Gothic Subculture †Sinister or Harmless? Essay

â€Å"What are the worst dangers that threaten our children today? Satanism? Drugs? Homosexuality? A culture of violence? Heat exhaustion? What if there was a danger that included all of these? That danger is here, and its name is GOTH. † 1 Those words, taken from the website hosted by Parents American Religious Organizations Defending Youth which main purpose is to inform and warn parents against dangers related to Gothic subculture, best summarize the confusion around the phenomenon of being ‘Goth’. Is gothdom a sinister cult posing danger to the society or a harmless movement, one among many? The commonly negative reputation of the Gothic subculture, especially among parents and teachers, has its roots in stereotypes. ‘Stereotype’ is defined in the Webster’s New World Dictionary as â€Å"a fixed or conventional notion or conception, as of a person, group, idea, etc. , held by a number of people, and allowing for no individuality, critical judgment, etc. † Stereotypes are usually imposed on the group of people they are applied to by others who are not within the group but are instead critical of them, very often due to lack of understanding or fear. Thus stereotypes are simplified cutouts representing general ideas rather than real living human beings, depriving them of their exceptional individual features. Such attitude easily leads to intolerance, resentment and loss of communication between general society and the subculture, hiding the real truths of alive people behind the stereotypical fiction. Among many stereotypes related to Goths, one of the most common ones is obsession with death. The commonly held view is that they are antisocial outcasts attempting suicide or desiring to kill someone else. In reality, Goths’ fascination with everything related to death is not as superficial as it appears at first sight. Their â€Å"viewpoint on death is one of acceptance of the fate that awaits us all rather than ‘whistling past the graveyard’, denying death and hoping it will just go away. Goths accept death as a natural part of life, part of the natural balance of things. This does not mean, however, that Goths invite death by attempting suicide or homicide – instead they accept and respect death for what it is, and move on. â€Å"2 Although the notion of suicide is fascinating among them, it is not accepted as a solution to their own existential problems, but as an admitted failure to their emotions of despair, loss and loneliness. In this aspect it is the self-awareness and an attempt to overcome the fear of death, an attempt to pursue a critical analysis of their own proximity to death; a different attitude towards this problem, contrary to the one shown in tabloids and TV programmes, where the idea of dying is either ignored or deprived of its dignity. As Birgit Richard points out: â€Å"The Gothics are one of the most conspicuous subcultures because they work against the suppression of ageing with their deathly pale faces in a time when sun-studio tanned complexions are the epitome of health. They become the terror of a deathless producing and consuming culture which marginalizes the process of dying and bodily decay to be able to proclaim the ideal of perpetual youth. Putting death at the centre of their style and their lives becomes a provocation by a subcultural group of adolescents which cannot be forgiven by society. Youth has to look fresh and ‘tasty’; it is not supposed to walk around ‘dead’. In a society with an ever increasing average life expectancy, dealing with death is suitable only when a certain age has been reached. † Another stereotype commonly associated with Goths is that their culture is anti-Christian with its Satanic motifs, black clothing, occult jewellery and devilish music of Marilyn Manson. They are accused of the worship of Satan, dangerous rituals and blood-drinking. Being attracted to the idea of self-mutilation, they are proud of their scars and occult symbols carved with razor blades all over their bodies. The Gothic movement is considered dark and self-destructive, glorifying everything that is morbid, and degrading everything that is good. The truth hiding behind this stereotype is different. Although the rooms of the â€Å"blacks’ are designed in a special manner, e. g. containing small altars with accessories like grave-ribbons, crucifixes, grave lamps, candles and skulls, their purpose is not to serve as a place for black masses but to â€Å"reconstruct the dark atmosphere of the cemetery, its proximity to death, or serve as a cave that shelters from a threatening outside world. â€Å"3 The colour black which dominates the style of clothing does not stand for their attraction to Satan but expresses a sense of despair, ascetic isolation and is the symbolization of inevitable death. The same meaning is vital for hair dyed black, specific make-up with black eye-shadow, lipstick and nail polish, and a chalky white face. Since Goths are attracted to everything related to death, their favourite motifs in jewellery are skulls, skeletons and bones, which serve as memento more rather than provocative items. Other popular accessories, such as crucifixes, stars of David, ankh, the pentagram and the cross turned upside down, do not serve as symbols of Satanism but as distinguishing feature from the institutionalized church or a protective talisman against evil eye. â€Å"Symbolism rejected by as irrational by other parts of society enables them to express dissatisfaction with the institutionalized church and the completely rationalized modern civilization. â€Å"Also their favourite venue, cemetery, has a completely different function than the stereotypical one, considered as a place for morbid Satanic rituals, since it serves as a symbol of mortality, silence, isolation and mourning. To the majority of society Goths are plain deviants and worshippers of Marilyn Manson and other ‘dangerous’ music which inspired the tragic Columbine shootings 5. â€Å"The titles of the songs alone are enough to show just what kind of music this is: Gloomy Sunday, The Order of Death, Draining Faces, Laughing Pain, Haunted, Movement of Fear. These are dangerous songs, performed by dangerous bands. One band for example is called Type O Negative – a blood type, and clearly a reference to Vampirism. â€Å"6 While it may be true that many Goths enjoy Marilyn Manson’s music, almost all of them agree that he is not Goth as â€Å"the controversial shock-rock star with the satanic leanings and violence-tinged music has never been a part of their [Goths’] community, artistically or philosophically. â€Å"7 Besides, Manson probably borrowed from the media portrayal of the Gothic movement which predates his stardom by at least a decade, as its origin is usually placed in 1979. In conclusion, it must be said that evaluating the whole subculture by means of stereotypes may be more sinister than the community’s rules themselves as it shows no respect for the individual, leads to intolerance and finally creates a deep chasm between the general society and the Gothic community. It should not be forgotten that Goths have to cope with the same pressures that non-Goths encounter: social anxieties, family problems, every day failures and stresses. The only thing that differs is their way of dealing with those problems; a darker one and more introspective version of ‘normal’. Tolerance and understanding is what Goths long for, as is stated by one representative of the subculture: â€Å"One way or another, those of us in the Gothic community demand to exist with as many rights and as much respect as is given to any ‘normal’ human being. Our population are millions worldwide, and we laugh, cry, and live just like anyone else. We are your doctors, your counselors, your grocers, your teachers, your students, your librarians, your favourite authors, your fathers, your daughters, and your friends. We may choose to revel in the shadows, but we smile with those who would rather live in the light of day. Being Goth is not a ‘phase’, it is not dangerous, and it is not going anywhere. Everyone deserves a chance to simply be. This is all we ask: let us be. † BIBLIOGRAPHY Covelo, Benjamin. The Goth Music Death Machine. 28 May 2004:  http://redmusic.com

Market Analysis – Sony Bravia

Sony Bravia In the Australian Marketplace â€Å"Colour like No Other† Executive Summary Introduction Summary: This report will articulate purchases of the Sony Bravia Television in the Australian marketplace. It will illustrate information to develop an in-depth understanding of the consumers buying habits. The research for this report includes information sourced from the Sony website itself, interpreted and applied to the Australian Marketplace. Body Summary: The major findings indicate there are various factors affecting the Australian marketplace.Overcoming a major threat is possible by utilising Sony’s strengths to maintain relevance in the Australian Marketplace. Conclusion/Recommendation Summary: It is clear that overtime, Sony will experience a variety of threats and weaknesses, that will jeopardise the success of the company. This report recommends that Sony maximises its strengths to continue creating innovative technology, to continue its perception of one of Australia’s premium television producers. Table of Contents Executive Summary2 Introduction4 Purpose4 Authorisation4 Scope4 Background4 Environmental Scan6 Economic influences:6 Demographic influences6Competitive influences:7 Political influences:7 Social/Cultural:8 Technological influences8 S. W. O. T analysis9 Conclusion12 Reference list14 Introduction Purpose This report aims to present an accurate investigation of Sony Bravia in the Australian marketplace, and to provide recommendations for the development of the company’s success. Authorisation This report is authorised by Anne Tonkin, TAFE SA, and written by Lynden Beck, a student of Anne Tonkin. Scope This report relates only to the Sony Bravia television, within the Sony Company and attempts to draw links to further development of understanding the Australian market place.Background In 1944, Mr. Akio Morita, an officer in the Japanese Navy worked with Mr. Masaru Ibuka, on a military task designing heat seeking missiles. After World War II, Morita and Ibuka maintained their friendship, and founded the corporate brand known as Sony. Sony was created on the shared belief that it could create ideas from imagination and make them a reality. The main objective of Sony was to create innovative products that would excite their customers. Sony is now one of the world’s leading producers of home entertainment systems with major interests in consumer electronics.Today, Sony has a vision to celebrate life that is expressed through advertisements. A vision articulates the focus and direction of an organisation. Sony’s vision states: â€Å"Creativity is our essence, we take chances, we exceed expectations, we help dreamers’ dream†. This statement expresses Sony’s want to satisfy their customers. Sony focuses on delivering a luxury experience which can only be experienced through their product. Sony Market Analysis Environmental Scan Economic influences: * The Financi al Crisis of 2007- 08, is considered by many economists to be the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression of the 20th Century.The effect of the crisis on Australia has been considerably less than in many other countries, however the effects on households are still present today. The Financial Crisis reduced the income of Australia by nearly 10% by March 2009. Furthermore, the Australian consumer is expected to save 21% more of its income during 2012-13. The Australian economy predicted less likely to purchase luxury items, such as a Sony Bravia television. * The ‘Household Assistance Package’ introduced by the Federal government in May 2012, is a key part of the clean energy future plan.This Government subsidy is designed to provide financial support to the middle class Australian householders in the introduction of the Carbon tax. Demographic influences * The demographic of the population consists of consumers who seek a premium product. The demographic of Br avia owners are, due to its pricing, of a higher socioeconomic group causing the Bravia to be seen as a status symbol. Sony Bravia offers ‘Colour like No Other’, implying exclusivity. * Sony Bravia’s typical target audience are consumers who are aware of the company’s material sources and sustainability policies, as well as their not-for-profit work in the community.Competitive influences: * Samsung, LG and Panasonic are well-known competitors of Sony. Each offering similar applications on televisions. Therefore companies must compete with customer service; this includes warranty lengths, replacement guarantees, prompt repair or replacement, to establish loyal customers. * Whilst cheaper televisions have less features they still appeal to consumers due to the low prices, putting pressure on the larger companies to compete for sales. Political influences: * The introduction of ‘Minimum wage’ has affected the international mployees of Sony worki ng in sweat shops or factories, due to the increase of the minimum wage Sony will have to pay more taxes. In addition, Sony must increase prices of products to maintain a certain profit rate. * Sony large screen televisions cost 30% more in China than they do in Australia. Tariffs on the importation of Sony products manufactured in China which then arrive in Australia help with inflated prices. Social/Cultural: * Sony puts particular emphasis on the cultural nature of its consumers. Sony is a premium product with premium prices, and is therefore seen as a status symbol amongst eastern and western cultures.Generally, only wealthy Australians can afford a Sony Bravia. * Today’s culture places more value on experience rather than materialistic possessions. Sony Bravia overcomes this desire by creating an experience that offers ‘Colour like No Other’. This television offers both an experience, and a possession. Technological influences * Technology is rapidly advanci ng; causing electronic products to be out dated regularly. Sony must be innovative with its products to maintain its competitive edge. LED televisions consist of a display that uses LED backlighting instead of the cold cathode fluorescent backlighting used by LCD televisions.LED televisions reduce energy consumption, produce better contrast in brightness and a greater colour range. * As 3D products are becoming more common at homes Sony intends to increase sales of 3D televisions, by 50% of their respective television distributions by 2012. S. W. O. T analysis A S. W. O. T analysis is a tool used to analyze the internal and external factors affecting a company. It is one of the most commonly used business analysis and decision-making tools. In this report, a S. W. O. T analysis will be used to examine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of Sony Australia.Strengths | Weaknesses | Opportunities | Threats | Creative catch phrase: ‘Colour like no other’. | High price can deter buyers. (smaller target audience)| Strong corporate brand Sony can be identified for many things. | Environmental concerns, high cost in running electronic products. | Strong status symbol, Sony is a premium product, and a luxury item. | Due to faulty wiring, the Sony Bravia was recalled between 2007-08| Age of technology, televisions have come from being a luxury to a household necessity. | Product confusion. Consumers unable to differentiate brands. | Technologically advanced.The Bravia television with high resolution 4 times any other HD T. Vs| Sony unable to provide premium customer service, due to high traffic visiting store. | Sony strives to employ diverse people to ensure the company achieves innovation and a wide range of skills. | Emphases on experiences rather than materialistic objects, such as expensive televisions. | Product features: ‘Your Presence is Needed’ app, which allows the TV to turn off once it senses the viewer has left. | S ony Bravia is not distributed into stores such as K-Mart and Big-W. Creating less impulse buyers. Changing Technologies Sony is investing in improving 3D capabilities and additional smart TV apps. | Global Financial crisis. The Australian consumer is expected to save 21% more of its income during 2012-13. | Sony’s involvement in the community and its participation in charity work. | Fewer adverts on Australian television| Sony Foundation Australia is a not-for-profit charitable organisation. | Carbon tax less money for Australian buyers to spend on high quality televisions. | Sony is able to cater for the Carbon tax through apps that save electricity. | Hard for non-technological people to uses due to extensive applications. Sony supports many initiatives that reduce waste and degradation| Must advertise online if unable the Sony brand may fall behind. | A major threat for Sony is the environmental concerns regarding electronic products. Current social values place emphasis o n maintaining sustainability. Sony focusses on improving the energy efficiency of their products by the use of the ‘Minimum Energy Performance Standards’  and ‘Energy Rating’ labels which appear on every electronic item. These help customers consumers choose more efficient appliances and save money on running the products.Sony Australia is enabling and encouraging Australian consumers to recycle batteries. Batteries collected are transported and recycled in a safe, environmental manner. Valuable materials such as cadmium, nickel, iron, cobalt and lead are reclaimed, and are reused as raw materials . Additionally, Sony has created various applications on televisions to save electricity. Motion sensors turn off the back screen when the viewer leaves the room. In overcoming environmental threats faced by Sony, the three strengths listed above suggest the capability to overcome perceived threats.Conclusion This report has analysed the brand, Sony, and in exte nsion, the Sony Bravia product. This report illustrated Political, Social/Cultural, Technological, Economic, Demographic, and Competitive factors that influence success in the Australian marketplace. A S. W. O. T analysis described the company’s strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities. It is recommended that Sony maximises its strengths to continue creating innovative technology, to continue its perception of one of Australia’s premium television producers. Reference list * Commonwealth Australia. (2010).The E3 Program – Improving Our Energy Efficiency. Available: http://www. energyrating. gov. au/. Last accessed 26/03/13. * Elliott, M. (Nov. 13, 2006). Akio Morita & Masaru Ibuka. Available: http://www. time. com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1554986,00. html. Last accessed 25/03/13. * Fung, D . (October 13, 2011). Sony Bravia 40-inch TV models could explode, melt. Available: http://www. cnet. com. au/three-sony-bravia-40-inch-tv-models-could-explode-mel t-339324229. htm. Last accessed 14th March 2013. * Hales, S. (May 2010). Sony settles into the premium market with 2012 Bravia range.Available: http://www. connectedaustralia. com/News/BreakingNews/tabid/119/ArticleId/7190/Sony-settles-into-the-premium-market-with-2012-Bravia-range. aspx? dnnprintmode=true&mid. Last accessed 14th March 2013. * ING DIRECT. (January 2013). Year of the Saver. Available: http://blog. ingdirect. com. au/2013/02/28/the-year-of-the-saver/. Last accessed 20/03/13. * Make. Believe . (January 2013). Our Vision . Available: http://www. sony. com. au/article/300251/section/sonycompanyoutline. Last accessed 20/03/13.. * Queensland Government . (24 November 2012). Swot Analysis . Available:

Indira Gandhi Negative Positive

negative Indira Gandhi  was the most corrupt politicians of all time . Her politics was so ugly that to remain in power and stay as uncrowned queen of India she imposed emergency in 1977 . She made extreme laws such as forcible vasectomy of men ( unmarried young men included ) to control  population of India  . She was an awful leader and one of the biggest criminal of all times . She ate away India financially and also caused a lot of mayhem . When Sikhs opposed her regime ( in worlds largest democracy ) , she turned against Sikhs .She attacked  Golden temple  on 6th june , 1984 , codenamed as â€Å"operation bluestar † , nonetheless to say that all so called sikh extremists were created due to effects of her evil regime . She was given her due punishment on 31st october , 1984 for attacking Golden temple . Because golden temple is just as important to Sikhs as Kabba , mecca is to muslims or vatican city is to christians positive The charismatic and epoch-making per sonality of  Indira  Gandhi  left her imprint not only in the affairs of her own country but also in international affairs.She belonged to that noble galaxy of great  leaders  who wielded extraordinary power. Indira  Gandhi  was  an Indian to the core but at the same time her vision went far beyond her own nation and embraced the entire human race. By virtue of being the Prime Minister of India, the largest democracy in the world, shewas  able to make a significant contribution to the practice of inter-national relations. She enjoyed well-deserved prestige and profound respect on the international scene. An attempt is being made here to highlight her role as an international  leader.Indira  Gandhi  was  introduced to international affairs at an early age. As the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru she  was  born and brought up in a family and environment where national and international politics were discussed all the time. Her illustrious father had taken car e to educate her daughter about all aspects national and international politics. This  was  amply demonstra-ted in Nehru’s letters to her daughter from prison which were later on published in a book form. In all these letters world history and politics have been discussed extensively.Besides, during the Prime Ministership of Nehru,  Indira  Gandhiserved as the official hostess to heads of states and governments at the Teen Murti House. She also accompanied her father in most of his foreign tours. As a result of all this she became quite familiar with international affairs. So after becoming the Prime Minister of India she hardly faced any problem in understanding foreign policy and  was  able to achieve success in this sphere within no time. Indira  Gandhi  inherited Nehru’s mantle and  was  credited with carrying out the Nehru legacy in foreign affairs.Following Nehru’s traditions, she championed the cause of international peace, disarmament , anti-colonialism and anti-racialism. She used the platforms of the Commonwealth, NAM and UN effectively. She not only preserved the rich heritage of Nehru but made her own contribution. She took certain decisions keeping in view the prevalent circumstances that resulted in raising the stature of India at the international level. Under her dynamic stewardship India’s voice  was  heard with respect in various international oranisations and forums.Indira  Gandhi  had no articulated world vision but had learned from her great father to identify India’s national interest with independent decision-making in international affairs, economic development at home and the exclusion of India and its neighbourhood in Southern Asia from either of superpower’s sphere of influence. Her policies were pragmatic, her dealings with foreign  leaders  unsentimental. Her pride, her sensitivity to equal treatment, her political skills in overcoming adversity—all hel ped to keep her government from succumbing to American or Soviet pressures on specific issues.She had a clear-cut perception of India’s strategic and national interests. She knew that in international relations power counted more than personal influence and that the strategic interests of a nation were far more important than moral principles. She followed pragmatic policies and her relations with the  leaders  of superpowers were based upon cold calculations. When  Indira  Gandhi  came to the helm of affairs, that  was  a bi-polar world. One bloc  was  led by the US and other headed by the Soviet Union. The Cold War  wasat its height.The nuclear race  was  on. Some relics of colonialism and imperialism were still there. Racialism  was  prevalent in some parts. World peacewas  under a grave threat. In the circumstances  Indira  Gandhi  followed the policy of non-alignment as laid down by Nehru. Very soon the international community recognis ed her as a  leader  who  was  committed to freedom and peace. Her role in the non-aligned moment  was  duly recognised at the Seventh Conference NAM when she  was  elected its chairperson in 1983 at New Delhi. This Conference  was  a historic one.The resolutions passed at the Conference reflected  Indira  Gandhi’s statesmanship and far-sightedness. Her most important contribution in the realm of world peace  was  the shaping of the NAM. Her able  leadership  provided a smooth sailing for the Conference. It also led to a better understanding of the common problems of freedom, peace and social justice for the people of the Third World. It  was  through this Conference that she made a major chunk of humanity feel important in the UN. Here she played a more dynamic role as a  leader  of mankind in the international arena.Her performance as the NAM Chairperson  was  superb and balanced, and it commanded respect not only of member-states but also of the superpowers. Her faith in the UN as the arbiter of inter-state conflicts and the most important centre for harmonising the actions of nations can’t be questioned. For, as she herself said, firm faith in the UN is central to the NAM. The aim is the same: to maintain peace by removing the sources of tension and to bring out the humanity in human beings. Indira  Gandhi  symbolised the Third World’s regeneration.Under her  leadership, Indian foreign policy matured from the conscious assertion of the rights and aspirations of newly free nations to a keen awareness on their part of their own responsibility in the global context. By refusing to sign the NPT she gained political credit for upholding India’s independence and for taking a principled stand against a discriminatory treaty. With  Indira  Gandhi  at the helm, India re-emerged in the South Asian strategic stage and her India recorded its ability and willingness to grasp the opportu nities of power politics in a regional context.She made a mark in the world as an unrivalled  leader  and a champion of the Third World. INDIRA  GANDHI  not only influenced history but also made history. With her extraordinary skills she balanced the superpowers against one another. 1971was  Indira  Gandhi’s finest hour in foreign and security affairs. Her skill lay in her intuitive grasp of the opportunity which the Pakistani rulers provided to change the geopolitics of East Pakistan. The Bangladesh situation gave her the opportunity to emerge as a military strategist and a diplomat par excellence on the regional and the world stage.With the clear and decisive victory India andIndira  were established as a major power and force in the world. Indira  Gandhibecame the international  leader. Her decisions and timings were applauded and hailed as perfect. As Henry Kissinger admits in his memoirs,  Indira  Gandhioutclassed and outmanoeuvred Nixon and Kissing er. It  was  a giant leap in international stature. The year 1971 represented the peak of her political career. She tackled Nixon on equal terms. Even her bitter critics were forced to admire her guts. For instance,  Leader  of the Opposition in Indian Parliament A. B. Vajpayee called her Durga.Another Opposition  leader  declared in Parliament: â€Å"Madam, you have created not only history but a new geography as well. † After the war  Indira  Gandhi  acted with great magnanimity at the Shimla Conference. She put India on the international scientific map by exploding the country’s first underground nuclear device at Pokhran in 1974. This signalled India’s nuclear potential and its unwillingness to abide by the nuclear rules of the superpowers. One of the important features of  Indira  Gandhi’s foreign policy  was  the close ties with the Arab world. It  was  during the Nehru period that the foundations of a sound and viable Arab policy were laid.The  Indira  Gandhi  era witnessed an allround development of Indo-Arab relations. Indira  Gandhi  always evinced keen interest in the affairs of the Arab world. Under her  leadership  India felt emotionally and morally committed to the national aspirations of the Arabs to gain a rightful place in the comity of nations. She always showed an abiding concern for Palestine which forms the crux of West Asian problem. Consequently, in the UN and in its various forums as well as in different Afro-Asian and Non-Aligned Conferences  Indira’s India supported the Arab stand on the Palestine issue.On her return to power in 1980  Indira  Gandhi  dumped the Janata Government’s pro-Israel policy into the dustbin and reverted back to the Nehruvian policy. She invited PLO  leader  Yasser Arafat to New Delhi and established formal diplomatic relations despite stiff opposition and strong pressures. She  was  called Gamal Nasser’ s niece, King Faisal’s daughter and Yasser Arafat’s sister in the Arab world. She  was  immensely popular among the Arab people who called her Alsayyida  Indira  Gandhi. Indira  Gandhi  reflected the restless spirit of mankind desiring to establish a world order free from human sufferings.She struggled for the creation of an essentially human order in place of one based on brute force. She  was  against all forms of domination and exploitation of one country by another. She opposed colonialism and racialism on the ground that these created tensions and hostility. She firmly believed that the adoption of non-alignment by a fairly large number of countries would automatically widen the area of peace and security. She advocated disarmament which alone could bring confidence and hope for survival among the peoples of the world.Indira  Gandhi  was  definitely successful in the international arena. She stood head and shoulders above the  leaders  of Third World countries in international forums and conferences. She  was  always in the limelight. Hers  was  the foremost voice for world peace in a tense and troubled world. She  wassuccessful in protecting India’s interests without succumbing to the pressure of superpowers. An increase in India’s economic and military strength during her regime made India an important regional power which none of the superpowers could afford to ignore.She made India strong and a leading country in the comity of nations, gave a clarion call to the world to save humanity from the nuclear holocaust, raised her voice against all kinds of exploitation. She displayed rare statesmanship in tackling international disputes. Indira  Gandhi’s role in guiding the developing nations of the world and her personal contribution towards disarmament and global peace were duly acknowledged by the international community. The image of India as a country which had to be taken seriousl y  was  definitely her biggest contribution.To sum up,  Indira  Gandhi  was  truly an international  leader. As the Prime Minister of India and Chairperson of the NAM she exercised a profound influence on international affairs and made tremendous efforts for world peace, justice and equity among nations Indira Gandhi was one of the most charismatic leaders of modern India whose ideas and activities touched different spheres of India's public life and politics and left an imprint on world affairs, especially, the Non-alignment Movement. She was the Prime Minister for over fifteen-and-half years.Born on 19 November 1917 at Allahabad to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru Indira Priyadarshini was educated at Viswa Bharati University, and Oxford, and became involved in political life almost from childhood. In 1942 Indira married Feroze Gandhi. She became a member of the Congress Working Committee in 1955 and was elected President in 1959. She became a member of the Ca binet of Lal Bahadur Shastri as Minister for Information. In 1966 on the sudden demise of Shastriji, she was made the Prime Minister. Indira Gandhi strengthened the democratic structure and tradition of India.She had tremendous influence on the masses. Among the major achievements of Indira Gandhi as Prime Minister were India's role during the liberation war in Bangladesh including humane handling of refugees and winning of 1971 war against Pakistan. She gave direction to India's economy to reach the declared objectives of democratic socialism and greater social justice for weaker sections. It was under her leadership that the signing of Shimla Pact with Pakistani Premier Z. A. Bhutto and the signing of Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation took place.She nationalised banks, abolished privy purses of maharajas and conducted the first nuclear tests at Pokhran. The imposition of emergency rule in 1975 proved to be a major mistake that she realised later. Indira Gandh i was deeply interested in literature, music and fine arts. Various cultural institutions, performing artists, educationists, intellectuals received her patronage and encouragement. She was proud of India's cultural heritage and it was on her initiative that Asiatic Society, Calcutta received the status of an institution and national importance. She was conferred Bharat Ratna in 1971.Indira Gandhi passed into history when she fell to the assassin's bullets on 31 October 1984 at her residence. These assassins were none other than her own security men. As a mark of respect to the departed leader her birthday is observed as National Integration Day. what did Indira Gandhi do as prime minister? Answer:  ·Ã¢â‚¬ ¢.  · By virtue of being the Prime Minister of India, the largest democracy in the world, she was able to make a significant contribution to the practice of inter-national relations.  · Her most important contribution in the realm of world peace was the shaping of the NAM (n on-aligned moment).Her able leadership provided a smooth sailing for the Conference. It also led to a better understanding of the common problems of freedom, peace and social justice for the people of the Third World. It was through this Conference that she made a major chunk of humanity feel important in the UN. Here she played a more dynamic role as a leader of mankind in the international arena.  · Indira Gandhi symbolized the Third World's regeneration. Under her leadership, Indian foreign policy matured from the conscious assertion of the rights and aspirations of newly free nations to a een awareness on their part of their own responsibility in the global context. By refusing to sign the NPT she gained political credit for upholding India's independence and for taking a principled stand against a discriminatory treaty.  · She made a mark in the world as an unrivalled leader and a champion of the Third World.  · The Bangladesh situation gave her the opportunity to emerge as a military strategist and a diplomat par excellence on the regional and the world stage. With the clear and decisive victory India and Indira were established as a major power and force in the world.Indira Gandhi became the international leader.  · She put India on the international scientific map by exploding the country's first underground nuclear device at Pokhran in 1974. This signaled India's nuclear potential and its unwillingness to abide by the nuclear rules of the superpowers.  · She was successful in protecting India's interests without succumbing to the pressure of superpowers. An increase in India's economic and military strength during her regime made India an important regional power which none of the superpowers could afford to ignore.She made India strong and a leading country in the comity of nations, gave a clarion call to the world to save humanity from the nuclear holocaust, raised her voice against all kinds of exploitation.  · Indira Gandhi was truly a n international leader. As the Prime Minister of India and Chairperson of the NAM she exercised a profound influence on international affairs and made tremendous efforts for world peace, justice and equity among nations.  · As prime minister, Gandhi tried to improve the lives of Indians. With her neighbors, the Soviet Union and China, she improved relations.She also promoted science and technology. In 1971, India sent its first satellite into space. Economically, Indira Gandhi led India to become one of the fastest growing economies in the world toward the end of her time as prime minister.  · Being the first female prime minister of India and an influential leader; in a prevalently male- dominated society, Indira Gandhi was a symbol of feminism in India. As per economic surveys, when Indira became Prime minister, 65% of the population was over the poverty line, and when her regime ended in 1984, this figure was 45%. During her rule, food production increased by 250%.Literacy al so increased in India by 30 %  · Indira advocated and promoted equal right s for women and their social and economic emancipation. She instituted many programs for the benefit of the underprivileged and the handicapped. She laid great emphasis of the cultural revival of India, promoted crafts and encouraged schemes for the removal of poverty.  · The first woman ever elected to lead a democracy  · She firmly believed in the policy of â€Å"rapid introduction of socialism in the country. †  · Indira Gandhi strengthened the democratic structure and tradition of India. She had tremendous influence on the masses.

The Six Sigma Management Approach Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Six Sigma Management Approach - Essay Example The concept of ‘six-sigma’ however dates back to the nineteenth century with Gaussian idea of the normal curve. Gauss developed a concept that measured variance in products and processes. Using the normal curve as a basis and integrating both statistical techniques and management concept, Shewhart developed the concept of three sigma as an identification of the point of standard deviation beyond which errors should not be tolerated. The actual development of the six sigma approach was however a result of Motorola Company’s initiative, spearheaded by Smith to improve quality of its product and change its image that had lost reputation in the press and industry. It was however not until the year 1995 when the approach became popular through General Electric’s Welch who made the approach his organization’s identity. The ‘six-sigma’ approach is therefore a mathematical concept that has been applied in business management to eliminate wastes for efficiency (Islam, 2006). The purpose of ‘six-sigma’ approach is to eliminate errors in processes in order to satisfy consumers’ needs. This purpose is achieved by identifying intolerable levels of errors for necessary actions (Islam, 2006). Implementation of the ‘six-sigma’ Implementation of the ‘six-sigma’ involves four major steps that are further divided into sub steps. The first step in implementation of ‘sigma-six’ is assessment of an organization. This stage involves exploration of the organization’s internal factors, a competitive organization for benchmarking, and a subsequent comparison. This is followed by deciding on the approach and allocation of responsibility. The second step involves planning in which the scope of the business, its objectives and drivers as well as its resources is identified for budgeting and approval. Implementation of the strategy, the third step, involves training, application of the approach’s concepts, evaluation, and management of results. The last step in implementing the ‘six-sigma’ involves a continuous monitoring and evaluation of processes for better quality (Harrington, 2006). The scope of healthcare and application of ‘six-sigma’ in health care The scope of healthcare involves meeting patients’ needs through diagnosing their problems and administering medication for curative or preventive purposes. Healthcare therefore aims at ensuring people’s well being. This scope provides a variety of avenues and reasons for application of the ‘six-sigma’ program. The approach, as a tool for quality improvement is effective in developing potential in technology dependent processes such as in the X ray department. The method is also used to enhance patients’ utility levels by ensuring that their needs are efficiently met. The scope of the program that allows for identification of wastes for co rrective measures also establishes its applicability in ensuring accuracy in processes such as laboratory testing and determination of results, billing and medical processes (Antony, Antony and Tanner, n.d.). Benefits of the approach in my organization The approach, based on its possible application in my organization, induces a number of benefits. One of the benefits of the strategy is its quality improvement potential that ensures customers’ satisfaction. As a result, it develops a good corporate image of an organization among consumers. The ability to reduce errors in processes also safeguards patient’

A Moment of Self Awareness Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A Moment of Self Awareness - Personal Statement Example Because I consider myself to be goal driven and an industrious person, it is difficult to communicate with others without a defined goal. I found that going to the grocery store was equally easy. It is simple, I just go and purchase my groceries, check out what is on sale and go about my business. It is easy for me to ask someone where an aisle is because there is a goal to be met at the end and honestly, the conversation is innocuous and quick. I don't feel as if I am being put on the spot. Likewise for the library and at a house I visited that was for sale. "While you are not born with a self-concept, you certainly do play a key role in building one. Even though you are constantly undergoing change, once built, the theory or picture you have of yourself is fairly stable and difficult to alter". Most people would describe me as an outgoing individual, easy to talk to and on the whole, easy to get along with. What most do not know, is that I am absolutely at a loss when placed in an environment that I am unfamiliar with. I therefore attempt to control the conversation or topic of conversation. I suppose that this would be my hidden quadrant according to the Jahari Window. I am not so sure that this is something that is built deliberately. I think that because I am outgoing, I would like to be able to initiate conversations in any area and with ease.

Privacy and the Enactment of Confidentiality Case Study

Privacy and the Enactment of Confidentiality - Case Study Example This research focuses on specific issues relative to these concerns. In conclusion it gives validation as to why everyone should be allowed to have a right to privacy regardless of what their status in society is. The basis for this is the fact that it is the only logical resolution to keep there from being so many disagreements between news reporters and high celebrities, as well as the basics such as medical doctors and their patients' right to privacy, etc. In whole the final conclusion is the right to privacy should be incorporated to include every facet of life that a person wants kept private as long as it isn't stepping over any legal boundaries. For many decades the citizens in England have assumed that they have an impartial right to complete privacy to their private life. Unfortunately this ideal has seemingly been having serious complications since 2002 when one initial case appeared to provoke controversy into this concept. The case Campbell v. Mirror Group Newspapers changed everyone's position in England on exactly what type of rights to privacy they really are endowed with (Lamont 2004). In this case it was found initially that the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Newspaper in allowing them the ability to report the actions of Campbell but later Campbell continued her arguments that this form of invasion of privacy was against her right to confidentiality and invaded her personal life to the extent that to much information was given to the general public about her comings and goings and personal actions (Lamont 2004).Because Naomi Campbell won out in the long run, the idea for freedom of expression in the newsp apers and other public news source outlets has been quelled and questioned to whether it will be allowed in the future within regard to the extreme way it was conceptualized on in this high profile case. It was the protection of the law situated around Confidentiality that ensured Campbell had the upper hand over MGN, even though initially it seemed she was going to lose her case. In many ways this case helped in guaranteeing that other people would not be up against this same form of invasion into their private life (Lamont 2004). This form of law is not new in England because historically it can be documented where the law of Confidentiality initially stemmed from. There use to be a law against eavesdropping and the reason it existed was in fact to protect people against false accusations and rumors, the same as the law of Confidentiality is meant to do. Many of these laws have not had to be implemented or used until recently and many people claim this is due to the adversity that the Paparazzi are causing. If they would only accept that there is only so far that they should go when publicizing information about people then there would not be the problem that is in existence today.Now the Human Rights Act of 1998 also is a form of law that protects the individual privacy rights of citizens. Again, it is not something that would have to be emphasized if the media would simply quell their obnoxious style in gaining information about people, especially high celebrities. Of course Naomi Campbell's rights to keep her recovery treatment in a personal context makes ample sense since no one would want that broadcasted, and logically it really has no

Person in an event Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Person in an event - Assignment Example 47). It was a chilled winter, so cold that it seems like we were about to freeze if we went outside. She was sitting down in chair by her window, reminiscing about the old life that she had in Afghanistan. â€Å"War is terrible for everyone, you know†Ã‚  she said, without looking at me. She stared at the snow as if she wants to melt the snow with the fierce fire in her heart. Looking at her I could tell that she missed her hometown, but at the same time despise it for the fact that a place she once loved so much gave her such a harsh reality. I joined her by pulling a chair next to her. Together, we looked outside the window and I could tell that her heart was as cold as the snow outside. She slowly opened up and talked about her childhood and how happy she used to be in Afghanistan. It seemed like a distant memory now, as it has been decades since she moved to New York. But, her memory about her hometown was still vivid. The occupation of Afghanistan by the Taliban was a brut al reality for the people. They destroyed everything that was dear to their life and they had to run away from a place that they loved so much, a place they called home. â€Å"With the aid of the Pakistani army, the Taliban swept across most of the exhausted country promising a restoration of order and finally capturing Kabul in September 1996† (Gasper). I give her the name Grace, as she seemed like a graceful person. After pausing for some time, she looked at me and choked on her words, she said â€Å"I really could never understand the need for war, can’t they see that they have dislocated everyone?† I could not reply her back as I also could not understand the need to fight with each other. What is war? It is a useless method which puts everyone in misery. War is a coward’s game. When the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, it was a welcomed at first by many people. But, after sometime, it was realized that the Taliban were determined to impose the st rictest Islam law on the people. The women were oppressed and abused. Grace said that once they went to a market with her father and brother and there they saw women being trashed by the Taliban men as the women were accused of venturing outside the house without a male escort. One of the women was bleeding profusely, but no one dared came to their rescue. Such was the harsh reality for many women and unfortunately they could do nothing about it. It was the helplessness that I felt for so long under the regime that made me sank to a great depression she added. When Afghanistan fell in the hands of mujahideen, many groups were not happy with the distribution of power. Hekmatyar in particular was dissatisfied with the new rule. He had a huge stock of U.S supplied weapons and he began his assault of Kabul with artillery and rocket. This struggle of power lasted for almost three years and many thousands of Afghan people were killed by their own people. "The barrage...killed more than 10 ,000 Afghans [drove] hundreds of thousands into squalid refugee camps, created political chaos, and blocked millions of exiles from returning" (Gasper). I have gone through the sufferings and chaos caused by the Taliban people in Afghanistan through many of my researches. After interviewing many people, I could tell that they were tired of the war in their country and many were too sentimental to talk about it as they had

Terrorism in Sudan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Terrorism in Sudan - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that terrorism is one of the most complex problems facing the modern world at present. It is difficult to tackle terrorism effectively because of the wide spread roots of terrorism in different countries. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan etc are some countries from which the terrorists are operating. At present war on terror is going on in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. However, Sudan has not faced such problems even though its role in encouraging terrorist activities suspected for the last few years. â€Å"The U.S. has charged the Sudanese government of being liable for the al-Qaeda attack on the USS Cole missile destroyer in 2000†. Moreover, U.S. believes that Sudan is supporting various terrorist organizations in many ways to conduct attacks in various parts of the world including America. Since Sudan is a country with a poor economy, it is easy for the terrorists to operate from its soil. It should be noted that poor countrie s normally have weaker administration and hence terrorists may not face many problems while operating from such countries. Poverty, unemployment, lack of education of the people, religious fundamentalism etc are some of the major factors which contribute heavily to the development of terrorism in Sudan. Sudan is a strategic location for many of the terrorists. Majority of the people in Sudan are Muslims and they do not have enough education. Moreover, it borders with some of the prominent Muslim states like Egypt, Libya and some of the Muslim dominated African countries. Religious fundamentalism is widespread in Sudan because of lack of education of its public. These are the factors, which encourage Osama Bin Laden and his followers to select Sudan as his country of operation in the 1990s. America knows very well that Sudan is playing a major role in the spreading of various kinds of terrorist activities all over the world. It is believed that Sudan is currently providing military training and support to terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Egyptian Islamic Jihad, Algeria's Armed Islamic Group etc. Moreover, many of the Islamic terrorist groups in other parts of the world are sending their people to Sudan for getting proper training on conducting terrorist activities. The current Sudanese president is behaving like a dictator and he is using iron fist to suppress the agitations against his administration. Because of that, internal problems and political unrest are common in Sudan. The northern and southern regions of Sudan are behaving like independent states even though the current president is trying hard to stamp his authority all over Sudan. America has enforced lot of economic embargos and sanctions with the help of UN against Sudan for the last few years. They have also listed Sudan in the category of State Sponsors of Terrorism from 1993 onwards. From 1996 onwards, Sudan is under diplomatic sanctions by the UN.â€Å"The U.S. government offered to take Sudan off its State Sponsors of Terrorism list in exchange for the northern government allowing a referendum on southern secession to take place without obstruction† (U.S. Offers to Remove Sudan from State Sponsors of Terrorism List, p.39). However, the northern government is not much i nterested in this offer and hence internal agitations are still going on in Sudan. â€Å"In 2008, the International Criminal Court at The Hague charged Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir with crimes against humanity and genocide in Darfur† (National Security p.86). In fact, the ICC issued arrest warrant against the president in 2009. Even though human right activists have seen this arrest warrant as a positive step, so far the president has been successful in avoiding or ignoring the arrest warrant. Al-Bashir’s anti-American or anti-western stands are inspirational to the terrorists in Sudan. His remarks against America and

International Finance Management Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

International Finance Management - Term Paper Example Forward contracts however can not change hands and are contracts between two parties. Prevailing interest rates in the respective markets have a major impact on the increase or decrease of a contracts price. For example if the GBP/USD contract is on sale at CME, than an increase in the interest rates prevailing in the British economy would increase the contract price and those in the United States economy would decrease it. This is because there is a direct link between the price of value of a currency and interest rates. If for example interest rates are reduced money supply will increase in the economy. According to the economic laws of supply and demand, an increased supply would result in lower prices. Thus the futures expected price of currency would also decrease. Balance of trade is without doubt the most important factor that can affect the price of a currency. Balance of trade refers to the difference between what a country imports and exports. Also called the current account balance, it can only be offset if investors keep investing in dollar dominated assets. If a country gives a budget with a deficit, it can only fill up that deficit by borrowing money for the national or international market. The government will have to use up its currency reserves to pay off international debt and possibly print more money to pay of national debt; these will decrease the value of national currency. The stability of the government is also a huge factor in determining the increase or decrease of national currency value. This is because a stable government establishes stable policies; this stability reduces investor risk thus increasing currency value. These factors have huge impacts on Currency value. This is because the risk associated with the currency is high in war and the risk of default; on foreign payments also increase. In case of Natural disasters, the expenditure of the country increases on

RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE & COMMUNITY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE & COMMUNITY - Essay Example nd methods to use to reach their end in their faith, while in a little tradition, the practitioners are limited to each other and the knowledge that has been passed down from one person to another. A prime example between the two traditions can be seen in Catholicism, the difference between the Pope and the other followers of the religion. The Pope has studied it in the sense of the greater tradition - through books, training, and practice; the other practitioners, the ones that attend the church are those that practice the little tradition. The Pope practices Catholicism the way it was intended to be practiced, yet the church-goers do what can be informally considered "second best". There are those still that do not attend a church, but practice in the ways that they were taught by others, by traditions passed down to them. The differences lie with the clergy, the smaller groups, and the individuals. As there is very little distinction between the different ways that Catholicism can be practiced, even between the Pope and individuals of society, there is hardly a noticeable effect. Each person and each group practices how they are able to; in a way, changing the traditions is necessary, as it allows each person or each group to fully understand the finer points of their religion. Some people would not get out of books what the Pope is able to, so they work with what they have an easier time understanding. In the same sense, the changes are good - they help to bring people closer to that religion. When a person realizes that cannot achieve something one way, they improvise with another way that they are comfortable with. Many religions are seldom what they had originally been, owing to the fact that not everyone was fortunate enough to study it in the great tradition, so they resorted to what they

Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 17

Marketing - Essay Example The main types of media that the marketer needs to utilize are television, newspaper and print media, public relation activities and direct selling. Television: Television advertising assists business to cover wide geographical locations (Shimp and Andrews, 2013). The marketer needs to invest near about 30% of the budget for celebrity endorsement through these advertisements. Public relation: Sponsoring different tournament and live events will help the brand to attract the attention of different consumers. They need to allocate almost 20% of the budget for this promotional strategy. The new recipe for breakfast cereal is intended to the health conscious consumers. The organisation is mainly targeting the slimmer consumers. They have assigned major budget for the promotional procedure. The management has utilized differentiated strategy where they have only targeted a particular section of the society (Weinstein, 2013). The important media for the promotion are sponsorship, television and print media. Television: Displaying advertisements of the product during different morning healthcare, exercise and yoga shows will prove to be beneficial for the organisation. Another 25% need to be allocated for this media. The promotional activity of the new energy drink mainly focuses on the players and sports personalities. The organisation has decided to spent minor budget for the product as they are focusing on concentrated targeting strategy (Debruyne, et al., 2002). They can utilize internet advertising, posters/ hoardings and sponsorship to promote their product. The word of mouth promotional procedure plays a major role for this kind of products rather than the traditional electronic advertisement procedure (Buttle, 1998). Internet: The organisation needs to design an interactive website to promote the benefits of their product towards the sports

Economics and Global Business Essay Example for Free

Economics and Global Business Essay A) Elasticity of demand is describes as the degree of percentage change in demand for a good or service due to variation in price. Elasticity measurements can be expressed by three types of demand; inelastic demand, unit elastic demand, or relatively elastic demand. To determine the percentage of change in demand for a product or service the price elasticity equation and coefficient are used. The coefficient Ed is defined as â€Å"the percentage change in quantity demanded of product divided by the percentage change in price of product X† (McConnell, Brue, Flynn, 2012, pg. 76) The three expressions of Ed are Elastic, Inelastic, and Unit Elasticity. Elastic demand occurs â€Å"if a specific percentage change in price results in a larger percentage change in quantity demanded† (McConnell, Brue, Flynn, 2012, pg. 77). For a product with inelastic demand Ed 1. An example of elastic demand is when there is a 2% decrease in the price of chocolate that results in a 6% increase in quantity. Ed= .06/.02 = 3 Inelastic demand occurs â€Å"if a specific percentage change in price produces a smaller percentage change in quantity demanded.†(McConnell, Brue, Flynn, 2012, pg. 77) For products with inelastic demand Ed 0 .Inferior goods are goods that yield a negative income elasticity, Ei 0. As consumer incomes increase, demand and purchases of these foods decrease. Examples of inferior goods are bus tickets, consignment clothing, and retreaded tires to list a few. D) Demand of a product will be elastic when there is a higher number of substitute available. This happens because consumers can easily swap one product for the other based on price. An example can be the purchase of soda. A consumer can go to the store to buy Pepsi but arrive and find a sale on Coke and buy Coke instead. The variety of soda a consumer can chose, makes the demand for Pepsi highly elastic. The same rule applies for inelastic demand of a product. If there is a limited number of substitute goods available the product or service is highly inelastic. An example would  be medical procedures or surgery. The alternative to surgery are very few, making medical procedures or surgery inelastic. E) The proportion of Income devoted to a good or service effects the elasticity of demand for that good or service. For goods that are of a higher proportion of income, a 15% increase in price would make the good highly elastic. But for goods that are of a lower proportion of income, a 15% increase in price would only slightly change the demand, making them lower in elasticity. An example would be a car priced at $13,000. If there is an increase by 15% the car now costs $14,950. This increase in price requires more of the consumer’s income making them highly elastic. Another example of how proportion of income devoted to a good effects elasticity of demand, is a pair shoes that cost $20.00. If there is a 15% price increase on the shoes, they now cost $23.00. The increase in the price of the shoes requires about the same proportion of income that the original price required. The lack of major proportional change to income makes the shoes elastic. F) Time is a factor that effects consumers demand elasticity of a product. â€Å"Short-run† demand for a product is often more inelastic than â€Å"long-run† demand since consumer have less time to find an alternative and normally don’t feel the effects of a price increase until â€Å"long-run.† An example would be an increase in the price of salmon. â€Å"Short-run† demand of Salmon is more inelastic since the effect if the price increase hasn’t been felt drastically by consumers. But, in the â€Å"long-run† demand for salmon will decrease making it more elastic as consumers find alternative to salmon. G) 1) Elastic demand range occurs when total revenue can be increased by decreasing price. The range for elastic demand on the graph is between $80 and $50. Total revenue increases as the price decrease. 2). Inelastic demand range occurs when total revenue can be increased by increasing price. The range for inelastic demand on the graph is between $40 and $0. Total revenue is decreasing as the price decreases. 3). Unit elastic range occurs when a  percentage change in price results in the exact same percentage change in quantity. When the price changes it does not affect total revenue on the graph. The unit elastic range for the given graph is $50-$40. References McConnell, Campbell R., Stanley L. Brue, and Sean Masaki Flynn. Elasticity. Economics: principles, problems, and policies. 19th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin, 2012. 76-77. Print.

The Causes Of Eating Disorders Psychology Essay

The Causes Of Eating Disorders Psychology Essay An eating disorder is a psychological illness where the subject has an abnormal relationship with food, and has a distorted view himself or herself. Particularly in those who suffer from anorexia and bulimia, there is an obsession with weight loss and food intake. They are also unable to see how self-destructive their behaviour is, and view themselves as too fat even when underweight. (Tighe, 2011)This essay will examine the causes of eating disorders and the psychological explanations that go along with them. Three psychological models will be looked at the cognitive approach, the behavioural approach and finally, the psychodynamic approach. The basis of the Cognitive approach is the theory that the human brain works like a computer. Processed outside information becomes our thoughts and our output is our behaviour. Cognitive psychologists would explain that the causes of eating disorders are due to faulty cognition (thoughts) and having distorted perceptions of self. A. Beck was the pioneer of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help eating disorder sufferers challenge their faulty thinking and change their perceptions. (DK, 2011)It is easy to see then, how CBT could be very useful in treating those with an eating disorder, as many symptoms of eating disorders are to do with faulty perception of the self. Fallon and Rozin (1985) also did research based on the cognitive model. They gave a chart of nine images of body types to both men and women. On the chart the silhouettes were either very slim to those of a higher weight. On the chart they placed how they perceived their own weight, how they perceived what weight was attractive to those of the opposite sex and their own, ideal weight. Women tended to place both their ideal weight and the weight they thought men would be attracted to on the lower side of the scale. Their perceived current weight placed at a significantly higher point on the scale. The men however, placed both their ideal weight and current weight close together but the weight that they perceived women to find attractive was higher on the chart*. This research is useful at seeing the difference between how male and female perception of self and ideal weight differs. However, there are some problems with it. For example, all the people asked were American and between the ages of 18-19 and all went to a private college, which suggests that they were, upper to middle class. This means that this piece of research is highly ethno- centric; it is not applicable to those who are exempt from that background and culture. The research in itself also lacks a certain amount of objective, as even though it shows peoples perceptions of their body it does not mean they are all suffering or will suffer from an eating disorder. The research also now lacks historical validity as it was carried out in 1985. Ideal body image was different to how it is now. (Adler, 1992) The cognitive approach can have positive appraisal as it backed up scientifically. Its face validity reflects in the success rate for CBT, which is often very high. The downside is that is seems to de-humanise people. It does not place any bearings on the patients emotions or their individual circumstances. A patient also seems to face large amount of blame and responsibility. In contrast with the Cognitive, approach is the psychodynamic approach; Sigmund Freud was the main trailblazer and the first person to study the mind. He believed that Mental Illness and mal -adaptive behaviour was due to repressed memories and emotions held in our unconscious mind and that, causes of emotional pain can be bought out through psychoanalysis (DK, 2011). This quote also links into another part of what Freuds theory was on how the human mind worked. He believed that the human psyche had three main parts: the id, ego and the superego. Freud believed the id is responsible, for our basic animal instincts, such as wanting food, or sex. There was also the ego was the part of the mind that was connected with the reality of the situation you are in. Finally, the superego is the moral part of the psyche. It is the voice that tells us was is good and right to do regardless of what the id wants. Freuds belief is that if the id, ego and superego are unbalanced then it is one of the pre- cursors to mental illness, such as an eating disorder. Freud also put a strong emphasis on early childhood experiences. He concluded that poor parenting or difficulty bonding with parents as a child could lead to mental illness and abnormal behaviour as an adult. A psychodynamic view of the cause of someone having an eating disorder if a younger women for example, would be that in her unconscious mind she fears becoming an adult. Due to this fear, she tries to revert to being a child by losing weight, causing her to lose her feminine figure and to stop herself menstruating. H. Bruch also believed that this aspiration of wanting to become a child might also be to do with having a poor relationship with parents who did not help her to develop any sort of identity. * There are some definite criticisms about the psychodynamic approach. One of the biggest problems with it is its very difficult to test as it is based on case studies, not scientific testing. In fact, the only way you could test it is by using identical twins by putting one through a trauma and the other one not; this of course, is greatly unethical. You also cannot duplicate the exact result on any other patient. What more, the approach has a huge bias against parenting and the role it could play in mental illness. However, numerous case studies back up the psychodynamic approach and the use of psychoanalysis; so it could work for some people. The last and final approach analysed is the Behavioural approach. The theory of it is that all behaviours learned are due to experience. In addition, those behaviours can then be unlearned. Ivan Pavlov, research the theory of classical conditioning by using dogs. He used a stimulus such as a bell ringing and giving the dog food at the same time to condition the dog to expect food whenever it heard the bell ring. The dog would even start to salivate before it saw the food but still heard the ringing of the bell. (Youtube, 2008) B.F Skinner expanded on Pavlovs research and called his theory Radical Behaviourism. He started by using mice. He would place the mice in a box; whenever the mouse pressed a lever or bar, it food was given. Skinner explained that this wasnt operant conditioning like Pavlovs as there was no preceding stimulus; the behaviour of the mouse was continued by the positive reinforcement of getting food. He continued his research by then wiring up the floor of the box t o an electric source. The mouse would then get a shock when performing certain behaviour. The mouse then learned the behaviour and shock were linked .This is negative reinforcement. (DK, 2011) The behavioural approaches explanation of the causes of an eating disorder in an individual would be due to either positive or negative reinforcement. An example of operant conditioning, that led to someone developing an eating disorder would be, that if a teenage girl kept losing weight and got continuous praise from friends, but then also receiving negative criticism from her parents for saying she was greedy whenever she ate. She would learn that if she lost weight and did not eat much her friends would complement her and her parents in turn, would accept her. Criticisms of the behavioural approach are that scientific testing is possible. It also gives quick results when it comes to treatment. Unfortunately, it does not focus on the patients emotions or their current personal circumstances. Neither, is it suitable to treat all illnesses, with eating disorders in particular a downside of it would be, that it changes the behaviour but has not influence of the cause, of that behaviour. In conclusion, it is widely acknowledged that eating disorders do not have one overruling cause but have a complex mixture of disordered thinking and negative perceptions of self. Poor interpersonal relationships and past trauma may also play a part. Eating disorders may also run in social groups and behaviours associated with eating disorders may be picked up/learned through peer pressure. (National Eating Disorders Association, 2004)It is safe to say then that all of the psychological approaches: cognitive, behavioural and psychodynamic are all perfectly valid in explaining why someone may suffer from an eating disorder and it is wise to keep an open minded approach to treating an eating disorder, as all of the approaches work in a highly interwoven and harmonious way. *Allen. C (2012) Lecture notes: Studies on eating disorders. [Access to HE, 24th October] References: Adler, L. D. (1992). Female and Male Perceptions of I deal Body Shapes. Retrieved October Wednesday 24th, 2012, from Lillianmcmaster.com: http://www.lillianmcmaster.com/resources/ideal%20body%20image%20study%20on%20caucasians.pdf DK. (2011). The Psycholgy Book. London: Dorling Kindersley. National Eating Disorders Association. (2004). What Causes Eating Disorders. Retrieved October Thursday 25th, 2012, from National Eating Disorders.org: http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedaDir/files/documents/handouts/WhatCaus.pdf Tighe, J. (2011, May). Eating Disorders. Retrieved October Wednesday 24th, 2012, from BBC Health: http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/emotional_health/mental_health/mind_eatingdisorders.shtml Youtube (Director). (2008). Classical Conditioning- Ivan Pavlov [Motion Picture].

Femininity Essay -- essays research papers

The New Femininity Femininity is not a word that we are encouraged to use these days. A lot of people would argue that femininity is the thing that keeps women obedient to men. However, there is a hidden assumption behind this term. The assumption is that masculinity is superior to femininity; that femininity is not a beautiful and powerful thing in its own right. I believe that women have something men do not have. Women have special qualities that belong to them as women, and they do not intend to suppress those special qualities. I think the world would be a much poorer place without femininity. ?gWhat means to be a womanh What first came to my mind was stereotypical. Passive, dependent, altruistic, intuitive emotionally open, and impulsive?cis this what meant to be the ideal women in our society? In general, men have more power in the public place such as economic and political order, while women have more power in the private place such as domestic life, family. The social whole will be best suited if each sex does those tasks for which they are best suited. In fact, men and women have biologically different capacities and interests (aggressive vs. maternal feelings, etc) In the role of the family, men have power in making decision and the women have control of housework. ?@?@?@?@I had encountered to see the different aspects of gender role in two societies. These two societies have their own values and beliefs that keep the man and the women different. However, th...

Julius Caesar as a Tragic HEro Essay -- essays research papers

Julius Caesar as a Tragic Hero   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Ides of March mean much more than March 15th, it was also the day Julius Caesar, the Roman general and leader was killed. Although this day is not a holiday, we should take time to think of things Caesar didn’t on this fateful day. In â€Å"Julius Caesar,† by William Shakespeare, Caesar that morning solidified his place as a tragic hero because of his tremendous fatal flaw. Aristotle once defined the tragic hero as a person of noble or influential birth, who has a moral personality. The tragic hero also must have one hamartia, which is a fatal flaw. This fatal flaw is the cause of the person's downfall. This also means that it is a noble person, and it is one part of their personality that brings them down. Julius Caesar is a tragic hero because he was a champion of the people, but it was his hubris that led to his death. Caesar was a great leader and well-loved by Romans, but his arrogance made the people who were close to him mad and jealous of him. It was Caesars excessive pride that led directly to his death. We see evidence throughout the play through the dialogue and events that this is true.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Firstly, Caesar was a great leader and adored by his subjects. At the opening of the play, all of the Romans in the streets are cheering for Caesar and rejoicing in his triumph. Although two soldiers don’t agree, the first we hear of Caesar is that is a eagerly supported. At the Feast of Lupercal, for example, Marc Antony tries to crown him king three times, and each time, Caesar refuses. As he does, the people cheer for him because they bel 09ieve him to be so noble. This shows how the people revered him, admired him, and accepted him as their leader. They cheered for him in the streets and supported his every move. Caesar had made many positive changes in Rome, and people appreciate that. Caesar is a good, observant leader as he notices the way that Cassius is not a man to be trusted, and he is correct. He understands people and paid close attention to the way Cassius spent too much time thinking, and not enough time enjoying life and the arts. He warns M arc Antony that they should watch out for Cassius. â€Å"Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look; He thinks too much; such men are dangerous †¦ Such men as he be never at heart's ease/ Whiles they behold a greater than themselve... ...d it.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In conclusion, it is clear that Caesar is a great man with one tragic flaw: hubris. His arrogance is so strong that it taints his wisdom and takes away his fear. This shows us that fear is actually a great asset and tool not just for all of mankind. As long as people don’t let fear take over them, it will help keep them safe. To have no fear at all is not an advantage or strength, but a foolish flaw. Although Caesar is a great leader and admired by the people, his arrogance makes others mad and jealous and causes them to find reasons why they would be better off without him. Finally, this arrogance leads directly to his death because it takes away his fear, and therefore his ability to pay attention to the many signs that should have shown him that he was in danger. We have seen evidence that is was this lack of personal fear, which comes from Caesar’s hubris, that causes him to allow himself to be in a position to be killed by his own men, including his own best friend. So, when the Ides of March come around each year on March 15th, we should all take some time to remember, that a little fear is a healthy thing.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Analyzing Nursing Philosophy Essay -- knowledge, beliefs, god

Nursing is what has brought us together. We have started our Bachelor’s Completion to further our education. I consider that during the Associate, I learned the skills to become a nurse. Now, that I am exploring topics such as time management, analyze my nursing philosophy, and learn how to develop a portfolio, I feel I am beginning to understand what is to be a nurse. Before I went to College to study nursing, I had a philosophy about it which has evolved as I have gained experience and knowledge. Merriam Webster’s (2003) defined philosophy as â€Å"an analysis of the grounds of and concepts expressing fundamental beliefs† (p.930). Therefore, our nursing philosophy should help us identify what our priorities are and how we should act as a nurse. Although I know my nursing philosophy will keep changing over time, currently, I have a clear idea of what my beliefs are. I feel that a nurse should be motivated to help others, do something meaningful, and make a difference in other people’s lives. A nurse should be someone who values God’s creations, values life, and respects its course. A nurse should be a good listener and do no harm. In addition, I consider that nurses should be able to self-assess themselves to avoid being judgmental when caring for people from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, I think that a nurse should also pay attention to detail to catch any errors or to identify early some disease processes. A nurse should also respect others’ ideas and decisions, and should be eager to learn as the field evolves. Finally, I believe a nurse should be strong and sensitive at the same time to treat others with humanity and provide support. However, this philosophy could not exist without four main concepts which are health, nursi... ...to learn more about that. I cannot wait to exchange impressions about our nursing philosophy as well as learn more about the professional portfolio development. I hope you have found my post interesting. I truly enjoyed the topics and I felt I had a lot to say so hopefully it was not too long. Thank you in advance for taking the time to read my post and commenting on it. Works Cited Merriam-Webster's collegiate dictionary (11th ed.). (2003). Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster. Oermann, M.H. (2002). Developing a professional portfolio in nursing. Orthopaedic Nursing, 21(2). Retrieved from http://www.nursing-informatics.com/Oermann.pdf University of Michigan School of Nursing (2004). Nursing resumes & portfolios. Retrieved May 28, 2014 from http://www.nursing.umich.edu/about-our-school/computing-technology/electronic-portfolios/nursing-resumes-portfolios

Craven Books Issues

The purpose of this paper is to give and provide detailed information about the reason why Craven Books was having issues on the implementation of the new information technology system which should help to improve the performance of the business. Other than that, the implementation of this new information technology system nearly makes Craven Books face bankruptcy and lost many customers.In this paper, 3 issues that lead Craven Books faced failure in the implementation of the new information technology system will be chosen to discuss in detailed. Each issue will be discuss in detailed together with any related case studies that can take as reference and recommendations to eliminate and cope each issue.Company’s BackgroundCraven Books is a distributor of comics and magazines and books. The company was founded and evolves in the market place in the late 1960 as it founder, Peter Craven started to distribute sci-fi and horror books through direct mail. In 1970’s, the busi ness began to be known in the market place by buying comics in bulk from both the American publishers and the second hand comic market and sell this on their customers in the United Kingdom by using a mail order catalogue. This had helped the company to grow in the market place and be known by many other customers. Because of this the company had been able to encounter growth both in profit and in the number of their regular customers.In this regard, the company decided to use a new information system as part of their business strategy. In 1990’s, this plan has been initiated as Craven Books invest in new integrated information systems that will include all business operations of the company, from ordering, to processing, accounting and warehousing. All in one information system which aims to ensure that they will provide quality service to their customers and to make their logistics be more dependable. However, upon implementation of such project, the company’s expect ation has not been achieved and worst, it weakens the competitiveness of the company and the competitive advantage  that it builds had been destabilized.Reasons That Cause Unsuccessful Of Information Technology System According to the video that was showed in class which is titled ‘The Great IT Horror Story’, there were many reasons that lead the implementation of this new information technology system into disaster and chaos to the business. In addition, people who were relevant to the cause of this incident were being interviewed too and they also gave out their own opinion on why this disaster can happened and what preventions or actions should be made to cope and prevent the issues on the implementation of the new information technology system.As mentioned, due to the objective to have and efficient distribution system, the management of Craven Books has decided to create an IT system. At first, the new system was expected to and should provide great time, effort and savings for the company to achieved the company’s objective but upon implementation of the new systems, the company’s expectation has not been achieve and even worst, it weakens the competitiveness of the company and the competitive advantages that the Craven Bookstore built had been not stable. In the video, it shows the common or classic mistake that make by the small business which also make by Craven Books that lead to this failure. Through this report, the following are the reasons why the new system in Craven Books was a failure.1.) Unable to determine the suitable IT system One of the first reasons for the failure of the system is the over-ambitious of Craven Books’ management that unable to determine the best IT system to use, to prepare a strategic plan before the implementation which lead to the result in choosing the IT system that is unfit to the company. Due to the reason that the company wants to be more competitive immediately, they pick the s ystem without even trying to identify whether the system really works or not. Furthermore, there wasn’t anyone is in charge of the systems to teach the employees to use the new system.2.) Rely too much on software consultants Another mistake was that Craven is relying too much on its software consultants, did not try to review or assess the given system to test its efficiency and effectiveness before it implemented. The consultant’s suggested Craven to go for an existing system because the implementation of customized system was a bad choice to achieve Craven’s purpose or objective; it’s like putting a third wing on a jumbo jet as the thing was going so fast that the desire result wouldn’t be achieved. Besides that, the project will not employ a staff to monitor, so that when the system went wrong there was no one has to take responsibility on it.The company was giving choice on the standard package that provide the advantages of the low cost and t he another one is tailored solution which give the advantage to use the tailored solution that can modified the system that suit to the business but on the other side this method is more expensive than the standard package.3.) Disaster strikes After the implementation of the new system, Craven faced some disaster strikes, they lost most of their major or main customers and almost more than 60% of the staffs were being dismissed. Because of the failure in the new system, it brings many negative feedbacks to the company. This leads many issues that reduce the company’s performance such as the conflict that happen in the actual situation with the result shown in the computer system.Despite that, the inaccurate of the weight device that was implant in the computer system always give wrong measurements and this problem had lost customers and created many angry customers due to the wrong orders were being deliver to the customers. In order to manage this disaster, the company had t o fire most of the staff and changes back the system to old system. The computer disaster cost Craven about $1 million dollar.4.) No one to blame or responsible for the failure of system Another reason of this failure of new system that there wasn’t anyone is responsible or managed to the project and the absent of a project team leaders that should be accountable to the system and lead the project into success. In the end, the suppliers and Cravens blamed each other for the result that it should be the responsibility of the company’s management because they didn’t do any preparation or strategic planning before the implementation of the project.In this report, we have picked 3 reasons that cause the unsuccessful of the new information system which was implemented by Craven Books to discuss:1. Unable to determine the suitable system for business 2. Rely too much on software consultants 3. No one to blame or responsible for the failure of systemIssue 1 The first r easons which cause the unsuccessful of the new system that we would like to discuss is the failure of Craven Books’ management level to determine the suitable system that can help the company to achieve objective and improve performance. The management level of Craven Books cannot decide and determine the appropriate system to the company because they were over-ambitious to improve their company’s performance and competitiveness quickly.In the end, they didn’t develop a strategic plan before the implementation of the new system. Other than that, they also didn’t conduct any testing on the new system to identify whether the system really can help the company to reach their objectives. Furthermore, there wasn’t anyone is appointed to handle and in charge the systems to teach the user or employee the proper method to conduct the new system.Example case As for example, a similar case study has been chosen in order to compare and discuss with this issue . This shows that Craven Books wasn’t the only victim of the information technology disaster. The similar case that happened under the same reason as Craven Books is FoxMeyer Corp. during 90’s.Due to the intense competition among competitors, FoxMeyer was in a great need of a solution that would have helped the company to achieve a complex supply chain decisions and improve the company’s performance. During the early 90’s, the company’ management level decide to focus on a business strategy of transferring the company into low cost distributor to increase competitive advantage and also provide differentiated services to different target customers.Based on the supply chain analysis that had been developed by the company, it was decided that an ERP system would provide a perfect solution for FoxMeyer to achieve the company’s objectives and goals. In  1992, the company had decided to hire Arthur Andersen consulting company to implement the SA P (R/3).The implementation of SAP In September 1993, FoxMeyer had contracted with SAP, Anderson Consulting and Arthur Andersen & Co. to implement the R/3 software. This multi-million dollar project had covered the entire supply chain and was the first information system launched in the pharmaceutical industry that utilized extensive technology coupled with automation of warehouse functions. In the end, the system didn’t provide expected result and the performance was unacceptable. It was completed late, failed to deliver expected benefits and went over budget due to huge expenditures for new computers, software and new warehouse. In 1996, FoxMeyer was forced to file for bankruptcy and was taken over by its largest competitor – McKesson Corp for only US$80m.In 1998, the bankruptcy trustee of FoxMeyer launched 2 lawsuits against SAP and Andersen Consulting. FoxMeyer charged SAP with fraud, negligence and breach of contract for convince them to invest in a system that fai led to achieve the company’s objective which leads to the bankruptcy of FoxMeyer while Anderson Consulting was charged with negligence and breach of contract for failing to properly manage the implementation but both defendants denied the allegations and blamed FoxMeyer for mismanagement.Reasons why FoxMeyer faced failure of ERP system There are many reasons why FoxMeyer faced failure in the ERP system which should assist the company to achieve goal and some of the reasons are same with the issues which were the reasons that lead to Craven Books information system disaster too.The reasons that lead to FoxMeyer’s ERP failure are: 1. Poor selection of the software – SAP R/3 was originally developed and designed for the purpose to business such as manufacturing companies and not for business such as wholesaler, especially those doing large number of transactions.This software has never been used for wholesale distributor before because this software lacked many req uirements needed for successful  wholesale distribution. SAP R/3 was inflexible software, it required many time and a large amount of financial investment if it require any modification and this software was unable to handle large number of orders. These weaknesses were the reason why this software was not suitable to FoxMeyer because this company handled orders from thousands of pharmacies and each of pharmacy had hundreds of items.2. Lack of contingency planning – FoxMeyer didn’t prepare any contingency planning to deal with the changes in the business operations. For example, one of FoxMeyer’s major client which was accounted for more than 15% of FoxMeyer’s business, declared bankruptcy shortly after FoxMeyer’s launched the ERP system.3. No end user involvement – The implementation of this ERP system was done using a top-down approach. The planning was performed by FoxMeyer’s upper management, Andersen Consulting and few technica l people. Only a few end users were participated in the planning, analysis and design process. In the end, there was a communication gap between the end users and the system planners.4. No restructuring the business process was done – SAP was not fully integrated and worked effective because FoxMeyer was incapable to reengineering their business processes in order to make the software to work more efficient.5. Lack of system testing – Due to the reason of rushed schedule, some modules testing was skipped. Other than that, the system was not properly tested to detect any problems when the system handling large amount of orders. There wasn’t enough testing and lack of time to modify or debug the system to ensure its functionality.6. Over-ambitious project scope – FoxMeyer’s project team members and information system staff were unfamiliar with the system hardware, system software and application software. In the end, the project scope was enlarged wi th simultaneous implementation of computerized warehouse project.  Other than that, some technical issues on complication were not managed properly by the staff and this incurred extra expenditures and time.7. Poor management support – At first, the management level were supportive and committed to the implementation of ERP system but once the implementation started, management were unwilling to acknowledge any system problems. Furthermore, management failed to identify the timeliness and resources needed in the implementation process.Recommendations According to the case of FoxMeyer, the case is very similar with Craven Books’ case especially in the reasons that both company can’t identify suitable software for company and insufficient of preparations or pre-activities before the implementation new system. In order to eliminate and cope the issues, Craven Books should follow these recommendations before the implementation of new system.1. Software selection à ¢â‚¬â€œ A project steering committee should be created and should involve high level of expertise, both technical and operational in the software selection process. They should do some research in different software, compare and assess their pros and cons to identify the suitable software which best fit the business needs.2. Contingency plan – A contingency plan should be develop to handle the situation when the system failure. Stipulate clearly the roll back procedures or develop new contingency plans to prepare for the breakdown of any system modules and for the total new system.3. Stakeholders’ involvement – Any new project implementation should get the involvement of all stakeholders which also include end users and customers of the company. All related parties should understand the purpose of the project and voice out their opinion especially in the earlier stage when any critical issues are just evolving.4. Thorough testing – An organized comprehens ive testing plan should be develop, encourage user participation in the testing process and make sure proper testing situations are done to the new system.5. Realistic project scope – Project scope should not be over-ambitious, it should be clearly identified with realistic targets.6. End user support – All employees and end users should be well trained to handle the new system. Response and address to the end users’ concern to reduce any negative feelings to the new systems. Identify the need of any changes on agents and create a high and positive morale to meet the new challenges.7. Post implementation review – Quality assurance and control programs should be develop to ensure the system checks are done. Develop business metrics to measure and compare the project’s estimated results with project’s actual result that have been achieved. Prepare an evaluation report and pass to stakeholders to review the results.Issue 2 The second issues are that the company relied too much on their consultants and suppliers who provide the system. This could be issues for Craven because they did not review the system, all the procedure just follows the consultant’s suggestion, they did not test the efficiency and the effectiveness of the system before it implemented.The consultant’s suggested Craven to go for an existing system, the suggestion for Craven’s purpose was a bad choice, and it’s like putting a third wing on a jumbo jet. The things were going fast but at the end it does not work. Craven is too much reliance to the outside consultant. Craven did not do any reference check to the consultant; they just hired the consultant and just rely on the consultant to do the implementation of the new system for the company.Consultant is playing an important role when a company wants to implement a new system. The consultant responsible for the whole systems, to provide the software solutions and other recommen dations based on the assessment. Consultant do give advice, but they frequently also perform tasks that  result from that advice. Those tasks can range from running a public relations campaign to building a customized order fulfillment system. The consultant may integrate customized software into a business or organization’s processes in order to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the systems and to minimize manpower or the costs.For example, a fitness centre could benefit from the integration of proprietary software that tracks the progress of the gym’s members, in the form of measurements and other personalized data. A consultant, might specialize in the creation of such software for the fitness centre, and pitch the software to various business and organizations within the fitness industry. As software can perform a wide variety of functions, a software consultant might deliver software solutions to a wide variety of industries. Businesses and organizati ons will often hire one or a firm on a contract basis, if such expertise is not already is available in-house. For example, a real estate company that already employs a computer programmer, webmaster, or other information technology professionals might also hire a consultant who can create a database of properties customized to suit the company’s information management needs.If the consultant fail to perform their tasks, there is many possible failure for the project and will impact the whole company as well. The company will face cost overruns, over budget and project delay due to the poor project management by the consultant. The consultant is not focus on the organizations change systems and lack of attention to the business process reengineering. Some consultants have never done the things they consult on. In innovation circles this means they have never been managed a team of people, never prototyped an idea, never filed a patent, never taken creative risks, so instead o f banking on their experience, or even their knowledge of the experience of others, they make stuff up, there is an issues arise from that.Recommendation There is no one to blame with this implementation, the company should cancel the whole project and kick out the consultant. For the implementation of the new system, Craven should seek a qualified and experienced consultant but  not just book knowledge. A good consultant has valuable experience in one or more areas of specialty, and they can use this experience for the company advantages. Craven at start should select the right consultant firm, next is to get the consultant involved early and set up a clear and formal communication system allowing the company to communicate with the consultant what they needs to be clearly understood and turn into designing the software that suitable for the company.Craven should having an interview session to choose the consultant from the hundreds out there, have a reference check on the consul tant to check their background to ensure they have a good background and don’t have any bad reputation out there, also have to review what they have done before, for example if they have any success implementation job before and when choosing a suitable consultant don’t forget the fact that the company will need to work closely with this person for months and sometimes years, so have to choose carefully to ensure the consultant can work with the employees, the consultant should has the ability to communicate effectively and gather accurate details regarding to the business process.Craven buy the system from the supplier and trying to get more advice from consultant is not wrong. However, the mistake of Craven is they relied too much with the supplier and consultant that they did not carefully review the advice and do a better decision before implemented the system. Craven can collect all the opinion and suggestion from the consultant but have to review and have a meeti ng with top management to consider the possible consequences that may affect the company as a whole. The top management have to consider cautiously and have to discuss the feasibility to implement the new system, coming out with a better outcome for the better future for the company.Planning is very important before the consultancy process so that the business is able to set out the objectives that they want to achieve after implemented the new system in the company. In addition, Craven has to ensure that they are hiring a consultant that has adequate knowledge about the system implementation. A consultant with adequate experience has the ability to identify the specific needs of the business based on the knowledge that  they have acquired over the years.Craven should not rely on the suppliers. Suppliers can supply with the templates and best practices that can take the company a good part of the way but Craven still need to define what is constitutes success and failure, progress and set-backs, also set a deadlines. Top management of Craven should have the responsibility to the company, they must have to know that suppliers are just selling the software and the implementation, the decision of the management made will directly affect the future for the whole company. Craven have to know what their business processes up front is, and don’t let the suppliers software define for the company.Issue 3 The third reason that causes the new system implementation failed is nobody is responsible on the system. Based on the case study, the intension of Carven Book decided to implement new system for enhancing their company competitive and more effectiveness for company system, but there were not one to follow up and back up the systems after implementationThis failure happened to be nobody to handle or managed the systems or the lack of system team members and leader who have experience in this information system field followed all the requirements needed to make the project successful. Hence, Carven management lack of experiences and it is a first time of system implementation to the company. Before these, all the company’s transactions, orderings, delivering was under manual systems. Due to company willing see improvement of the information system, they started their first try to implement the computer system.Besides that, Cravens argued the responsible of information supporting should be provided and back- up by the supplier of the software, on the other hand, supplier re-blamed back they do not have any responsibility on this issue since they just developed the ready software and sell to their customer needs. Both parties involved blamed to each other for the consequent that it is the sole mistake of the management of the company because they did not again, strategically planned the project.Due to the issue arose, below are the recommendations parts can be given:Employing IT technical support background people as company employee As result of new system transformation of company, Carven may consider to employ new staff from the specific IT field as company sources for supporting and back- up Company new system implementation as a team with the former management. Forming a department or a group member into â€Å"system development & supporting group† with collaboration with the company system user for supporting company system.Hence, Carven may appoint management manager as the department head whose job scope is leading the whole team of members to solve the problems what the system user met during implementing period. At the beginning stage, department manager has to conduct the new system education to company system user through system trainings & lessons for the current staffs.Normal situation can be seen in the beginning of new system implementation, the most of the users were lacking of experiences in applying the new system in their workplace, especially for Carven employee who is the first time who use the new system in 1990s. After few months of training and lesson, company system users will be more familiar and useful to systems.It can be seen that they have more capability and acceptable for using the new software in this period. In this system implementation stage, department manager may regard the system support in more upper and deeper level on the system error or system problems which maybe faced by the company users. System users must voice up the issue and the problems which they faced and handled to the IT group. Through this issue arose, IT supporting group must size up the situation and problems at the first and try to resolve it for the current company demand.Some of the time, company may change their company strategy or follow the customer’s need changes, it will affect directly into company information system procedure and lastly system user will also be affected through the transformation. That situation may generate some dispute and problems betwee n the system and the users. IT development group have to follow up it  and back up anytime with those issues arise.Their job scope not only on the back up the system, however they also involved in protecting and upgrade the software system if there have any disputes between the system and user or customers. The reason that some of outdated or old system code or services transaction, it was not be used by the company, thus IT group should upgrade into new version.Do not rely too much on the Suppliers and ready software It is important that always picking a reliable suppliers and ready software company for future better support. Some of the ready software company and suppliers who are not too much experience and have depth software knowledge will drag the effectiveness when any problems arise. IT support Group or specific manager must always take noted the software version depend company need to the suppliers in anytime for the better system using. Besides that, IT group members may pint out the problems which is software shortcoming or deficiency to the supplier then has a period meeting with ready software suppliers in a quarter year once for system information updating.Another important factor should be taken note by company user are not rely too much with the suppliers. If they faced any issues from the former system, it will drag down company performance once supplier cannot give the system support on time. Company implement information systems may hire and develop their own IT support group in company for nearest support and backup.Benchmarking with other company One of the business strategies can be applied in Carven book is benchmarking. Benchmarking is the process of comparing one's business processes and performance metrics to industry bests or best practices from other industries. Dimensions typically measured are quality, time and cost. In the process of best practice benchmarking, management identifies the best firms in their industry, or in anoth er industry where similar processes exist, and compares the results and processes of those studied or the â€Å"targets† to one's own results and processes. In this way, they learn how well the targets perform and, more importantly, the business processes that explain why these firms are successful.The objective of benchmarking is to understand and evaluate the current position of a business or organization in relation to â€Å"best practice† and to identify areas and means of performance improvement. This process is used in management and particularly strategic management, in which organizations evaluate various aspects of their processes in relation to best practice companies' processes, usually within a peer group defined for the purposes of comparison.This then allows organizations to develop plans on how to make improvements or adapt specific best practices, usually with the aim of increasing some aspect of performance. Benchmarking may be a one-off event, but is often treated as a continuous process in which organizations continually seek to improve their practices.Company can choose benchmarking with other not the same field company which is best practice in information system owning to understand other company system. Through the benchmarking, company send out some IT supporting group member out to benchmarking company learn their best system culture and how they implement the system in their company. Thus, the benchmarking project may exchange the views and experience between the benchmarking company and current company each other together during their visit.Once the benchmarking project finished, IT supporting group member may discuss with current company system user concerning the good practice and services from benchmarking company respectively as well as learn from it and improving the deficiency of current systems. Also, it is vital that any new system developing or changing must according or depending to present company’s ne ed and requirement.Recommendations from the video In the end of the video, there were some recommendations were given the computer journalist-Lynn Clarke. She suggested that the company should consider the business priority than the technology and simplify or rationalized the business as possible. Moreover, she also gave comment that the company should utilize the time to in prepare and design strategic plan before making any decisions in choosing the suitable system that fit the  company. So, in order for Craven Books to solve its problem and continually to have a competitive position in the market place, a strategic planning must be done before the information technology system was created to prevent any more problems and major downturn.Conclusion As for conclusion, nowadays all the industries need information technology in order to become the strongest in the marketplace. It shows that to be competitive in this modern world, information system should follow up too. This is to e nsure that the company is achieving to the needs of its stakeholders and to meet the requirement that the customers wants.However, in order for Craven Books to solve the problem and continually have competitive position in the marketplace they must bear in mind that creating new systems for the company, they need to do strategic planning, having a meeting among all top management in the company to discuss about the possible for the implementation, and to have enough preparation to implement the new systems in order to prevent all the possible problems happened during the implementation stages.