Commentary on Tash Aw’s Harmony Silk Factory Essay

The extract from the novel â€Å"The Harmony Silk Factory† by Tash Aw, seems to serve as an introduction within the larger context of the complete novel. The central theme of the extract is the concept of appearance VS reality; some things are, in reality, not what they appear to be. Through the use of characterisation and setting, the author manages to bring out this theme. In addition, the use of setting and characterisation creates a degree of tension within the extract, and draws the reader into the story. Characterisation plays a major part in the extract. The main character of the extract is also the narrator. The narrator is characterised through the use of many literary devices; through his narration, aspects of his personality are revealed to the reader. We find that the narrator has two sides: the face he shows the world around him and the side that the reader is introduced to through his narration. The side that the narrator shows to the world around him and the side of him revealed to the reader are two different personalities. His external appearance is one of a quiet, non-existent, seemingly inconsequential person as can be seen from the fact that â€Å"none of the visitors ever noticed [him]†. However, this quiet exterior belies the fact that he observes all the comings and goings within the silk harmony factory. â€Å"From my upstairs window, I saw everything unfold. Without father ever saying anything to me†. The narrator is fully aware of all his father’s smuggling activities â€Å"opium and heroin and Hennessy XO† and bribing of the â€Å"Thai soldiers†¦with American cigarettes and low-grade gemstones† but never lets his father catch on to that fact. The narrator also states that he is only of â€Å"modest intellect† and this is supported by his father’s belief that he would â€Å"always be a dreamer and a wastrel†. We find however, that his quiet demeanour conceals an observant, keen intellect. Contrary to his self-deprecating statement, we notice that he displays an extraordinary sense of awareness in a child of his age, suggesting that he is extremely intelligent. Even as a child he â€Å"was aware of what [his] father did†. His action of lifting the linoleum and pressing his ear to the floorboards to listen into his father’s Safe Room reveals to us his ingenuity and is a reflection of his intellect. While he does not mange to discern any information, he is sharp enough to realise that the â€Å"low, muffled rumble† was the â€Å"tipping of diamonds onto the green baize table†. While the narrator may appear to be of merely modest intellect, it seems that in reality he is incredi bly intelligent for a young child. His self-deprecating statement also serves to highlight his actual cleverness and quick mind. The theme of appearance VS reality can also be seen in the characterisation of two minor characters: the general and the young lady in the car. The narrator tells us that the general â€Å"didn’t look much like a soldier, but he had a Mercedes-Benz with a woman in the back seat†, which would indicate a fairly high level of affluence and power which comes with the rank of a general in the army. With his â€Å"cheap grey shirt† and gold teeth, the man may not have looked like a general, but other indications would have exposed the reality of what he really was. This is similarly echoed in the characterisation of the young woman in the back seat of the car. The narrator describes her as having â€Å"fair skin, almost pure white, the colour of salt fields on the coast†. The narrator then goes on to state that â€Å"she was young and beautiful, and when she smiled I saw her teeth were small and brown†. This contrast between the state of her teeth and the colour of her skin further highlights the theme of appearance VS reality; while she appears to be pure and white on the outside, her teeth are dirty and decayed. This contrast is highlighted also by the use of visual imagery â€Å"salt fields† when describing the colour of her skin. Furthermore, the contrast between the general and the young woman also emphasizes the theme of appearance VS reality. The general wears a grey shirt, while the young woman is described as having white skin. Where the general’s teeth are gold in colour, hers are small and brown. From this we can see that outward appearance does not seem to be a very good indicator of what the reality really is. Finally, the setting also contributes back to the theme of appearance VS reality. The name of the factory â€Å"The harmony silk factory†, which becomes synonymous with the house, gives no indication as to the activities of vice conducted there. Both physically and figuratively, the narrator’s house seems to be hiding behind the factory. The theme of appearance VS reality is manifested in the physical setting of the Harmony Silk Factory. The characterisation and setting, besides bringing out the theme of the appearance VS reality, also serves to create tension in the story and cause the reader to want to read on. The setting of the house, with its â€Å"small mossy courtyard which never got enough sunlight† gives the location of the extract an air of mystery; the lack of light and dampness of the place (as can be seen by the growth of moss) further builds upon the mysteriousness of the setting. This description appears in the first line of the extract, and the reader’s curiosity is pricked as to what actually goes on within the Harmony Silk factory. Also, the characterisation of the narrator serves to lead the reader on to read the rest of the novel. How is this achieved? Firstly, the narrator is a nameless, 1st person narrator. The use of the 1st person narration serves to give the tone of the extract a feeling of intimacy, or closeness to the subject matter. At the same time, his lack of a name distances him from the reader, again creating an air of mystery which surrounds him. Secondly, the tone of the narrator is very â€Å"matter-of-fact†. He describes somewhat shocking, illegal proceeds with the same tone one would use to describe everyday activities. He matter-of-factly states â€Å"Mainly he smuggles opium and heroin and Hennessy XO† and â€Å"I knew what he was up to and whom he was with†. The narrator describes theses happenings with a certain detachment which seems nonchalant or could be due to the fact that he is already used to this sort of behaviour. In fact, the narrator comes across as unfazed by all his father’s wrongdoings and does not seem affected in any way. This matter-of-fact tone is further highlighted by the narrator’s use of literary devices such as verbal irony. The use of verbal irony is evident throughout the extract. One of the first instances is in the 2nd paragraph in which the narrator describes the type of people who visit his house. He describes his Father’s clients as if they were guests or VIPs. â€Å"Entry was strictly by invitation† with â€Å"privileged few† being granted access; he states that only the â€Å"liars, cheats, traitors and skirt chasers† of â€Å"the highest order† are allowed in. These individuals have been seemingly elevated to a position of importance but by describing them in this way, the narrator has revealed them to be merely the scum of society. Another instance of verbal irony is in the line â€Å"Now I would give everything to be the son of a mere liar and cheat†. The irony is in the fact that the narrator views his father is so vile that he would rather be the son of someone who only cheats and lies. Also further irony can be found in the line â€Å"my crime-funded education to good use†. We find that he is now using his education, paid for by his father’s crimes, to uncover his father’s crimes. The use of verbal irony builds upon the narrator’s characterisation, as parts of his personality are slowly revealed to the reader. The narrator also uses an extremely convoluted and verbose way of narrating known as periphrasis. His manner of speaking is roundabout and elaborate. He uses ellipsis to interrupt his own narrative, â€Å"partly for convenience – the only people who came†¦ – partly because my father’s varied†¦Ã¢â‚¬  The narrator constantly interjects his own narrative with interruptions and unnecessary lines such as â€Å"gold, real solid gold†. The use of unnecessarily long paragraphs to say a simple thing also add on to his convoluted manner of narration. The second last paragraph could have been shortened by saying â€Å"I am now at peace and am not ashamed to reveal the story of my father’s life†. However, he instead says â€Å"there is another reason I now feel particularly well placed†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦I am at peace†. The use of periphrasis also heightens the melodramatic way the narrator leads the reader on. Phrases such as â€Å"that wasn’t all he was† and â€Å"†¦I have searched for this all my life. Now, at last, I know the truth and I am no longer angry. In fact, I am at peace† serve to heighten the tension within the paragraph. He describes his father’s past as â€Å"terrible† and the title he gives to his tale, â€Å"The true story of the infamous Chinaman called Johnny†, seems to elevate his father’s story to one legendary importance. The use of the phrase â€Å"true story† also lends a sense of credibility to his account. The revelation of the title to the reader is the climax of the tension that has been building in the last few paragraphs, albeit a somewhat anti-climatic one. This climax (or anti-climax) serves to leave the reader wanting more and leads the reader on to continue reading the rest of the story. The narrator’s self-deprecating and quirky way of narrating serves to endear the narrator to the reader. We also discover certain facts about his childhood through his narration. At no point in the extract does a narrator mention his mother. This may only be a conjecture, but the lack of a motherly figure in his life, a lack of love, may have contributed to his strange and unusual way of narrating and also his self-deprecating attitude. Also, we find that he may have endured physical abuse as a child from the line â€Å"I had become used to this kind of punishment† in response to his father twisting his ear. This makes the reader increasingly sympathetic to the narrator as the narrative progresses. Thus, when the narrator begins using melodrama to capture the attention of the reader and lead the reader on to the rest of the novel, the reader follows with little resistance. This characterisation and narration, coupled with the mysterious atmosphere created by the setting, creates a sort of tension which compels the reader to read on. It engages the reader and draws the reader into the world the author has created. As we have seen characterisation and setting both have a dual purpose. If this extract is the beginning of the novel, then the author has succeeded in drawing the reader into the novel. By using both characterisation and setting to bring out the theme and simultaneously create tension, the author has succeeded in creating a world with characters that engage readers and has successfully written an effective and exciting beginning to the novel.

Cunninghams vs Ewells

During the great depression of the1930s there were many families who couldn't make ends meet. How each family copes with their struggles during hard times, has always been a source of great topics for many writers. One such author is Harper Lee who wrote â€Å"To Kill A Mocking Bird†. In the book the author writes of several families, who were going through those hard times. Two of the families in particular stood out for me, the Cunningham and Ewells. Although they did share some things in common they were very different. The equalities were few, and aside from being from the country, having lots of children and having had trouble with the law, the similarities ended. The Cunninghams were from the outskirts of Maycomb, a place called Old Sarum. Apparently this was land that existed in their family for generations. They were considered poor by Maycomb's standards but still tried to make it. Although most of their land had been repossessed and mortgaged, they still owned some. Their land was the primary means of supporting the family and, since money was scarce, many times they would use some of their crops to barter for other necessities or services. The Cunninghams were very proud and hard working people and accepted nothing that was given to them, unless they earned it. For example Mr. Atticus Finch provided legal services to the Cunninghams and did not expect payment of any kind. Mr. Walter Cunningham, however, brought Atticus various things from his farm throughout the year until he reached a point which he considered fair payment for his services. These actions earned the Cunninghams the notion of being proud and honest people. The Cunninghams did have a run in with the law one time, which caused several of the boys to be sent to â€Å"prison†. The prison was more like a state industrial school, were the boys actually were fed and given an education. Some of them went on to higher education and became professionals. So once again they capitalized on an unfortunate event but, used it to progress. The Ewells on the other hand, despite being poor country folk, having many children and having trouble with the law were very different from the Cunninghams. They too, lived outside the town of Maycomb, but they lived in an old abandoned Negro's cabin behind the town dump. They were poor regardless of the economy phases. The Ewells primary source of income was from relief checks they received from the government. Most of the time Mr. Robert Ewell spent the family money on drinking. The Ewells were truly guests of the county of Maycomb. The Ewells children had little or no education. In fact the only reason the children went to school was to be able to continue receiving their relief checks. Since the requirement was that the children had to at least show up for the first day of school in order to collect the relief money, they sent their kids to school on the first day and that would be the extent of their school year. They did not make any strides to better themselves and resisted any help which would allow them to do so. The Ewells were very prejudice. They hated blacks. This is what led to their encounter with the law. But unlike with the Cunninhams, the Ewells were the plaintiffs. They accused an innocent man, Tom Robinson, a Negro, of rape. One time, Tom Robinson, went by the Ewell's cabin and helped Mayella Ewell with a house chore, only to find an enraged Robert Ewell charging towards the cabin. It was then that Tom Robison was thrown in prison and the Ewells began a trial which ended with the conviction of Tom Robinson and his death. It was clear to all of Maycomb that the Ewells were the type of folk to stay away from and most did. Except for one time when Boo Radley came to the deffense of Jem and Scout Finch who were being attacked by a drunk, Mr. Bob Ewell. On that day Mr. Bob Ewell was found dead. The town sheriff called it an accident and no one was apprehended for his death. It is easy to see how two families can share some common traits but, be completely different human beings. The Cunninghams down on their luck because of the economy but, still trying to make it in an honest and proud fashion. The Ewells who were completely the opposite. They were lazy, dishonest, uneducated people and happy to live that way.

Satan's fall from Heaven Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Satan's fall from Heaven - Research Paper Example Main views/theories on Satan's fall from Heaven The exact time of Satan's fall from Heaven is still clouded and leads to a number of different views and theories on the same. Some of the views/theories are pointed out here. Satan’s fall: between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 This view/theory is generally known as ‘gap theory’. The chief exponents of this theory believe that the wide time interval between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2 is enough to the Satan’s fall from heaven. Hodge (2011), states that â€Å"Gap theorists try to make the case that the Hebrew in Genesis 1:2 should be translated as â€Å"And the earth became without form, and void† and this is subsequent to Satan’s fall† (p.24). Besides, this theory can be connected to the theory of evolution and the extinction of dinosaurs. When the gap is that of millions of years, there exists high possibility for Satan’s fall from heaven within this time interval. In addition, this theory tries to connect Genesis 1:1 with scientific division of ages. For instance, Genesis 1:1can be evaluated scientifically as the time interval of creation of the whole world by the God. Moreover, Genesis 1:2 can be evaluated as the time interval in which the God judged the whole wor ld. In short, the ‘gap theory’ tries to explain that Satan’s fall from the heaven is in between Genesis 1:1and 1:2. Satan’s fall: between chapters 1 and 2 (Genesis)... Satan’s fall: between chapters 1 and 2 (Genesis) The people who believe in this view/theory do not accept the fact that the earth’s age consists of millions of years. When this view is connected to the God’s creation of the world within six days, the time interval for the creation is limited to an extent. For instance, when the God created the whole world within six days, the age of the earth will be limited to thousands of years. Russell (1987), states that â€Å"The Devil fall from grace because he envied God, wishing to be adored like his maker, and even more because he envied humanity† (p.81). The exponents of this view/theory argue that Satan was created by the God on the first day of creation. Those who believe in this view/theory are of the opinion that Satan’s fall is in between the chapters 1 and 2 (Genesis). To be specific, the Satan in the chapter 3 of genesis is portrayed as a fallen angel. So, there exists high possibility for Satanâ₠¬â„¢s fall between his creation (chapter 1) and portrayal as fallen (chapter 3). So, the exponents of this view/theory argue that Satan’s fall is in between the chapters 1 and 2 (Genesis). Satan’s fall: before chapter 1 (Genesis) This view/theory is based upon the belief that Satan’s fall is not between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2, and chapters 1 and 2 (Genesis), but before chapter 1 (Genesis). This view/theory suggests that Satan was banished from the heaven long before Adam and Eve’s creation. Troyer (2007), states that â€Å" Some people believe Lucifer was kicked out of heaven long before the Garden of Eden was made or before God created the heaven and the earth† (p.116). The main argument is that chapter 1 (Genesis) makes clear that

Strategic Human Resource Management - Assignment

Strategic Human Resource Management - - Assignment Example Other major functions include the recruiting of employees, staffing the departments that are short staffed and also focuses on employee development through organizing trainings to enhance employee competence at the work place (Wolper 2004, p. 286). The other critical role of the human resource department is to maintain the employees through manpower planning by ascertaining how many employees an organization would need in the future and the skills that they should have (Krishnaveni 2008, p. 102). Based on this, there are varying views on the role of a human resource function and those that practice it in which this essay will delve into them and also analyze how they can be able to add value and enhance the effectiveness of an organization. The human resource function under the guidance of the human resource manager ensures that an organization implements policies and procedures across all the departments to ensure that there is cohesiveness in the same. As the name suggests, this function manages the most important asset to an organization, which is the work capital in which most of these carry out the same functions as much as they may differ in size and in structure. Ideally, this is the most basic function of the human resource department because a company cannot function without having a capable and competent workforce that is able to execute all the tasks effectively. According to the Information Resources Management Association (2012, p. 373), this department is tasked with creating job descriptions to which new employees are to occupy and also create the responsibilities that they would be charged with so as to foster the success of an organization. As part of the recruitment, the HR department has the responsibility of interviewing and hiring the right people for the job descriptions that they have created depending on their skills and competencies that the

Financial Markets and Risk Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Financial Markets and Risk - Essay Example For investors who are moderate on their risk taking mentality have hybrid products to choose from. This report will deal with various investment products that are provided by financial institutions and the implications of market interest rates on investors and banks. Long term savings and investment products provided by Retail banks and Non Banking Financial Intermediaries or NBFC’s Some of the popular long term investment products provided by retail banks and NBFC’s are as follows. Fixed Deposits: Fixed deposits, as the name signifies, have a fixed tenure during which the investments cannot be withdrawn. Withdrawal is possible in between the tenure, but in such a case the investor will have to forgo certain benefits as early withdrawal charges. Bonds: Bonds are debt instruments that are issued by government or corporate. Bonds are fixed income securities that provide a fixed rate of return over a period of time. As a result, it is less risky too. Debentures: Debentures are similar to bonds in its nature with the only difference being they are issued only by corporations. Debentures provide fixed rate of interest and comes with a lock in period of usually more than 2 years. Mutual Funds: Mutual fund is a collective fund management system in which the amount collected from a large number of investors is invested into certain asset classes based on the nature of the fund. The investors who invest in mutual funds will get units of the fund of which the value depends on the price movement in the assets they are invested in. Pension Funds: A pension fund is a very long term investment product that is intended to give retirement income for the investors. Investors contribute a certain amount on fixed intervals which is accumulated and invested in safe asset classes. These are returned to them at the time of their retirement. Implications of increase in general interest rates on individual savers and investors An increase in the general interest rates wi ll have a considerable impact on the investment portfolio of investors and savers. â€Å"When interest rates are rising, both businesses and consumers will cut back on spending† (Investopedia, 2011). The cut back on spending by customers and businesses will lead to less corporate earnings than before. The poor corporate earnings will cause the stock prices to drop at the overall market. A fall in the stock market will affect all the investment products that have the investment pie in stocks. Investors and individual savers, who have invested directly in the stock markets or invested in the stock markets through mutual funds and other products, will see their corpus going down. A rising interest rate can also affect the investors in terms of the low risky instruments like bonds. The prime relationship to be understood is that there is always an inverse relationship between the interest rates and bond prices. When the market interest rate rises, the bonds with lesser interest r ate than the market rate will turn to be less attractive for the investors. The investors receive interest at a lower rate as compared to what is offered by the market. This will not be a big issue if the investor holds the bond until its maturity. But any plans to sell the bond before the maturity will reap fewer benefits when the market interest rates are higher (Williams, 2009). The investor can definitely hold on to the bonds

Maths report 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Maths report 2 - Essay Example A mathematical model is an abstract model that uses mathematical language to describe the behavior of a system. It is an accurate representation of the relationship between two or more variables relevant to a given situation or problem The process of developing such models is known as mathematical modeling. Mathematical models are used particularly in natural sciences and engineering disciplines such as physics, biology and mechanical engineering but also in social sciences such as economics and political science. Mathematical models can take many forms, including but not limited to dynamical systems, statistical models, differential equations, or game theoretic models. These and other model types can overlap, with a given model involving a variety of abstract structures. There are six primary groups of variables: decision variables, input variables, state variables, exogenous variables, random variables and output variables. Mathematical modelling problems are often classified as the black box or white box models, according to how much prior information is available from the system. In this report, the principles of mathematical modelling are used to solve problems in the real world. The model creates an accurate representation of some phenomenon for better understanding. They create matches of observation with symbolic representation and Inform Theory and assist in explanations of the problems, mathematically. Mathematical modelling has been used effectively in the above exercise to create models that have solved the problems given. The answers to those problems and the procedures used in arriving at them are clearly outlined, in the workings of each

DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRIES PROJECT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRIES PROJECT - Essay Example It has been proclaimed that motivating people to pray a prayer is not enough to attain spiritual well-being. Hence, it has been ascertained that the entire humankind should be offered with opportunity to become disciples of Lord Jesus Christ. It has been affirmed in this regard that the first step to become a disciple of Lord Jesus Christ is to know about the Gospel. Discipleship, in its simple meaning, can be defined as serving God through a spiritual life dedicated to the church by taking some additional responsibility of preaching God’s words. Discipleship is not limited to taking people to the savior or just baptize them. However, it is equally important to teach them the God’s word so that they can have a prosperous life. At the same time, the truth learned should be practiced in daily lives in order to serve Jesus. It can be affirmed in this regard that discipleship is must be cultivated from heart and mind and not as a coercion. In Christianity, it is believed th at such practice can make an individual a true disciple of Lord Jesus Christ. The role and responsibility of teacher in discipleship is thus extremely crucial. The teacher should not only put emphasis on teaching the Biblical doctrines, but it is equally important for the educators of discipleship to make the learners or followers aware of Christ’s verses. It is also important that teachers concerning with discipleship not only encourage disciples to attend the Church on Sundays, but they should make sure that disciples are able to depict their gratitude to God whenever possible and maintain peace in their life1. Focusing on these aspects of discipleship, this paper entails to design a comprehensive ministry plan for Church of God in Christ with the purpose of encouraging people to acquire Biblically sound knowledge and insights for attaining spiritual well-being in their life. Scriptural Foundations Church of God in Christ believes that Bible is the ‘word of godâ€℠¢ and it comprises pleasant and satisfactorily comprehensive system of principle. It believes that Bible is the only right in every matter and avow in the life of a human. Church of God in Christ is guided and validated by Thessalonians 2:14 and Pauline Epistles passages. According to Thessalonians 2:14 passage, â€Å"for ye, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judaea in Christ Jesus: for ye also suffered the same things of your own countrymen, even as they did of the Jews†2. Church of God in Christ thus teaches that Jesus is the only arbitrator between God and human where no redemption exists. It believes in Holy Spirit who acts as representatives of God that equips, authorizes, leads and directs the church. Church of God in Christ also believes in angels, who are considered as messengers sent by the God and who assisted in the establishment of Old Testament as well as the church. As per the belief, angels exist basically in spiritual monarchy and are structured based on responsibilities and activities in God’s kingdom. Church of God in Christ considers demons as evil or impure spirits. These demons are referred as â€Å"fallen angels† and exist as challengers to the God’s persistence and determination. Church of God i

Think Global Act Local Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Think Global Act Local - Essay Example Nurses can be involved in the planning of their activities, for example, the ones that promote giving to present voluntary giving without anticipating anything in return. These are the work that most nurses do by helping others voluntarily. Nurses can also be assisted to help others develop their self-esteem by helping them value themselves. The next organization is Philadelphia FIGHT. This is an all-encompassing AIDS service agency, which provides primary care, advocacy on potential vaccines or treatments and consumer care. The main goal is to provide care to HIV/AIDS through offering a wide range of prevention, education, as well as information services such as AIDS Library, Project TEACH, Critical Path AIDS Project and the Youth Health Empowerment Project. These missions are also how its goals are being achieved and the agency can be really assisted a lot with the introduction of nurses into their program. For instance, a nurse can be brought in to assist in the Project TEACH, whi ch basically teaches people who to live after developing AIDS and also how to prevent themselves from catching the virus. The final organization is the American Association of University Women. This organization promotes equity and education for girls and women. What the organization has done to realize its mission is spreading itself into different universities in the United States and areas where education is not female education is not widespread to advocate for the education of more female adults and young ones.

A Portfolio Reflection of Three Teaching Strategies and There Usage Essay Example for Free

A Portfolio Reflection of Three Teaching Strategies and There Usage Essay This writer has been teaching for the past twelve years; the introduction came at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus after graduating with a BSc. in Sociology and Politics where I first started tutoring in Introduction to Caribbean Politics and Sociology in the undergraduate programme. After three year of working in administration full-time and tutoring part-time, I decided that desk work was not for me as I felt as though I would go out of mind (literally, as the job held no challenges for me and there was no prospects of promotion to anything else but more ‘paper pushing’. To that end I applied to a number of universities in the United Kingdom and was successful. While studying in the United Kingdom for my Masters of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice, I taught English as a Foreign Language to French and Italian students that summer in 1999. On return from the United Kingdom n September 1999, I started teaching in the Division of General/Continuing Education where I taught Caribbean Politics Society, Ethics and Citizenship (Cores) and Introduction to Sociology (Elective) to the general college student population; and resume tutoring in the Department of Government, Sociology and Social Work in the Faculty of Social Sciences, Cave Hill Campus. In April 2000 I started teaching in the Division of Commerce in the Department of Government and Political Studies and have since become the Head of the Department with responsibility for the Politics programme. During the summer of that year I lectured Introduction to Sociology in the Summer School Programme. I was asked to design a course for the Regional Police Training Centre to replace a previous course; this was called The Sociology of Crime and I was asked to teach the same. My interest in teaching also led me to create a number of courses at the college and one such course, The Sociology of Crime (Corrections Aspect) was adopted by the Training Division for an accelerated training course 2 for Prison Officers at Her Majesty’s Prisons; this I was also co-opted to teach as well. To date I remain the Head of Department, Government and Political Studies and I am a part-time lecturer/tutor in FOUN 1301 – Law, Governance, Economy and Caribbean Society at the Cave Hill Campus, a part-time lecturer in Drugs and Society (Summer School Programme), a part-time Tutor at the Regional Police Training Centre and Her Majesty’s Prisons Dodds. The portfolio has been defined as a systematic and organised collection of evidence used by the teacher and student to monitor growth of the students knowledge, skills, and attitudes in a specific subject area (Blake et al. 1995). Others (DeBruin-Parecki, et al. , 1997) have provided a more contemporary view which envisions the portfolio as â€Å"a purposeful, collaborative, self-reflective collection of student work generated during the process of instruction†. This paper is intended to help the writer to systematically gauge her progress toward the teaching profession by developing a portfolio. More importantly, it is intended to help other teacher candidates think reflectively on their decisions and experiences. Institutions of higher learning across the nation are responding to political, economic, social and technological pressures to be more responsive to students needs and more concerned about how well students are prepared to assume future societal roles. Faculty are already feeling the pressure to lecture less, to make learning environments more interactive, to integrate technology into the learning experience, and to use collaborative learning strategies when appropriate. The emphasis of learning to learn in curriculum reform has signaled to teachers to adopt student-centred strategies of teaching and different modes of assessment. The basis for the foregoing can be found in the Ministry of Education White Paper on Education Reform (1995). During the researcher’s years of teaching she has observed some unfavourable social skills being displayed by students in the classroom. Simple courtesies such as sharing or 3 saying â€Å"good-morning† appear to be disappearing from the habits of some students. This is symptomatic of the serious underlying problems in our society that need to be addressed urgently. The regularity with which some reference is made to the conduct of our youth, whether it is by teachers, parents, the media or society as a whole is disconcerting. If not curbed, these children take negative behaviours into their adult lives and this can be detrimental to the society as a whole. Cooperative/collaborative learning, portfolio assessment and problem solving/critical thinking, as an alternative assessment, are increasingly being used in higher education facilities around the world and here at the Barbados Community College, specifically in the Department of Government and Political Studies. Before embarking on this course of study, much of the knowledge this writer operated with and under was done based on what was never wanted as a student, the old way of mere â€Å"pallaring†. Notably, the change from listening to teachers teach and answering examination questions to taking the initiative to learn and demonstrating competence with self-selected evidence is a great challenge to the students. This paper first discusses the various constraints and difficulties of using, cooperative/collaborative learning, portfolio and problem solving/critical thinking as assessment and instructional strategies. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications for successful use of these three strategies as a useful form of teaching and assessment can be measured at the same time. Included in this paper will be examples of artefacts of each teaching strategy along with a rationale and description of teaching strategy. It can be asserted that many students find the transition into Higher Education quite difficult, particularly if they have not studied for some length of time; also coming from the high school environment the same is obtained as many of these students have been ‘spoon fed’ and find it hard to adopt the new mode of teaching. It is against this backdrop that the writer layout this paper reflecting on various teaching strategies, namely Cooperative/ Collaborating Learning, Portfolios, and Problem Solving/Critical Thinking. Teaching strategies can be defined therefore as ways in which instructional material and activities are presented and conducted in an effort to meet the needs of every student. Notably, teaching strategies will vary from tutor to tutor and is usually based upon which method/strategy (ies) a particular tutor is most at ease in using and its effectiveness. On the other hand a teaching method is a way of presenting instructional materials or conducting instructional activities. The use of this portfolio is designed as an educational tool to present knowledge gain through thorough reading and based on the information presented by the various groups in the course. This teaching strategy can be used to improve the attitudes and performance of Tutors and Teachers within the classroom. It consists of reflections, artefacts and projections on each teaching strategy i. e. ooperative/collaborative learning, portfolios, and problem solving/critical thinking. Notably, establishing clear, practical classroom rules at the start of the school year can help you keep students on track to learning while promoting good behaviour and responsibility. Strategies focused on increasing student participation and learning were developed and implemented in three statics sections of varying sizes over the last two years. Overall student perception of these strategies and their impact on learning in three sections of different size is very favorable. In addition, analysis of student ratings grouped by cumulative GPA indicates different strategies are perceived as helpful by different groups of students. However, implementing a combination of strategies seems to help all groups. Many of these strategies work across all class sizes and do not require significant investment in technology or hardware. However, more work needs to be done to determine the effect of these strategies on actual student learning or performance. 5 A word of caution is appropriate. This paper describes different strategies but it is important to note that strategies by themselves may not improve student learning. How strategies are implemented by the instructor and the instructor’s attitude plays a significant role in student learning. An appropriate quote comes from Louis Schmier: â€Å"Education without caring, without a soul, without a spirit, without purpose beyond subject matter is as viable as a person with a brain but without heart. Pedagogy, technology, and techniques are no substitute for love and caring†. A Reflective Paper on the use of Cooperative/Collaborative Learning as a Teaching Strategy Cooperation is working together to accomplish shared goals. Within cooperative activities individuals seek outcomes that are beneficial to themselves and beneficial to all other group members. Cooperative learning is the instructional use of small groups so that students work together to maximise their own and each others learning. The idea is simple. Class members are organised into small groups after receiving instruction from the teacher.

Economics †Puerto Rico Essay Example for Free

Economics – Puerto Rico Essay In this paper will identify, describe and production costs of the Company San Juan Cell Phones compares. In turn, the potential risks are identified in making management decisions. In addition, will analyze and assess what are the best ways to prevent negative consequences for the company. The term cost refers to the amount or representing a product or service according to investment in material, labor; training and time that you need to develop it. As you can see, the term is characteristic and central to economics as it is the point at which any part of trade or economic relationship between two parties. The cost is to be paid by those who want to receive a product or service to have it in his possession or under his control. Today, the cost of a product or service is expressed in most situations in terms of money or capital (which may itself vary currency according to the region or area in which the exchange takes place). However, in antiquity and long, humanity carried on their trade and economic exchanges through the delivery of other items such as spices. The cost of the products is then provided to the equivalent cost for a given quantity of spice. Economic Costs According to McConnell Brue (2008), Economic costs include all payments that must be received by resource owners to ensure a continued supply of needed resources to a particular line of production. Economic costs include explicit costs, which flow to resources owned and supplied by others, and implicit costs, which are payments for the use of self-owned and self-employed resources. One implicit cost is a normal profit to the entrepreneur. Economic profit occurs when total revenue exceeds total cost (= explicit costs + implicit costs, including a normal profit).  Differentiate between short-run costs and long run depending on use of whether variable or fixed productive factors. In Short-run costs: have fixed and variable inputs. Therefore, variable and fixed costs will be. Within the short-run costs are: Total Cost is the market value of all inputs used to produce a product. It has 2 components: fixed and variable costs: (1) is determined and unchanging value that is independent of production volume, are those costs always exist e.g. rent, electricity, etc. (2) A Variable cost is a cost that is incurred depending on the volume of production, human cost (work) and commodities. (3) The marginal cost is the change experienced by the total cost when an additional unit increases production. Grows in contrast to the marginal productivity sense, if it grows, the marginal cost decreases. In Long-run costs: there are only variable costs. In the long run, firms have no fixed costs are all variables that the factors of production are thus the total cost, which is equal to the variable costs. The curves in the long-run costs, they say to each output, with the lowest cost that can be obtained, assuming all inputs vary. The curve means short-run costs will be tangent to the long-run average costs. The total long-run cost is equal to all the variable costs of the company. Some of the reasons why the average total cost curve to be increasing, stable or declining: (1) the means and long-run marginal costs, like a u because it produces income production. (2) When yields are constant output grows proportional / the increase factor, and average costs are constant. (3) When yields are rising, the long-term costs decrease. (4) When yields decrease long-term costs are rising. (5) Normally the company began taking increasing returns but as the situation is complicated diminishing appear. Overall yields are mixed. San Juan Cell Phone Scenario This scenario presented the actual dilemma of company San Juan Cell Phone in Puerto Rico. In this scenario the production manager need to analyze the potential risks, consequences positive or negative and possible solutions; of accepting the order of 100,000 units of cell phone of the company Big Box and accept or reject the external production of the cell by outsourcing, an external company called Original Equipment Manufacturer. In order to make a recommendation on what would be the best alternative for this scenario and to provide a solution that does not affect the company,  analysis and recommendations will be divided into phases. In the first phase will analyze the unit profitability report of San Juan Cell Phones, which is found in Table 1 in the statistical appendix of this document. This table shows that the company San Juan Cell Phones has a price per unit for the Alpha model for $ 20, of which the variable costs per unit are $8, fixed overheads per unit are $ 9 and a pro fit per unit of $ 3. The company Big Box will not pay more than $ 15 per cell phone; which implies a loss of $ 5 dollars per unit price for San Juan Cell Phone. If we analyze the loss from the perspective of the total cost of production, San Juan Cell Phones would have a total loss of production of $200,000, even without adding that there was no profit from this production. This loss would lead to other serious problems to company profitability, which will be difficult to replenish in the short term because the equilibrium price in the market is $15. Therefore can notice an excess supply. San Juan Cell Phones must make a comprehensive analysis of their variable and fixed costs and trying to lower them to compete with the market price and maintain profitability. On the other hand, evaluating the offer that provides OEM to San Juan Cell Phones, where the price of production per unit is $14; we can see that San Juan Cell Phones could meet the production requested by Big Box and in turn obtain a profit of $100,000. This in turn allowing you to San Juan Cell Phone keeps the market equilibrium price of $ 15. Where the company can lower the current price per unit and maintain its excess demand in the market and maintain profitability. As part of this analysis shows that the grant to the outsourcing manufacturing, with the penalty would take to keep all their employees working and running the factory capacity. And therefore their bonus, which is based on the overall profitability of the company, is affected. Recommendations of best alternative solution In the second phase of this analysis will make the recommendations to follow to meet the expectations required by Bib Box, without loss of profitability, and to meet the value established by the company. Below the suggested recommendations: (1) Is to secure the order of 100,000 phones required by Bib Box. (2) Establish agreements with OEM outsourcing. In this agreement the Alpha prototype model and the quality of the prototype will be established, also limit the time of delivery and the amount of production is  settled. In turn, the price of $ 14 per unit, which is not negotiable, is settled. (3) Establish a plan for reengineering the organization structure, technology and the human factor in the production line of Alpha models as initial phase of the process. At a later stage the reengineering organization to another production line would be extended. Observe the appendix A: Guide for Strategic Planning and Organizational Reengineering. These recommendations are aimed to the San Juan Cell Phones company, can get the desired order to maintain profitability. In addition to be able to maintain its equilibrium price in the market, you can keep your excess demand, increase their volume of production and profits. In addition meet its corporate values ​​to provide its customers with high quality and exceed the expectations of them. Conclusion In the scenario presented the administrative task being viewed uncertain and challenging, as a number without variables, change and transformation is affecting it. Its time for San Juan Cell Phones, perform an analysis of their strengths and limitations of your environment and make a formulation of strategic alternatives. This analysis will take the company to be more efficient and effective in meeting the needs of its consumers, taking into consideration an adaptability, a proactive character and flexibility to embrace change, in turn have a better interaction with new technologies and positive changes in the values ​​of corporate society attitude. Reference McConnell, C. R. Brue, S. L. (2008). Economics: Principles, problems, and policies (17th ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw Hill/Irwin. Pugel, T. A. (2007). International economics (13th ed.). Boston, MA: McGraw Hill/Irwin. University of Phoenix. (2014). Student Resources. Retrieve from https://newclassroom3.phoenix.edu/Classroom/#/contextid/OSIRIS:46311129/context/co/view/activityDetails/activity/d547f818-bc95-4e40-b161-61f94462bdb7/expanded/False Statistical Appendix

Financial Report for Furniture Company | Example

Financial Report for Furniture Company | Example Financial Report Scenario: Must Have Furnishers TABLE OF CONTENTS (JUMP TO) INTRODUCTION TASK ONE: Effect of Policies on Company Performance TASK TWO: Effect of Product Diversification and Promotions TASK THREE: Risk Analysis   TASK FOUR: Production and Profitability TASK FIVE: Buying Out and Merging CONCLUSION REFERENCES APPENDICES A-E TABLE 1. CASH FLOWS TABLE 2. SIMPLIFIED PROFIT AND LOSS TABLE 3. SIMPLIFIED BALANCE SHEET TABLE 4. PROFIT AND LOSS FOR MARCH 2001 THROUGH MARCH 2002 TABLE 5. BALANCE SHEETS FOR MARCH 2002 AND MARCH 2003 FOR COMPARISION INTRODUCTION A company with staying power within the marketplace will have a keen understanding of ebb and flow, be able to communicate change and put into practice strategies that also reflect flexibility and values for growth situations. The relationship between values and culture, leaders and teams of employees must maintain a healthy balance in order for the status quo of everyday operations to remain but also for the strategies to remain in place and augmenting in flux with market variables. This paper presents an interesting scenario of five tasks for you as the management trainee to explore and devise a financial report based on the company’s financial statements such as Profit and Loss, Year End results and other balance sheets. There is a new sales manager, who has promoted new policies toward change to increase sales and production but in other words created growing pains toward an organisation that will require investment, acquiring equipment and employees. It is part of your job to remain focused and subjective to the task at hand and evaluate each of the five tasks with the future of the organisation in mind but also the validity of such growth and the future investments needed. While outside investment is warranted at times, with a growing successful venture, it is assumed that some capital can come from within. However it is curious if her â€Å"tried and true† scheme will work for the present economic state. So many consumers purchase ticket item s on instalment credit but will this happen when consumer confidence is down and what will this mean for the organisation? TASK ONE: Effect of Policies on Company Performance There is concern that the company cannot keep up with production for this new promotion scheme set into place by the new sales manager who has promoted credit related sales. The director is concerned and has asked you to compile a report elaborating on whether the performance of the company and it’s financial position at the year-end has improved because of the new policies put into place. What is your opinion and rationale? According to the end year statements, operation costs are down which means the factory has reached a new level of efficiency. This indicates that something is going right at the shop room floor when compared with the prior year. It can be expected that the future productivity will be even higher with that rate of growth and profitability in consideration. However part of the scheme has been to introduce a line of credit to the consumer as a way of purchasing high ticket items and furnishing their homes. The main concern here when looking at the year-end statements comparatively should be cause of alarm on the point of the director. The prior year 2002 there were 166 debt accounts to the company. This year 2003 there are 1166 debt accounts and this is at a growth rate of a thousand new accounts or a rate 14 percent for this segment. The main concern here is the rate of repayment that needs to be established over time with these debtors. How quickly are they paying off their accounts a nd at what rate of interest? This could become a problem should some of them fall behind because then the company needs to implement a debt collection service, which will be an additional expense to the company. Sometimes it is impossible to collect on such merchandise. While the promotion may have spawned a tremendous amount of growth, it has also opened up the company for increased risk in the future for profit and loss. The year 2003 was a good one but one must also consider should the present promotion continue for 204, what are the long-term benefits and risks to having extended credit lines to consumers? TASK TWO: Effect of Product Diversification and Promotions Pricing strategies usually change as the product passes through its life cycle. There are a number of different methods of determining price depending on the product. In today’s game, diversification of products and product add-ons is the key to success especially in a saturated market like furniture. There is much competition. It is with this in mind that companies usually develop multiple promotions as opposed to just one. This way, the company has a promotion that can be priced for every budget. For your organisation, this may mean running ad campaigns, for instance a two for the price one during the winter season or provide extra perks for the customer who buys package deal. Right now free delivery seems to be a front runner of what the consumer is concerned about when shopping for furniture. As well as the credit offer, which may not drive many to purchase right away, have a sweepstakes drawing or a movie night that features your most comfortable display model. In a satur ated market, it is important for the prices to remain competitive, even reduced at certain times of year. By employing another marketing scheme, it is quite possible that you may see a reduction in credit accounts and more people spending cash especially if the price is right. Still one must be careful to get a return on the product as a profit because also one must consider the cost of acquiring the product, keeping it in stock and delivering to the customer. It is important to always keep in mind the cost of keeping the unit per unit in inventory. This goes beyond what it just costs to produce the unit. Still with the introduction of a counter promotion with reduced price, you will see more inventories out of the warehouse and less debtor credit involved in the transactions. TASK THREE: Risk Analysis The manager has asked you to assess the validity of two projects that are independent of each other and require proper recommendation. You will need to run a risk analysis as well as a net present value analysis in order to determine which project to recommend as both will reduce the handling cost and warehouse stock levels as a means to better manage inventory. We use different pricing models as a framework to aid in the analysis. Such models as CAPM and APT aid in figuring out the levels of risk involved with both projects. For financial professionals it is of utmost importance to assess risk as accurately as possible in order to sell in this case the project. Companies are more than often risk adverse and do not want to take a loss with the money invested. In this respect most companies enjoy a conservative approach, which means the less risk involved the better. Because APT builds upon CAPM and takes the theory to a new level, it requires further analysis to prove the point. Still first in order to understand APT, one must first have a grasp of CAPM works. CAPM can only work to assess risk in the long run scenario. CAPM also assumes the investor does not have inside knowledge and that the Beta is known. This is the only way an expected return can be determined with CAPM. Mark McCracken defines Beta as â€Å"equals 1.0000. 1 exactly. Each company also has a beta. A companys beta is that companys risk compared to the risk of the overall market. If the company has a beta of 3.0, then it is said to be 3 times more risky than the overall market† (par. 1). For this scenario each project has a beta. The amount of risk and the type of risk can be determined by diversification. Systematic risk, which is market risk or undiversified risk, is the portion of an assets risk that cannot be eliminated via diversification. The systematic risk indicates how including a particular asset in a diversified portfolio will contribute to the risky nature of the portfolio. Unsystematic risk, which is firm-specific or diversifiable risk, is the portion o f an assets total risk that can be eliminated by including the security as part of a diversifiable portfolio (Mathis, par. 1). So obviously there are some projects that will not be included in a diverse portfolio because of its defined risk under this theory. CAPM digs deeper to assess for an expression, which relates the expected return on an asset to its systematic risk. This in turn gives the financial professional better idea of the project’s risk behaviour. The equation used is as follows: (Mathis, par. 3) The measure of systematic risk is considered Beta or bi while E[Ri] is equal to the expected return on asset I and Rf is the risk-free rate. E[Rm] is the expected return on the project and E[Rm] – Rf is the market risk premium for the company stock. Once the Beta is known then the risk and rate of return can be found. APT is different because not only can forecast for the long term, it can also work for the short-term scenario. This fact makes it the better of the two theories because it gives the financial professional more tools to assess risk and the rate of return. APT does this by using a model that captures all the data. Other things this model can perform for risk assessment take into account company needs. Risk Estimates such as Tracking Error, Value-at-Risk (VaR), forecast volatility, systematic active risk, beta to benchmark, correlation with benchmark. APT carries out these calculations in a linear framework with a number of different variables. This is how different time frames can be used. For the APT model there are several outside factors to take into account. The ‘Now’ asset is defined by a number of beta possibilities, each of them representing asset sensitivity to a particular factor and characterizing systematic risk associated with this factor, and, as before, residual yield E. In this respect the risk allotted to this particular venture is less. This multi-factored model brings up many questions for the finance assistant. One thing to keep in mind is that not all factors carryover to risk in this area. There are factors that remain assets to an organisation faced with such decisions. This is one reason why periods of growth need solid leadership. This effectively assesses the risk involved for the furniture company’s returns. The NPV is assumed as the present value of the projects cash inflows minus the present value of the projects cash outflows (Mathis, par. 2). This relationship is expressed by the following formula: (Mathis, par. 2) TASK FOUR: Production and Profitability Your company is considering purchasing another machine due to the increase of production of furniture products and advanced sales of select models featured in the current marketing scheme. You are faced with figuring out if purchase of the machine is a profitable idea and if so what is the long-term cost? And how should it be funded? There are factors one is aware of when purchasing a new piece of equipment. Revenues will not change if the machine is purchased. Both the present machine and the new machine will last 5 years and will have no disposal value in five years. The new machine will cost  £400,000. The old machine can be disposed of right now for a disposal value of  £10,000. The new machine will reduce operating costs by $ £100,000 per year (assume cash flows at the end of the years). Assume a required rate of return or discount rate of 9%. Is it feasible for the company and cost effective? From the standpoint of long-term investment, it seems the new machine will be a valued addition to the team and allow production to not only run at current levels but also maintain new levels of efficiency. Also because it is considered a long-term investment, the company should also consider it an investment and possibly obtain a credit line for the local bank to cover this asset. In this way, the company can also apply for extended warranties to cover any maintenance or break down of the machine over the life of the loan. If the company has prime credit, a low interest rate of 6% is guaranteed and look into possible incentives with the local bank as a regular customer who pays on time, it may be possible to reduce the interest if there is not a pre-payment penalty. Suffice it say, there is cash flow that could be allocated for the purchase but also used for reinvestment in other areas of the company. Traditionalists will want to pay as much upfront as one can but if the long-range benefit outweighs the short-term loan, then by all means allow the company a li ttle space to get ahead with the new machine. Like above the net present value for the machine can be determined with the following equation. The NPV is assumed as the present value of the projects cash inflows minus the present value of the projects cash outflows (Mathis, par. 2). This relationship is expressed by the following formula: (Mathis, par. 2) TASK FIVE: Buying Out and Merging Every business needs planning or a defined strategy in place for future growth and control of known issues. There is a certain amount of power that comes from knowing what’s next. Smaller firms are vital to the economic health and stimulus of the world, mainly western nations like the United States and those found in Europe. Much of the success of these firms falls into the hands of leaders involved with everyday management but also the planning for future generations. Sir Adrian Cadbury writes, â€Å"Firms form the basic building block for businesses throughout the world. The economic and social importance of regional family enterprises has now become more widely recognized† (p. 5). In fact, it has been found that many firms do not survive the transition a generational business can represent. Many do not see life after the transition, which leads to decreased economic mobility and health. With this in mind, it is very important to have a transition strategy in place. T his requires proactive information sharing with all members even if some are not directly involved with day-to-day operations. This will ease the burden of conflict that may arise later. As with any organisation, knowledge management is key to good communication but with a small firm also instrumental for a successful future. This leads one to wonder how the structure of a smaller firm may differ from larger corporations? Is there a chain of command? How does leadership work?   It seems recently the trend of one company buying out another or merging to become one larger company is on the rise. It is in the news everyday, only drawing minimal concern from the public as regulators call into question the legality of such actions. Do mergers and acquisitions make the world a better place for consumers or do they just offer less for the consumer to choose from in the marketplace. It seems that most large companies see this practice as a means of redefining the marketplace by getting rid of the competition and making the competition work for them. In this respect, governments are able to make the rules of the merger and acquisition, setting the standard by which products of both companies can continue to compete with each other in a given market. This in turn, fuels the fire for increased advantage, working toward the goal of ultimately feeding off each other’s energy until it is exhausted. One finds this type of government control more in telecommunicatio ns and banking than other industries. For the retail industry, it seems a foregone conclusion that eventually opportunities will present themselves. From the looks of their balance sheets of Furniture Concepts there is a reason the company seeks a merger with another company. There seems to be a large amount of sales but not enough profit being generated. Within the last year their expenses have tripled but the production has not. They look to be in trouble. Another concern is founded within their name it self. Why call them selves a Furniture Concepts store when they sell carpet? It should be Carpet Concept. It may be that they have diversified their production schemes so far that this amounts to the increase of expenses? The recommendation would be to acquire the company, keep high performing employees on board and cut the lard. Expenses may also be attributed to bad debts acquired to maintain production or inflated management salaries? This would be a good move for the organisati on and also allow our furniture store to diversify without much overhead or inventory issues. CONCLUSION An organisation needs a clear picture of financial health in order to maintain operations and continue a path of growth toward market share. Many things go into deciphering this financial status. Part of what has happened here is a need for new tactics that are tried and true but without great risk affiliation like the credit offer. This strategy while well meaning for the short term has caused long-term ramifications for the organisation starting with growing pains. Lastly, research shows that the greatest obstacle to accepting new policies is fear of change. Therefore, this makes the transition period crucial and should be handled with kid gloves by management. Communication should be open and clear. REFERENCES 2003, ‘Capital budgeting needs vision’, Business Line, Islamabad, 21 July. Allen, G 1999, Introduction to Marketing, Mountain View College, Mountain View. Anonymous 1991, ‘Risk and Return’, The Economist, p. 1-2. Brozik, D 2006, Time Value of Money, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia. Cadbury, S A 2000, Smaller Firms and their Governance Creating Tomorrow’s Company from Today’s, Egon Zehnder International, London. Colli, A 2001, Knowledge and Leadership Succession in Small and Medium Family Firms. Evidence and Generalization From the Italian Experience, Bocconi University, Milan. Lefley, F 1997, ‘Management Accounting’, Journal of Accounting, vol. 75, iss. 1, p. 64. Mathis, R 2004, ‘Corporate Finance Live: Capital Asset Pricing Model’, viewed 10 September 2008, http://www.swlearning.com/web-resources/CAPM.htm.> Mathis, R 2004, ‘Corporate Finance Live: Present Value’, viewed 10 September 2008,  http://www.swlearning.com/web-resources/timevalue.htm.> Mathis, R 2004, ‘Corporate Finance Live: Risk and Return’, viewed 10 September 2008,  http://www.swlearning.com/web-resources/riskandreturn.htm.>. McCracken, M 2004, ‘CAPM’, viewed 10 September 2008, http://www.teachmefinance.com/capm.html>. Miller, D Whitney, J 1999, ‘Beyond Strategy: Configuration as a Pillar of Competitive Advantage’, Business Horizons, vol. 42, no. 3. Wignaraja, G 2004, ‘Building Business Competitiveness,’ International Trade  Forum, 1 April. APPENDICES APPENDIX A Table 1. Cash Flows APPENDIX B Table 2. Must Have Furnishers Ltd. Simplified Profit and Loss Account for the year ended 30/09/03 2002 2003 APPENDIX C Table 3. Must Have Furnishers Ltd. Simplified Balance Sheet for Must Have Furnishers Ltd. for the year ended 30/09/03 APPENDIX D Table 4. Furniture Concepts Ltd Profit and Loss Account for the period March 2001 to March 2002 Profit and Loss Account for the period March 2002 to March 2003 APPENDIX E Table 5. Balance Sheets for March 2002 and March 2003 for Comparison Balance Sheet as at 12 March 2002 Furniture Concepts Ltd Balance Sheet as at 12 March 2003

Honor in No One Writes to the Colonel and Chronicle of a Death Foretold

Honor in No One Writes to the Colonel and Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Garcia-Marquez Every culture in the world has its own unique set of values that they adhere to in life. The most important value to people is their honor. Honor is a very important factor in a person life that they will stop at nothing to make sure it is not lost. This endless pursuit of keeping honor can causes both positive and negative effects to a society. The reason honor is a main driving force in a person's life is for the simple fact that it determines how the society views that person's integrity, honesty and truthfulness to himself and family. In the two novellas No One Writes to the Colonel and Chronicle of a Death Foretold, Garcia-Marquez shows the complexity involved in the pursuit of honor. He explains through his writings that preserving honor is essential to live, but can be very harmful to others. The pursuit of honor can cause complex and difficult situations that can either benefit or harm others in a society. It can cause people to either live a truthful life or a false life run by lies and illusion. In the process of attaining honor strong relationships and friendships can fall apart. The pursuit of honor can give liveliness and vigor to people or put them people into a state of paralysis. The pursuit of honor can either cause a person live a life where they are true to themselves and their feeling or live a life run by lies and illusion. A false life refers to a human using lies and illusion to change the perception that others have of their honor and overall place society. In the novella No One Writes to the Colonel, the Colonel and his wife live their lives under the illusion that they are not poor so they can... ...process to maintain honor then it would not be a major determinate on that person character and family. The preservation of honor is similar to recent corruption scandals in Providence, Rhode Island. The mayor of Providence Buddy Cianci focused and pursued his life on the attainment of power in the city. He cheated and lied his way through the office as governor doing anything he could to remain in power. Like in the pursuit of honor he made many business relationships and also fired anyone who would ruin his chances at remaining in office. Similarly to what happens in the pursuit of honor he devoted his entire life to his campaign. His struggle for power in Providence is similar to the way Garcia-Marquez shows complexity involved in the pursuit of honor. Works Cited: Garcia Marquez, Gabriel. Chronicle of a Death Foretold. New York: Ballantine, 1982.

The United States Visitor and Immigration Status Indicator Technology (

The United States Visitor and Immigration Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) Program Introduction The United States Visitor and Immigration Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) program was introduced on January 5th, 2004 at all air and sea ports of the United States of America. This program, as outlined by the Department of Homeland Security, aims to increase the level of security in the U.S. while allowing it to remain a multicultural land with people from all parts of the world. Specifically, the US-VISIT programs goals are to:  ·Ã¢â‚¬Å"Enhance the security of United States Citizens, permanent residents and visitors†[1]  ·Ã¢â‚¬Å"Facilitate legitimate travel and trade†[1]  ·Ã¢â‚¬Å"Ensure the integrity of the immigration system†[1]  ·Ã¢â‚¬Å"Safeguard the personal privacy of visitors† [1] US-VISIT utilizes biometric technology[i] to digitally photograph and scan the two index fingers of all non-immigrant visa holders entering and exiting the United States. This means that U.S. citizens, most Canadians, and citizens of the 27 countries[ii] whose people are not required to have a visa, if staying for 90 days or less, are exempt from this program. Using this technology the government hopes to create a database to monitor the travel of foreign citizens, assuring that they do not overstay their visas, and to protect citizens and visitors by refusing entry to known or suspected criminals.[2] The US-VISIT program raises the ethical issue of how much intrusion on the personal privacy of select individuals the world is willing to allow in hopes of combating terrorism and making our daily lives more secure. Collecting and storing information about a person and their movements infringes upon their rights to move freely. It also c... ...s Arab Groups, 2002, 10 February 2004, [11] Fox News, U.S. Begins Foreign Visitor-Tracking Program, 2004, 10 February 2004, [12] Associated Press, Fast Facts: Countries Exempt From US-VISIT, 2004, 10 February 2004, [13] Associated Press, Visitors Reactions Vary on New Tracking Program, 2004, 10 February 2004, [14] Santa Clara University’s Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, 2003?, 10 February 2004, [15] MichNews.com, Sartre, Do Foreigners Have the Right to Enter the United States?, 2004, 10 February 2004,

Issues of Youth in Pakistan

ISSUES FACED BY YOUTH IN PAKISTAN Youth, in this era of modern technology, is facing problem all over the world. But especially in developing countries of the world like Pakistan our youth is helpless and are growing up without clear goals and ideals. Of the 15 largest countries in the world in terms of population size, Pakistan has the largest population of the youngest people. In one’s mind this question may arise whether such a large population be regarded as a burden or an asset for country. But in my view such a large population could prove itself an asset towards the country.This demographic situation provides our Pakistan’s youth with an extra ordinary opportunity that because of such a large young population our country could compete even with the developing countries of the world, then how could this population be designated as a burden. Particularly when we talk about the young people of Pakistan then we will get to know that our youth counter through number o f issues from their education period up till their settlement in life. Hardest of all the time is the duration of their career making. Unemployment is the major issue confronted by our youth. Today 12% of our youth is unemployed.Most of the educated students such as degree holders of Bachelors and Masters have no value in national or international market now. These unlucky guys are delivering pizzas and doing other door to door services. Some of them are so unlucky that they don’t even get such kinds of job too. Another prejudice being done every day to our youth is favoritism. It is processed in every organization of our country from lowest to highest level. Students who belong to any political parties or are far relatives of any high post officials they get job easily within few hours without any struggle.Although they are impotent for that job, and because of this brilliant students are deprived of their right. Another problem being faced by our youth is flawed education s ystem in our country. There is no unification in education system. 3 to 4 systems are running at a parallel level. Students of private educational institutions such as NUST and LUMS are being taught entirely in different way as students of government institution are taught. Most of the students are misfit in their positions. They are not satisfied with their careers and jobs. Those who wanted to become engineers they are in medical colleges and vice versa.The reason behind this is improper education counseling. They are not guided properly and many of them are enforced by their parents to join particular field. In developed countries students are being counseled after regular intervals for their better future but there is no such system in our country which could recognize the true talent of our own students. Our youth has lost its identity. Western and Indian culture has submerged gradually deep in our roots and are targeting our youth. They are easily targeted because they are far away from their own religion and culture and due to this they are lost in the blind end of street.Dilemma of our youth is that they are talented and are capable enough to compete with the students of other countries but they are getting no chance to show their inner talents. Their talent is not being utilized in proper way. Their energies are used by political parties for their own sake. Negative role of media is another factor which is exploiting our youth. Youngsters are running in a race to copy the latest fashion as soon as possible. For this youngster especially young girls waste several hours in watching channels such as STYLE 360 to keep an eye on latest fashion. To look cool they smoke, drink wine etc. nd all this they learn by media, imitating their favorite TV actors. Computers and mobile phones instead of using them in a positive way they are being used to boast off. Message packages and late night packages provided by different phone companies like TELENOR, UFONE, WARID , JAZZ etc. and our youth instead of concentrating on their studies they are involved in such activities talking and texting all night and sleeping at day time during the class which in the end affect their grades. All of these problems are leading towards the mother of all problems which is FRUSTRATION.Our youth is frustrated because of poverty, unemployment and injustice to them in society. Consequence of this is abundantly drug usage, suicide attempts, terrorism in some cases, rape and increase in crime rates. Depressed youngsters indulge themselves in unhealthy activities which not only harm the society but themselves too. They are either captured by corrupt company of gangsters or they themselves inhabit the company of bad boys who entangle these depressed one’s and spoil their whole life. And if he is the sole earner of family then we could imagine the destruction of lives of his whole family.In this whole scenario youth need health resources, awareness, time for relaxa tion and affordable healthy entertainment but we are lacking all these things. Our youth should be engaged in such activities which enhance their talent and also contribute towards the development of country. Ministry of youth affairs take such initiatives so that youth is benefited in some way or other. But if the government properly support youth as in developed countries then we will gradually see the progress in economy of our country which will ultimately lead us to prosperity. INSHALLAH.

Chapter Review 1-3 Principles of Supply Chain Management

Chapter Review 1-3 Principles of Supply Chain Management, 3ed Wisner, Leong, Tan 2012 Chapter Review 1-3 Chapter One: Introduction To Supply Chain Management A Supply Chain is the steps necessary for a manufacturer to procure materials, build a product, and transport the product to consumers. The consumers buy the products based on a combination of cost, quality, availability, maintainability and reputation factors. They hope these products will live up to their needs and expectations. An example of a supply chain that I was involved in while serving in the Air Force would be when I worked in the Supply Squadron. One of our customers, the jet engine maintenance shop, would need a part to repair and F101 engine for use on a B1B bomber aircraft. They would place the order through us. We would place the order with one of our depots that manage the assets. The depots would then place an order with the manufacturer of the asset. The manufacturer of the asset would be our second-tier supplier. The depots would be our first-tier supplier. The jet engine maintenance shop would be our first-tier customer, and the flight line mechanics would be our second-tier customer that needed the engine to install on the aircraft. The end product consumers would be the recipients of the mission to be accomplished by the aircraft crew. The three definitions of supply chain management in the text are all stated differently but pretty much mean the same thing; planning and managing the processes of procuring assets, converting assets into products, and delivering them to a customer. Of course there is much more detail involved getting from one end of the chain to the other and back again when necessary. There are four foundation elements of supply chain management. The supply elements are all about the purchasing and strategic concepts of supply management. The operations elements consist of several internal operations that oversee the assembling of parts into a finished product that meets all specifications and customer requirements. The logistics elements deal with the storing of the completed product and transporting it to the customer. The integration elements deal with the process integration of all the processes among the focal firm and their partners. Through the use of lean and Six Sigma methodology, improvements in the supply chain processes can be made and costs lowered. As the conditions change around the world, supply chain management will continue to change with it. Questions 1. What is a company that is hired to manage all of a firm’s logistics and supply chain management called? Answer: Fourth-Party Logistics Provider or 4PL (Page 10) 2. What is meant by perfect order fulfillment? Answer: Orders that arrive on time, complete and damage free. (Page 20) 3. What is right-shoring? Answer: The combination of on-shore, near-shore and far-shore operations into a single, flexible, low-cost approach to supply chain management. (Page 23) 4. What are Reverse Logistics Activities? Answer: When customers return products, get warranty repairs or recycle items. . What is the radical rethinking and redesigning of business processes to reduce waste and increase performance? Answer: Business Process Reengineering or BPR. (Page 14) Chapter Two: Purchasing Management The goal of Supply Management in an organization is to ensure a continual flow of raw materials at the lowest cost possible. Another goal is to improve the quality of the finished goods produc ed as well as increase customer satisfaction. By obtaining these goals supply management has proven to be a key strategic business process and not just another supporting function of the business. Done well a company can give itself an edge over other companies that are not meeting these goals. Using smarter purchasing is another way for a company to increase profitability. Cutting costs and boosting sales are not the only way to improve profits. For instance, if a firm reduces its purchase spend on materials through a more effective purchasing strategy they will increase their return on assets. This is also likely to lower raw material inventory and total assets. E-Procurement brought many benefits to companies. It has proven to be a time saver and cost effective. It is more accurate as the information is only entered once instead of twice. Before the users had to enter the information and the buyer had to reenter the information creating another error point in the process. E-procurement is more flexible as it can be used without the restrictions of location or time of day. Status of orders can be looked at without having to check paper trails. There are different reasons why a firm may use a single supplier instead of favoring multiple suppliers. Using a single supplier gives a firm the chance to build a stronger relationship with the supplier. Costs would be lower due to larger purchases keeping the cost per unit down and transportation would be cheaper as the firm can take advantage of full truckloads. Single sourcing would also make sense if the firm’s requirements are too small. It would not be worthwhile to split the order among multiple suppliers. There is a disadvantage with sole sourcing as well. If the purchase was for a proprietary product or process and the supplier holds the patents to them, the firm has no choice but to buy from them. Multiple sourcing is advantageous for many reasons. If the demand is greater than the capacity of a single supplier, having more than one supplier would help to keep up with the demand. It gives firms options in case of interruptions that have affected any given supplier. Competition is created among the suppliers in terms of price and quality. You would have more sources of information about the market conditions, product developments and new technologies. Questions 1. What are the primary goals of purchasing? Answer: To ensure uninterrupted flow of raw materials at the lowest total cost, to improve quality of the finished product and to maximize customer satisfaction. (Page 40) 2. The list of suppliers that a firm uses to acquire materials, services, supplies and equipment is called what? Answer: The supply base or supplier base. (Page 57) 3. What are the six advantages of centralization? Answer: Concentrated volume, avoid duplication, specialization, lower transportation costs, no competition within units and common supply base. (Page 62) 4. What is the difference between direct and indirect offset? Answer: Direct offset usually involves co-production, or a joint venture and exchange of related goods or services; whereas indirect offset involves exchange of goods or services unrelated to the initial purchase. Page 65) 5. What are the three basic types of bid bonds? Answer: Surety bonds, performance bonds and payment bonds. (Page 67) Chapter Three: Creating and Managing Supplier Relationships To have a successful supplier partnership you must understand the key factors for developing them. You must be able to build trust at all levels of management and trust i s very crucial to the success. The partnership should have clear and mutually agreeable shared vision and objectives. When both parties involved have the same goal in mind and have equal decision-making control, the partnership has a higher chance of succeeding. Interpersonal relationships are important as well. It is not just companies talking, it is people talking to people. It is people who make up the companies and are representing them. The companies must be able to manage the change that comes with a new partnership. Communicating information to the people affected by the change. This internal communication is very important so employees can understand why the partnership was formed. Developing performance metrics are a way to evaluate how well suppliers are doing. Information gathered can help improve the entire supply chain. Organizations can identify suppliers that have exceptional performance and recognize them as such. It can also show where improvements are needed. The data used is based on a set of mutually agreed performance measures. This will provide information for continuous improvement that can result in eliminating mistakes and will lead to ensuring that products are always meeting customer requirements. A supplier certification program is a way for organizations to identify suppliers who are the most committed to maintaining a partnership and who have the best capabilities. The results of a supplier certification are being able to reduce the supplier base, build long-term relationships, reduce time spent on incoming inspections, improving delivery, recognizing excellence, developing a commitment to continuous improvement and improving overall performance. Supplier recognition programs are another way to nurture a healthy supplier relationship. An award program is a good way to promote excellent supplier performance. This allows the award winner to serve as a role model for the other suppliers. The other suppliers will want to do better and also be recognized. Supplier relationship management involves streamlining the processes and communication between the buyer and seller using software applications to manage the processes more efficiently and effectively. Questions 1. What are the seven steps in the approach to supplier development? Answer: Identify critical goods and services, identify critical suppliers not meeting performance requirements, form a cross-functional supplier development team, meet with top management of suppliers, rank supplier development projects, define the details of the buyer-supplier agreement, and monitor project status and modify strategies. (Pages 89-90) 2. What are the two types of SRM? Answer: Transactional and analytic. (Page 94) 3. What are the three major cost categories? Answer: Pre-transaction, transaction and post-transaction. (Page 81) 4. Why is a supplier evaluation and certification process important? Answer: So organizations can identify their best and most reliable suppliers. (Page 82) 5. What are the benefits of investing in an environmental management system based on ISO4000 standards? Answer: Reduced energy and other resource consumption, decreased environmental liability and risk, reduced waste and pollution and improved community goodwill. (Page 89)

Evidentialist Method Apologetics Essay

Introduction Apologetics comes in several different methods that are utilized to defend one’s faith and also to evangelize. One method of apologetics is Evidentialism, also known as Natural Theology. Evidentialism is probably the most popular form of apologetics, if not the one that leads the field. Our current world demands proof and supporting data and Evidentialism stresses the deliverance of accurate substantiation with the hope of bringing cynics and criticizers to the truths of Christianity. Evidentialism continues to excel in the field of apologetics and does well in confronting the major worldviews with the truths of the Christian faith that can be proven with factual analysis. This review will provide the reader with a summary of the Evidentialist Method, a critique of the Evidentialist Method, and a list of some of the more popular Evidentialists. Summary of the Evidentialist Method Apologetics comes from 1 Peter 3:15 and is most properly defined as giving a defense. In his commentary, John Walvoord states, â€Å"(apologian, the â€Å"defense† which a defendant makes before a judge; (Acts 22:1; 25:16) for their hope in Christ.† It is the impetus for Evidentialist apologetics to follow this call and seek to â€Å"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.† Another writer, Dan Story, states, â€Å"This is ‘evidential’ apologetics, and it works on the premise that the weight of the evidence will always support Christianity and always refute contradicting beliefs.† In order for Evidentialism to be effective, it must hold to its premise of dispensing the truths about Christianity by establishing factuality. The Evidentialist is able to take any offered topic and utilize it as evidence as they are stimulated by the antagonist’s desire to deliberate logic and reason. In Acts 19:8, the Apostle Paul was diligently â€Å"arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God.† Yet, Paul understood completely that there was none other that could open the hearts of men except God (Acts 16:14). Critique of the Evidentialist Method The Evidentialist Model for apologetics is a very sensible method to be utilized in evangelism. The world today demands physical, tangible proof and relies only on what can be seen and studied, and the Evidentialist is quite versed in the practicality and effective use of the method to clarify God’s truths. The method accepts the essential foundations of the non-believing doubter and tries to supply purposeful truth to that individual area. This reason-giving model has established its effectiveness in apologetics. There are a couple of issues of concern when it comes to the application of Evidentialism. One concern that stands out is that it adopts the thought that the fallen man can come to the supposition of Christ as Savior. It is my contention and belief that aside from the Holy Spirit man cannot come to this conclusion. However, I do feel that via the logical evidence presented, God opens the non-believer’s heart. Story clearly shows the â€Å"Holy Spirit also convicts and convinces people of the truth through extra-biblical evidences.† Popular Evidentialists History shows that the method of Evidentialism has been utilized for quite some time. There have been many superior thinkers who have used the method and have contributed greatly to the enhancement of apologetics. Although the list is long, a few of these men merit mention, William Paley (1743-1805), John Locke (1632-1704), and more contemporarily, Norman Geisler, William Lane Craig, Lee Strobel, Gary Habermas and Ravi Zacharias. These stellar thinkers have all utilized Evidentialism in furthering apologetics. There is an organization worthy of mention, Answers in Genesis, who employs the use of Evidentialism in explaining creationism to minister the truths of God, which also includes the explanation of the Gospel to many non-believing skeptics that exist within many secular evolutionist groups. Conclusion The Great Commission demands that all believers be prepared to defend their faith and be ready to offer a defense for those beliefs. There are many opposing worldviews that stand between men and salvation. When these opposing views are confronted in a loving and practical manner, much misconception can be dispelled in a practical manner. Using Evidentialism, the world that desires substantiation, a method driven apologetic is very successful. Bibliography Booth, Anthony Robert. â€Å"The Two Faces of Evidentialism.† Erkenntnis 67:3 (2007), http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/docview/195447959 (accessed January 18, 2013). Story, Dan. Defending Your Faith. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1997. Story, Dan. Engaging the Closed Minded: Presenting Your Faith to the Confirmed Unbeliever. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1999. Sudduth, Michael. â€Å"Reformed epistemology and Christian apologetics.† Religious Studies 39:3 (2003), http://search.proquest.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/docview/197230405/abstract?accountid=12085 (accessed January 18, 2013). Walvoord, John F., Roy B. Zuck, and Dallas Theological Seminary. The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition od the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983. The Holy Bible: New International Version ——————————————– [ 1 ]. John F. Walvoord, Roy B. Zuck and Dallas Theological Seminary, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Wheaton, Il: Victor Books, 1983-), 1Peter 3:15. [ 2 ]. The Holy Bible: New International Version, Biblegateway.com. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1 Peter 3:15&version=NIV (accessed January 18, 2013). [ 3 ]. Dan Story, Engaging the Closed Minded: Presenting Your Faith to the Confirmed Unbeliever (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1999), 64. [ 4 ]. Dan Story, Defending Your Faith (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1997), 4.

Empowerment of Local Communities for Sustainable Tourism Essay

Tourism, recognized as one of the most economically significant industries in the world has recently perceived emerging needs for forming sustainable planning for tourism management and development. According to Murphy (1985) and Perez – Salom (2001) in order to achieving desired sustainability certain alternations via better planning and management in the tourism activity patterns and pertaining products are necessary to decrease the environmental and social impacts. Thus researchers have emphasized the significance of stakeholder collaboration and participation in the decision making process and their involvement in each stage of tourism management to achieve long lasting sustainability (Teo 2002, Garrod 2003, Azman 1999). According to Branwell and Lane (2000) the dynamic, diffuse and fragmented manner of tourism development was identified long time ago. However the diversified ways to solve problems associated with fragmentation was not achieved despite such identification (Hall 2003). Some of the challenges faced in implementing these strategies lie in the conflicting public policies enacted by respective governments which are engaged in tourism planning, management and development. Many tourism related public policies are ensnared in an energetic continuation processes with governments struggling to perceive the multitude of implications in tourism and their arbitration ways ( Caffyn & Jobbins 2003). As declared by Scheyvens in 2003 to achieve voluntary participation in desired levels for the planning processes one important precursor should be the empowerment of stakeholders in the community by involving them in the tourism development process. In the absence of empowerment in community and local levels, predictably national endeavors to develop specific identified destinations will not meet with successful results says Sofield (2003). According to Burns in 2004 it has also been established that a top to down attitude in strategic tourism planning will not stimulate or encourage stake holder participation and local commitment. Additionally according to Timothy (2000) the individual and state relationship has conventionally presented key level policy predicaments as many interest groups continue to seek government backing and funding in tourism development process. Therefore in this study major focus will be in determining the effectiveness of the statement made by Henkel & Stirrat (2001:168) to the effect of: â€Å"It is now difficult to find a development project that does not†¦claim to adopt a ‘participatory’ approach involving ‘bottom-up’ planning, acknowledging the importance of ‘indigenous’ knowledge and claiming to ‘empower’ local people† 2. Challenges of local participation in tourism planning In 2000 Hall advocated and emphasized the need in utilizing and developing a network thinking to critically analyze the involvement of public sector partnership and collaboration in tourism to develop sustainability and social capital. However, despite the many attractions of establishing a local community approach in tourism planning there are many challenges existing in the way such a process would be implemented and operated (Murphy 1988). These challenges include the manner in which to foster local participation for tourism planning and management, initiating and maintaining cooperation between public and private sectors and identifying implementation ways for local participation in tourism planning. Therefore it is vital to enhance the assimilation of management approaches in tourism planning. 3. Effective tourism planning for a sustainable development According to Hall (2003), tourism is an important concern for industry and governments as well as communities in terms of augmenting number of travelers, enhancing revenues and impacts for the communities in the tourist destinations. Tourism has the ability of impacting on both micro and macro environments and thus has been recognized as a paradoxical practice situation when adverse reactions occur where tourism can destroy tourism (Mihalic 2003). When ever tourism is not planned or managed efficiently it contains the capacity to destroy its own platform on which the tourism is based. In 1997, McVetty identified different tourism planning traditions and approaches which are commonly referred to day as following: Booster approach – concentrates on motivating and enhancing the tourist frequency. Commercial approach – concentrates on profit maximization Economic approach – focus on the resulting economic values generated via tourism related employment. Environmental approach – focus on the ecological conservation for tourist destinations Community based approach – concentrates on minimum impact and encouragement of involvement and control by local participation in tourism Integrated approach – the social development factor in tourism which takes in to account social mobilization and local participation to maximize tourism contribution towards local communities. In an integrated tourism planning approach it will take in to account a process that endeavor to bring together each individual stakeholder with their variety of experiences and attitudes. Within such a planning process, there is an opportunity for stakeholders to cooperate in arriving at temporary agreements in matters of environmental conservation, biodiversity and social welfare (Burns 2004). It has been established that this approach will be particularly beneficial for developing countries as it provides an alternative tourism approach with a people centered attitude. A variety of tourism management models were developed in the past with the rapid growth in recreation and tourism in natural destinations ( Hall 2003, Gunn & Turgut 2002). However according to McArthur (2000) the TOMM, Tourism Optimization and Management Model developed in Australia is the most successful tool introduced so far as other models failed to establish adequate stakeholder support for implementing and operating plans on a sustainable period to confirm their merits. The problem with these models was their inability to adjust to the diverse stakeholder participants and the absence of cooperative partnership for identifying standards and indicators. 4. Empowerment of local participants for effective tourism planning In 1997 France defined empowerment as a process in which households, local groups, individuals, communities, nations and regions all shape their lives along with the type of society in which they habitat. According to Boog in 2003 the recent past has used this term as a sense of group and collective empowerment. Empowerment contain diverse concepts such as facilitating relationships between individuals, contribution of power between social cultural, political domains says O’Neal & O’Neal (2003). For tourism planning the terms empowerment is regarded as a social development process encouraging and facilitating a respondent to responsive tourism attitude (Ritchie 1993). According to Sofield a vital component embedded in the process of empowerment is the application of decisions making model. Empowerment of local participants in the tourism industry represents multidimensional characteristics according to Scheyvens in 2002 who detailed them as following: Economic empowerment with lasting financial awards for the local participants Physiological empowerment for improving self esteem, pride within the local culture for their knowledge and respective resources. Social empowerment where a community’s integrity is enhanced and sustained via the tourism development process Political empowerment is a platform of democracy where people from all walks of life are invited in the participatory process and allowed to voice opinions and concerns. In 1993 Jenkins argued that local participants would express difficulties in perceiving the complicated aspects related to planning and managing representativeness in the tourism development process. He further stated that the decision making process which would need considerable time and cost may result in a lack of interest within the local communities. Therefore in order to overcome this situation and encourage local community participation in tourism management the issue of collaboration is regarded as a suitable management strategy to encourage participation. 5. Collaboration management between stakeholders and community As declared by Bramwell & Lane in 2000, it is widely acknowledge the importance in involving the many stakeholders in the process of tourism planning and management. The concept has led to the use of many collaborative partnerships and arrangements as a tool or technique with the intention of combining a range of interests to implement and develop pertaining tourism policies. To achieve successfully inclusive tourism development an accomplishment of cooperation within all planning sectors in each scale is an important concept. A significant advantage of such collaboration management is that relevant tourist destinations and respective organizations have the ability of gaining competitive advantages via a process of combining expertise, knowledge, knowhow, capital and various other resources belonging to the multi stakeholders says Kotler, Haider, & Rein (1993). Such a collaboration attempt within stakeholders can result in effective negotiations, dialogues and formulation of a community acceptable proposal in which sustainable tourism can be developed. According to Murphy (1988) the broadly based tourism policies resulting from such management policy integrations can create democratic empowerment, operational advantages, impartiality and finally a greatly enhanced tourism product to the world. Therefore it is vital to regard the entire planning process from a social phenomenon perspective where empowerment of local participants in the decision making process is given high priority. Moreover, collaboration and participation should be considered as important components of social capital that can be enriched via community complexity. 6. Recent Examples of stakeholder participation in tourism In the past clear evidence were seen of a range of individuals and organizations operating on innovative local participation led approaches in tourism management and development. Some of these examples are the Indonesian Andaman Discoveries, the North Andaman Tsunami relief flagship project which has initiated more than 120 projects in identified Tsunami affected communities. This flagship project was instrumental for aiding a large number of local communities to develop a local participatory tourism process successfully and as a result have also developed many supporting resources such as local crafts, traditional music promotions etc. The community tourism project initiated in Scotland Inverclyde tourism group has secured their funding through many resources including the national lottery. The project has achieved tremendous success through a capacity building process as a result of community involvement and partnership working. There are also visible examples to indicate the drawbacks of this concept. As declared by Manyara et al (2006) there are many obstacles in the process of developing indigenous SMTE, small and medium tourism enterprises due to constraints such as accessibility to global markets, deficiency in numeracy and literacy, access to capital and other resources, sector specific skills and insufficient government backing. Their report which concentrated in the local community participation of Kenya tourism also states that through proper legislative frameworks and policies a community based enterprise stand to benefit with better development potential and also benefit the SMTE in the longer term. Solutions cited in this report to make the Kenya tourism project successful was to integrate the requirements of allowing initiatives to be community owned, make communities fully involved in the process of tourism development and management and that these local communities should remain as the main beneficiaries of such initiatives. 7. Conclusion As declared by Mitchell and Reid in 2000 it could be stated in summary that local participation involvement in tourism management and development can be regarded as a simple categorical term defining ‘citizen power’. Within the stage of planning the research and study of social capital and social sensitivity in relation to tourism can provide great insights to the level of social impact alleviation arising from tourism on a local community through a process of relevant and strategic planning (Hall 2003). An important aspect is to consider is integrative planning to ensure minimal adverse impacts, environmental conservation, acceptance of tourism in general and overall community growth (Burns 2004). Equally it is important to consider planning with least amount of conflicts and to foster participation of local communities via controlling resources and tourism planning related decision making. The streamlining of a local community as a tourism product will aid the diversification of tourism offerings and also facilitate a meaningful economic participation in the tourism sector by the local communities. It will also generate many tourism related benefits that exceeds the primary tourism areas within a country. The research study concludes that while there is much written on this subject mainly at a conceptual level, it is vital that proper frameworks and guidelines are established for those communities searching for optimum practices and perceiving the associated benefits of tourism within the community body. It is also evident that establishing a strictly rigid guideline set will not do much to advance a sustainable tourism within the local community agenda. References Azman, A. (1999). Local participation of ecotourism the case of Bruinei ‘ Merinbum Heritage Park. Borneo Review, 10(1), 51-69. Bramwell, B. , & Lane, B. (Eds. ). (2000). Collaboration and partnerships in tourism planning. U. K: Channel View Publications. Burns, P. M. (2004). Tourism planning: A third way? Annals of Tourism Research, 31(1), 24- 43. France, L. (Ed. ). (1997). The role of government. London: Earthscan. Garrod, B. (2003). Local participation in the planning and management of ecotourism: A revised model approach. Journal of Ecotourism, 2(1), 33-52. Gunn, C. A. , & Turgut, V. (2002). Tourism planning: Basic, concepts, cases. New York: Routledge. Hall, C. M. (2000). Rethinking collaboration and partnership: A public policy perspective. In B. Bramwell & B. Lane (Eds. ), Tourism collaboration and partnerships: Politics, practice and sustainability. U. K: Channel View Publications. Hall, C. M. (2003). Politics and place: An analysis of power in tourism communities. In S. Singh, D. J. Timothy & R. K. Dowling (Eds. ), Tourism in destination communities. U. K: CABI Publishing. Jenkins, J. (1993). Tourism policy in rural New South Wales – Policy and research priorities. Geo Journal, 29(3), 281-290. Jones, E & Manyara G (2007). Community? based Tourism Enterprises Development in Kenya: An Exploration of Their Potential as Avenues of Poverty Reduction. Journal of Sustainable Tourism. Vol. 15, No. 6, 2007. Welsh School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, UK Kotler, P. , Haider, D. H. , & Rein, I. (1993). Marketing places: Attracting investment, industry, and tourism to cities, states, and nations. New York: Free Press. McArthur, S. (Ed. ). (2000). Beyond carrying capacity – Introducing A model to monitor and manage visitor activities in forests. Wellingford, U. K: CABI Publishing. McVetty, D. (1997). Segmenting heritage tourism party – Visits on Dunedin’s Otago Peninsula: A strategic approach. Unpublished Master of Tourism thesis, University of Otago, Dunlin, New Zealand. Mitchell, R. E. , & Reid, D. G. (2000). Community integration: Island tourism in Peru. Annals of Tourism Research, 28(1), 113-139. Mihalic, T. (2003). Economic instruments of environmental tourism policy derived from environmental theories. In R. K. Dowling & D. A. Fennel (Eds. ), Ecotourism policy and planning. London: CABI International. Murphy, P. E. (1988). Community driven tourism planning. Tourism Management, 9(2), 96- 104. O’Neal, G. S. , & O’Neal, R. A. (2003). Community development in the USA: An empowerment zone example. Community Development Journal, 38(2), 120-129. Perez-Salom, J. (2001). Sustainable tourism: Emerging global and regional regulation. Georgetown International Environment Law Review, 13(4), 801-837. Ritchie, J. R. (1993). Tourism research: Policy and managerial priorities for the 1990s and beyond. In D. G. Pearce & R. W. Butler (Eds. ), Tourism research and critiques and challenges. London: Routledge. Scheyvens, R. (2002). Tourism for development: Empowering communities. Singapore: Pearson Education Asia Pte. Ltd. Scheyvens, R. (2003). Local involvement in managing tourism. In S. Singh, D. J. Timothy & R. K. Dowling (Eds.), Tourism in destination communities. U. K: CABI Publishing. Sofield, T. H. B. (2003). Empowerment for sustainable tourism development (Vol. Tourism Social Science Series). London: Pergamon. Teo, P. (2002). Striking a balance for sustainable tourism: Implication of the discourse on globalization. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 10(6), 459-474. Timothy, D. J. (2000). Cross-border partnership in tourism resource management: International parks along the US-Canada border. In B. Bramwell & B. Lane (Eds. ), Tourism collaboration and partnerships: Politics, practice and sustainability. U. K: Channel View Publications.