Model The McKinsey 7S model was developed in the late 1970s and named after a consulting company, McKinsey and Company, which has conducted applied research in business and industry (Pascale Athos, 1981; Peters Waterman, 1982). The 7-S model is a tool for managerial analysis and action that provides a structure with which to consider a company as a whole, so that the organisations problems may be diagnosed and a strategy may be developed and implemented. The 7-S diagram illustrates the multiplicity interconnectedness of elements that define an organisations ability to change. The Seven-Ss is a framework for analyzing organizations and their effectiveness. It looks at the seven key elements that make the organisations successful, or not: Strategy plan of action Structure dictates way the company operates and performs (Waterman, 1980) Systems user friendly as possible (Lynch, 2005) Style important in the performance of strategy (Martins and Terblanche 2003) Skill to maintain competitive edge in technology advancement Staff people make a business successful Shared values common goals working together to achieve them Application of Tool Strategy The company has a desire for growth by entering in to a new country and establishing an e-business strategy. Realisation of companys business strategy and the groups corporate goals requires substantial capital investment in the near future. Structure The structure of the company often dictates the way it operates and performs (waterman et al 1980). No formal alliances. Privately owned. Systems Customer satisfaction the website offers a feedback mechanism Local area network provides administration a range of functional applications. The wider area network enables access to email and the World Wide Web. The company utilises computer aided design (CAD) and has a new stock control system which will drive forward control and the desire for efficiency. Style The company prides itself on quality of products and services satisfying customers has a grate deal of focus. Over engineering a product to achieve superior quality may hinder effectiveness to compete in pricing. Utilising a competitive prising strategy to establish sales. Skill Over 150 years experience. Develops machinery from design to manufacturing with the use of computer aided design (CAD). Educated and enthusiastic general manager Appears to be a lack of creativity/innovation amongst the companys workforce. In house training offered to customers in all aspects of machinery and instrumentation demonstrates a high skill level. Staff New general manager has ethicised the need for a flexible work force and working environment. A new recruitment policy has been recognized as a driver for development. Shared values Service support contracts with emphasis on creating quality products and services. Good relationships with a number of organisations, sector manufacturers and developers. E- Business Strategy Objectives Strategy is designed to transform the firm from the present position to the new position described by objectives, subject to constraints of the capabilities or the potential (Ansoff, 1965). The author recommends the following objectives for the companys e-business strategy supported by the data provided from the analytical tools used; SWOT, Porters Five Forces, Mckinseys 7S, PEST and McFarlans Strategic Grid. To innovate new technology and efficiency through strategic investment, employee motivation and empowerment. Increase efficiency and effectiveness e-procurement Increase revenue from global markets Establish an long term agreement (LTA) E-Business Strategy Evaluation and Alignment with Business Objectives To remain competitive in todays global economy, the company must decide what methods, processes, and technologies will best optimize their operations. They have to weigh the company analysis and take action quickly in this ultra-competitive environment. Innovations and faster product development can also often create a barrier for potential new entrants (Porter, 2004) .The Companys dependence on obsolete products and lack of innovation has been analysed as a threat in Mckinseys 7S analysis and SWOT. The workforce has a wealth of over 150 years experience yet the business relays on obsolete components as its main revenue. It is essential to form strategic alliances with suitable organisations across the globe. Collaboration between the businesses will form the foundation for the development of new products. To aid the process of managing the change the author would recommend a well chosen project management technique or tool be applied especially in the planning stage. A suitable tool would be Critical Path Analysis which was originally created to benefit large defence projects. Two models, SWOT and Mckinseys 7S identified a lack of creativity/innovation amongst the companys workforce. It is important for the organisation to instil confidence among the employees about their future in the organisation and future career growth as an incentive for hard work (Purcell and Boxal, 2003) Emphasis is needed on hiring the best staff, providing them with rigorous training and mentoring support, and pushing personnel to their limits to achieve professional excellence. Creating professional excellence will gain competitive advantage over competitors. Empowered employees become more proactive with ideas and solutions. To overcome pockets of reluctance to change, the companys vision for change must provide an atmosphere of communication where concerns about transformation are not seen negatively but rather welcomed. Achieving empowerment and employee motivation requires continuous articulation and communication of reporting results and monitoring each individuals contribut ion and accountability to the overall companys objective. Leading others to think innovatively and promoting the continual discovery of new solutions and technologies is essential for the company to achieve its goal. Motivation is the art of getting people to do what you want them to do because they want to do it (Dwight Eisenhower) In order to maximise efficiencies across the supply chain the company needs to invest in information technology and information systems, the SWOT analysis has identified efficiency gains in e-procurement. IS and IT efficiencies will offer a competitive advantage also enhancing professionalism of the company and its overall image thus being more attractive to potential customers. Information systems and information technology are used in business to add value and achieve objectives (McKay and Marshall, 2004) The data from SWOT and PEST indicate the companys weakness of not utilising e-commerce thus missing an opportunity. The analysis demonstrates that the website is non transactional and therefore does not generate revenue from new or existing customers. To achieve an increase in revenue from global markets the company must form an e-commerce facility on its already established website. Search engine optimisation and key word density will ensure the company websites place on the World Wide Web. A recommendation would be for an external company to monitor the company website and scan competitors sites, frequently reporting results. Recruiting a specialist company would guarantee the site is in the top 10 results for the companys sector. Engaging in e-commerce will positively reduce risk of falling behind the competition. To address complexities of change, each component must be aligned, along with the enabling technology, (Statoils Data Quality Manager; Hesterbrink, 1999). Product suitab ility will need to be established during the planning stage. The company needs to be cable of adapting its business to thrive in this ever-changing world of e-business. In order to recoup costly investments in new production technologies the company needs to be assured that there will be income in the future to pay for the investment, as a way of reducing the risk in the investment decision. Establishing positive relationships and service are extremely important in winning business. It would be clear with an LTA (long term agreement) that customer is committed to the company. The technology advanced product would be key to a successful business to business (B2B) relationship. The company vision shows the company is committed to delivering to the customer a high quality product, on time and at a competitive price which in its self and with the SWOT analysis shows the need to invest. Securing long term agreements will create a competitive advantage. Task B The objective of this task is to discuss the challenges of adoption of e-business and evaluate the critical success factors (CFSs) for e-business in relation to the company. Critical success factors are the essential areas of activity that must be performed well if you are to achieve the objectives. The concept was developed by D. Ronald 1961 and refined by John F Rockart 1981. The company faces various challenges in implementing e-business. Critical success factors can typically be identified for each individual objective. Financial implications The initial test is financing the change process. The company has previously restricted investment due to the unavailability of resources and the absence of commercial awareness of innovation. Positive changes have been put into operation to overcome the obstacles such as employing an enthusiastic, educated general manager and a IT director with over 20 years experience. Initial costs of implementing e-business are: Preparation or project management and communicating the strategy Consultancy fees for Information systems and Information technology Recruitment is costly when advertising for specialists Equipment and software installation including maintenance / service costs Reorganisation of business to ensure world class lean principles are applied Human implications Implementing an e-business strategy will raise numerous issues within the workforce and business. Essential training will need time allocating. The company will have to capacity plan the impact on the business. Training the workforce to operate the new equipment / tools Creation of new procedures is time consuming Support, emotional and stress often employees dislike change If an alliance is formed will both sites be utilised potential redundancies A formal approach for managing change, beginning with the leadership team and then engaging key stakeholders and leaders should be developed early and adapted often as change moves through the organization the leaders themselves must embrace the new approaches first, both to challenge and to motivate the rest of the organisation. They must speak with one voice and model the desired behaviors. Data Protection Security is a prime concern for the successful adoption of e-business (Chaffey, 2007). Data utilized by the company requires safeguarding against: Fire Fraud or theft Failures in the system data recovery and backups on or off site Electronic espionage Customer information Strategic Alliances Firstly a suitable company needs to be identified for its qualities and business presence. The alliance company will need to compliment the company regards to vision and objectives. Organisational differences will need aligning for example one company may have a strong environmental stance when the other chooses to ignore the issues thus causing friction and possibly undermining already implemented procedures. Once the organisations have formed realignment or restructuring will need to be completed for example in lean world class manufacturing both sites would not require a human resource executive. The alliance formed must be mutually beneficial to both sides thus creating harmony between the two businesses. Long Term Agreements It would be clear with an LTA (long term agreement) that the customer is committed to the company. Developing innovative technology would be required to approach potential new and old customers with the objective of securing an LTA. The technology advanced product or products would be key to a successful business to business (B2B) relationship and long term agreement. The company vision and the acknowledgment of a required investment demonstrates the company is committed to delivering to the customer a technology advanced high quality product, on time and at a competitive price which in its self and with the SWOT analysis shows the need to invest. Securing long term agreements will create a competitive advantage and a secure future. Worldwide Business Worldwide trading is a competitive market with numerous challenges. E-business will encounter cultural variances which will need to be overcome if the implementation is to be fully successful. Operating in a worldwide market will create a fiercely competitive environment. The United Kingdom is known for technology development but not mass production. Technology development is suggested to be skills related. Mass production is suggested to be low cost labour operating with proven processes if a suitable product is developed then a consideration must be applied for outsourcing production to a low cost labour facility which will allow the company to compete in the worldwide market. Technology Small and medium sized businesses are often reluctant to develop into e-business due to resource. The company will have to commit to resourcing the e-business strategy. Implementation of the software will be challenging, adapting the workforce to an automated business process will be difficult. Employees are often reluctant to change. A transformational management style would be beneficial in impleme

Love Is Patient, Love Is Kind

Love Is Patient, Love Is Kind I Cor. 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. Christian love is Christs Commandment for all of HIS children. Jesus said, By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:35). John, inspired by the Holy Spirit, once wrote, We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death (1 John 3:14). And by this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:2-3). A Pharisaic lawyer once asked our Lord, Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said to him, You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 22:36-40) . According to Matthews Gospel, the very essence of the Law and the Prophets is to love God and to love others. And we see this term the Law and the Prophets used in one other place in Matthews Gospel. Its in this passage that we find the Biblical definition for love: Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew 7:12) In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus elaborates on this do unto others as you would have them do unto you principle. He says, Give to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods do not ask them back. And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. (Luke 6:30-36) When the King James translators came upon the Greek word agape (Gods Love), in addition to using the English word love to transliterate it, they often chose the English word charity. This was meant to reinforce the idea that agape is a selfless, giving love. Gods Love is unselfish and unconditional. Now we know what is meant by Christian love. Love is a holy disposition given to us when we are born again by God. It is the love of God shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. True spiritual love is characterized by meekness and gentleness, yet it is vastly superior to the courtesies and kindnesses of the flesh. We must be careful not to confuse human sentimentality, carnal pleasantries, human amiability and affability with true spiritual love. God commands love first to Him and then to others. It is not the indulgent, self-seeking love which is in us by nature. If we indulgently allow our children to grow up with little or, no Scriptural discipline, Proverbs plainly says we do not love them, regardless of the human sentimentality and affection we may feel for them. Love is not a sentimental pampering of one another with a loose indifference as to our walk and obedience before the Lord. Glossing over one anothers faults to ingratiate ourselves in their esteem is not spiritual love. The true nature of Christian love is a righteous principle which seeks the highest good of others. It is a powerful desire to promote their welfare. The exercise of love is to be in strict conformity to the revealed will of God. We must love in the truth. Love among the brethren is far more than an agreeable society where views are the same. It is loving them for what we see of Christ in them, loving them for Christs sake. The Lord Jesus Himself is our example. He was not only thoughtful, gentle, self-sacrificing and patient, but He also corrected His mother, used a whip in the Temple, Severely scolded His doubting disciples, and denounced hypocrites. True spiritual love is above all faithful to God and uncompromising towards all that is evil. We cannot declare, Peace and Safety when in reality there is spiritual decay and ruin! True spiritual love is very difficult to exercise because it is not our natural love. By nature we would rather love sentimentally and engender good feelings. Also many times true spiritual love is not received in love, but is hated as the Pharisees hated it. We must pray that God will fill us with His love and enable us to exercise it without dissimulation toward all. The word love can mean many different things in the English language. It can refer to a mothers love for her child, love of country, romantic love, friendship, or Gods love towards mankind. The Greek language has different words for different types of love. The original manuscripts of the New Testament of the Bible were written in the Greek language so we will take a look at the actual words used in the original manuscripts. We will explore the following Greek words: Agape Phileo Agape is defined as the love that God has for his Son and toward mankind. John 3:16 For God so loved (agape) the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Notice the first part of this verse, God so loved (agape) He gave. Agape love gives, agape love is the deep and constant love of a perfect being (God) towards an unworthy object (mankind). Ephesians 2:4 5 But because of his great love (agape) for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions it is by grace you have been saved. Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates his own love (agape) for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We were unworthy objects, we were sinners. Agape love is love that only comes from God. God showed his love (agape) among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. Agape love gives unselfishly and takes action in a visible way. As sinners, we deserved the death that Jesus took upon himself on the cross. We were unworthy of the love that God demonstrated toward us when he allowed his only Son to die on the cross for us. Agape love is why Jesus died on the cross for our sins in such a visible and humiliating way before all creation. Agape love truly does take action in a visible and if necessary humiliating way. Agape love is God doing what is best for mankind and not necessarily what man desires. Agape love is not drawn out by excellency in its objects. It is an exercise of the divine will in deliberate choice, made without assignable cause. In contrast, Phileo is defined as to be a friend to, indicating feelings, warm affection. As we study love we will begin to understand that Phileo is the love that can come easily because of like interests, commonalities. Sometimes we meet people who we naturally like. They are easy to get along with, you may share the same ideas, and theyre likable and enjoyable to be around so you feel comfortable and have good feelings being around them. Many times you develop a warm affection toward them and enjoy their company. Some want to say that God has only agape love but we know that is not true. Take a look at the following verses: John 3:35 The Father loves (agape) the Son and has placed everything in his hands, Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for Gods wrath remains on him. John 5:20 For the Father loves (Phileo) the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement he will show him even greater things than these. In John chapter 21, both words are used but each word retains its distinctive and essential character. Before we study John 21, lets review the events that lead up to this chapter. Peter is one of the twelve disciples, a fisherman by trade, who follows Jesus during three years of ministry. Near the end of Jesus life, just before Jesus is crucified, the last 24 hours go something like follows: The Passover meal or last supper is observed by Jesus and the twelve disciples During the meal Jesus says that He will be betrayed by one of the twelve disciples Peter is quick to say in Mark 14:29 Even if all fall away, I will not. Luke 22:33 34 records Peter saying: But he replied, Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death. Jesus answered, I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me. They leave the upper room and go to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus asks a few disciples to keep watch and pray, Peter is one of them. Jesus returns to find them sleeping as recorded in Mark 14:37 38 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. Simon, he said to Peter, are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak. Recorded in Mark 14:39, Jesus comes back a second time to find his disciples sleeping again. And again as recorded in Mark 14:41, Jesus returns a third time and asks Are you still sleeping and resting? Judas arrives on the scene and the soldiers start to arrest Jesus. In John 18:10 Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priests servant, cutting off his right ear. Jesus rebukes him as recorded in John 18:11 Jesus commanded Peter,Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me? Next we find Peter following at a distance as Jesus is lead away. Mathew 26:58 But Peter followed him at a distance, right up to the courtyard of the high priest. He entered and sat down with the guards to see the outcome. Read closely the following verses recorded in Mathew 26:69 thru 75 Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. You also were with Jesus of Galilee, she said. But he denied it before them all. I dont know what youre talking about, he said. Then he went out to the gateway, where another girl saw him and said to the people there, This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth. He denied it again, with an oath: I dont know the man! After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, Surely your are one of them, for your accent gives you away. Then he began to call down curses on himself and he swore to them, I dont know the man! Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times. And he (Peter) went outside and wept bitterly. Jesus dies on the cross. Peter and the other disciples are scared and hiding out. What had they witnessed the last three years? All the miracles, the feeding of the five thousand, the man with leprosy who was healed, the blind man whose sight was restored and on and on we could go, not to mention all the teachings and parables by Jesus himself. Hes dead now, where do they go, and what do they do? Jesus remains in the tomb on the Sabbath. No one could go to the tomb on that day. The next morning, Mary Magdalene goes to the tomb but it is empty. She runs and tells the disciples, Peter and John run ahead of the other disciples they see the linen wrappings but no Jesus. They go to their homes. Jesus appears to Peter on the road to Emmaus. Jesus appears to the disciples and tells them to go to Galilee and wait for him. They go there and wait. Peter grows weary says Im going fishing (John 21:3 Im going out to fish, Simon Peter told them, and they said, Well go with you. So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.) Peter had gone back to what he had done before meeting Jesus and the other disciples followed. The next morning Jesus stood on the shore and called out to them Friends, havent you any fish? The disciples answered No. Jesus tells them Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some. Miraculously, they caught an abundance of fish. John who is in the boat with Peter realizes that it is Jesus and says to Peter It is the Lord! Peter is so happy that he jumps in the water and swims to the shore. There Jesus had fish cooking on burning coals and invited them saying Come and have breakfast. When they had finished breakfast, the following dialogue took place and is recorded in John 21:15 thru 17 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these? Yes, Lord, he said, you know that I love you. Jesus said, Feed my lambs. Again Jesus said, Simon son of John, do you truly love me? He answered, Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. Jesus said Take care of my sheep. The third time he said to him, Simon son of John, do you love me? Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, Do you love me? He said, Lord, you know all things, you know that I love you. Jesus said, Feed my sheep. Loving one another (agape love) is one of the greatest outward expressions of our devotion to God. Jesus demonstrated agape love towards Peter even though Peter had failed so many times as evidenced in the verses listed above. Jesus was entrusting to Peter to be a leader in the Church when he said to Peter Feed my sheep. A Pharisee asked Jesus Which is the greatest commandment? Lets look at Mathew 22:37 thru 40 Jesus replied Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it. Love your neighbor as yourself. All the law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. Loving one another with an agape type love shows our love for God and to God. John 14:15 If you love (agape) me, you will obey what I command. John 15:12 My command is this: Love (agape) each other as I have loved (agape) you. I John 4:20 -21 If anyone says, I love God, yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. In contrast, when we love one another with an agape type love, the Spirit of God can work through us in the lives of other people that need to see the love of Jesus.

War And Peace By Leo Tolstoy :: essays research papers

Then novel War and Peace was written by a famous Russian author Leo Tolstoy in 1865. The novel describes the war with Napoleon in which many countries were involved such as Russia, Austrian, Prussia, Spain, Sweden, and Britain. The novel mainly focuses on Russia. It reflects the different views and participation in the war of Russian aristocracy and peasants and also shows Tolstoy’s negative viewpoint on the war. Showing the war, Tolstoy describes Napoleon’s attack on Russia, the battle of Borodino, the slow retrieval of the Russian army, the conquest of Moscow by Napoleon, the fire in Moscow, and the retrieval of Napoleon’s army during a deadly winter. Naopleon had to retrieve from Russia under attacks by Russian peasants and horsemen on those who fell behind. His army also sufferes from cold and hunger, since the Russians destroyed all food supplies. The takeover of Moscow by Napoleon proved to be useless, and in the long run, destroyed a large part of his army. Alongside with these historical events, Tolstoy describes the different classes of Russian society in terms of their participation in the war and what kind of an impact war had on their lives. In the beginning of the novel, the Russian aristocratic class, which was in the czar’s circle, wanted Russia to participate in the war. They wanted a quick victory and pride for the Russian nobility. They did not anticipate that the war would destroy homes, agriculture, and take many Russian lives. This class is shown in Anna Pavlova Sharer’s salon, with it’s upper class aristocracy, who talk only in French, viewing the Russian language as uncivilized and useful only for peasants. They adopted French culture and wear French style clothing, and at the same time they want to fight Napoleon. However, the majority of this class doesn’t want to participate themselves in the war, but want to win the war with the hands of the peasants. These aristocrats, despite their high education and power, will do nothing to help win the war. They live like parasites on the body of Russia’s society. This is how Tolstoy describes this class in general, but he also depicts two representatives of this upper class, Andrew Bolkonsky and Pierre Bisuhov, who were the more intellectual ones, and whose lives and views of war and life changed as the result of the war. Andrew was interested in a military career, and wasn’t completely satisfied with the czar, while Pierre wasted his life on alcohol – his everyday activity.

Fractal Geometry :: essays papers

Fractal Geometry The world of mathematics usually tends to be thought of as abstract. Complex and imaginary numbers, real numbers, logarithms, functions, some tangible and others imperceivable. But these abstract numbers, simply symbols that conjure an image, a quantity, in our mind, and complex equations, take on a new meaning with fractals - a concrete one. Fractals go from being very simple equations on a piece of paper to colorful, extraordinary images, and most of all, offer an explanation to things. The importance of fractal geometry is that it provides an answer, a comprehension, to nature, the world, and the universe. Fractals occur in swirls of scum on the surface of moving water, the jagged edges of mountains, ferns, tree trunks, and canyons. They can be used to model the growth of cities, detail medical procedures and parts of the human body, create amazing computer graphics, and compress digital images. Fractals are about us, and our existence, and they are present in every mathematical law that governs the universe. Thus, fractal geometry can be applied to a diverse palette of subjects in life, and science - the physical, the abstract, and the natural. We were all astounded by the sudden revelation that the output of a very simple, two-line generating formula does not have to be a dry and cold abstraction. When the output was what is now called a fractal, no one called it artificial... Fractals suddenly broadened the realm in which understanding can be based on a plain physical basis. (McGuire, Foreword by Benoit Mandelbrot) A fractal is a geometric shape that is complex and detailed at every level of magnification, as well as self-similar. Self-similarity is something looking the same over all ranges of scale, meaning a small portion of a fractal can be viewed as a microcosm of the larger fractal. One of the simplest examples of a fractal is the snowflake. It is constructed by taking an equilateral triangle, and after many iterations of adding smaller triangles to increasingly smaller sizes, resulting in a "snowflake" pattern, sometimes called the von Koch snowflake. The theoretical result of multiple iterations is the creation of a finite area with an infinite perimeter, meaning the dimension is incomprehensible. Fractals, before that word was coined, were simply considered above mathematical understanding, until experiments were done in the 1970's by Benoit Mandelbrot, the "father of fractal geometry". Mandelbrot developed a method that treated fractals as a part of standard Euclidean geometry, with the dimension of a fractal being an exponent. Fractals pack an infinity into "a grain of sand". This infinity appears when one tries to measure them.

Drama Portfolio :: Education School Theatre Plays Essays

Drama Portfolio How did the first drama exercise develop your ideas? We first tried a simple drama interview with some prejudice. We thought we could develop it by adding more drama strategies. We also thought that we could increase the prejudice of the interviewer and maybe, instead of him saying his own inner thoughts, he could have a conscience/alter-ego to say it for him. This lead on to the thought that we could make his alter-egos control him and his actions. What were your first thoughts? We discussed several meanings of the poem. We all thought that the poem was about prejudice in the workplace. The main character is interviewing people and discriminating against them because of their differences. We thought that a good drama developing from this poem would be in the form of an interview. What did your group decide? Our group decided to do the interview. We had 3 interviewees. Each would have a different characteristic i.e. colour, mentality, disability etc. They would be interviewed by a very prejudiced, racist person who would become increasingly so after each interview. Strategies, media, elements We used 2 main strategies within this drama. The interviewer had what we called, an alter-ego or conscience. There was a good (angel), neutral (everyday man) and an evil (devil) conscience. These controlled him. As each interviewee enters, the scene would freeze and the conscience would give their inner thoughts about the person. The alter-egos were placed on chairs, above, and surrounding the interviewer to show control over him. We build this drama up to a string climax. One second, noise and business, and the next, silence and solitude. What did you learn from other peoples' ideas and work? I learnt, from one of my group members, that you should think beyond the actual drama and use as many drama elements as you can to develop your drama. Also, to offer and accept good criticism and/or advice about how people can improve their acting abilities. Rounded Rectangular Callout: You will be hearing from us shortly by U.A. Fanthorpe What would you like to work on next? The next thing I would like to try would be to see how prejudice affects people in other ways e.g. at home, school, etc. and to develop a few dramas on that. Also, I would like to focus on one particular aspect of prejudice/discrimination e.g. racism, ageism, etc. and use a drama to get the message across as to how these prejudices are wrong and why these people are no different to any others. You Will Be Hearing From Us Shortly You feel adequate to the demands of this position? What qualities do you feel you

Theories of Foreign Direct Investment

Theories of Foreign Direct Investment Foreign Direct Investment, or FDI, is a type of investment that involves the injection of foreign funds into an enterprise that operates in a different country of origin from the investor. Foreign direct investment has many forms. Broadly, foreign direct investment includes â€Å"mergers and acquisitions, building new facilities, reinvesting profits earned from overseas operations and intracompany loans†. Foreign direct investment incentives may take the following forms: †¢ low  corporate tax  and individual  income tax  rates †¢ tax holidays †¢ other types of tax concessions preferential  tariffs †¢ special economic zones †¢ EPZ  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Export Processing Zones †¢ Bonded Warehouses †¢ Maquiladoras †¢ investment financial subsidies †¢ soft loan  or loan guarantees †¢ free land or land subsidies †¢ relocation & expatriation †¢ infrastructure subsidies †¢ R&D sup port †¢ derogation from regulations Once firms have decided to enter a foreign market, they have to choose the best mode of entry. Firms can use six different modes to enter foreign markets: 1. Exporting, being a temporary strategy is like a stepping stone in the international expansion process for most firms.In the past, Seagate was a well know example which concentrated its manufacturing operations in one location enables it to move down the experience curve and achieve location economies. 2. Turnkey projects, are popular because firms can continue with normal business operations while the contractor handle the time consuming and resource intensive projects for a foreign client. Singapore shipyard is reputable for handling sophisticated turnkey projects regardless of is complex requirements and other considerations.This industry is well known in the economic development for the last 40 years and will continue to play the critical role in our economy in order to achieve the go al for Singapore to become a leading international maritime link. Another example would be Sitra Holdings (International) Limited, the international producer of integrated wood based products and turnkey services, secured several turnkey design and build contracts in November 2009. Amongst these contracts, the single largest contract is worth S$3. 24 million at the Marina Bay precinct. 3.Licensing, enables a firm to gain access into new markets otherwise inaccessible, hence to facilitate the growth of licensing activities in Singapore with additional focus on brand licensing, character licensing and know-how licensing, the Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) aims to encourage the adoption of licensing as a growth strategy by producing a report to raise the awareness of how licensing can translate to income stream for companies. 4. Franchising, in Singapore has grown tremendously and is a preferred strategy for SMEs, as it involves minimal investment and staff, thus reducing costs.Local entrepreneurs have successfully made their mark internationally through franchising like BreadTalk, Charles & Keith, and OSIM. Larger companies can also make use of the networks of their established franchise partners to grow globally. 5. Joint ventures enable firms to share the benefit of the work process from a local subsidiary's knowledge of the host country such as the competitors, culture, political and business systems and access to greater resources including staff specialized in technology, finance, and so on.In November 2009, QATARQatar Petroleum International (QPI) and Shell Eastern Petroleum Pte Ltd have sealed agreements in which QPI takes stakes in two Shell Chemicals joint ventures in Singapore. The deal, to be completed in December, Shell will sell its existing shareholdings in two companies to a new joint venture called QPI and Shell Petrochemicals (Singapore) Pte Ltd. 6.Establishing new wholly owned subsidiaries would be best adopted by firms pursuing th e global and transnational strategies, for instance, Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited invested approximately S$900 million in Fraser & Neave Limited (â€Å"F&N†) through its wholly-owned subsidiary Seletar Investments Pte Ltd1 in December 2006. The investment would represent approximately 15 % of the total shares outstanding of F on a fully-diluted basis. This investment marks Temasek's most substantial investment in the food and beverage space in recent years.Temasek Holdings Limited (2006)   Country Focus – political economy and cultural factors of Singapore Political and economic systems of Singapore The Government of Singapore (GOS) is substantially consigned to maintaining an open economy and taking a leadership role strategize Singapore's future economic development. The government does that by adopting a free enterprise, open door policy to attract foreign investors from all types of services sector involving finance, business, tourism, telecommunication and consultancy services.As such, Singapore has exports hitting 186% of 2008 GDP. While Singapore's stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 23. 4% from $370. 5 billion in 2006 to $457. 0 billion in 2007. United States, Netherlands, United Kingdom, and Japan were the top sources of FDI in Singapore. Evidently, the high FDI index reflects Singapore's role as a manufacturing base for foreign multinationals (MNCs) and as a financial, transportation, logistics, and trading hub. Also, with high real growth rate and low inflation played a great role in shaping the Singapore economy.Singapore is one of the most enterprising and dynamic economies in the world. In this section, we compare Singapore's recent trade performance with its performance in past crises, namely the 1997-1998 Asian Financial Crisis where many countries and industries were affected by the deep fall of exports during the recession and the 2001-2002 Dot-Com Bust where IT industries around the world were affected by the large scale cancellation of electronic orders due to the over-investments by IT firms. In 2008 till present, Singapore is experiencing a slow down in the economy due to the US subprime crisis.The main issue is that the US Subprime Market is generating an extension of recessions in some economies and accelerating global recession in a way. Thus, Singapore's total output of the country has decreased and the export of electronics goods has reduced significantly. Background to Singapore's FDI strategy Singapore's assertive efforts to attain FDI for more support of its economic strategy have enabled the country to develop into a basis for multinational corporations (MNCs). Singapore's investment promotion agency, the EconomicDevelopment Board (EDB), focuses on obtaining major investments in highly valued services and/or manufacturing activities, deepening its industrial and export structure, using selective interventions to capture cross-industry externalities and move away from labour intensive to capital-skill and technology-intensive activities, by acquiring and upgrading the modern technologies in highly internalized forms. From Ijaz Nabi and Manjula Luthria. (2002). This strategy allowed the country to concentrate in specific phases in the production process, depriving from the flow of innovation and investing lesser in its own innovative effort.Singapore's FDI policies were based on liberal entry and ownership conditions, easy access to expatriate skills and generous incentives for the activities that it was seeking to promote. The EDB was mainly set up to synchronize policy, offer incentives to lead foreign investors into targeted activities, acquire and construct industrial estates to attract MNCs. The public sector played an important role in launching and promoting activities selected by the government, acting as a catalyst to private investment or entering areas.Often it was the efficiency, effectiveness and flexibility of government response tha t gave Singapore the edge over competing host countries. The importance of inward FDI to Singapore FDI has played a crucial role through the years in accelerating the economic development in Singapore. Being a small country with no natural resources, Singapore had depended on leading international companies not only in bringing in capital funds to broaden her economic base, but also in upgrading the technology and skill content of her industries.Since FDI is one way that Singapore can tap foreign technology, therefore a substantial amount of capital is required to help generate GDP. Furthermore, exchange rate will also play a role in determining GDP. A slow appreciation of the currency will increase the confidence of those who are investing in Singapore and help to attract more investment. The Singapore dollar appreciation will also curb imported inflation. The importance of FDI in Singapore is reflected in the country's ratio of inward FDI stock to GDP: at 72%, the ratio is the hig hest in the world.From Wendy Dobson & Chia Siow Yue (1997). That importance is also reflected in the fact that 90% of value added in Singapore's electronics industry (remarkable growth in exports and income) is accounted for by foreign investors, and that FDI accounts for fully two-thirds of equity capital in the country's manufacturing sector. From Wendy Dobson & Chia Siow Yue (1997). In addition, Singapore's productivity increased fastest in those industries in which FDI was concentrated. The rank correlation coefficients between increases in value added per worker and increases in FDI share and FDI level were . 2 and . 45. Moreover, because foreign direct investors' profits and outward remittances have tended to move in close tandem with the general performance of Singapore's economy and the health of its balance of payments, while the economic risk taking function is also borne by those investors, time and again Singapore's exceptional reliance on FDI has effectively cushioned i ts economy from the balance of payments and debt crises that have hurt many other developing economies. David M, Marchick & Matthew J. Slaughter (2008) Host Country policiesFDI is attracted to Singapore mainly due to Singapore's favourable investment climate and strategic geographical location. Some other reasons include non-fiscal advantages, Singapore's small domestic market combined with no tariffs on most imports and low corporate tax rates have made Singapore into a popular low-risk high-return FDI destination. In general, corporate taxes, or taxes imposed on corporate income, is an important determinant of MNCs' location decisions, just as individual income tax rates is an important determinant of where a person decides to work and live.Theoretically, other things equal, MNCs would prefer countries with lower corporate tax rates over countries with higher rates. Furthermore, a wide range of new incentives have been added over the years to promote FDI inflows. Burdensome regula tions and performance requirements for FDI can offset a generous package of tax incentives. However, in Singapore's case, the restrictions and regulations governing both the entry and operation of foreign enterprises and personnel are minimal.Overall, foreign investors are subject to the same government regulations as local investors, and both have a lot of freedom in pursuing their profit objectives. In addition to the general absence of performance requirements, Singapore has also signed a large number of avoidance of double taxation agreements, which mutually protect countries for a specific time against war and non-commercial risks of expropriation and nationalization.The four areas of Singapore's government regulations in different areas relevant to foreign investors are the foreign exchange regime, equity ownership, performance requirements and human resources. First, the foreign exchange regime is highly liberal and freely allows repatriation of capital and remittance of prof its, dividends, interests, royalty payments and technical licensing fees, as well as the free importation of goods and services for consumption, investment and production purposes.Second, foreign participation is permitted in most sectors of the economy except for some limitations in the monetary sector, areas of trained and skilled personnel. However, 100% foreign equity ownership is readily permitted. Third, there are no performance requirements for foreign investors such as domestic value-added content and local sourcing of inputs, no restrictions on borrowing from the domestic capital market, and no regulations and restrictions governing the transfer of technology.Fourth, there are only minimal restrictions on the recruitment of foreign personnel; employment passes are required but the government issues these quite liberally. However, the government does encourage foreign companies to hire local managerial and technical personnel. Singapore's non-fiscal advantages for foreign in vestors include strategic location, physical and financial infrastructure, human resources, political and social stability, good governance and a foreign investment policy that is liberal, comprehensive and well co-ordinated.Singapore's location astride major sea and air routes and in the heart of Southeast Asia – an economically dynamic region rich in natural resources – gives it a significant locational advantage in trade and investment. Singapore's highly liberal trade regime has further reinforced its natural locational advantage and turned it into Southeast Asia's undisputed trade hub, which, in turn, facilitates the export and import activities of foreign firms locating in Singapore.In addition, Singapore's time zone advantage, straddling East Asia and Western Europe, enables its financial markets and institutions to perform transactions with Japan, Europe and the US within its working hours. Singapore had reinforced and exploited its strategic geographical locat ion through large investments in physical infrastructure. Comprehensive air and sea transport and telecommunications link the city-state with the rest of the world.The domestic land transportation network is also well-developed and efficiently connects the airport and sea port to the business and financial districts. Singapore's airport and sea port are world-class facilities that are consistently ranked as among the best in the world. Its advanced telecommunications infrastructure facilitates business transactions with the outside world. Singapore has achieved world-class status in information and communications technology (ICT), while the government has ensured a reliable supply of power and water.Charles Oman (2000)   Industrial estates, business parks and science parks provide ready access to land and factory/office space and industrial, commercial and research facilities and amenities -reduces the capital investment requirements of foreign investors, enables quick start-ups, and promotes external economies of industrial clustering. Singapore is a major Asia-Pacific financial centre, and its well-developed financial markets, large inflows of capital, and abundance of national savings all contribute to the low cost of capital. Charles Oman (2000) .The government's human resource policy focuses on improving the productivity of the labour force through education and training. Singapore has adopted one of the most liberal immigration regimes in the world in order to expand its quantity as well as enhancing its quality. In terms of education, the government emphasizes technical and vocational education below tertiary level to provide a growing pool of technically competent workers, along with rapid expansion of engineering, business and computer science education at the tertiary level.Women were also encouraged to enter the workforce in a bid to boost the female labour force participation rate. Another major selling point of Singapore for foreign investors is its well-known socio-political stability and good governance. Its political background is well-secured and there is no history of incidents concerning politically motivated damage to foreign investments in Singapore. Not to mention that Singapore ranks as one of the least corrupt country in the world. Singapore has, and dynamically enforced, strong and solid anti-corruption laws.Political stability and an honest and effective political leadership and government have always been key elements in Singapore's favourable business environment. A pro-business government policy environment and high-quality civil service complements Singapore's excellent infrastructure and public capital. A remuneration system of paying relatively high salaries to civil servants attracts a constant stream of talented individuals to work for the government. World-class infrastructure and world-class government combine to offer a highly favourable environment for doing business.Singapore is consistently ranke d among the most competitive countries in the world terms of providing a sound business environment. According to the World Competitiveness Yearbook (WCY) 2005 by the Institute for Management Development (IMD), which ranks nations' business environments by analyzing their ability to provide an environment in which enterprises can compete effectively, in 2005 Singapore ranked 3rd among the sample of 60 major industrialized and emerging economies.The FDI has increased and better enhanced the quality of Singapore's entrepreneurial, managerial, marketing, technological and manpower resources. FDI had significantly contributed to higher exports and economic growth. However, further investigation also suggests that continuing large inflows of FDI may not be fully absorbed by the economy due to the scarcity of land and shortage of labour. This may lead to crowding out of domestic entrepreneurs.In order to overcome this problem, more domestic entrepreneurs are needed to emerge and invest ou tward so as to reduce the reliance on FDI. The outcomes of Singapore's strategies at attracting inward FDI Recent FDI Since 2003, one of the most active sectors in attracting FDI is the chemical sector. Through its subsidiary Faci Asia Pacific Private Ltd. , Faci SpA, has invested approximately US$5 million in a second metal stearate plant on Jurong Island, Singapore's chemical complex.And in 2006, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has developed a special relationship with the country, opening a number of ventures, with its investment in an antibiotics plant in the Tuas Biomedical Park. Not to mention, the Integrated Resorts have unnoticeably boost the foreign investments scene in Singapore and the many efforts made by the government to attract and sustain FDI such as, the revamping of Orchard Road for reportedly $40 million and establishing of the Circle line to facilitate travelling which completes just in time for the Youth Olympic games in 2010.Conclusion For Singapore to attract and sustai n FDI in all aspects, the structure that supports innovative activities must be further reinforced such as increasing research ability in public and private sectors, the availability of skilled human resources, policies to strengthen R&D infrastructure and so on, so as to foster innovation and local development. Although Singapore's education system and its no tariffs on most imports and low corporate rates are its main elements of attraction, there is always room for improvement.Summing up, the study of the strategies adopted by Singapore to attract inward FDI, the challenges that occurred, results and future directions were critically analyzed and supported with references and findings. Although Singapore is a very attractive destination of FDI, it still has a few areas where improvements can be made in order to maximise economic growth, profits and strategic development.So long as Singapore keep up with trends in the shift towards services, develop cross cultural literacy to avoi d being ill informed, sustain its competitive advantage, ensure accessibility of government information to foreign investors and continue to invest in the up and coming, biotechnology industries, it will continue to prosper. REFERENCES: Ijaz Nabi and Manjula Luthria. 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