Sibl free essay sample

The formal corporate sector, this Bank would, among others, offer the most up-to date banking services through opening of various types of deposit and investment accounts, financing trade, providing letters of guarantee, opening letters of credit, collection of bills effecting domestic and international transfer, leasing of equipment and consumer durables, hire purchase and installment sale for capital goods, investment in low-cost housing and management of real estates, participatory investment in various industrial, agricultural , transport, educational and health projects and so on. In the Non-formal non-corporate sector, it would, among others, involve in cash Waqf Certificate and development and management of WAQF and MOSQUE properties, and Trust funds Historical Background of SIBL:SIBL formed with the Bank Company Act 1991, the rules and regulation issued by the Bangladesh Bank, the Company Act 1994, the Securities and Exchange Rules 1987 and other applicable laws and regulations in 1999. The first meeting of the Board of Directors of the bank was constituted with 13 Directors. We will write a custom essay sample on Sibl or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Management The management of the bank is vested on a board of directors, for overall supervision and directions on policy matters by the board. The power of general supervision and control of the affairs of the bank is exercise by the president and the managing director of the bank who is the Chief executive. Management Hierarchy Managing Director Executive Vice President Vice President Sr. Assistant Vice President Assistant Vice President Executive Officer Senior Officer Officer Junior Officer Assistant Officer Products of SIBL 1. 1Types of Accounts: 1. 1. 1General Products are: Al Wadiah Current Deposit (AWCD): Profit Rate 0. 0% ?  Individual Account ?  Joint Account ?  Proprietor Ship Account ?  Limited Company Account Mudarabah Savings Deposits (MSD): Profit Rate 4% ?  Individual Account ?  Joint Account ?  Proprietor Ship Account Mudarabah Notice Deposits (MND): Profit Rate 4. 00% ?  Individual Account ?  Joint Account ?  Proprietor Ship Account ?  Limited Company Acc ount ( Mudaraba Term Deposit(MTDR): Term deposit is one, which is repayable after the expiry of a predetermined period fixed by the client. The period varies form 1 month to 36 months. These deposits are not repayable on demand but they are withdrawable subject to a period of notice. Hence, it is a popularly known as ‘Time Deposit’ or ‘Time Liabilities†. Normally the money on a fixed deposit is not repayable before the expiry of a fixed period. Before opening a Term Deposit Account, a customer has to fill up an application form which contains the followings: ?  Amount in figures ?  Beneficiary’s name and address ?  Period ?  Date of issue ?  Date of maturity ?  Instructions: To be renewed automatically with Profit for the next period.    Pay Profit to account no. ______on maturity ?  Special instruction ?  How the account will be operated (singly or jointly) ?  Signature (s)   MTDR no. Then a MTDR account is opened and it is recorded in the MTDR Register which contains the following information,- ? MTDR A/C no. ?  MTDR (Mudrabah Term Deposit Receipt) no. ?  Name of the MTDR Holder with address ?  Maturity period ?  Maturity date ?  Profit rate In case of Term Deposit Account the Bank needs to mainta in a cash reserve. So, SIBL offers a high Profit rate in Fixed Deposit accounts. The Profit rates followed by SIBL in Fixed Deposit accounts are:

The Effects of Macro

The Effects of Macro Executive Summary Macro-economic factors are factors that affect the wider financial systems such as national, regional, or international economies. These factors span across the whole economy.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The Effects of Macro-Economic Factors on the Property Markets specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More They affect all industries or many markets. Some of the macroeconomic factors that have an effect on the main industries and economies include unemployment rate, inflation, the Gross Development Product, and interest rates. The property market in any economy constitutes one of the most important means of livelihood for many households. The housing or real estate industry in particular is important, with households spending a significant amount of their income to pay for the services provided. One of the most important developments that led to this paper’s focus on property markets is the sub-pr ime crisis in the USA that led to the global economic crisis (Vargas-Silva 2007, p. 998). Many economies around the world were affected, thus leading to the stringent measures put in place to control the macroeconomic factors that influence property markets. Some of the factors discussed in this paper include unemployment that has a negative impact on the property market. A rise in inflation causes a negative performance on property markets, similar to the situation that occurs after a rise in interest rates. On the other hand, the increase in GDP for a country is found to have a positive effect on property markets in the long-term for nations. These factors are tightly controlled by administrations in different countries and regions. They have the ability of changing the performance of any economy. The essay therefore discusses these factors and their effects on property markets. Unemployment Macroeconomic factors are not specific to any individual market. They include unemployment rates, the Gross Development Product (GDP), and price indices such as inflation among others. These factors have critical effects on the property markets. The performance of this sector is dependent on them much more than most other industries and markets. The property market mainly constitutes the housing market where the housing services are provided based on the factors of demand and supply (Zuh 2003). The goods and services markets are very subjective to elasticity in most instances. The property market is one that is inelastic especially in the housing supply (Vargas-Silva 2007, p. 998). Housing and the property markets are some of the major spending sources for many families. The changes in prices for this market are likely to have a major effect on families and in turn the national and regional economies. These changes in prices of property markets are therefore a major concern for individuals, governments, and other institutions. The supply in the property markets is not ad justable in the short run. Whenever there is an increase in expectations of capital gains from investments in this market, the result is an increased demand and high volatility in the prices.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More An example of the volatility in the property markets is the 2007 crisis in the United States. This predicament started initially as a boom in the mortgage markets in the country (Vargas-Silva 2007, p. 998). The resultant crisis in the mortgage market led to the institution of several measures to contain it, with those involved expressing hope that it was just a simple and small incident. Despite the efforts, the same year saw the widespread housing market downturn in the United States, which later developed into an international crisis (Agnello Schuknecht 2011). Since the onset of this crisis, governments all over the world have put more measu res to prevent a repeat of the same. The data on prices in the property markets is one of the most monitored data by the central banks. Macroeconomic factors such as unemployment and inflation are also a significant influence on property markets. In the past number of years, there has been an attempt by governments all over the world to control these macroeconomic factors to manage the prices of property markets. The housing sector is one of the markets that have become controlled in an attempt to influence the macroeconomic factors and their effects on the economy. These controls are in the form of monetary and fiscal policies. The unemployment rate in any nation or region is a major factor affecting property markets. When the number of people unemployed is high, fewer people provide the markets for the property market. Less capital is available for investment in this area. Regions with the highest unemployment tend to have poor performance in the property market. When unemployment is high, a large number of people may not be able to buy the property. This means that investors in the industry can only provide enough housing and property for those that are able to afford. This effect is cyclical, thus leading to more unemployment since builders are laid off since there is less property trading. High unemployment also acts in demand and supply chain, thus driving down demand and consequently the prices of properties in the unemployment areas. Another effect of unemployment on the property markets is foreclosure. Unemployment means that more people are unable to pay their mortgages. More and more properties come on sale to avoid the foreclosures. With more property for sale being present in the market, prices in the property markets also drop, thus contributing further to the poor performance of this industry. With high unemployment, job security becomes an issue, with the prospective market clients losing faith and trust in mortgages in the fear that they would not be able to pay them in the future due to the likelihood of being unemployed too (Gervais 2002). The risk-taking aspect of mortgages reduces, with less people getting involved in the purchase of the properties, thus leading to price changes.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The Effects of Macro-Economic Factors on the Property Markets specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More High employment, on the other hand, has the effect of driving prices up in the property markets. More people can afford housing and other properties. The high demand influences the supply chain in a positive manner, thus leading to the increase in prices. More builders are also required since more units of property increase in demand. This situation too drives down the unemployment, thus leading to a cyclic effect already suggested. The increased ability to buy property also results in more people also investing in mortgages. Inflation Inflation is another significant factor affecting the property market. It is a subject of government and central bank control to ensure that the market stays productive. Inflation is the level with which prices increase in general in a particular economy. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) has been a reliable indicator of the price increment. When a calculation of the actual inflation is desired, the CPI is created using a group of consumer goods that have been awarded different weights for the average household in the nation or region (Jud Winkler 2002). Inflation has a major effect on property markets. It has had this effect in a number of nations. The defining factor on this effect is the unpredictability of the value. The effects depend on whether inflation was unexpected or expected. If inflation is expected in a particular market such as the property market, the market players have ways of preparing for the expected outcomes, which mainly involve putting in place appropriate measures to preve nt possible losses. If inflation hits the market unexpectedly, the mortgage owners can be at an advantage since their property loses value. They, therefore, have a relatively cheaper loan to pay (Follain 1981). There are other suggested effects of inflation on property markets, including the fact that increased inflation reduces people’s incentive to invest more in the property market, thus lowering demand in the market (Feldstein 1992, p. 254). Increased inflation also lowers the demand for housing and any other property based on the resultant increase in the nominal housing payments (Kearl 1979, p. 3). Positive performance of the economy and lower inflation rates are known to result in lower demand for properties and housing. The result is increased prices for the industry.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Greece joined the European Monetary Union, with the result of this venture being the added performance of the property markets. Some of the factors that led to the positive performance of the property markets in Greece include the low inflation rate because of competition in the banking industry and the policy by the EMU to have high capital mobility (Cocco 2005, p. 356). The country also attracted more investors in the property markets because of the reduced inflation and the better performance of the economy after the integration into the EMU. Gross Development Product (GDP) The Gross Development Product (GDP) of a country can be described as the product of adding the economic value in a specific country done by organisations. This national value is generated from the subtraction of the sale price from the production cost by the various key national market actors, with the result of this being the total value added in the process (Cocco 2005, p. 356). It is important while calcula ting the GDP of a particular country to analyse the demographic characteristics present in population since this information provides an indicator of the likely future performance. Some of these important demographic factors in the population include the ages and their distribution in the workforce. A combination of the demographic factors and the economic structures provide a reliable indicator of the future GDP. The GDP of a particular country is an important determinant of prices and performance of the property markets in this nation. A better GDP means that the economy is performing better. This translates to the better performance of the property markets as well as other markets in the country. There are many examples in the world where the GDP has been an influence for the property markets. The developed nations often have better-performing markets because of their better GDP. An example of how the GDP affects property market performance is France, after the global economic cr isis. As discussed above, the global economic crisis originated in the US. It was referred to as the US sub-prime crisis (Vargas-Silva 2007, p. 998). Because of the crisis, the GDP of France grew negatively, â€Å"from the second quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2009, that is four consecutive quarters of negative growth† (Ferrara Vigna 2009, p. 2). The same period saw a drop in the building permits given by authorities by about 18.7% compared to the same period a year before (Ferrara Vigna 2009, p. 2). The country saw a drop in demand in property markets, with this situation being attributable to the poor performance in terms of the GDP. This serves as a proof that the GDP is an important determinant of performance in the property markets. Interest Rates Another key determinant of the performance of the property markets is the interest rates that exist within a particular nation or economy. The interest rate can be defined as the price incurred when a party is borrow ing money. Interest rates are applied in the finance industry. The participation of borrowers and lenders in equilibrium leads to the determination of the rate. When inflation is high, value of money reduces. Consequently, borrowers in the system demand more interest for compensation in the value lost in the process. The property markets are influenced by the interest rates since high interest rates lead to reduced investment in housing investment as compared to the fixed income assets (Cocco 2005, p. 536). A short-term increase in the interest rate, however, has the effect of lowering demand in the property markets, while increasing the prices of materials used in the industry. The result of this situation is the poor performance of the market. Conclusion In conclusion, several macro-economic factors affect the performance of property markets in any industry. Some of the factors that are discussed include the unemployment rate, inflation in any economy, the Gross Development Produc t, and interest rates. These factors have an observed effect mainly on prices in the property industry. References Agnello, L Schuknecht, L 2011, ‘Booms and busts in housing markets: Determinants and implications’, J. Housing Econ, vol. 4 no. 1. pp. 65-87. Cocco, F 2005, ‘Portfolio Choice in the Presence of Housing’, The Review of Financial Studies, vol. 18 no. 2, pp. 535-567. Feldstein, M 1992, ‘Comment on James M. Poterba’s paper, tax reform and the housing market in the late 1980s : who knew what, and when did they know it?’, Real Estate and Credit Crunch, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston Conference Series, vol. 36 no. 1, pp. 252-257. Ferrara, L Vigna, O 2009, Cyclical relationships between GDP and housing market in France: Facts and Factors at Play, Banque de France, France. Follain, R 1981, ‘Does inflation affect real behaviour? The case of housing’, Southern Economic Journal, vol. 48 no. 1. pp. 570-582. Gervais, M 2002 , ‘Housing Taxation and Capital Accumulation’, Journal of Monetary Economics, vol. 49 no. 7, pp. 1461-89. Jud, D Winkler, D 2002, ‘The Dynamics of Metropolitan Housing Prices,† Journal of Real Estate Research’, vol. 23 no. 1-2, pp. 29-45. Kearl, H 1979, ‘Inflation, mortgages, and housing’, Journal of Political Economy, vol. 87 no. 1, pp. 1-29. Vargas-Silva, C 2007, ‘Monetary policy and the US housing market: A VAR analysis imposing sign restrictions’, Journal of Macroeconomics, vol. 30 no. 1, pp. 997-990. Zuh, H 2003, The Importance of Property Markets for Monetary Policy and Financial Stability, BIS Working Paper 21, MacMillan, London.

A Soldier's Story Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A Soldier's Story - Essay Example The story revolves around the lives of four Chinese women who were born in America while their own respective mothers had been born in feudal China. These women go on a quest to explore their past and try to understand it better and make their lives more meaningful and happy. "Saving Face" is a popular movie written and directed by Alice Wu. The genre of the movie revolves around romance and drama interspersed with comedy and has a very interesting tagline that says, "A romantic comedy about right, wrong and everything in between." It is a different kind of movie and not the run of the mill kind. The story is based upon lesbianism of Asian women who speak in Chinese language occasionally. It is a touching story that plays upon the emotions and feelings of its audience. 'A Soldier's Story' deals with ethical issues of race and class that existed in the USA over sixty years ago. The murdered victim was a Black and this case is investigated by another Black military lawyer who was sent from Washington. Captain Davenport Battles amidst prejudice and deceit while in charge of uncooperative Black troops. Investigations proved that the dead soldier was very unpopular. There are a lot of ups and downs in the movie involving issues of color, caste and background which adds spice to the situation, but inspite of the many negative forces acting against him, Captain Davenport pursues his mission of finding out the exact murderer of Sergeant Waters. The Joy Luck Club (1993) is a film that is deeply immersed in ethical issues of caste and class of the important characters that is shown against an American background. Four young Chinese women born in America face racial discrimination and therefore embark on an important search of their identity in order to give them a better understanding to analyze the strained and difficult relationships shared presently between the respective mothers and their daughters. The movie is infused with a lot of pain and emotion as the characters try to grapple with the own feelings by making sense of it. The eventful search that they undertake helps to guide these feelings and solve the many mysteries they had faced. The film is considered to be a Classic because the stories of each of these women are not only heartwarming but would also make the audience cry and laugh. "Saving Face" is a very popular film that reached a wider audience and even though the movie dealt with such an ethical and sensitive issue such as 'lesbianism' involving Asian women, yet it was very well appreciated by its audience. The story revolves around a brilliant surgeon Wil who is a Chinese American lesbian based in Manhattan. Wil is surprised by Ma who is a widow of 48 years, who gets banished from Flushing, Queens when her father found out that she was pregnant. The story of Ma touches the heart and personal life of Wil, who goes out of her way to get a suitable Chinese bachelor to marry Ma since only then she could return to her own country Flushing because of the promise made by her grandfather. According to me, the film that deals the best with ethical issues of race and segregation is "A Soldier's Story." The story that is narrated through

Machiavelli's and Plato's political thoughts Essay

Machiavelli's and Plato's political thoughts - Essay Example But what does the science of running the state imply? Lots of people ruminated about this question. Plato started from the fact that there is an ideal state, a perfect specimen, and its multiple repetitions are simple distortion in the real world of things. In Plato's view, expressed in his treatise â€Å"The Republic†, the main basis of any ideal state is justice. Plato argues that every citizen is given a special class, the most suitable to his or her nature, i.e. justice is correspondence of a real thing with its idea; the state is ideal, when each citizen acts in accord with his own essence. Since there are individual differences between people, Plato proposes the division of society into several estates: the philosophers - the rulers, warriors – the guardians and craftsmen – manufacturers (Pangle, 1980). The ideal system is when every citizen’s interests are identical with the public ones, when personality does not claim for individual self-worth and complete autonomy in actions. Plato’s state and civil society are represented in a single, homogenous, holistic, undifferentiated concept. Plato points out the following forms of government: the royal regime (monarchy), the aristocracy, timocracy, oligarchy, democracy and tyranny. The most right and reasonable, he believes, is aristocracy. Other forms of government are consistent deviations from the ideal state. Aristocracy is a rule of the best, approved by the people. The person, who is reputed to be brave and wise, should have power and rule the state. The basis of this form of government is equality by birth. In Plato's view, a real governor should not seek for power; he is not willing to rule the country and corrects the vices of other people (Kochin, 2002). People, guided by ambition, fame and money are not suitable for this role. The dialogue "Laws" is the last work of Plato. Estate division of citizens is replaced with gradation of property qualification. Along with t he recognition of slavery Plato demonstrates his disdainful attitude towards productive work. Ideal state structure, by Plato, is combining of democracy and monarchy (Pangle, 1980). The thinker of the Renaissance Niccolo Machiavelli expressed his own opinion on state structure and described an ideal state governor. In modern history, Machiavelli was the first thinker, who began talking about the economy of the state as an integral part of its prosperity. Summing up the historical experience, Machiavelli observes that those rulers, who sought to be generous, spent all their wealth and savings on support the glory of generous rulers. Thus, generosity ruins sovereign’s authority and country, causes the resentment of many. Thus, Machiavelli was accused of cruelty. However, such accusations are groundless. After all, Machiavelli never wrote that a good ruler should always apply fierce measures. On the contrary, he warned that the new sovereign should not be gullible, suspicious an d quick to slaughter (Baron, 1961). He should be restrained, cautious and kind, so that excessive credulity not to turn into recklessness and excessive distrust not to embittered citizens (Machiavelli, 1998). In contrast to Plato, who in his early works advocated for equality and justice, in income distribution, in particular, Machiavelli saw

Discussion 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4

Discussion 2 - Essay Example need to apply the theories learned in actual work setting through catering to the technological needs and demands of each colleague and of the whole organization. The tasks include maintenance of infrastructure and database systems, trouble-shooting, anticipating IT demands, and addressing pressing problems with effective solutions, as required. The difference between planning, analysis, design, implementation and maintenance of a software system versus that of a sociotechnical system is the scope and depth of encompassing responsibilities. The former functions in a software system is merely confined to addressing the requirements needed to design, implement, and monitor the software system; and does not require ensuring that the software system is effectively interconnected to other users in the organization. Under sociotechnical system, the noted functions necessitate ensuring that the software system that was designed, developed, implemented, maintained, and monitored regularly towards meeting the organizations’ requirements and should be effective and sustained for continued benefits in the organization, as a whole. The core concerns in systems development life cyle (SDLC) include adherence to identified phases such the mentioned planning, analysis, design, implementation and maintenance; as well as ensuring effective management and control. The persons involved in the activities include the systems and network engineers, IT personnel, and administrative governance from senior executives of the

The Application Of Clinical Effectiveness In Physiotherapy

The Application Of Clinical Effectiveness In Physiotherapy SCIPS (2006) defined Physiotherapy as a science-based health care profession which emphasises the use of physical approaches in the promotion, maintenance and restoration of an individuals physical, psychological and social well-being through various interventions, supported and influenced by evidence of clinical effectiveness and practitioners may work independently or as members of the health care team. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation services in Oman is still in the young phases where most of our practices follows the traditional method, and evidence based approach involves reading international journals, research papers and attendance to seminars, conferences and postgraduate courses. The services have not been accompanied by a comparable increase in systematic evidence. Few practices have been evaluated either for their efficacy in carefully controlled circumstances or for their effectiveness in typical clinical situations, however to keep abreast with our clinical approach and to attain clinical effectiveness in our services, we need to develop strategies and audits to identify areas of improvement and ways of implementing effective and evidence based care. The essay will demonstrate the action plan by using the quotes of Graham (1996) on clinical effectiveness. The impact of guidelines, auditing and cost- effectiveness will also be discussed within sections of this essay. Clinical Effectiveness NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS 2005) described clinical effectiveness as the extent to which specific clinical interventions do what they are intended to do, i.e. maintain and improve the health of patients securing the greatest possible health gain from the available resources. They further described clinical effectiveness as critical thinking about actions, questioning whether it has the desired result, and about making positive changes to practice. They also continued to describe clinical effectiveness by using the same quotes as Graham 1996. National Health Service (2009) aimed to achieve clinical effectiveness strategy by developing a culture where clinical effectiveness is seen as being integral to the day-to-day provision of clinical care. Furthermore, through the development of an integrated work programme, setting out the structures, priorities, and implementing and monitoring national guidance, standards and policy. Evidence -Based Practice. Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) is the process of systematically reviewing, appraising and using clinical research findings to aid the delivery of optimum clinical care to patients (Belsey J, Snell T(2009). Hospital management.net (2005) in their review of rehabilitating physiotherapy stated that evidence-based practice is currently becoming a basic ethical stand in physiotherapy and other fields of healthcare. The purpose of evidence-based practice is to make any decision-making on diagnosis and treatment proceeds from proven knowledge in the field concerned. Herbert R et al (2005) in their review of practical evidence-based physiotherapy pointed out that research alone is not enough, it is most effective when patients, health professionals and policy makers bring to their decisions a range of values, preferences, experiences and knowledge. Clinical effectiveness as quoted by Graham (1996) the right persons, doing the right thing, the right way, in the right place, at the right time with the right result The philosophy in this essay involves team members collecting knowledge of the available service, and then using evidence from a wide range of sources to inform the outcome, linked to the priorities facing the profession. Also develop frameworks to guide ongoing development such as competency framework, and an integrated care pathway, through implementation of patient care knowledge. The process for development will be timely and detailed, and will be actively disseminated using strategic planning to promote implementation and later will be evaluated. Success for the development of clinical effectiveness and evidence-based care would be for the team to experience a constructive and enabling process that contributes to their continuing professional development and progression of research knowledge and skills. The following sections will apply the parameters of Grahams quote to the practice of physiotherapy and rehabilitation through clinical effectiveness. The right persons-(competence) Epstein and Hundert (2002) defined professional competence as the habitual and judicious use of communication, knowledge, technical skills, clinical reasoning, emotions, values, and reflection in daily practice for the benefit of the individual and community being served The therapist has to be fully qualified and competent to be able to make decisions for therapeutic interventions, identify and analyse the patients condition, a particular clinical problem, should be able to identify and define standards relevant to clinical work, and have the knowledge of the subsequent intervention that might improve outcome. The right thing (evidence based practice resources) Graham (1996) quoted that evidence-based practice is about doing the right things right, and Muir Gray (1997) supported the emphasis on the process rather than on the result. Evidence can be gathered from a range of resources including published guidelines, journals articles, conferences, books, peer reviews, client feedbacks and other recourses from libraries. In order to attain the evidence based practice resources the social value must be identified and the impact of provider values on access to services and quality of care should be understood. Rebecca Broughton (2001) stated that clinical guidelines are systematically developed statements designed to help practitioners and patients decide on appropriate healthcare. It stated that guidelines reduce unacceptable or undesirable variations in practice and provide a focus for discussion among health professionals and patients. Furthermore, Van der Wees P and Mead J(2004) in their study on framework for clinical guideline development in physiotherapy concluded that clinical guidelines are a valuable resource for effective clinical practice and are important tools for clinical effectiveness and evidence based practice, and has the potential to improve the quality of patient care. The right way (skills and competence) The team will work collaboratively to deliver a new policy as per the needs through an evidence based approach system and evaluate new policy in the context of local and national priorities and critically review the nature of evidence in the context of the working environment. The right way to develop skills and competence and the necessary step will be observed such as; time to develop the services, required post training for the therapists, duration of training and resources such as current equipment, the evidence based researched journals and the financial implication. Protocols or specification must be developed and updated by ensuring staff development such as participation in Continuing Medical Education (CMEs) and ensuring confidence of current knowledge and skills through evidence based practice. Patients dignity and privacy must be equally maintained in all contexts of intervention. The right place (location of treatment/services) This will involve team work to audit and identify the geographical regions that need developing and observe the clinical practice, thus includes identifying priority areas of work to deliver the strategy, The performance will be audited to measure the quality of care the patient experienced including the effectiveness of implementing the best available evidence and then benchmarked against pre-set standards, changes will then be implemented where needed. The clinical audit process seeks to identify areas for service improvement, develop and carry out action plans to rectify or improve service provision and then to re-audit to ensure that these changes have an effect. (Wikipedia). The right time (provision of treatment/services) The team will determine and assess the clinical needs of care and interventions so as to develop the appropriate delivery of services as per the requirements and assess the cost effectiveness of the service delivery. The status of the current services, the type of patients, clinical intervention, time process, duration of treatment and location should be reviewed. Hurley et al (2009) in their study on effectiveness and clinical applicability of integrated rehabilitation programs for knee osteoarthritis showed that correct integrated rehabilitation programmes involving exercise and self-management are more clinically and cost effective and may be the best way of managing the large and increasing number of people suffering chronic knee pain. Another example from Santos et al (2004) in their project implementing clinical evidence in the management of coronary care provided a foundation for the development of a management strategy by using a multidisciplinary team approach, involving updating guidelines and resources. A positive outcome of the project was a reduction in hospital admission. An example in our local services was seen in a study of rehabilitation and management of elderly individuals following stroke which required an integrated approach from a multidisciplinary team. This minimised readmission of chronic cases and proved cost effective. Cost-effectiveness analysis should be done to address and ensure the efficient use of recourses and compare the financial costs of therapies whose outcomes can be measured purely in terms of health effect. (Alan Haycox 2009). Ceri. P. (2001) stated that one such method for measuring the extent of health gains is the quantity adjustment life year (QALY). The right result (clinical effectiveness/ maximising health gain) The results should be identified and reported to assess the benefits and patients satisfaction. The appraised research has to have valid and relevant information in the overall results that could be of clinical benefit safe, effective, cost beneficial and when used on the general population will make a difference. Hence health care authorities should develop appropriate use of evidence-based, standardized processes and centers of excellence to support easy reach of health care through a multidisciplinary care team of physiotherapy and rehabilitation. CONCLUSION This essay has discussed the mechanism of clinical effectiveness and evidence based practice in the context of physiotherapy and rehabilitation service. The essay has reflected on the needs and future expectations in the provision of a safe and effective care on a national scale. It has been found that in the context of providing effective rehabilitation, the implementation of up-to-date guidelines, auditing and cost evaluation are all paramount for the assessment of clinical effectiveness. In conclusion, clinical effectiveness in physiotherapy and rehabilitation services uses an integrated approach and can be thought of as the sum of the right person; as being the competent skilled therapist, backed with the right evidence, protocols and guidelines (the right way). In addition, an efficient well equipped environment. An ongoing review of such intervention and approach is required to evaluate and further improve the results of the provided service.

Octopus :: essays research papers

Recently, researchers have discovered the existence of an extremely unique type of octopus. The species, known as the Indo-Malayan octopus, has the ability to alter its shape, form, and color pattern to mimic or imitate other sea creatures in order to avoid predation (2). The discovery of the mimic octopus is noteworthy because no other type of cephalopod is known to have impersonation abilities. The octopus is also not limited to one imitation. Researchers have observed up to eight different formations. The alternations occur depending upon the appetite, surrounding environment, and proximity of predators the octopus encounters (1). In analyzing the formations, behaviors, and predators of the mimic octopus, it is important to isolate the origins of this exclusive, and highly intelligent defense mechanism. Is this means of protection or evolutionary development, one that allows the cephalopod a better means of survival? Or is this the result of observed behaviors where the mimic oct opus becomes aware of the relations occurring in the environment, and successfully imitates a species based upon their ability to subsist when dealing with dangerous predators? The existence of mimic octopi is restricted to the islands of Indonesia, specifically off the coasts off Solawesi, and Bali (3). Surprisingly, the octopi have been viewed during the daylight hours, generally residing near sand tunnels, and holes (1). The octopi enjoy these mounds because they provide a significant source of food, including small worms, fish, and crustaceans. The octopus utilizes its arms to feel for prey, and then captures the food through the use of expanded webs. However, when the animal is attempting to hide itself from possible enemies, the Indo-Malayan octopus can transform itself into a variety of organisms, including fish, sea snakes, and anemones. If the octopus observes a cluster of damselfishes, it will change into a lionfish by swimming above the ocean floor, with arms extended beyond the body (2). The lionfish is known to possess poisonous spikes, which successfully deter the damselfish from preying upon the mimic octopus. Another possible transformation includes the sole fish. The octopus is able to propel itself in a similar manner by forming a leaf-shaped arm that moves it across the ocean floor effortlessly. The octopus's arms are also useful in impersonating the sea snake. Two arms are waved around to appear like a pair of snakes, while the other six are hidden from view. The octopus also changes its color and creates yellow and dark bands across the exposed arms.

Effects of conflict on productivity Essay

List of Figures and Tables Page Study population – Table 3.1 8 Response rate -Table 4.1 9 Causes of Conflict – Table 4.2 9 Causes of Conflict – Pie Chart 4.1 10 Effects of Conflict – Table 4.3 10 Effects of Conflict – Pie Chart – 4.2 11 (vi) Chapter One INTRODUCTION 1.1 Introduction Lucgeor Enterprises was registered in 1998 as a general merchant business but specialized in supplyof printed and general stationery amongst others. Since its registration , Lucgeor has never looked back and have dominated the supply of stationery to most of the businesses in Mombasa and surrounding towns. The company has 43 members of staff who have the necessary skills and commitment to the ideals of the organization in all respect. The management of Lucgeor Enterprises are people of long standing experience in the Printing and stationery business. They have instilled good team work and participatory management of the organization which has seen the organization take a lead in the stationery supply business. The company aims to gain a huge market share through various approaches including cost leadership , service differentiation and focused attention aimed at persuading their customers and potential clents i of their quality service provision and pocket friendly prices. The company makes good use of ICT to reach its clients thus saving on time and costs. Lucgeor Enterprises which is based at Bondeni area along Abdel Nasser Street, has for the last twoand half years been going through some conflicts between and amongst its staff. The conflicts have in away slowed or derailed the smooth operations of the company and more importantly affected its service delivery to key clients who have had to wait for hours or days for goods to be delivered. This tr end is unlike in the past when service provision took precedence over all else. 1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT The company has had strained relations amongst its workforce lately which hampers its service deliv ery activities. The complaints registered with management regarding poor service delivery to customer s  are becoming the norm rather than the exception. If the trend is not arrested in good time, the impact of the conflicts within the organization may end up destroying the company and with it the livelihood of a good number of employees and even the owners. 1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY (i) To establish the causes of conflict at Lucgeor Enterprises (ii) Effects of conflicts at Lucgeor Enterprises and (iii) To seek for appropriate solutions to the conflicts. 1.4 Research Questions (I) What are the causes of conflict at Lucgeor Enterprises? (ii) What are the effects of conflict at Lucgeor Enterprises and? (iii) Which are the most appropriate solutions to the conflicts? 1.5 JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY (i) To the Researcher The study would give the researcher a first hand experience on what causes conflicts, conflict situ ations, effects of conflicts on organizational productivity, teams and team work and hopefully enable the researcher to find best conflict management approaches which could help organizations in conflict t o overcome such conflict situations in their organizations in the best way possible . 1 recommendations given as anecdotes to the conflict situations in the organization thus unlocking the potentials of the business to serve its customers effectively by managing the conflicts sensitively . (iii) To other Researchers The study would give future researchers ready information for reference  purposes and to enable them fill the gaps that may be noted and hopefully improve the conflict prevention , containment , avoid ance and management activities in organizations thus enhancing positive industrial relations in organizations, besides increasing the body of knowledge available for consultation and experimentation. (iv) To Mount Kenya University Future researchers would utilize the findings of this study for reference purposes and the foundation upon which they may further their research on conflicts, based on available findings , conclusions and recommendations thus filling the gaps that may be noted and hopefully improve the conflict prevent , containment , avoidance and management activities in organizations thus enhancing positive indus relations in organizations. 1.6 SCOPE OF THE STUDY Effects of Conflict on Organizational productivity study, was an attempt to understand the effects of conflict amongst employees of an organization on their productivity and the overall productivity of the organization in achieving its objectives.. The study was conducted amongst the employees of Lucgeor Enterprises at their place of work at Bondeni area and it took approximately 6 months. 1.7 LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY (a) Lack of Time The researcher due to time constraints was faced with serious juggling between the research work ti me  and the daily work related responsibilities, all of which required a piece of his time. Fortunatelythe researcher was able to work through and ensured that none was given a raw deal and the project completed in time. (b) Limited Information The researcher due to the nature of organizational policies and communication strategy, received l mited i information on the basis that the providers i.e the staff, never fully trusted the intentions of the researcher. But to authenticate the information provided, the researcher went the extra mile to independently v erify the same with the top management who were more than willing to clarify provided information and eve tied the loose ends thus affording the researcher a clear picture of the inf rmation required for the o research work. (c) Reluctance by employees to respond The researcher faced the prospects of failure by the staff to respond to interviews, answer questio nnaires. The employees reluctance to respond, our investigations found were due to fear of victimization by management for divulging company information to outsiders whose intentions were not clear to them. To circumvent this, the researcher consulted the management who gave unequivocal assurance to the staff that they will not be victimized since the researcher was a student whose details they had authenticated and was simply doing research as part of their course work. the assurance saved theday and enabled them to respond positively given the requirements of the project. 2 Chapter Two LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 INTRODUCTION Conflict is a common denominator to all social life. It is an inevitable part of our lives becauseit is related to situations of scarce resources, division of functions, power relations and role differeniation. t Because of its pervasive and ambagious nature, conflicts have led scholars and administrators to qu estion whether they understand its meaning and relevance and how best to cope with conflict should one arise. The normative conception of conflict, strongly influenced by a preoccupation with stability and equilibrium in organizational design, links conflict to violence, destruction, inefficiency and irrationality This form of intellectual myopia was especially invidious in suggesting that administrators have th e responsibility of avoiding, controlling or eliminating conflicts. Descriptive approaches challenge the whole basis and rationale of these assumptions. They permit usto depart from an outmoded paradigm by suggesting that any social interaction in which the parties (however they may be structured or defined) compete for scarce resources or values have the potenti l for a conflict. Using the term in broad sense , we suggest that conflict refers to all kinds of antagonis tic  interactions. More specifically, it can be defined as a situation in which two or more partie have s  incompatible objectives and in which their perceptions and behaviour are commensurate with the incompatibility. This definition is purposely broad. It suggests that conflict is a social phenomenon that is found in personal, group or organizational interactions. Conflict therefore has several dimensions. Fink 5 distinguishes between (I) Antagonistic- psychological relations and (ii) Antagonistic behaviour Likewise Pondy 6 observes that conflict is made up of (I)Antecedent conditions (ii) Affective conditions (iii) Cognitive conditions and (iv) Behavioural conditions We therefore advance a conception which emphasizes its three, interrelated dimensions, namely (1)Conflict situation (the basic incompatibility) (2) Conflict attitudes (Range of psychological factors) and (3) Conflict behaviour (set of related behaviour) Conflict refers to more than just overt behaviour. Concentrating only upon its behavioural manifestation is an extremely limiting exercise. The three dimensional conceptions of conflict emphasizes the ne d to e consider the situation in which parties (Individuals, groups or organizations ) come to possess incompatible goals, their structure of interaction and the nature of their goals. We have to consid er  emotional (e.g distrust) and Cognitive ( e.g Stereotyping) orientations that accompany a conflict situation as well as a range of action undertaken by any party in a situation of conflict. 2.2 Theoritical Review / Conceptual Framework Stephen Robbins makes a strong case for the need for a more realistic approach to conflict with his â€Å"Interactionist Approach†. He states that there are three basic managerial attitudes toward conflicwhich t  he identifies as traditional behavioural and interactionist. The traditionalist, following our so cial  teaching believes that all conflicts are destructive and management’s role is to get them out of th e  organization. The traditionalist, therefore, believes conflict should be eliminated. Thebehaviouralist seeks to rationalize the existence of conflict and accurately perceives conflict as inevitable inomplex c  organizations or relationships. Thus the behaviouralist â€Å"accepts† it . The Interactionist views conlict as f  absolutely necessary, encourages opposition, defines management of conflict to include stimulationas well as resolution and considers the management of conflict as a major responsibility of all administrators. 3 The interactionist view is accepted and encourages conflict. Avoiding a disagreement doesn’t make t go i away. We need to be aware of conflict and make decisions about what we are going to do about it. Conflicts only become negative when it is not approached and resolved. Lack of communication amongst group members can lead to avoidance of conflict. When that happens, the group can lose its effectiveness. group members and leaders need to to be able to resolve conflict successfully. Likeany other leadership skills, conflict management can be learnt. Conflict Management Conflict is inevitable in any interpersonal relationship or among members of any group. Whereas we meet various types of conflicts in our lives, we are at a lose as to what to do when one arises. Ma ny  people tend to leave conflict situations e.g if one breaks out in a group. Why do we shy away from dealing with conflict? . It is because we were raised to believe t hat conflict is something to beavoided, an experience of failure. However conflict does not have to lead to failure, or even to the termin ation of  relationship. we all come to see and experience the world in a different way, and we all have different ideas about what is best for â€Å"my group† or â€Å"our group†. Recognizing this fact can help free us from the negative conclusion that conflict is a signal of failure. Styles of Conflict Management (a) Competing – An individual pursues his or her own concerns at the expense of the other person. This is a power oriented mode. Competing may even mean standing up for your rights, defending a positio n which you believe correct, or simply trying to win. (b) Accommodating – The opposite of competing When accommodating, an individual neglects his or her own concerns to satisfy the concerns of the other person. there is an element of self sacrifice this in mode. Accommodating might take the form of selfless generosity or charity, obeying another person’s order when one would prefer not to, or yielding to another person’s point of view. (c) Avoiding- The individual does not immediately pursue his or her own concerns or those of the other person. He or she does not address the conflict Avoiding may take form of diplomatic sidestepping of the issue, postponing an issue until a better time or simply withdrawing from a threatening situation. (d) Compromising – The objective is to find some expedient, mutually acceptable solution which partially  satisfies b parties. . Falls in the middle of Competing and accommodating. oth (e) Collaborating- The opposite of avoiding . Collaborating involves attempt to work with the other person to find some solution which fully satisfies the concerns of both persons. Initiation The most effective way to confront conflict situation is to state the tangible effect a conflict ha on you. s (f) Active Listening – Negotiators must be capable of hearing the other person’spoint of view . . while listening, do not think about how to reply in order to persuade . . argument – provoking replies should be avoided. . Active listening involves paraphrasing or restating what the other says. Idea or . Content should be considered as well as feelings. (g) Problem solving . Clarify the problem – After the above steps, each party should have a clear idea about what is the tangible issue. . Talk about what is needed or wanted ( be clear on facts and information). . Generate a list of possible solutions. CONFLICT CAUSES Nations, organizations and groups are made up of individual human beings. Each person has through experience developed a set of values and evolved a set of behavioural rules. These values and rulesare sufficiently alike in a given society to allow justice, morals and ethics to exist and create gener l a agreement about what is right and what is wrong. But the value-rule set for each individual is a unique set not fully shared by other humans..These differences in value-rule sets are most likely the basi c causes of conflict. 4 Another major cause of conflict is the motivation of the separate individuals. Each person is motiv ated  by a unique degree of satisfaction in a set of needs. It is quite likely that in a given situation the individual concerned will be aiming their personal efforts at slightly different objectives. Such objectives may be similar enough to permit cooperative effort but sufficiently different to createsome conflict. A common example is the â€Å"hot line â€Å" employed by many commanders as a means of staying in touch with the troops. This opportunity to short circuit supervisory channels often antagonizes intermediate managers, who may learn of a problem only when the commander confronts them with it.. Then, too, it may be possible for all to be motivated to behave toward the same goal accomplishment but to feel that the goal, when attained, will not be great enough for all to share adequately in the reward. Conflict may then occur as each person strives to attain their place in the sun. EFFECTS OF CONFLICTS Conflicts have both positive and negative effects. It can be positive when it encourages creativity, new looks at old conditions, the clarification of points of view, and the development of human capabilities to handle interpersonal differences. All of us have experienced a surge of creativity when we perm the it ideas of others to trigger our imagination, as for example in a brainstorming session. Conflicts can be negative when it creates resistance to change, establishes turmoil in organization or  interpersonal relations fosters distrust, builds a feeling of defeat or widens the chasm of misunderstanding. . Unfortunately the term â€Å"conflict† has only the connotation of â€Å"bad† for many people, so much that they think principally in terms of suppression, giving little or no attention to its more positive side. THE PERSON AND THE ORGANIZATION Conflicts occur when the needs and goals of the individual are not in harmony with the objectives a nd goals of the organization. Chris Argyris, in his discussion of man versus the organization, indic ates the high likelihood of the traditional goals and structures of organizations may be in conflict with the needs and goals of the personalities in the organization. This may be reflected in the efficient and omni potent bureaucracy that places emphasis on hierarchy, specialization of work, established norms of conduct ,  and explicit rules, often forgetting or overlooking the individual and his unique qualities. Traditionally, personal values tend to be hostile toward organizations, big government, big business, bureaucracy, and the military. Again, conflict can arise when interdependency exists. Employees become dependent on the organization to give their lives direction and meaning. Such dependency allows them to escape the burdens of personal responsibility. whereas we praise individualism in workers, the organization often require that s the individual be treated impersonally. Efficiency requirements in organizations also acts as a sou of rce conflict because they regularly demand that the goals and needs of the organization be given higher priority than the rights of individual. We therefore yield to the proposition that conflict between organizations and personal values is normal and a fact of life. Managing the inherent conflict between individual needs and organizational need demands a high degree of self awareness on the part of the manager. What am I willing to do in balancing of these needs? How much can I accommodate of the needs of other human beings in the organization and still serve the greater good of the company? One major influence on the manager’s actions or decisions will be his basic concept or philosophy about the nature of man. Douglas McGregor presents a famous dissertation on this subject in the considera tion  of Theory â€Å"X† and â€Å"Y†. Argyris offers a number of managerial consideration as well us Abraham Maslow propositions of various assumptions for managers to adopt for an enlightened approach to the individual-organization conflict situation. Research has led to conclusions that potential indivi dualorganization conflicts are heightened as management acts to reduce or  constrain the individual opportunity to decide. Organizations tend to make final decisions without input of the employees wi th the expectation that no mistakes would be made, no errors. This fosters conflict as the expectation may s be overwhelming. Unless the organization is supportive to the individual’s problem -solving efforts, such conflict continues and worsens 5 his ideas. Another source of individual versus organizational conflict is generated by the â€Å"new man† versus the â€Å"old man†. The innovator is always in a less supportive environment than the entrenched old hand. 1. Chris Argyris, Personality and Organization (New York: Harper Torchbooks,1957), Chapters III andVII. 2. Douglas McGregor, The Human Side of Enterprise (New York: McGraw- Hill, 1960) 3. Argyris, pp.232-37 4. Abraham Maslow, Eupsychian Management (Homewood, Illinois: Richard D. Irwin, 1965), pp. 17-33 5. Harry Levinson, The Exceptional Executive: A psychological Conception (Cambridge, Massachussets: Harvard University Press, 1968), pp. 204-7. 6Argyris, p. 234 7. Fredrick W. Hertzberg, â€Å"The Wise Old Turk† Harvard Business Review, September- October 1974, pp. 70-80. Sources of conflict For managers to effectively manage conflicts, they need to understand their source. Basic sourcesof conflict are, semantic , role , values. Semantic sources are those stemming from some failure in communication. Traditionally, semantic has to do with the meaning of words, but here that is just one phase of its role. We use semantics to point out major source of conflict as the failure of two individuals to share fully the meaning of a communicative attempt. The cause of the failure may be technical problems in the communication process (static, filters, barriers etc)., or they may be ac tual  differences in perception and understanding. The result being an absence of agreement thus conflict . Role sources are those that rise out of the varying perceptions of people about the expected behaviours of themselves and others. Many of these come from the status and position levels in organizations. Others come from the structures and processes devised by management to organize work, channel effort ,and coordinate activity. Value sources have their foundations in the individuals value sets of people. These value sets readily contribute to differences between people because they are different. Theycause each of us at times to respond or behave in an unexpected manner because we are behaving as dictated by a value set not fully shared by our associates, hence a sense on their part of a difference between us. What is effective in one value conflict situation may not be in the next. The separation as statedabove is for the knowledgeable researcher and other resource persons. But our daily conflict is a combinatio of n elements from more than one source. We can not therefore say that the three sources are distinct. E ach affects the others to some degree. Individual reaction to conflict Since conflict may be positive or negative, there may be a range of reactions to conflict. Such rea ctions may range from high expectations and pleasure to absolute rejection. Broadly, an individual in conflict situation has only two options i.e sign up or ship out. Massie and Douglas identify certain situation of dilemma in the conflict situation which they call â€Å"Zone of indifference† 8. Joseph L. Massie and John Douglas, Managing: A Contemporary Introduction (Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice- Hall, 1973), p.219. MEANS TO RESOLVE OR REDUCE CONFLICT Basic to other considerations in resolving conflicts is that the parties to the conflict need to tr st each u  other and must be capable and willing to locate the source of the conflict. Conflict situations pre sent  different options to the concerned parties. We can decide to do nothing about the conflict. But what will be the result of non action?. If one remains in conflict situation then sooner rather than later the tension will increase and one of the parties will strive to win over the other o to drive him or her out. Or even r worse, the losing party may become more aggressive or hostile and counter attack the element frustr ting a The result of non action may be dysfunctional as the decision to do nothing may not be the best in certain situations while it may be good in some. One method often applied in conflict situations is the use of super ordinate goals. For example, the entire work force, taken as a whole, is something of a super ordinate goal uniting conflicting groups bene ath that umbrella. |The manager gets the group to see how conflict affects productivity, thus reducing, the smaller groups stake in the overall organizations success. The approach is similar to the common enemy approach, wherein the groups in competition find unity viewing an outside group as a common enemy. . This unity can hide or lessen conflict in groups. A unique method to resolve conflict is to increase interaction between conflicting groups by physically exchanging persons between conflicting groups. For example, if the gizmo unit is having difficulty dealing with the gadget unit, a temporary shifting of people between these groups could help the conflicting elements learn the other’s problems and frame of reference. the result could be better communications, greater understanding and less future conflict. The quickest resolution is a confrontation meeting. The manager should however, be warned that confrontation requires complete preparedness on his part. He must have the facts of the conflict siuation t  and confidence in his self-control and his ability to use diplomacy, tact and problem solving. But then, he must appreciate the fact that confrontation may worsen not better the situation. Basic to this efforts to resolve or reduce the conflict is the idea of avoiding win-lose situations. Sports and other recreational activities often acquire their flavor by win-lose  situations, but the same may not be good for an organizational conflict situation. There are situations where the manager may seek to repress confl ict. This is true where the differences between the two conflicting elements are not relevant to the organizational task. Such conflict is bad to the organization. These differences are petty and self serving, thereby causing activity in which the participants try to win to preserve the sanctity of the original stand. A significant aid to the manager in such conflicts is an understanding of the human process of perception, process of handling stimuli in accordance with our values, rules, wishes, an d fears. With this understanding , the manager may explain to the conflicting parties how they are misreading the situational data. thus may find ways to suppress the conflict. 9. Dubin Robert. Human Relations in Administration Fourth Edition. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice- Hall, 1974. 10. Hersey, Paul, and Kenneth H. Blanchard, Management of Organizational behaviour, Second Edition. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice- Hall, 1974. 2.3 Critique of Existing Literature relevant to the study Based on past studies and review of major issues, it has been established that conflict has a grea t  impact on organizational effectiveness. Many studies have captured the basic foundations of the co nflict  and therefore have provided the organizations with the data and information on best approaches to apply in conflict situations. However, the many alternative approaches may not fit every organization and thus some may require unique combinations that may be difficult and hence require high levels of understanding by the management to handle and probably prescribe best solutions to. 7 Chapter Three METHODOLOGY 3.1 Research Design The research design in the case of Lucgeor Enterprises was the collection of data through intervie ws, questionnaires , observations and surveys. Then the relevant data was sieved and refined to conform with the requirements of the study. 3.2 Population Lucgeor Enterprises has an employee population of 43 persons both permanent and casual. Because the population was small , the researcher took the whole population for the purpose of data collection. Table 3.1 Study population Department No of Respondents Administration 5 Finance 4 Marketing 6 Procurement & Stores 11 Production 17 Total 43 3.3 Sampling Frame Due to the small no of employees , the whole population was considered and thus given equal treatme nt. 3.4 Sample and Sampling Technique No. samples were taken as the whole population was taken for consideration. No technique was thus utilized as the whole population was considered. 3.5 Instruments The instruments that the researcher applied in the process were, questionnaires and interviews to corroborate some of the information provided. Use of questionnaires were relevant and convenient because the respondents were all literate and thus were able to fill the forms independently. 3.6 Data Collection Procedure The researcher prepared 43 pieces of questionnaires which he diligently distributed to all employee of s Lucgeor Enterprises. the respondents were requested to fill the questionnaires within two weeks an d return the same to the researcher. 3.7 Data Processing and Analysis Data gathered from the respondents through the questionnaires were cleaned, then selected into vari us o categories by coding . They were then analysed by use of quantitative and qualitative techniques . the information generated from the analysis were thus presented in the form of tables, pie charts, andbar graphs. 8 Chapter Four RESEARCH FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS 4.1 Introduction Data was presented in the form of tables, pie charts and graphs, which made the interpretation 4.2 Presentation The researcher presented the data in various forms which captured all the areas of interest to the study as follows. 4.3 Response rate. The researcher administered 43 questionnaires of which the return rate was 41 thus constituting an average of 95%. The response was such that the researcher was able to gather fully the necessary daa t for the study. Table 4.1 Response rate. No of questionnaires adminstered No. of questionnaires returned 43 41 Percentage 95% 4.4 Causes of Conflict at Lucgeor Enterprises The researcher administered 43 questionnaires of which the return rate was 41 thus constituting an average of 95%. The response was such that the researcher was able to gather fully the necessary daa t for the study. Table 4.2 Causes of Conflict Causes of conflict No. of respondents Percentage Poor Management 12 29% Poor Remuneration 16 39% 5 12% 8 20% Lack of training and skills Incompetence amongst staff 9 Pie Chart 4.1 Causes of Conflict No. of Respondents Poor Management Poor Remuneration Lack of Training Incompetency among employees Analysis From table 4.2 and chart 4.1 , the causes of conflicts at Lucgeor Enterprises were as follows. Poor Management Poor Remuneration 29% 39% 12% 20% Lack of training and skills Incompetence amongst staff The above information shows that the one issue which the employees feel as the main cause of conflict with management is poor remuneration. The second item that they prioritize as a major conflict are is a the management of the organization. While the other conflict prone issue is lack of training and skills. The employees feel that the people put in charge of departments are not properly trained and thus lack the requisite skills to manage the departments. This thus results in incompetency of the employees to perform their tasks effectively. Effects of Conflict Table 4.3 Effects of Conflict Effects of conflict No. of respondents Percentage Poor Performance 23 56% Lack of Motivation 11 27% 3 7% 4 10% Negative Stereotyping Distorted Perceptions 10 Pie Chart 4.2 Effects of Conflict No. of Respondents Poor Performance Lack of Motivation Negative Stereotyping Distorted Perceptions Analysis From the above information, the main effect of conflict in organizations  according to the responses are, Poor performance, Lack of motivation, Distorted perceptions and Negative stereotyping in that order. Discussion From the above responses, there is a clear pattern regarding the cause and effect relationships amogst n the various factors at play. It is worth noting that the cardinal goal of any organization is the achievement of efficient operational performance and productivity within the standard working hours. When an organization can not achieve the projected production levels within the set time lines, it is a cause to worry. An analysis of the causes and effects gave us results as stated below. The main causes of conflict as stated above is the research were Poor remuneration, Poor management, Lack of training and skills and Incompetence amongst staff in that order. While the effects of conflicts in organizations are, Poor performance, Lack of motivation, Distorted perceptions and Negative stereotyping. 11 Chapter Five Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations 5.1 Introduction Workplace conflict is a major concern for most companies. It is inevitable in any situation where human beings operate. People have different values , beliefs and ways of life which they probably hold dear or believe to be the best as opposed to what other people have or believe in. Away has to be found to balance the various interests and align the same with the organizational goals. Proper systems of managing conflicts enables organizations to achieve the best out of such conflicts as well as meet the objectives and goals of the organization. 5.2 Summary If managed poorly or avoided altogether, conflict can be extremely costly to an organization. If managed well, conflict presents an opportunity to uncover value and promote a healthy workplace. Many organizations are  finding that their conflict management systems have been good financial investments, producing a healthy return. In addition, they are recognizing the value of many less tangible benefits (e.g. improved morale, lower turnover, increased efficiencies, and improved public relations). A rigorous four-phased process of (i) Assessment (ii) Design (iii) Implementation and, (iv) Operation and evaluation helps organization design effective conflict management systems to reap the maximum benefits of conflict management. The above four phased approach to conflict management, encourages the Conflict Management System (CMS) team to genuinely seek to understand and incorporate the needs and interests of all affected constituencies and create an environment in which benefits of the CMS system can be effectively communicated, implemented and adminstered. 5.3 Conclusions Productivity losses add up quickly when workplace conflict is not pro-actively and successfully managed. Over a number of days, months and years, multiplied by the number of employees affected, the real money value lost can be staggering. It is evident that there are tremendous advantages to pre-emptively deal with conflict in the workplace before it escalates beyond an organization’s ability to resolve, or , worse , even contain it. A well designed CMS can have a significant positive impact on the quality of life if its employees, as well as its bottom line. Specifically, addressing the cost of conflict in the workplace can have a transformative impact on the overall health and well-being of an organization. 5.4 Recommendations The management of an organization needs to focus on the best methods of handling conflicts and their resolution. This may involve (I)Management Training The training may have several components which may include (a) The introductory part The training should highlight the various causes , effects and outcomes of conflict situations. This will help to lower the frequency of destructive conflicts and reduce the impacts on the organizational operations. Such training would afford the trainees the necessary greater sense of self-awareness in dealing effectively with all types of conflict situations. Implementing a well -thought out training program to address the harmful effects of conflict is like performing preventive medicine. 12 the other components of the training would include (b) Conflict Awareness training  © Communication Training (d) Negotiation Training (e) Manager Awareness (f) Neutral third -party Interventions B) Increasing Staff Salaries In order to motivate employees, the management should consider raising the salaries of employees as away of motivating them to perform effectively. C) Improving the Management of the Company A deliberate effort and resources should be employed towards management development . The Management development should be tailored towards enhancing the managerial skills and interpersonal skills of management staff thus ensuring proper management of the organization. Again the management should be encouraged to adhere to the rules and regulations, procedures and laws governing industri al relations thus having good working relations with staff. D) Staff Participation and Team working To avoid negative stereotyping and disjointed communication, the management needs to focus on improving the participation of staff in decision making in the company besides ensuring that proper communication between employees themselves and between employees and management is cordial thus eliminating negative feeling and other forms of unwanted practices amongst staff, which may strain their working relationships. 13 Reference Dubin Robert. Human Relations in Administration Fourth Edition. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice- Hall, 1974. Hersey, Paul, and Kenneth H. Blanchard, Management of Organizational behaviour, Second Edition. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice- Hall, 1974. Douglas McGregor, The Human Side of Enterprise (New York: McGraw- Hill, 1960) Abraham Maslow, Eupsychian Management (Homewood, Illinois: Richard D. Irwin, 1965), pp. 17-33 Harry Levinson, The Exceptional Executive: A psychological Conception (Cambridge, Massachussets: Harvard University Press, 1968), pp. 204-7. Chris Argyris, Personality and Organization (New York: Harper Torchbooks,1957), Chapters III andVII. Argyris, pp.232-37 Argyris, p. 234 Fredrick W. Hertzberg, â€Å"The Wise Old Turk† Harvard Business Review, September- October 1974, pp. 70-80. Joseph L. Massie and John Douglas, Managing: A Contemporary Introduction (Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice- Hall, 1973), p.219. 14 Appendices Questionnaire Foreward I am a student of Mount Kenya University, taking an undergraduate degree programme in the field of Human Resources Management. As part of the requirement for the fulfilment of the course work, I am required to carry out a research study on the effects of Conflict in the workplace. I have chosen y our organization, as the most potential one because of its size, convenience and reputation for the purpose of the study. I have prepared comprehensive questions regarding the subject matter to enable me gather information and  gain the much needed insight. The information given will be treated with utmost confidentiality and purely for the academic purpose. Kindly give the most appropriate responses by ticking one of the options provided Name Department Position / Rank 1. What are the main causes of conflict within the organization? Poor Management Poor Remuneration Lack of training and skills Incompetence amongst staff 2 . What effect does conflict have on employees’ productivity? Poor Performance Lack of Motivation Distorted Perceptions Negative Stereotyping 3 . What is the most effective Conflict Management method? Avoidance Collaboration Open confrontation Hiding feelings 15 4 . What kind of conflict management strategies does your organization use in resolving conflict in the organization? Avoidance Collaboration Open confrontation Hiding feelings 5. What are some of the costs associated with conflict in your organization? Lost Man-hours due to conflict Absentieesm Lost business due to delays in executing jobs Labour inefficiency 6 . Does the organization have conflict awareness training programme for its management? Yes. No. If the answer to the above question is yes, please give the dates and how many times in the recent past 7 . What kind of conflict awareness training does the organization offer to its management? Communication Negotiation Neutral Third party Coaching 16

Learning about Kickstarter for indie authors

Learning about Kickstarter for indie authors Kickstarter for Indie Authors - Talking to Maris Kreizman of Kickstarter Publishing Just like digital publishing, crowdfunding is something that makes being an indie creative totally feasible. Kickstarter  is basically synonymous with crowdfunding, and the first place anyone should look when they’re getting ready to raise.Kickstarter has a whole section of their site dedicated to publishing projects. This is both an awesome way of supporting the community of publishers, and also a great place to go find cool books by new authors!Maris Kreizman is Publishing Project Specialist at Kickstarter. We talked about what’s most important to running a successful Kickstarter campaign, how you set the budget for your campaign, and everything you need to think about before getting started. It’s a trove of advice for indie authors - enjoy!REEDSYWhat do authors need to keep in mind when they’re trying to get funding for a great publishing project?MARIS KREIZMAN There are three important parts to doing a Kickstarter. The first one is telling a good story. That includes having a wonderful video, and telling potential backers who you are and why you want to do the thing you’re trying to do.The second part is rewards - making sure that potential backers are able to share in the project in some meaningful way.The third part is having a relationship with your backers, which means doing a lot of updates, keeping the lines of communication open, and being really transparent about what you’re doing.REEDSY The relationship creators have with their backers sounds really cool. It’s more than just ‘goodies’ but an ongoing relationship.MARIS KREIZMAN One of the most common misperceptions about Kickstarter is people think you need to have a t-shirt or a tote bag. Certainly those are wonderful, but especially in book publishing projects most people want to get the book, the actual thing that’s being made. Experiential rewards are also really wonderful, whether it’s a Skype chat or a little QA with the author - anything that builds a relationship.REEDSY It seems like there’s two kinds of projects on Kickstarter. You get people coming in with their audience from somewhere else, like Leo Babauta of Zen Habits. And then you get people who are starting without that pre-existing community. Does this affect how creators should be planning to share their projects?MARIS KREIZMAN Regardless of who you are and what you’re trying to do, coming in with some sort of base audience is key. So even if you haven’t fully established yourself, have a base level of supporters. That’s maybe just people you know - sending out a link to your family and your friends who want to support you -or, it could go a little deeper, trying to be a part of the community that you’re writing about, posting to blogs, coming in with an email list, stuff like that. I think that Kickstarter is wonderful in helping you spread your message and making your audience bigger.REEDSY Even if it involves potato salad!MARIS KREIZMAN *laughing* If you look at it, he did a really lovely job in putting the project together! It was very simple, and maybe not the most exciting, innovating way to use Kickstarter, but he did a good job and he was really good at communicating with the people who though his idea was clever! I’ve read you elsewhere talking about ways Kickstarter isn’t just about raising funds to cover publishing costs for a single book - could you talk about that a little?MARIS KREIZMAN There are so many different cool ways to use Kickstarter in publishing. I’ve been talking to a lot of small literary presses and magazines about funding a season - â€Å"Help us do Spring 2015† and whatever that encompasses, whether that’s a couple of books or a couple of issues. Book tours for sure. Being able to do research is a huge deal. Think of Kickstarter like a grant - if you’re writing non-fiction and you have research to do it absolutely makes sense to raise money to do that, even if you’ve already figured out how you’re going to publish.REEDSY You were talking about creators telling their story on Kickstarter - what does that mean exactly?MARIS KREIZMAN I think one of the best experiences about Kickstarter is it allows people to follow the artists and creators that they admire. Telling the story can be simply ‘Who am I, why do I love this project, and why do I want to do it.’ Or, it can be more about ‘Here’s how I make the thing, here are the steps I need to take to actually do this.’ And of course ‘This is what the book is going to be.’REEDSY There seems to be a wide variety of budgets for publishing projects, both very high and very low. How should writers budget their projects for Kickstarter?MARIS KREIZMAN I think the most important thing is to go back and really plan out exactly how much money you’ll need to do the thing that you want to do in the way you want to do it, and ask for that amount. That way, if you don’t raise it you won’t have to worry about doing it half-heartedly. And then if you do go above and beyond you can worry about that whole other great kind of problem!REEDSY How important is it for writers to be investing in specialist help for things like producing an introductory video? Is something with extremely high production values essential?MARIS KREIZMAN This is a challenge for any publishing project on Kickstarter, basically. Kickstarter is a visual platform, and not every writer is going to be good at that kind of stuff. I’d say that it’s very important to give backers a feeling of what you’re trying to do, but also to allow the words to speak for you. If you’re not a video expert or an artist, it’s still OK.I’ve seen projects work with a video taken from a phone that really captures a mood, and I think that is enough. The video is important, but it doesn’t have to be really ‘well-produced’ or ‘beautiful looking’ - I think it’s really helpful to just give a sense of who you are and what the thing you’re making is.REEDSY What sort of things do you like to see in a project?MARIS KREIZMAN Particularly if you’re an individual, it’s very important to talk about how you plan to actually get the thing made.REEDSY What does that plan consist of?MARIS KREIZMAN That they’ve talked to publishers, that they have a price quote for how much it would cost to print x amount of books†¦ I often say that self-publishing is not something that you should really do on your own. The idea that you might have an editor or designer lined up, or that you yourself are already a wonderful designer and can show that to us.It’s about ‘Has this person thought through the practicalities of getting this book out?’ Backers are really skilled at picking out the projects that they think will succeed, and where they’ll end up with whatever reward they’ve put in for. Anything you can do to communicate to backers that you have a plan for this whole thing, and to get them the rewards that they want, is key.REEDSY Do you have any advice for authors on how to structure the rewards they’re offering?MARIS KREIZMAN I would say that rewards should have a few different tiers - like offering the digital version for $10 or so. Depending on whether you’re going to do the paperback or the hardback or both, do one for $20, one for $30. If you want to do a special edition that looks really pretty and fancy, charge an extra $20 for that. Signed copies are good. One of the things that I always tell people is â€Å"Make sure that the thing you’ll be working on is making the best project that you can,† and not so much â€Å"How will I ship out all of these rewards?†REEDSY Are there any resources authors can go check out, or somewhere the can send you questions?MARIS KREIZMAN If you want publishing specific advice, you can email publishing@kickstarter.com. That’s how you can reach me. I would recommend though looking on the Kickstarter site. There’s a creator handbook that really goes into some of the nitty gritty details of how to do a successful Kickstarter project.REEDSY Thanks for your time Maris.Have you ever tried crowdfunding for a book or a series? What have been your takeaways? Do join the discussion in the comments below!

Sexuality with the Disability

Sexuality with the Disability Introduction Disabled people have different needs from the rest of the people in the society. Both their habitual and educational needs are changing from what is conventionally known regarding the daily living culture such as the way in which people are dressed and groomed. This is also true when it comes to the vocational and social duties.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Sexuality with the Disability specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More From research, the crux of the matter in this broad focus is mainly sexuality and the rights that the disabled have with respect to the sexual education and sexual expression. Other members of the society have stereotypical perspectives concerning those with disabilities. Such beliefs are not necessarily true though they are amazingly part of both the young and the elderly in society! This is specifically in relation to sexual behavior. The aim of this essay is to explore the a ttitudes that the society has regarding the sexuality of disabled people, the latest impediments faced by people with disabilities as pertaining sexuality and the way it affects sexual functioning. Overview It is within the last twenty years that researchers and other professionals began engaging and conducting studies on subjects that entail sex education and sexual expression among the disabled. Prior to this time, most researchers had confined themselves to the sexual dysfunction suffered by most heterosexual white men. Such impairment was as a result of injuries especially on the spinal cord. Currently, the research still borders on both the medical and rehabilitative aspects. It concentrates on the sexuality of women with disabilities and that of other disabled individuals. However, the focus of this research is still on the heterosexual majority. In the recent years, research in this area has been taking a sociopolitical dimension (Shuttleworth, 2007, p. 2). As other people wi thin the community, we are increasingly being informed of the human rights that the disabled are supposed to enjoy, given that it affects them socially, physically and mentally. Like the rest of the society, the disabled have different levels of potential with regard to reproduction, sexual response and sexual interest. It is imperative to note that like other societal members, people with disabilities have needs such as the need for affection, good interpersonal relationships and love. Studies show that even those with disabilities emanating spinal injuries, experience sexual arousal (Stolov Clowers, 2000, p. 79).Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Despite the fact that the world around us has started showing interest in the sexual needs of the disabled, a lot is yet to be done. Understanding the current attitudes that the society holds towards the sexual needs of t he disabled will be helpful in both imparting and inculcating positive attitudes that the society has towards them. The latest change in attitude is causing most Americans to respond reluctantly, to the realization that people with inabilities are also sexual beings who are wired with the need for sexual gratification, love and intimacy. Attitudes on Sexuality of people with disabilities The perceptions of most people in the society regarding the disabled, in light of sexuality, are often narrow-minded. They think that this category of people is not sexual in nature. The misinformed society, therefore, end up concluding that the only people who should have sex are the physically fit. The general perception is that people with disabilities are not supposed to be sexually active. This belief is held by both the young and the aged in the society, and is known to the disabled (Marini, Glover-Graf Millington, 2011, p. 57). It is a taboo to think of sex among the disabled and denying the fact that it exists has never nullified it. According to some studies, by the society not granting a meaningful sex life to the disabled, it is tantamount to withholding them their deserved basic human rights (Carroll, 2006, p. 479). The disabled that are in need of a sexual relationship do not just express it as disapproval to the popular notion that they are not sexual beings. The issues here are more practical. Prior to having a relationship, couples ought to meet. Either poverty or transport can bar the disabled from going out for purposes of socialization. In most cases, the institutional world encompassing the disabled appears to be insensitive to their need for sex and relationships. Lack of privacy is an issue for the disabled who reside in care institutions. Staff members may get into their bedrooms without notice. Relatives become overprotective for some disabled folks who stay at home. For the disabled that receive their spouses’ care, maintaining sexual mystique is not easy since their significant other has to dress, bathe or assist them to the wash rooms. Conducting a satisfactory sexual relationship is therefore challenging due to the absence of the required choice and control that goes with it.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Sexuality with the Disability specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Therefore, this makes it difficult for the disabled to have responsible sexual relationships. The disabled thus end up being marginalized and alienated, as a result of these attitudes. They also internalize the same attitudes held by the society towards them. Barriers faced by the disabled, with respect to sexuality In their dealing with sexuality matters, the disabled encounter several hurdles. First, they have a problem accessing information related to their personal situations, on suitable expression of sexuality, and required skills in sexual communication. Besides lacking a ccess to accurate information, they receive misinformation on sexuality, as a way of discouraging their interest. Second, they lack privacy in expressing themselves sexually. This is especially for those residing in institutional settings. With shared accommodation, it is difficult for them to express themselves sexually due to lack of privacy. These conditions may therefore cause people to engage in sexual behavior that is inappropriate. Consequently, the society then begins to put stereotypes on them. Third, women with disabilities encounter both sexual and physical abuse. This is because they are perceived as victims who may not be able to report such abuse. In most cases, crisis centers, police stations and other shelters are often inaccessible. In cases where they are present, officers doubt the women’s credibility judged from their state of health and competence (Smith, 1999, p.153). In addition, people with disabilities are viewed by some members of the society as bein g asexual. The stereotype began long time ago and could be witnessed in health institutions. Here, disabled adolescents were carelessly placed in hospitals to receive medical attention. Both boys and girls could be hospitalized in adjoining beds. Furthermore, due to their physical conditions, majority of the disabled are not free to move from place to place. Most are confined in their relatives’ homes or in other health care centers. Therefore, they have limited opportunities to move around, in a bid to establish meaningful relationships. This is opposed to the nondisabled individuals who have the freedom to go to different places where they can socialize and establish relationships that matter.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Reference list Carroll, J.L. (2006), Sexuality now: Embracing Diversity. Belmont, U.S: Cengage Learning. Marini, I, Glover-Graf, N.M. Millington, M.J. (2011), Psychosocial Aspects of Disability:Â  Insider Perspectives and Counselling Strategies, NY: Springer. Shuttleworth, R. (2007). Sexuality Research and Social Policy: Journal of NSRC. Introduction to Special issue: Critical Research and Policy Debates in Disability and Sexuality Studies. May 2007. Vol. 4, No. 1 Smith, M.B. (1999), The Reader’s Companion to U.S Women’s History, NY: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Stolov, W.C. Clowers, M.R. (2000), Handbook of Severe Disability:Â  A Text for Rehabilitation Counsellors, Other Vocational Practitioners, and Allied Health Professionals, Washington DC: DIANE Publishing.

Social worker Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Social worker - Essay Example dividual’s upbringing, especially parental influence and their family values, the prevailing religious philosophy, friends and colleagues, education and experiences among others (Great Britain Parliament: House of Commons, 2011). Effective people acknowledge these environmental impacts and develop a precise and important set of principles and priorities. Once personal values are well defined, Bainham (2005) said they will have significant influences on every activity in human life. Human beings are known to demonstrate and tailor values in the practical side of one’s person, organizational culture, decision making processes, their input, and communication within neighbours. As Alsop (2013) suggested, values help individuals to arrive at proper decisions on the most important issues in one’s everyday business and domestic life. In light of the overarching role of personal values, human goals and life activities or experiences are based on the personal values. According to Martin and Rogers (2004) it is important to select the values that an individual prefers the most, the values one believes in and those that influence the character of the person in question. Practicing those values in every activity helps to reinforce personality. Living one’s values is perhaps the most influential tool which can be used to build the kind of person one aspires to be as it helps people to realize the best goals and thoughts (Probert, 2009). Costa-Font and Greer (2012) noted that unlike personal values referring to the morals which an individual recognizes and aligns himself or herself to in respect to parties and situations within a social setting in everyday life, Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) values entail the morals that an individual must conform to during one’s interactions in a formal work life. British Association of Social Workers (BASW) ethics also come in handy during business interactions at the workplace (BASW, 2014; Bridge, & Street, 2001).

Shopping Behavior Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Shopping Behavior - Essay Example They kept asking one another about the items they prefer to buy, at the same time, they listen to their friends' comments and suggestions. Most teenagers who spent time with friends displayed a unique sense of individuality and self-expression. The girls displayed interest in fashion, food and technologies. They were excited to buy wide variety of products. To name some of these products purchased include: Trendy clothings, bags and accessories; Food like cold beverages, potato chips, soda and ice cream; CDs, video games and multi-media accessories. Despite these buying behaviors, the teens were able to spend significant proportion of the budget they have, yet, they also managed to keep the rest of their money. Participant Observation was employed as the research design for this activity. Undeniably, there was conflict of roles during the period of observation. Observer cannot concentrate entirely on the observation process conducted. The observer acted as if one of the shoppers in the mall and occasionally took the opportunity to examine the subjects' gestures, to hear some of their commentaries and gain insights about the verbal and non-verbal forms of communication manifested by the subjects of the study in order to acquire the true and more clear picture of the teens' behavior.