Design for an information system Research Paper

Design for an information system - Research Paper Example Broadly, an information system in the context of an organization is the harmonization of user needs, standard operation procedures, data, software, and hardware to process and manage digitized information. The need to computerise traditional health care information systems is overwhelming. Health care systems need pooling of patient records, better and more easily accessible electronic health records, patient scheduling and billing services for patients. The need for robust and highly functional computerised systems for an urgent care facility are especially critical, and system developers have already made considerable inroads in implementing the use of computerise systems for the management of the facilities. System development depends on a number of methodologies whose overarching mandate is to ensure the entire process of development to implementation goes smoothly, achieves the initial objectives and gives a desirable benefits-to-costs match. In this study, we look at the comput erization at SFO Medical Clinic, a Californian clinic that among other services offers urgent care to its broad range of patients. The goal of this paper is to identify and document a fully functional information system for a small company. Table of Contents Abstract 2 Table of Contents 3 Introduction 4 SDLC Models and Complexity of Software Development 4 Preliminary Investigation 5 Requirements analysis 5 System Design 6 System Development 7 System Integration 7 System Testing 7 Gaining User Acceptance 8 Installation and Deployment 8 System Maintenance 8 Conclusion 8 References 10 Introduction Development of an information system requires more than knowledge and expertise in drafting excellent designs. Information systems have a far-reaching impact, with the principal aim to improve or replace existing systems. Therefore, the need to emphasize functionality over design is the supreme purpose of developing an information system. The goal of making highly functional and more efficien t is self-evidenced in the information system methodologies and the varying approaches to software development through the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). A SDLC is the major concept that fortifies user-oriented software development process. Urgent health care facilities, whether serving children, young people, aged, or emergency cases, require an intricate understanding of local systems. Urgent care facilities are unique in that they serve patients in situations where timely and planned treatment procedures are not possible (NHS Manchester, 2008). Through collaborative contribution to the elements pertaining to a certain urgent health care facility, an efficient information system is achievable. An information system for an urgent care facility should exhibit specificity to the needs of the patients, handiness of use for the staff operating the system, and safety in operation. The information system also helps in prevention redundancy in recording of patient data, and provide s a secure retrieval system, which also stores data on patients for easy recording and modification in subsequent visits. In this report, we consider the urgent department wing of the SFO Medical Clinic, in San Francisco, California. The urgent care arm experiences issues typical of such facilities in the US. The purpose of this report is to document the design and implementation of a new information system for an urgent health care facility. SDLC Models and Complexity of Software Development The SDLC aim is to result in a high quality information system, which meets all user needs and performs markedly better than the existing information systems, manual or otherwise. However, viewpoints differ as to the best model for the system development, a factor that is solely responsible for the

The Epic Of Gilgamesh | Analysis

The Epic Of Gilgamesh | Analysis The epic of Gilgamesh, is one of the oldest pieces of literature still read to date and the themes are still some that society can relate to. The trials and tribulations the main characters in this epic poem go through can easily be used to interpret challenges in peoples everyday life today. Gilgamesh the hero in the story who is also king to the great city of Uruk is blessed with strength, wisdom, beauty and is two-thirds god like. Gilgamesh is also very arrogant, self-absorbed and most certainly, lonely. The people of the city of Uruk pray to the gods for help with Gilgamesh and the gods send Enkidu. Enkidu is a wild, natural and carefree man who has subsisted in the woods. On a day when Gilgamesh is on his way to do what he feels is his birth right and sleep with a bride to be of one of his men Enkidu blocks him and challenges him to a fight. Gilgamesh who is undeniable the more powerful one of the two wins. Enkidu praises the king instead of being upset and causes Gilgamesh in r eturn to embrace Enkidu as his friend. This is the beginning of a bond of friendship in which both are opposites but they balance each other out. This is also where the transformation of Gilgamesh begins we see how meeting his complement teaches him to appreciate humanity and the bond of brotherhood that grows between them. Gilgamesh finally realized that the feeling of loneliness that he felt was the yearning of his soul for a true friend. Although it is a very primitive way but Gilgamesh begins to show signs of selflessness as soon as he brings his new found friend Enkidu home. Gilgamesh introduces his new friend to his mother, Gilgameshs mother adopts Enkidu he becomes not only the servant, confidant, and friend of Gilgamesh, but also he is referred to as a blood brother. The first journey that Gilgamesh proposes is an attempt to lift his friends spirits because he had noticed his weeping, Gilgamesh speaks, why are your eyes full of tears, why are you listless, your strength turned to weakness? (Gilgamesh, Tablet 2, 136-137). Gilgamesh has failed to get to know his friend and his action seem careless and selfish. When his intentions are to share what he feels would be a good time with Enkidu. Gilgamesh is not aware of the dangers in the forest and tells Enkidu they should journey into the forest and kill Humbaba. Enkidu attempts to speak some sense into Gilgamesh about the dangers of the wild but of course Gilgamesh still being selfish does not see his friend is trying to protect him. They set out to the forest Enkidu is entrusted to take care of the king of Uruk and bring him back home safe. Thought these two men just met there bond is immediate and while in the forest the trust Gilgamesh has in Enkidu is so great that when he wakes from sleeping tells his friends his dreams and feels comfort in his interpretation of them. When they finally reach their goal and confront the monster Humbaba in the forest the influence they have on each other is obvious. Gilgamesh the never wavering strong one has second thoughts and here come Enkidu and tell him those words of encouragement he needs to hear and Gilgamesh kills Humbaba. The men return home and are content for a while. As time progresses the loyalty Gilgamesh and Enkidu have towards each other grows. Almost childlike the way Enkidu responds to the princess and also goddess Ishtar who attempted to kill Gilgamesh in a fit of rage because he refused to marry her. Enkidu says to Ishtar If I could vanquish you, Id turn you to this, Id drape the guts beside you! (Gilgamesh, Tablet 6, 154-155). Enkidu is referring to the guts of the bull of heaven the princess had released to kill Gilgamesh but it failed to do so instead the two friends join together and kill it taking its horns as a trophy. The men caring spirit towards each other even though the response is playful in nature it brings comfort to the other to know that they have each others back. Unfortunately the gods felt that the insult towards Ishtar was enough and decide to punish the two friends. In the mist of all their adventures Gilgamesh has still never experienced a loss and still he feels that he is invincible. In spite of all of Gilgameshs p ower, he is incapable of preventing Enkidus death. Enkidu the great friend of Gilgamesh dies a death he considers to be a curse, he would have much rather a glorious death in battle but instead he lays in bed and waste away from an illness. This is the first time that Gilgamesh feels lost and helpless even his mighty strength cannot save his friend. Also Gilgamesh will get in touch with his human side and feel fear for he finally has come to the realization that he is human and death comes to all even him. Gilgamesh says, The fate of mankind has overtaken him, Six days and seven nights I wept for him, I would not give him up for burial, until a worm fell out of his nose. I was frightened (Gilgamesh, Tablet 10, 58-61) Gilgamesh referring to his friend Enkidu, that even after his death he was holding on to the hope that just maybe hes friend would wake up somehow. It took him seven days to finally realize that he is powerless against death. Gilgamesh gives his friend a lavish burial ceremony, lays him to rest in what he describes as a perfect resting place. The king also serves many offerings to the rulers of the underworld so that his friend is taking care of. Gilgamesh also calls on his craftsmen and has them build a statue in the image of his great friend covered in gold and other precious metals and stones to forever immortalize his friend. The fact remains Gilgamesh realizes his full humanity when Enkidu dies and he decides to go on a quest to search for immortality. Gilgamesh still consumed with pride will go on one last journey to seek eternal life, for he fears that his death will one day come just like it did for his friend Enkidu. Gilgamesh has become more aware of the vulnerability that comes along with being human. Without knowing he has also learned to care for another human being other than himself. Gilgamesh still full of pride refuses to give up and begins his journey. Along the way Gilgamesh encounters a few obstacles, first it was a pair of serpents that guard the entrance of the mountain he intends to pass. He pleads with them to let him through and tells them he is searching for eternal life, even though they tell him that he will never find it he is relentless and refuses to give up so they let him through. Next, he encounters Siduri the tavern keeper who tell him again immortality is not for humans but Gilgamesh refuses to listen, he pleads saying he is heartsick for his friend and to please allow him to cross or he will never ha ve peace within. But Siduri advises him and tell him that he should be content and enjoy his life and tells him This, then, is the work of mankind (Gilgamesh, Tablet 10, 90). The king of Uruk has ability to live life to the fullest to be merry, but instead he refuses and continues his search for something that is not attainable to human beings. Gilgamesh reaches the sea which is the last obstacle he believes he needs to cross to reach Utanapishtim the oldest human known to man and the only human who has been granted immortal life by the gods. Gilgamesh believes that by reaching him he will find the answer hes looking for and be granted eternal life. After finally crossing the waters of death Gilgamesh finally reaches Utanapishtim and tells him the purposes of his journey is to seek eternal life. Gilgamesh says Enkidu, my friend whom I loved has turned into clay! Shall I not lie down like him, and never get up, forever and ever?(Gilgamesh, Table 10, 265-267). In an effort to gain compassion from Utanapishtim this great King of Uruk will go into great detail in telling him of all the hardships he had to endure in his journey to reach the only person that may be able to tell him how to obtain immortality. Utanapishtim, does the opposite of what Gilgamesh expect him to do, instead of feeling pity for Gilgamesh he points out that all the hardships he has endured are by choice. Gilgamesh does not want to hear that instead he presses to know the reason why he has been granted immortality; finally he learns the story of the flood and why the gods granted Utanapishtim everlasting life. Utanapishtim gives Gilgamesh one chance to everlasti ng life and challenges Gilgamesh to stay awake for a week, he fails when he wakes Gilgamesh says What then should I do, Utanapishtim, whither should I go, Now that the Bereaver has seized my [flesh]? Death lurks in my bedchamber, and wherever I turn there is death! (Gilgamesh, Tablet 10, 246-249). With nowhere else to go with his quest of eternity Utanapishtim sends Gilgamesh home not before telling him to count his blessings and enjoy his life. He also gives him a plant of everlasting youth that again Gilgamesh fails to take care of and drops it allowing a snake to eat it. Gilgamesh weeps and finally realizes that although he searched far and wide for the secret of immortality, he found nothing and lay exhausted. Gilgamesh returns home and for the first time he looks at his great city of Uruk with pride. The Epic of Gilgamesh showed the reasons of Gilgameshs grief and why his attempt to do the impossible was so important to him. In a way Gilgamesh was looking to see if there was anything he could do and maybe be able to bring his friend Enkidu back to life. Enkidu shows Gilgamesh true friendship and love. It also showed how loyal friends could be to each other and how fast a friendship is born. The two friends learn from each other and support each other through all their journeys together. As Enkidu becomes more civilized by leaving his wild nature behind him, Gilgamesh was becoming a more selfless human being and leaving the tyrant king he used to be behind him Even though the two men had nothing in common in the surface they took notice of each others kindred spirits. Friends on impulse who formed a bond for no apparent reason but in return give us a glance at what it means to have a best friend and confidant. This also tells us that it doesnt matter how much humanity evolves the bonds we form with friends or family are just as important today as they were centuries ago.

Negative Effects of Global Warming Essay -- Environment greenhouse gas

Global Warming Global warming is causing a negative effect on the whole planet and we all need to do something to stop it. The climate is changing frequently and is making the planet hotter in some parts and in other parts it's making it colder. There are two factors affecting global warming. The first types of factors are natural factors like changes in the solar output, changes in the earth's orbit, the green house effect and aerosols. The change in the solar output is the amount of energy radiating from the earth?s sun is not constant. The change of orbit of our planet affects where the sun?s energy is received on earth. Thus affecting the amount of energy that is reflected and absorbed on earth. The aerosols help shield us from the effects of global warming and that?s why it is sometimes referred as a global sunscreen. The aerosols cool earth by reflecting sunlight. With fewer aerosols, the effects of global warming will be felt more. The greenhouse effect is the rise in temperatur e that the earth experiences because certain gases in the atmosphere like water vapo...

Rough Draft on Drug Wars

Rough Draft Thousands upon thousands of lives have been taken due to the huge demand for drugs crossing from Mexico into the United States. The murder rate is extremely high, and has caused so much chaos between both countries because of this. Drug dealers in the United States contact drug dealers in Mexico, and vice versa, to cross the drugs between borders illegally. A high percentage of the time, either of the drug dealers from both sides will have a scape goat swim the border while carrying high amounts of drugs with them, or will attempt to cross it over smuggled in a vehicle.In Mexico, it is extremely corrupt and even the law enforcement is involved in the crossing of drugs illegally. This being done causes so much conflict between the two countries and it’s very scary for anyone living in the Mexico side of it, because wars will break out over the drugs almost daily and many people’s lives end up being taken because of this. Innocent people can be caught in betwe en a gun fight and their lives are in extreme danger, which is another reason why this drug war continues to go on.Many families try and flee their country to come into the United States so their families do not have to live in danger, but if being caught trying to cross over illegally, there are extremely harsh consequences. It is sad to know that millions of families have to live in fear and are too scared to leave their houses because they are scared of being caught in between one of the many gun fights that break out. There have been many cases where the Mexican Cartels will hire the elderly people of Mexico, and sometimes even children, to be their drug traffickers, putting them at extreme risk of being badly hurt, incarcerated, or even murdered.The Mexican Cartels believe that using children or the elderly will make it look less likely to be any type of illegal activity, but in the mix of it all, they have had many of them hurt or in extreme trouble with the law. Drug wars are not only held between the United States and Mexico; there are so many other places dealing with the same problem and that is why we need to raise awareness on the situation more than we already have. There have been many attempts in causing this fight to end, but it is too big of a fight for anyone to be able to get ahold of everyone causing this chaos.Any drug cartel around the world could careless who gets ahold of their drugs as long as they’re making money, and they are putting our younger generations at risk of becoming addicted to the drugs they are passing out to the world. Addiction is so high and the effects are incredibly bad. The effects of addiction could either be hereditary, or something one has seen throughout their lives causing them to do exactly as they had seen. There needs to be more educational programs out there to teach every one of the effects of addiction.The strong effects of drug use affect your body and can eventually begin to start to deteriorate over time. Your brain, muscles, respiratory system, liver, and every part of your body will begin to deteriorate after long periods of using illegal substances. Drug use especially affects your brain and the way you allow your thoughts to flow. Drug users are very irresponsible and can only go on with their lives if they are getting high. It is a horrible thing to get into and can cause the one with the disease to not even be able to enjoy life anymore without feeling the effects of the drug they are addicted to.The way I believe we should educate others on the causes and effects of addiction are to hold seminars and educate the younger children in grade school. People who are educated on the extreme effects of drug use might actually not get into them with proper education. Those who were never educated on the effects of drug use are most likely going to be the ones to fall victim of peer pressure and eventually get into drugs themselves. In other cases, it is hard to avoid and ca n be picked up as a child, seeing family members or other individuals doing drugs.We should educate everyone, as well as having no tolerance laws when it comes to hard drugs and giving longer sentences to those who are caught with the drugs, instead of letting them off on probation or parole. Many people would completely disagree with allowing marijuana to be legal, but if you think about it, it could eventually cause the drug violence to end around the world. Marijuana has the least effects out of all the drugs in the world, and although people take it to the extreme, it is honestly a harmless drug and should not be causing this many people to have their lives taken over it.

Sins of the Marketplace

The sin of Dalton Is the sin of selling you more than you really want to buy. The electronic stores are the worst sinners of the marketplace. They induce you into buying add-ions, such as expansive power-bars or cables, and extended warranty. Most of the times you don't need them or could have bought less expensive items that have the same quality. The sin of addition Is a commonly used tactic called: â€Å"packing the deal† and It's where the profit is made.The sin of omission: The sin of omission could be committed when you sign an Insurance policy. A vendor, who has reason to know or suspect adverse prior medical history for you, does not tell you the details that will disqualify you from getting compensation. To close the deal and make money, companies only look at your ability to pay. This tactic Is called: â€Å"Post Claim underwriting†. They will Walt until you file a claim before spending money to confirm that the fine prints have disqualified you.The sin of cre ation: The sin of creation is committed when a company creates a need that induces you to buy a product you would never have thought you would need. The best example to Illustrate this Is the need for antibacterial soap. Impasses have made us believe that regular soap does not kill germs as well as antibacterial soap. Well, tests done in laboratories have proven that this belief is wrong and even that it can harm us because It can weaken our natural defenses.The sin of salvation: When a company says that, if you buy its product, you will be cured of whatever condition you might suffer from, you are witnessing the sin of salvation. So beware, they will try to get at you through: persuasive testimonials, * sketchy scientists * and paranoid peddlers who will pretend that doctors don't prescribe this product cause they are afraid of losing their lucrative business Conclusion: As a conclusion, use your common sense, do a lot of research and read the fine prints before signing any contrac t Doing this, you'll avoid failing for one of the marketplace's sins.For businesses will always try to reach into your pocket by using addition, omission, creation, salvation, assurance, persuasion and deception. Questions: -What is for you the biggest sin of the marketplace? -Have you ever been victim of any of these? * Do you think that, as consumers, we have a responsibility in the fact that businesses are using these practices?

Motion analysis essays

Motion analysis essays The applications of motion anlalysis to the medical field are increasing as research in this area increases and new technology becomes available. The purpose of motion anlysis in the medical field is to provide a quantitative analysis of the function or dysfunction of the neuromuscular skeletal system. The most common application of motion analysis is gait analysis. Because of this, most research facilities are called gait laboratories. One common application of gait analysis is the assessment of postural balance. When a person is standing still and in equilibrium, their cen ter of gravity is directly above their center of pressure. The center of pressure is measured with a force plate and can be accura t ely determined at any time. This can be difficult because of the inability to define the center of gravity in real time. Motion analysis has been used to evaluate walking, mostly in children who suffer from neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy or meningomyelocele. Motion analysis laboratories use computer based analysis of video-taping and 3-D kinematics, tracking retroreflective markers along the legs. Surface electromyography is used to identify information about the firing pattern of individual muscles during walking, and needle electromyography is used to assess the tibialis posterior muscle which is located far from the skins surface. Motion analysis is also being used to measure upper limb function, spinal curvature, and cervical spine movement. It is also valuable in evaluating pharmaceutical drugs used for muscular and skeletal problems. ...

The Relationship of Habits and Behaviors with Tolerance of V essays

The Relationship of Habits and Behaviors with Tolerance of V essays Violence has always been apart of our society, and as the amount of violence that occurs rises, people have become more immune to it. Violence is as simple as one child hitting another to the worse case scenario of capital murder. Researches have always been interested in what makes people react in violent ways to certain situations. Those people today that have a tolerance for violence leave others wondering how did they come about adapting to this tolerance? Many claim that everyday lifestyles play a crucial role in tolerance. One factor that may be key is alcohol use. The more alcohol consumed, the larger the amount of tolerance for violence a person seems to have. Aggregate level studies examining the alcohol-crime association have demonstrated that an increase in the population's drinking level is followed by an increase in rates of violence in that population (Lenke, 1990; Norstrom, 1993; Parker Another factor that is crucial is the accident history of a person. Those who were in a severe accident or wars that left a lasting affect of anger and aggression will tend to have a stronger sense of tolerance for violence. These people may react aggressively and not realize that they are. Military and veteran populations appear to be at particular risk for male-perpetrated marital violence, with military couples reporting higher rates of violence against women (VAW; J. R. Bohannon and D. A. Dosser, Jr. , 1995), greater severity of VAW (A. Shupe et al, 1987), and greater risk of victim injury associated with VAW (A. L. Cantos et al, 1994) when compared to their civilian counterparts. The last factor that may relate to a persons tolerance is television viewing. The more television a person watches, the greater the tolerance for violence will be. Television has become a variety of shows fr...

How Supreme Court Tie Votes Could Impact Major Cases

How Supreme Court Tie Votes Could Impact Major Cases Beyond all the political ranker and rhetoric spurred by the death of Antonin Scalia, the absence of the strongly conservative justice could have a major impact on several key cases to be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. Background Before Scalia’s death, the justices considered to be social conservatives held a 5-4 edge over those considered liberals, and many controversial cases were indeed decided in 5-4 votes. Now with Scalia’s absence, some especially high-profile cases pending before the Supreme Court may result in 4-4 tie votes. These cases deal with issues like access to abortion clinics; equal representation; religious liberty; and deportation of illegal immigrants. The possibility for tie votes will remain until a replacement for Scalia is nominated by President Obama and approved by the Senate. This means the Court will probably deliberate with only eight justices for the rest of its current 2015 term and well into the 2016 term, which starts in October 2106. While President Obama promised to fill Scalia’s vacancy as soon as possible, the fact that Republicans control the Senate is likely to make that a hard promise for him to keep. What Happens If the Vote is a Tie? There are no tie-breakers. In the event of tie vote by the Supreme Court, the rulings issued by the lower federal courts or state supreme courts are allowed to remain in effect as if the Supreme Court had never even considered the case. However, the rulings of the lower courts will have no â€Å"precedent setting† value, meaning they will not apply in other states as with Supreme Court decisions. The Supreme Court can also reconsider the case when it again has 9 justices. The Cases in Question The highest profile controversies and cases still to be decided by the Supreme Court, with or without a replacement for Justice Scalia, include: Religious Freedom: Birth Control Under Obamacare   In the case of Zubik v. Burwell, employees of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh objected to participating in any way with the birth control coverage provisions of the Affordable Care Act – Obamacare – claiming that being forced to do so would violate their First Amendment rights under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. Prior to the Supreme Court’s decision to hear the case, seven circuit courts of appeals rule in favor of the federal government’s right to impose the requirements of Affordable Care Act on the employees. Should the Supreme Court arrive at a 4-4 decision, the rulings of the lower courts would remain in effect. Religious Freedom: Separation of Church and State In the case of Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia, Inc. v. Pauley, a Lutheran church in Missouri applied for a state recycling program grant to build a children’s playground with a surface made from recycled tires. The State of Missouri denied the church’s application based on a provision of the state’s constitution stating, â€Å"no money shall ever be taken from the public treasury, directly or indirectly, in aid of any church, section or denomination of religion.† The church sued Missouri, claiming the action had violated its First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. The court of appeals dismissed the suit, thus upholding the state’s action. Abortion and Women’s Health Rights A Texas law enacted in 2013 required abortion clinics in that state to comply with the same standards as hospitals, including requiring the clinics’ doctors to have admitting privileges at hospital within 30 miles of the abortion clinic. Citing the law as the cause, several abortion clinics in the state have closed their doors. In the case of Whole Womans Health v. Hellerstedt, to be heard by the Supreme Court in March 2016, the plaintiffs argue that the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals was wrong in upholding the law. Based on his past decisions dealing with questions of the rights of the states in general and abortion specifically, Justice Scalia was expected to vote to uphold the lower court’s ruling. Update: In a major victory for  abortion rights supporters, the Supreme Court on June 27, 2016 rejected the Texas law regulating abortion clinics and practitioners in a 5-3 decision.   Immigration and Presidential Powers In 2014, President Obama issued an executive order that would allow more illegal immigrants to remain in the U.S. under the â€Å"deferred action† deportation program created in 2012, also by an Obama executive order. Ruling that Obama’s action violated the Administrative Procedure Act, the law loosely regulating the federal regulations, a federal judge in Texas barred the government from implementing the order. The judge’s ruling was then upheld by a three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. In the case of United States v. Texas, the White House is asking the Supreme Court to overturn the 5th Circuit panel’s decision. Justice Scalia was expected to vote to uphold the 5th Circuit’s decision, thus blocking the White House from implementing the order by a 5-4 vote. A 4-4 tie vote would have the same result. In this case, however, the Supreme Court might express its intention to reconsider the case after a ninth justice has been seated. Update: On June 23, 2016, the Supreme Court issue a split 4-4 â€Å"no-decision,† thus allowing the Texas court’s ruling to stand and blocking President Obama’s executive order on immigration from taking effect. The ruling could affect more than 4 million undocumented immigrants seeking to apply for the deferred action programs in order to stay in the United States. The one-sentence ruling issued by the Supreme Court simply read: â€Å"The judgment [of the lower court] is affirmed by an equally divided Court.† Equal Representation: ‘One Person, One Vote’ It may be a sleeper, but the case of Evenwel v. Abbott could affect the number of votes your state gets in Congress and thus the electoral college system. Under Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution, the number of seats allocated to each state in the House of Representatives is based on the â€Å"population† of the state or its congressional districts as counted in the most recent U.S. census. Shortly after each decennial census, Congress adjusts each state’s representation through a process called â€Å"apportionment.† In 1964, the Supreme Court’s landmark â€Å"one person, one vote† decision ordered the states to use generally equal populations in drawing the boundaries of their congressional districts. However, the court at the time failed to precisely define â€Å"population† as meaning all people, or only eligible voters. In the past, the term has been taken to mean the total number of people living in the state or district as counted by the census. In deciding the Evenwel v. Abbott case, the Supreme Court will be called on to more clearly define â€Å"population† for purposes of congressional representation. The plaintiffs in the case contend that the 2010 congressional redistricting plan adopted by the state of Texas violated their rights to equal representation under the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. They claim that their rights to equal representation had been diluted because the state’s plan had counted everyone – not just eligible voters. As a result, claim the plaintiffs, eligible voters in some districts have more power than those in other districts. A three-judge panel of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals held against the plaintiffs, finding that the Equal Protection Clause allows the states to apply total population when drawing their congressional districts. Once again, a 4-4 tie vote by the Supreme Court would allow the lower court’s decision to stand, but without affecting apportionment practices in other states.

Industrialization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Industrialization - Essay Example The foundation of all Marxist leads to the analysis of political parties that formed in the early years in the British history. According to Marxists, the foundation of the Major political parties in Britain was based on the economic status of the society by then. The major aim of the political parties was to address the major issues affecting the life of the common people in the society. Politics of one class of people were being fought by all means and it was all aimed at ensuring equity in the places of work. There came to the formation of the Marxists in the early years. This brought the major political parties we have today in Britain. These are the; Tory Party, the Labour Party and the Liberal Party (Daub 2005). The three major parties have not been seen to antagonize with the Marxist thesis rather they conform it. Marx revealed the driving forces of history in order to facilitate the making of history. In the course of the struggle between the classes, some acquire or lose coh esion and confidence. Thus political parties act as a weapon in the struggle between classes. In his argument Marx argued that there was a rising tension and disagreement between the proletariat and the bourgeoisie. According to Marx, the proletariats were being exploited by the capitalists who were the bourgeoisie. The exploitation being experienced by the proletariat was based on the wealth that was being created and being enjoyed by the bourgeoisie. This major source of the tension being experienced by the two groups was on the economic exploitation where the working had little share of what they produced. The materials produced in the factories could be sold at a price higher than the workers’ wages. This meant that the workers who were mainly the proletariat could work in the factories but could not afford to build the items they produced due to the low wages (Barry 2005). The antagonism that Marx described was based on the wealth superiority. The oppressors wanted to ac quire all the wealth that was being made by the proletariats. This was the major cause of the tension between the two groups. Riots would arise as the oppressed advocated for the equal treatment of the two groups. There arose a revolution aimed at overthrowing the oppressors together with their supporters (Milkovinch 2010). According to Marx, he believed that capitalism was the destructor of the peace between the two major groups. He went on to describe in depth how the wealth being enjoyed by the bourgeoisies was a result of the hard work of the proletariat who were the main workers in the factories. In his observation, Marx argued that this antagonism would lead to a revolution that could be aimed at the oppressors who were the bourgeoisies. The rising competition among the two groups makes the commercial crisis get to a bad state. The increased rioting has been attributed to the oppression by the bourgeoisie (Daub 2005). Marx states that the exploitation of this group of people w ould lead to intensified resentment causing more hatred. A revolution would arise that would lead to the overthrow of the capitalists and their external supporters. However the situation that Marx described seems to have faded today. This is because there are groups that strongly advocate for the equal treatment of all classes of people in the society. There are some who stage their claims and strongly defend the working class calling for meaningful wages. The issue of one group dominating and

The increasing cost of healthcare as new technologies are introduced Research Paper

The increasing cost of healthcare as new technologies are introduced - Research Paper Example nt of a variety of different diseases and ailments to a better degree, an underlying economic reality that is invariably represented has to do with the fact that the rapid level of technological advancement represented within the is causing an exponential growth with regard to the overall cost of healthcare. Essentially, the following research paper will be broken into four distinct components. The first of which is predicated upon seeking to define the problem and explain its overall relevance. The second relates to examining the problem from a variety of perspectives and utilizing economics as a means of educating the reader with respect to the complexities of the problem. Thirdly, the analysis will pose a potential solution to the problem and finally point out strengths and weaknesses associated with the proposed solution. It is the hope of this particular author that such a level of discussion and analysis will not only be beneficial with regard to understanding the issue but als o with respect to helping to correct it as future stakeholders will be able to recognize or issues and impact that continue to reduce the overall utility of healthcare by its cost ever upwards. By means of definition, the problem of technology and its growth is ultimately something of a double-edged sword. When one references the fact that limited levels of technology, exhibited during the early 19th century, created a drastically different Outlook for the patient, the reader can adequately see that a focus on improving medical technology and promoting development is as essential as any other aspect of the provision of quality care. Yet, as with any level of focus, it is necessary to understand the fact that there are other requirements that the healthcare profession must necessarily focus upon; not all of which are innately tied to the need to promote further levels of technology. In terms of analyzing this particular problem from a variety of economic perspectives, it should firstly

Retail Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Retail - Essay Example Retailing is a critical part of modern society because of convenience. Retailing fosters the transportation and presentation of consumer goods to the doorstep of buyer’s doorstep (O’Brien and Harris, 2012). The community gains from retailing as retail enterprises conduct marketing roles that make it likely for consumers to make use of a wide range of commodities and services. A second critical role played by retailing in contemporary society is availability. Commodities and services do not have value for consumers until they acquire and use them. Retail enterprises get commodities and services from various locations, categorize them at one point in line with consumer needs, and foster consumer availability. Retailing is also a critical part of modern society because of bulk convenience. Retail shops itemize bulk goods and present them in amounts and sizes as wanted by customers (O’Brien and Harris, 2012). Retail stores assist consumers by offering suitable goods, services, and guidance in the packaging and amounts they want. Retailing is assures a supply chain, which is critical to contemporary society. A supply chain ensures the flow and availability of commodities and services to consumers after leaving manufacturers or distribution points (Madaan, n.d.). The supply chain is an incorporated framework in which retail enterprises play a vital role. The relationship between retail enterprises and manufacturers or distributors is a categorization process. This process entails gathering a variety of commodities and services from a broad array of suppliers, and presenting them for sale (Madaan, n.d.). Another chain assured by retailing is the value chain that is critical for modern society. When buyers buy products, retail enterprises ought to order additional products to refill their stock (O’Brien and Harris, 2012). Afterwards, manufacturers buy additional resources to use to make additional products. This process is the root of consumer spending, which drives modern society. Retailing also boosts employment, which is a critical aspect of modern society. A host of enterprise communities and individuals make up the manufacturing, distribution, and retailing process of economy. Retailing makes up the biggest revenue maker and job producer just after agriculture. Retailing offers jobs to the least financially fortunate and unprofessional together with the learned and skilled.

General Motors Global Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

General Motors Global Strategy - Essay Example During the year 2005, 9.17 million cars and trucks from the GM stable were sold worldwide under the popular brand names, which are Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, Opel, GM Daewoo, Pontiac, Saturn and Vauxhall. Besides, GM runs one of the major financial companies of the world, GMAC Financial Services offering automotive, residential and commercial financing and insurance. GM's concern for vehicle safety, security and information services has led to its formation of OnStar subsidiary. (The Company: Corporate Information) In its endeavor for forging global partnership and consumer relationships, GM has been the majority shareholder in GM Daewoo Auto & Technology Company of S. Korea, and has product, powertrain and buying collaborations with Suzuki Motor Corp and Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan. It also holds advanced technology collaborations with DaimlerChrysler AG and BMW AG of Germany and Toyota of Japan. Besides it has also vehicle production ventures with various automakers across the globe inclusive of Toyota, Suzuki, Sanghai Automotive Industry Corp. of China and Renault SA of France. US constitute the largest national market of GM after which comes China, Canada, the UK and Germany. (The Company: Company Profile) GM has achieved definite success in their global business. ... GM acts locally, but thinks and makes profit on a global basis. In its commitment for environment issues, GM remains concerned for meeting the emission standards for not only the US but also aligns with its global partners for tackling the global problems of emissions. (General Motors) Application of modern technology has always been the global strategy at GM. Its technology on vehicle safety strategy aims at treatment before a crash, during a crash and after a crash to facilitate the driver in avoiding possible crashes, reduction of possible injuries out of a crash and caution emergency rescue to a crash and assist in providing information to aid rescue specialists. In its endeavor towards attaining quality, GM has an integrated quality strategy, which unifies every constituent of GM to propel enhancement towards common quality goals. The business proposals in each functional area like Engineering, Purchase, Marketing and Manufacturing gives relation to the quality strategy and streamlines the responsibility that every organization contributes in reaching the quality objectives that concentrates in producing genuine results. (Our Products: Our Vehicle strategy) Recent surveys of GM exhibits enhanced quality, performance that is above the industry average. Its focus on deign is led by the global life cycle analysis subcommittee wherein the engineers at the company across the globe share important information regarding the design for environment, analysis of life-cycle of various materials and recycling of vehicles. The design engineers at GM focus on designs that give economy in fuel consumption and reduced emissions enhance safety and

Illegal Immigration ( MUST BE DONE in LESS THaN 9 hours) Essay

Illegal Immigration ( MUST BE DONE in LESS THaN 9 hours) - Essay Example Considering Janet Napolitanos background sheds some light on her ambiguous positions. She is a native New Yorker that was raised in New Mexico. A life long Democrat, she is governor of a state that is generally overwhelmingly Republican. Twenty years ago she was a lawyer representing a Tucson Arizona church against charges that they were smuggling illegal aliens. She won a major case that barred federal informants from investigating the Southside Presbyterian Church. Now, as Governor of a state at the heart of the immigration problem, she faces the dilemma of squaring her past record with the political realities of the present. Clearly Arizona has an illegal immigrant problem. According to Pomfret, approximately 4000 illegal immigrants enter Arizona every day. That amounts to 1.5 million immigrants a year in a state with a population of 6 million permanent residents. The toll on schools, law enforcement, hospitals, and public programs is immense. Federal funding has skyrocketed and as Pomfret reports, "[...] the Medicaid bill ballooned from $200 million in 2001 to $1.2 billion in 2003, at least partly because of illegal immigration". In 2004, Arizona passed one of the most stringent laws to regulate spending known as proposition 200. Proposition 200 mandated that all non-federally funded programs and assistance to illegal aliens cease immediately. However, Pomfret states that, "Arizonas attorney general, with Napolitanos support, has ruled that the law only pertains to discretionary state programs and not to federally funded entitlements such as food stamps and subsidized school lunches". The propositions advocates have sought court action to demand full implementation of the initial intent of the law. The legislators, caught in an election season have ducked responsibility and have decided to let the electorate decide which, if any,

Retailer - Kroger Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Retailer - Kroger - Research Paper Example The economic stress has affected the business dues to the current recession. However, it has maintained its position despite the economic downturn because of its marketing strategies and excellent customer services. Wal-Mart is the greatest competitor affecting the company. It is known for its reduced prices, and therefore it can to drop the grocery prices by approximately 20% because it can be profitable with small margins due to economies of scale (Plunkett 141). Kroger may suffer increased price competition. However, Kroger offers products that balances its mix and does not go into direct competition with Wal-Mart. It has focused on developing its domestic markets. The customers have a high power in grocery industries because of their regular visits. In addition, switching cost is very low, and they can find similar products from other firms within the industry. In other words, customers are very keen on changes in prices and new products. Moreover, Kroger is facing legal issues, which may ruin the company image it the case was ruled against the company. Increase in operation costs can result in more debt because a high percentage was used in restructuring stores. The current economic recession has restricted the industry to refinance debt. Kroger has continued to enhance new technology in order to meet the customers need. Currently, the company has two data centers that conduct research to ensure the customers have quality and safe products. Also, the digital platform ensures that the company communicates with its clients. Kroger has over 2500 stores located in 32 states under five retail format namely supermarkets, warehouse stores, convenience stores, and jewelry stores. However, supermarkets account for the largest percentage. These supermarkets further categorized in food and drug stores, multi-department stores, and warehouse stores. Due to its wide variety of stores, it caters a broad customer base. Kroger has also

Illegal Immigration ( MUST BE DONE in LESS THaN 9 hours) Essay

Illegal Immigration ( MUST BE DONE in LESS THaN 9 hours) - Essay Example Considering Janet Napolitanos background sheds some light on her ambiguous positions. She is a native New Yorker that was raised in New Mexico. A life long Democrat, she is governor of a state that is generally overwhelmingly Republican. Twenty years ago she was a lawyer representing a Tucson Arizona church against charges that they were smuggling illegal aliens. She won a major case that barred federal informants from investigating the Southside Presbyterian Church. Now, as Governor of a state at the heart of the immigration problem, she faces the dilemma of squaring her past record with the political realities of the present. Clearly Arizona has an illegal immigrant problem. According to Pomfret, approximately 4000 illegal immigrants enter Arizona every day. That amounts to 1.5 million immigrants a year in a state with a population of 6 million permanent residents. The toll on schools, law enforcement, hospitals, and public programs is immense. Federal funding has skyrocketed and as Pomfret reports, "[...] the Medicaid bill ballooned from $200 million in 2001 to $1.2 billion in 2003, at least partly because of illegal immigration". In 2004, Arizona passed one of the most stringent laws to regulate spending known as proposition 200. Proposition 200 mandated that all non-federally funded programs and assistance to illegal aliens cease immediately. However, Pomfret states that, "Arizonas attorney general, with Napolitanos support, has ruled that the law only pertains to discretionary state programs and not to federally funded entitlements such as food stamps and subsidized school lunches". The propositions advocates have sought court action to demand full implementation of the initial intent of the law. The legislators, caught in an election season have ducked responsibility and have decided to let the electorate decide which, if any,

Sports nutrition -cyclists Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Sports nutrition -cyclists - Essay Example During an athlete’s activity, the body uses stored carbohydrates which raise epinephrine and norepinephrine level which causes glucagon to increase. Increase in glucagon converts glycogen into glucose which is supplied to the blood stream for use in the activity. Carbohydrates are stored in the form of simple sugars (glucose, fructose, and galactose) in the body which makes it easier for absorption. A gram of carbohydrates is equal to four calories of energy, and an athlete can store up to 1200 grammes of glycogen (4800 calories) for an activity (Seebohar, 2004). The amount of time an athlete can rely on stored carbohydrates will vary with various factors such as the weather and the intensity of the activity. Protein anabolism refers to development of complex protein molecules from simpler ones. It occurs after hard work or after the body does vigorous activities to build or repair body tissues and also to restore broken down tissues. Anabolism sees to it that amino acids, which form proteins, are broken down to form final protein. Proteins help in enzyme and hormone formation and production which help in body functions and reactions, this plays a key role in the body such as protection against diseases, and also can be used to produce energy if insufficient carbohydrates and fats are available. Catabolism of proteins is the process of breaking down proteins and its components to simpler ones. During exercise, protein catabolism is an inevitable process in the body, and this is as a result of strain of muscles, tissues and organs. The body is in turn expected to repair the damaged areas in the body so as to reduce breakdown. Protein catabolism occurs during strain, hard work and may also occur during damages or injuries to the body. Fat as another nutrient required by the body can also be used as fuel by the body, and this varies with the activities in the body. Although fats produce low

Starbucks Motivation Strategy: Case Study

Starbucks Motivation Strategy: Case Study Nowadays, the competition becomes more extreme because rapid globalization in the recent years, especially for the service industry with the similar products. The most vital point for business to success is not only the quality of products they supply, but the atmosphere of cooperating and the amount from yield of teamwork in retail sales. The employees who always touch with customers and can realize what customers really need are first-line staffs. Therefore, it turns to be essential for companies to motivate, reward and train their employees to be the best quality personnel. In the first stage, the historical background of Starbucks will be introduced. Secondly, an issue about the methods of motivating employees are going to discuss. Next, the strategies, which are used by Starbucks to make their teamwork performance well, will be pointer out. In the end, there is a conclusion about the effect of policies in motivation and teamwork. Managers are constantly searching for ways to  create a motivational environment where associates  (employees) to work at their optimal levels to  accomplish company objectives. Workplace  motivators include both monetary and non-monetary  incentives. Monetary incentives can be diverse while  having a similar effect on associates. One example of  monetary incentives is mutual funds provided  through company pension plans or insurance  programs. Because it has been suggested that  associates, depending on their age, have different  needs pertaining to incentives, traditional incentive  packages are being replaced with alternatives to attract younger associates.  This paper will discuss how monetary and non-monetary incentives are influenced by career stages and the problems associated with monetary  and non-monetary incentives. How the entire total reward and human resources (HR) systems at Starbucks are linked to the business objectives and reinforce the companys strong culture and values. Working in mutual support of the business, the culture, and values, this integrated HR system has helped shape a powerful success story that didnt rely on conventional thinking and trends with respect to the treatment of its workforce. Part 2: Setting the Scene A Brief History of Starbucks Starbucks Coffee Company, as we know it today, began in 1987, when Howard Schultz, the current chairman and CEO, acquired the assets from the original founders, whom he had worked with from 1982 to 1985. In 1987, Starbucks had 11 stores. The original business plan, and promise to the investors, was to have 125 stores within five years. From 1987 to 1992, the company remained private, growing at the astonishing rate of 80% per year to more than 150 stores. In June 1992, the company went public, and it was one of the most successful initial public offerings of the year. Today, Starbucks is the leading retailer, roaster, and brand of specialty coffee in North America. It operates more than 1,800 retail locations in North America, the United Kingdom, and the Pacific Rim and has established joint-venture partnerships with Breyers (to produce coffee ice cream) and PepsiCo (to produce Frappuccino, a bottled coffee drink). Sales for fiscal year 1997 were $967 million, an increase of nearly 39% over the previous year, and the company employed more than 25,000 partners (the companys term for employees). The company goal is to have more than 2,000 locations in North America by the year 2000. The company mission is to establish Starbucks as the premier purveyor of the finest coffee in the world while maintaining our uncompromi sing principles as we grow. Starbucks Culture and Values: The Driver of HR and Reward Systems Starbucks is a values-driven company, with a firmly established set of principles that are widely shared within the organization. It is also a company that puts its employees first and invests a tremendous amount in them. None of this is by accident. Source: Wilson, Thomas, B., Rewards That Drive High Performance, Amazon, New York, 1999. www.wilsongroup.com 1 It all stems from the values and beliefs of its CEO. Says Schultz, I wanted to establish the kind of company that gave people a form of equity (ownership) and comprehensive health insurance, and most importantly, give them self-esteem in the workplace. People feel that Starbucks is a place that gives them self-respect and values the contributions they make, regardless of their education or where they are in the company. The company believes that if it puts partners first, the result will be exceptional customer service, and by extension, if it has highly satisfied customers, the financial returns will follow. The history of Starbucks Starbucks began by three friends, Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker, who knew each other in the University of Seattle. In 1971, the first name of their store is Starbucks Coffee, Tea, and Spice in Seattle, Washingtons Pike Place Market. They engaged in making profit from selling coffee beans roasted to individual customers and restaurants. Until 1982, they had increased the number of stores to four. During the same period, a sales representative of the house ware business in New York, Hammerplast, visited them. Howard Schultz wanted to know why a small company needs a large number of percolators from Hammerplast. Because of the trade relationship between these two companies, he was acquainted with the three inventors. After he realized the atmosphere and environment of the company, he decided to be a part of Starbucks, then as a director of marketing and retail sales. In the following year, he had a vocation to Milan, Italy. Though the time, he experienced an entirely different coffee culture from the United States. The culture of Italian cafà © had been one part of peoples daliy life. There were numerous coffee bars around the area and the public usually liked to socialize in a coffee bar. Under those circumstances, Schultz had an idea of a new flavor of cafà © and a stylish environment to communicating with friends. After the trip, he prepared the business plan for his vision. However, the three initiators did not want to transfer their business into restaurant industry. Consequently, in 1985 he chose to establish a new coffee shop, named II Giornale, in Seattle. After the next two years, due to the successful strategy of Schultz, the original three owners of Starbucks decided to sell their corporation to Schultz. Then Schultz gathered other investors and took over the name of II Giornale to Starbucks. He sought to pursue his dream to make everyone taste his coffee, so he focused on the rate of expanding. At that time, he though that the most efficient way to grow the amount of branches is to set up new stores in other places. In I987, Starbucks had the first overseas store in Japan. In the subsequent years, owing to the rising expenses with the worldwide broadening, there was a deficit in Starbucks for the next three years. In contrast, he firmly believed that not to sacrifice long-term integrity and values for short-term profit (Michelli, 2006). In 1991, it turned loss into gain and its sales grew up sharply to 84 percent. Until the end of 2002, Starbucks has developed from 17 stores to 5,688 spreading over 30 countries in by this strategy, it is an over 300 times growing in these ten years! (shown as Exhibit 1) From Fortune magazine, Starbucks was ranked the 11th best company to work for in 2005 in the USA and then risen up in 2006 to 29th. As to 2007, it was ranked as the 16th best. In the same year, Starbucks was also voted as one of the top ten UK workplaces by the Financial Times. (Resource: wikipedia) Part 3 Literature Review Definition of Motivation Motivation is one of the most important aspects of an individualà ®Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬sb eh av io r that determines not only how individual behaves and thinks but also ways in which he / she interacts with others and influences them. Motivation is derived from the word motives. The word motive is derived from Latin word movere, which means to move or to energize. Thus motivation actives us and directs our behavior to a particular goal. According to Armstrong (2002 P.56) states that People wont change their behaviour unless it makes a difference to  them to do so Managers are individuals who achieve their goals through other people. They are constantly searching for ways to motivate their employees to make them work at their optimal level of performance to accomplish the company objective. Various incentives are provided by the managers to their employees for motivation. The incentives that are provided by the mangers to their employees can be broadly classified as monetary incentives and non-monetary incentives. 2.1 Comparison of monetary and non-monetary incentives The purpose of monetary incentives is to reward associates for excellent job performance through money. Monetary incentives include profit sharing, project bonuses, stock options and warrants, scheduled bonuses (e.g., Christmas and performance-linked), and additional paid vacation time. Traditionally, these have helped maintain a positive motivational environment for associates. Monetary incentives can be diverse while having a similar effect on associates. One example of monetary incentives is mutual funds provided through company pension plans or insurance programs. Because it has been suggested that associates, depending on their age have different needs pertaining to incentives, traditional incentive packages are being replaced with alternatives to attract younger associates. On the other hand, the purpose of non-monetary benefits is to reward excellent job performance through opportunities. Non-monetary incentives include flexible work hours, training, pleasant work environment, and sabbaticals. 2.2 Problems with monetary incentives Managements have always looked at man as an animal to be  manipulated with a carrot and stick. They found that when a man is lured/hurt, he will move to get the prize/avoid the pain-and they say, Were motivating the employees. Hell you are not motivating them, you are moving them.* -Frederick Herzberg, Professor Emeritus Monetary incentives usually encourage compliance and achievement of difficult targets instead of encouraging creativity, innovation and foresight which are more important in the long run. Thus employees are not able to express their true talent and in the long run lose their creativity. Employers also may use monetary incentives as an extrinsic rather than an intrinsic motivator. In other words, associates are driven to do things just for the monetary reward versus doing something because it is the right thing to do. This can disrupt or terminate good relationships between employees because they are transformed from co-workers to competitors, which can quickly disrupt the workplace environment. Another problem with monetary incentive is that it is given to circumvent a bigger problem for a short run. Sales employees are given higher monetary incentives to compensate for poor management and poor products, employees are paid more for working in poor work environment. Monetary incentives can even drive the employees to falsely reporting their achievements. Huge monetary incentives given to middle mangers are seen as a hook to retain them which may make them work counterproductively. Though the monetary incentives have a better effect than the monetary incentives in the short run, they fail miserably in the long run and in extreme situations downfall of the company (when employees start anticipating monetary incentives even for routine jobs and in absence of which they start working inefficiently or go on a strike as in the case of some government employee s). Also most of the non-monetary incentives are intrinsic in nature. Intrinsic motivation is more effective as the impetus to work is from within. Employees are working because they feel satisfied or fulfilled by the activity they undertake. Under these circumstances the management can be regarded as more of a support than control. So managers should concentrate more on non-monetary incentives after the minimum level of monetary benefits and properly structure them according to their employees preference. This will ensure high motivational level of the employees which will get reflected in their better performance at work. 2.3 Theories which support intrinsic motivation Various theories that support the concept that intrinsic motivation which is attained through non-monetary incentives is important and better than extrinsic motivation are as follows: Maslows Hierarchy of needs This theory states that the needs of social, esteem and self actualisation are higher order needs. The differentiation between the higher order needs and lower order needs is that the higher order needs are satisfied at the individual level whereas the lower order needs are satisfied externally. Herzbergs two-factor theory It supports the emphasis on factors associated with work like promotional opportunities, opportunities for personal growth, recognition, responsibility, and achievement which employees find intrinsically rewarding McClellands Theory of Needs This theory focuses on three needs: achievement, power and affiliation. They are defined as follows Need for achievement: The drive to excel, to achieve in relation to a set of standards, to strive to succeed. Need for power: The need to make others behave in a way that they would not have behaved otherwise Need for affiliation: The desire for friendly and closely interpersonal relationships. Cognitive evaluation theory This theory states that allocating extrinsic rewards for behaviour that had been rewarding intrinsically leads to decrease in overall level of motivation. Thus it supports the view that it is better to continue intrinsic motivation to boost the morale of employees. Goal-Setting theory This theory supports the idea that specific and difficult goals with feedback  lead to higher motivation and performance. Self-efficacy theory(Social cognitive theory) It is the individuals belief that a task assigned can be done. Higher the self efficacy higher is the confidence of the employee at the workplace. Reinforcement theory This theory states that the behaviour is a function of its consequences. If employees feel that their efforts are duly rewarded then they will work in a more effective manner for the organisation. Equity theory This theory states that individuals compare their job inputs and outcomes with those of others and then respond to eliminate any inequities. If their colleagues are given recognition employees will work towards achieving those rewards. This motivates them to perform them to work better which beneficial to the organisation. Expectancy theory The strength of a tendency to act in a certain way depends on the strength of an expectation that the act will be followed by a outcome and on the attractiveness of that outcome to the individual. Thus when expectations from a employee increases the employee responds with better performance. From the above theories (however different they may be) it is clear that intrinsic motivation is desired by the employees. 2.4 Intrinsic Motivation by non-monetary incentives Various non-monetary incentives motivate employees intrinsically which is more efficient than the extrinsic motivation. The intrinsic motivation that these incentives offer is the result of intrinsic rewards of self management. Self management In employees perspective self-management is choosing activities, monitoring competence, committing to purpose and monitoring progress. The intrinsic motivation that energises the work comes directly from the four management events namely activities, purpose, opportunities and rewards. From these four events the employees make a judgement -of the meaningfulness of the task purpose, the degree of choice available in selecting activities, the competence with which the activities are performed, and the amount of progress being made to the task purpose. The judgements from self-management lead to intrinsic rewards which in turn provide the energy for self- management which completes the cycle. OPPORTUNITY ACCOMPLISHMENT Rewards Rewards From task ACTIVITIES From task PURPOSE Sense of meaningfulness It is the opportunity that makes the employees feel that they are on a path that is worth the energy and time-that they are on a valuable mission that matters in the larger scheme of things. Sense of choice It is the opportunity that the employees feel to select task activities that make sense to them and to perform them in ways that seem appropriate to them. The feeling of choice is the feeling of being free to choose-of being able to use their judgement and act out of their own understanding of task Sense of competence It is the accomplishment that employees feel in skilfully performing task activities that have been chosen by them. The feeling of competence involves the sense that they are doing good, high-quality work on a task. Sense of PROGRESS It is the accomplishment felt in achieving the task purpose. The feeling of progress involves the sense that the task is moving forward, and their activities are really accomplishing something. It is the accomplishment felt in achieving the task purpose. The feeling of progress involves the sense that the task is moving forward, and their activities are really accomplishing something. 2.5 Non-monetary incentives The non-monetary incentives desired by employees across generations have gone rapid changes. The following table shows the preferences in non-monetary incentives across generations. Baby Boomers (born between 1946-63) Generation Xers (born between 1964-81) Generation Yers (born after 1982) Retirement planning Flexible schedules Job training Sabbaticals Flexible schedules Professional development Feedback Tangible rewards Work environment Flexible schedules Professional development Feedback Tangible rewards Work environment Attentive Employers Autonomy Table 2: Preferences in non-monetary incentives across generations Thus it is obvious that the demands of the current generation of employees are ever increasing and in current scenario where there is low loyalty to the companies, high attrition rate these demands have to be met reasonably well to attract prospective employees who can perform really well and to retain the employees. 3. PRACTICES IN ORGANISATIONS Various non-monetary incentives in Table 1 are affected by career stage and proximity to retirement. The older the associate, the more the focus is placed on retirement or supplementing retirement income with part-time or temporary jobs. The younger the associate, the more the focus is placed on job satisfaction and the work environment. Types of non-monetary incentives Various types of non-monetary incentives are as follows: Flextime Professional development Feedback Tangible rewards Work environment Attentive employers Autonomy Redesigning of jobs Retirement planning and others. 3.1 Flextime Flextime refers to several arrangements that allow the employee to work a non-traditional schedule. The employee and the manager agree in advance on the hours of work. Flextime is a popular option for good reasonit lends balance to busy lives. Fortunately, flextime also benefits the manager too. Allowing employees to work schedules that best suit their lives results in more productive workers. The most common flextime arrangements include: Compressed workweek This arrangement allows the employees to work a full, 40-hour schedule in 4 days by extending the hours they work each day. The compressed week can also be scheduled over 2 workweeks, during which they work 9 longer days and have the tenth off. In any case, the compressed workweek maintains the same overall number of hours, just divided up differently. The workload, benefits, and pay are not affected by the arrangement. Adjusted lunch Working an adjusted lunch schedule doesnt actually allow any additional days off. Instead, he employees can take a longer lunch each day, making up the hours at the beginning or end of the day. For example, he manager may allow the employee to take your lunch from 11-1 so that the latter can run errands, go to a doctors appointment, or work out, but in exchange the employee works that additional hour at the beginning or end of your day. This sort of arrangement may be an unofficial privilege of every worker, especially if its used only occasionally. Core hours Next to the compressed workweek, this is the most popular scheduling strategy because of the flexibility it offers. With this schedule, an employee can work certain hours every day, and as long as the schedule is built around the work time specified. For instance, if the core hours are 10-3, the employee must work 10-3 every day, but the starting and ending times can vary. The employee may choose to work 10-6, or 7-3, or any other combination as long as those core hours are covered. If the employee maintains the same total number of hours, your workload, benefits, and pay remain the same. Flexible hours Common core Lunch Common core Flexible hours 6 A.M 9 A.M 12 noon 1 P.M 3 P.M 6 P.M Figure 2: Example of a Flextime schedule The only problem with flextime is that it cant be extended to employees involved in production as the work time also depends on the machines which have to be run continuously for a certain period of time. Problems may arise if flextime is offered to employees of other departments and not to those of production department. So it is better not to introduce flextime in organisations where it cant be extended to all the departments. 3.2 Professional development In a broad sense professional development may include formal types of vocational education, typically post-secondaryor polytechnic training leading to qualification or acredentia l required to get or retain employment. Informal or individualized programs of professional development may also include the concept of personalcoaching. Professional development on the job may develop or enhance process skills, sometimes referred to as leadership skills, as well as task skills. Some examples for process skills are effectiveness skills, team functioning skills, and systems thinking skills. Some examples of task skills are computer software applications, customer service skills and safety training. Examples of skills relevant to a currentoccupation are leadership training for managers and training for specific techniques or equipment for educators,technicians, metal workers,medical  practitionersand engineers. For some occupations there is a provision for  accreditation tied to continuing professional education and proving competence  regulated by a professional body. 10 3.3 Feedback People dont quit organisations, they quit bosses. This can be extended to colleagues too. Improper communication, negative relationship, backbiting etc can lead to inefficiency and counter productivity. To overcome this, organisations are adopting feedback culture. It is the culture wherein all the employees are taught the skills of effectively receiving and giving feedback which is the degree to which carrying out the work activities required by the job results in the employee obtaining direct and clear information about the effectiveness in their job performance. This includes telling each other frankly, honestly and effectively what they think about their behaviour, job performance, ideas etc. Employees prefer being told what others think about them directly instead of in the round about way and they like being given feedback to self evaluate their performance. They also would like to frankly tell their bosses the various problems and issues faced by them. Feedback is of two types positive and negative. Positive feedback improves the morale of the receiver and negative feedback improves the performance of the receiver. Poor feedback can reduce morale, the ability to do the job, confidence of employees and can even lead to conflicts between the management and the employees. Hence great care has to be taken while giving and receiving feedback. So when both the managers and the employees acquire these skills of giving and receiving feedback the feedback culture works out well for the company. The following factors are to be considered while giving feedback: Make feedback specific Ambiguity and vagueness will make feedback ineffective as the receiver might miss out the whole point. It should be made sure that there is no personality clash between the giver and receiver. Both of them should be comfortable with the way the feedback is being given and neither of them should feel attacked or offended. To do away with these problems the feedback has to be specific. Concentrate on behaviour and results Feedback should concentrate on behaviour, results and future prospective and not on personality and attitudes so that the receiver gets the desired message in the desired manner. Take responsibility The manager/employee should take the initiative of giving feedback rather than putting the blame on others saying that it is not their job. Most often it is due to lack of skills and unwillingness to give feedback. Employees should also be encouraged to take responsibility as there is lot of emphasis on teamwork and empowerment in present days organisations which are becoming flat. Balanced feedback Feedback has to be balanced and accurate. Overstating or understating results will lead to ineffectiveness of feedback. Feedback on periodic basis Feedback has to be on a periodic basis preferably on weekly basis. Delay in giving feedback will render it ineffective. Similarly while receiving feedback the receiver has to listen attentively to all what is said, analyse the feedback and take remedial action. Though difficult to establish, feedback culture promotes teamwork, job satisfaction, employee empowerment, improvement in job performance and so is preferred by most of the employees. 3.4 Tangible rewards It is important to understand how different groups of employees perceive the total reward package offered by the organisation, particularly if the marketing adage Perception is Reality were to be recalled. If the employee doesnt understand the total reward package, how can employee value it? And how can it motivate he employee to perform? Therefore, there is a need to gain an understanding of how managers and employees perceive reward, and, in the case of the Senior Management Team, where they think reward should focus? Perception of reward can be researched using the following tool: Senior Management Team Brainstorm It is always important to involve the Senior Management Team (SMT) in Total Reward policy development. It is best to involve them from the outset to ensure that they understand and contribute to what you are doing. The key reason for conducting management interviews or focus groups is to gain buy-in from those who will be accountable for implementing the strategy. Interviews can help identify the information that managers will find useful, and begin to develop an action plan. This should focus on the big picture and on priorities, not on detail. Top teams (or other senior groups) are likely to be unenthusiastic about detailed level definitions. The specific organisation and style of the debate will depend on the make-up of the team and the nature of the facilitators relationship with it. The focus will be on discovering either what really matters to people who work here? or based on the kind of people you want to work here, what do you think would really matter to them? The focus in each case will be on discovering either what really matters to people who work here? or based on the kind of people you want to work here, what do you think would really matter to them? Cash vs. Tangible Rewards Why Do Merchandise and other Tangible Rewards Motivate Better Than Cash? Perks programs feature custom-designed rewards catalogues with highly desirable and attainable merchandise as rewards. Our reward items are memorable and reinforce the relationship between the reward earner and the reward provider. They keep on giving each time a merchandise reward is viewed or noticed: recipients relive the special recognition and appreciate the organization that honoured them. Cash rewards on the other hand, often have fleeting impact and more often than not, leave the recipients mind as soon as they are spent. Cash unfortunately for those companies that attempt to motivate with it is the least lasting type of reward, because its typically confused with other compensation and therefore forgotten. Additional reasons to use tangible rewards rather than cash are summarized below. Comparison between cash and tangible rewards. Cash or Any Cash Equivalent Purely an extrinsic motivator with little emotional involvement; does not  provide lasting satisfaction and long-term performance stimulation   Creates expectations, leads to entitlement and consequently looses its motivating value A dollar is a dollar; participant attaches no greater emotional or inspirational value to cash. Lacks emotional impact of tangible rewards; thus quickly spent and forgotten   No trophy value to be a constant reminder and continue to motivate. It is  difficult to show off; thus limits the lasting impact of the reward Difficult to target a particular behaviour because of the lacking association  with a particular achievement Recipients often cant recall what they purchased with cash reward which  further diminished its impact Minimal association with Sponsor Company due to minimal trophy value  of reward which minimizes the potential of goodwill toward the company   Not cost-effective; requires three times the incentive investment compared  to non-cash, on average Usually spent on necessities thus lacking a positive association with the  targeted accomplishment or behaviour Participant feels guilty for not spending a cash award on necessities which  taints the reward with unpleasant feelings Tangible Rewards 1. Carry a significant trophy value thus continue to reinforce

With close reference Search for my tongue written by Sujata Bhatt, and

With close reference Search for my tongue written by Sujata Bhatt, and Still I rise by Maya Angelou both explore the effective With close reference â€Å"Search for my tongue† written by Sujata Bhatt, and â€Å"Still I rise† by Maya Angelou both explore the effectiveness of their celebration of culture and traditions. The two poems are about both poets reflecting upon how important it is to keep in touch with cultures and traditions, to be proud of who you are and where you come from. â€Å"Still I Rise† by Maya Angelou, a confident defiant woman with lots of personality, pumps her sassiness into the poem to do nothing but inspire and move us. It is an inspiring poem about the poet herself overcoming great obstacles which her and her family has fought against all their lives. Her poem is a call to have pride in yourself no matter what you are, or where you come from. It evokes a feeling of great human spirit and, you can't but pay attention to the possibility that it is dedicated to one particular culture or race, the black slaves. Angelou’s strong personality mirrors the way in which she decided to set the poem out in rhyming verse. It’s strong, yet upbeat bouncy feel cries to be read out aloud which also reflects her powerful, independent personality. Her defiance immediately starts to shine from the first stanza. After all the negativity, â€Å"†¦bitter, twisted lies†, â€Å"†¦trod me in the very dirt† she will still get up and rise against it all, not letting anyone control her. From such a negative stanza she moves on to an energetic tone in stanza three. She uses nature â€Å"Just like moons and like stars† to bring out a buoyant optimistic tone; by using the certainty of nature she is conveying the message that no one ... ...e of Gujarat in â€Å"Search for my tongue† and with the strong bouncy rhythm in â€Å"Still I rise† both poems scream to be read out loud. â€Å"It grows back, a stump of a shoot† Like Angelou, Bhatt also uses nature to bring out the uplifting tone of the poem. She conveys the idea that nature is certain, the rain will always come back in April and the sun will always come back to shine in June. She then uses positive repetition â€Å"†¦ the bud opens, the bud opens†¦Ã¢â‚¬  bringing an energetic flow into the poem the use of repetition also adds excitement and tension building to an immensely powerful metaphor â€Å"It blossoms in my mouth†. Sujata Bhatt finishes the elevating moving poem on a high note. Angelou and Bhatt explore both the ups and downs of their lives but both of the poets end their poems with them defeating their problems and worries and standing up for their rights.

small stage acting :: essays research papers

Topic - Small Stage Acting General Purpose - To Inform Specific Purpose - To explain the dos and don’ts of small stage acting Central Idea - By informing the listeners about what to do and what not to do on a small stage they can learn from my mistakes and avoid them if they ever want to do some acting. I. Introduction: â€Å"There is no business like show business like no business I know. Everything about it is appealing. Everything the traffic will allow. No where can you get that special feeling, only when you are stealing that extra bow.† A. You have to endure a lot being an actor or an actress. B. Stage acting is especially hard. 1. You have to project your voice. 2. Stand where everyone in the audience can see you. 3. There are no takes so you cannot miss a line. II. If you screw up, just go on: A. Opening night I slammed the door open so hard the props fell off the wall. 1. I covered and acted like I was supposed to do it. 2. The other girl on stage bent down behind the couch and laughed. B. If someone misses a line, go on with your line or try to jog their memory. C. I dropped my liquor glass in rehearsal and got yelled at because I did not pick it up. II. Props: A. It is important to use props that will not hinder your performance. 1. You are responsible for your props. a. Never leave them in the way or another actor will trip over them. b. I did not hold the wine glass the proper way. 1.) The director said I held the glass like a beer mug 2.) I was supposed to hold it like a lady: like my character. B. Always check to make sure your props are ready before you go on stage. 1. It would be awful to not be able to find your prop when you need it. 2. It is also not fun eating week old chex-mix. 3. Someone did not check the gun on opening night, so I had to yell â€Å"bang!† III. Eating and Drinking on Stage: A. Drinking on Stage 1. Never pour more in a glass than you will be able to drink before your exit. 2. I had to stand at the door and gulp my wine down before leaving (but it was in keeping with my alcoholic character). 3. Never gesture with your glass. B. Eating on Stage 1. Try to avoid salty foods on stage. small stage acting :: essays research papers Topic - Small Stage Acting General Purpose - To Inform Specific Purpose - To explain the dos and don’ts of small stage acting Central Idea - By informing the listeners about what to do and what not to do on a small stage they can learn from my mistakes and avoid them if they ever want to do some acting. I. Introduction: â€Å"There is no business like show business like no business I know. Everything about it is appealing. Everything the traffic will allow. No where can you get that special feeling, only when you are stealing that extra bow.† A. You have to endure a lot being an actor or an actress. B. Stage acting is especially hard. 1. You have to project your voice. 2. Stand where everyone in the audience can see you. 3. There are no takes so you cannot miss a line. II. If you screw up, just go on: A. Opening night I slammed the door open so hard the props fell off the wall. 1. I covered and acted like I was supposed to do it. 2. The other girl on stage bent down behind the couch and laughed. B. If someone misses a line, go on with your line or try to jog their memory. C. I dropped my liquor glass in rehearsal and got yelled at because I did not pick it up. II. Props: A. It is important to use props that will not hinder your performance. 1. You are responsible for your props. a. Never leave them in the way or another actor will trip over them. b. I did not hold the wine glass the proper way. 1.) The director said I held the glass like a beer mug 2.) I was supposed to hold it like a lady: like my character. B. Always check to make sure your props are ready before you go on stage. 1. It would be awful to not be able to find your prop when you need it. 2. It is also not fun eating week old chex-mix. 3. Someone did not check the gun on opening night, so I had to yell â€Å"bang!† III. Eating and Drinking on Stage: A. Drinking on Stage 1. Never pour more in a glass than you will be able to drink before your exit. 2. I had to stand at the door and gulp my wine down before leaving (but it was in keeping with my alcoholic character). 3. Never gesture with your glass. B. Eating on Stage 1. Try to avoid salty foods on stage.

Explaining Basic Accounting Concepts and Business Structures Essay

Explaining Basic Accounting Concepts and Business Structures I will explain the basic accounting concepts and business structures from the following topics: GAAP sources and hierarchy; Good accounting information using the qualities of accounting principles; Difference between Accrual based accounting and cash basis of accounting; Types of business structures and the features of each structure. 1. GAAP sources and hierarchy Generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) is the set of accounting principles, standards and procedures that companies use to prepare their financial statements. GAAP principles are the bases of financial reports and the guidelines of United States accounting practices. There are four categories of sources of GAAP hierarchy as follows: Category (A): FASB Standards, Interpretations, and Staff Positions; APB Opinions; AICPA Accounting Research Bulletins. Category (B): FASB Technical Bulletins (no longer issued), AICPA Industry Audit and Accounting Guides, AICPA Statements of Position. Category (C): FASB Emerging Issues Task Force, AICPA AcSEC Practice Bulletins. Category (D): AICPA Accounting Interpretations, FASB Implementation Guides (Q and A), widely recognized and prevalent industry practices. The category (a) of the GAAP hierarchy has a higher authority than a FASB Technical Bulletin, which is in category (b).The hierarchy is important because it gives the out layer for companies to search for the specific accounting transactions. For example, if a specific transaction can not be covered in category (a), then companies will turn to categories (b) for selecting and applying appropriate accounting principles, then (c) and (d). 2. Good accounting information using the qualities of accounting principles Good accounting information should be understandable. If no one can not understand the accounting information presented, it becomes useless to lose all of the other qualities. The good accounting information should be Reliable and Relevant. Reliability means verifiable, representation faithfulness, and free of error and bias. If the accounting numbers are wrong, there is no any meaning to use the information. Relevance means predictive or feedback value presented on a timely basis. The internal managerial accounting reports are different from the external financial reports. The relevant information is needed to prepare the different kinds of reports. The good accounting information should be Comparability and Consistency. The good information can be used to identify the differences and similarities between companies. The company consistently use the same accounting treatment for better auditing purposes. 3. Difference between Accrual basis accounting and cash basis of accounting The revenue recognition principle and the expense matching principle are two key elements for Accrual basis accounting. Company uses accrual basis accounting to recognize income when goods are shipped or services are rendered, and to recognize expense when it is obligated to pay it. On the contrast, cash basis accounting recognizes the revenue and expenses when the cash is received and paid. The cash basis accounting is prohibited under GAAP because it does not record revenue and expense when earned and incurred. It will misstate the actual income and expenses incurred and can not reflect the real business operation during the accounting period. 4. Types of business structures and the features of each structure There are three types of business structures-Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Corporation. Sole proprietorship is a business owned by one person. It is the simplest form of business ownership. The sole proprietor is in direct control of all affairs and entitled all profits and losses and is free to transfer his interest in the sole proprietorship at will. The disadvantage is that the sole proprietor would be fully responsible for all debts and obligations related to the business. The business would have difficulty in raising capital. Partnership is a business owned by two or more persons associate a partner. Partnership can bring broad resources and unique skills. All the partners share profit and losses, share the right to manage and make major business decisions, have unlimited personal liability for obligation of the partnership. For tax advantage, the partnership does not pay federal income tax; rather, partners file their own individual tax return. Disadvantage is that partners are fully and personally liable for the debts if their partnership. Corporation is a legal entity distinct from its owners (called â€Å"shareholders† or â€Å"stockholders†) and manager. It is easy to raise fund. The major advantage of corporation is that the owners are not personally liable for the obligation. Stockholders are free to transfer their ownership interests. Corporation must pay income taxes on any profits that it makes, and stockholders generally do not have to pay income tax on its profits until they are distributed as dividends. The corporate tax rate generally is lower than the personal tax rate.

College Entrance Essay Essay

Over the past few years I have increasingly become confident that a career in psychology is the right path for me. I am by nature a very caring, helping person, a good listener and someone who enjoys being able to connect with others. My friends and family see me as the kind of person they can go to when they need to talk about their problems, and they know that I am someone that they can trust. To me, there is nothing more fulfilling than the feeling of reaching out and connecting with an individual, and being able to offer them support. Both my parents were clinical psychologists, and undoubtedly this influenced my desire to become a psychologist. They exposed me at an early age to psychological ideas and the practice of psychotherapy. I could see the passion they brought to their profession, and the satisfaction they experienced by helping others. I believe also that my mother’s death when I was ten helped influence my interest in psychology. My mother’s death was a traumatic event for me and my family, and when she passed away I had to help emotionally support my younger brothers. Our subsequent participation in family therapy showed me how important it is to talk about feelings and problems, and how families can heal and move on from even the most traumatic experiences. In order to make a career of my interest, I will need both undergraduate and graduate training in psychology. If I should choose to open up a practice, I will need business training as well. My choice of college is based on finding a strong psychology program and an environment where I can feel like I can make a personal connection with my professors and my peers. In addition to having a strong psychology department, I am looking for a college or university in New England with a small faculty/student ratio. I want to feel like I can personally connect with my professors and peers, and not be just a number in large classes. Castleton State College meets all of these requirements. To me, Castleton State seems to be more then just an  institute of learning, it’s a place where the students are able to experience new ideas and encounter new challenges that will later help them learn critical skills needed to be successful in a diverse and interdependent world. In addition to a good education, I feel that Castleton State is a place that will allow me to grow intellectually, socially, and spiritually. The health field, and mental health in particular, is becoming increasingly challenging and competitive. After my bachelor’s degree, I plan to pursue either my master’s degree or my doctorate in psychology, and I know that I will need strong undergraduate training to be effective at the graduate level. I believe that Castleton State College will provide me with the training and perspective on myself and my career that I will need to be successful and to pursue my dream.

Implementing the Duty of Care in Health and Social Care Essay

Act within own competence and not take on anything not believe we can safely do As a care worker, we owe a duty of care to the people we support, colleagues, employer and ourselves and the public interest. Every one have a duty of care that we cannot opt out of. Peoples we care support should be treated with respect, involved in decision making about their care and treatment and able influence how the service is run. People should receive safe and appropriate care that meets their needs and support their rights. A negligent act could be unintentional but careless or intentional that results in abuse or injury. A negligent act is breaching the duty of care. Explain how duty of care contributes to the safeguarding or protection of individuals Our duty of care means that we must aim to provide high quality care to the best of our ability and express if there are any reasons may be unable to do so. Professionals act within duty of care must do what a reasonable person, with their trainin g and background, can be expected to do so. It also connected with the areas of carrying and reviewing of risk assessments, which ensuring elimination of hazards, use of equipments and all health and safety guidelines. Policies and procedures sets clear boundaries in safe guarding in social care setting. The concept of safeguarding, whether it is children or vulnerable adults, is broader than protection. Safeguarding is also about keeping children or vulnerable adults safe from any sort of harm, such as illness, abuse or injury. This means all agencies and families working together and taking responsibility for the safety of children and vulnerable adults, whether it is by promoting health, preventing accidents or protecting children or vulnerable adults who have been abused. It is the staff responsibility in duty of care to safeguard individuals from harm. All employees should report any concerns of abuse they have. These might include evidence or suspicions of bad practice by  colleagues and managers, or abuse by another individual, another worker or an individual’s family or friends. Local authorities have Safeguarding policies and procedures that will be published on their websites or available from their Safeguarding team. Know how to respond to complaints Describe how to respond to complaints Complaint means â€Å"an expression of dissatisfaction that requires a response†. The procedure provides the opportunity to put things right for service users as well as improving services. Dealing with those who have made complaints provides an opportunity to re-establish a positive relationship with the complainant and to develop an understanding of their concerns and needs. Effective complaints handling is an important aspect of clinical and social care governance arrangements and, as such, will help organisations to continue to improve the quality of their services and safeguard high standards of care and treatment. Increased efforts should be made to promote a more positive culture of complaints handling by highlighting the added value of complaints within health and social care and making the process more acceptable/amenable to all. All complaints received should be treated with equal importance regardless of how they are submitted. Complainants should be encouraged to speak openly and freely about their concerns and should be reassured that whatever they may say will be treated with appropriate confidence and sensitivity. Complainants should be treated courteously and sympathetically and where possible involved in decisions about how their complaint is handled and considered. However received, the first responsibility of staff is to ensure that the service user’s immediate care needs are being met. This may require urgent action before any matters relating to the complaint are addressed. Where possible, all complaints should be recorded and discussed with the Complaints Manager in order to identify those that can be resolved immediately, those that will require a formal investigation or those that should be referred outside the HSC Complaints Procedure. Front-line staff will often find the information they gain from complaints useful in improving service quality. This is particularly so for complaints th at have been resolved â€Å"on the spot† and have not progressed through the formal complaints process. Mechanisms for achieving this are best agreed at organisational level. Explain the main  points of agreed procedures for handling complaints The Health and Social Care services recognises that most of our work is involved with supporting people to overcome and manage difficulties or situations in their lives. The aim is to consider all complaints as close to the point of contact as possible, and in many cases staff will be able to respond and resolve these at the time and place that the complaint is made. The Regulations on complaints identify ‘if a complaint is made orally and resolution can be agreed with the client by the end of the next working day’ it does not fall within the regulations and therefore it can be viewed as day-to-day business. Details of such representations managed within service areas should be forwarded to the Complaints Team, this information will assist in the overall departmental learning from complaints. The details of the complaint will also require to be screened to look at the significance of the complaint for the complainant and for the management and to indicate the manner in which it should be dealt with. Factors to be taken into account when screening are: The likelihood of re-occurrence. †° The degree of risk for the individual. The degree of risk for the Department. The views of the complainant. Know how to address conflicts or dilemmas that may arise between an individual’s rights and the duty of care Describe potential conflicts or dilemmas that may arise between the duty of care and an individual’s rights The main area of conflicts or dilemma arises is related to the decision making associated to the choices by services to take risks. Some times individuals may want to do something which could be a risk to their health and safety. As a social care worker we have the duty of care to that person and we ensure to do all that we can to keep them safe. The conflict arises when we uplift the idea to respect the individuals rights and choices and promoting independence. In this scenario, we need to carry out a thorough risk assessment to ensure this particular activity is managed in a safest way. In order to minimise risks and promote welfare of the children and young people under care, it is important to report the areas of conflict to  the management, social se rvices and professional involved in an individuals care. Describe how to manage risks associated with conflicts or dilemmas between an individual’s rights and the duty of care In situations where there is a conflict of interest or a dilemma between an individual’s rights and duty of care, it is best practice to make sure the individual is aware of the consequences of their choice and that they have the mental capacity to understand the risks involved in their choice. It is their right as an individual to be able to make informed choices about their own lives even if we disagree with their choice. It is the right of every individual to make choices and take risks. It is the social care worker’s role to assist them in making those choices and reducing the risks without compromising their rights. An individual may be restricted if his or her behaviour presents a serious risk of harm to his or herself or to other people. People who receive care and support are considered to be at risk, and as such the law requires that an assessment be carried out to look at any possible risks there might be to the individual or to others. The aim of this assessment is not to remove the individual’s right to take risks, but to recognise and reduce them where possible to an acceptable and manageable level. Explain where to get additional support and advice about conflicts and dilemmas The first port of call if a social care worker is unsure about what to do and if they are exercising the duty of care is to their manager. They should be able to advise you about the best approaches to take. Also we can contact Regulator for advice about how to implement the Code of Practice. All of the Regulators produce guidance about how to implement the Code of Practice. These guidance documents can be very helpful in looking at the implications for day-to-day work. Members of a professional association or a trade union can co ntact them and they will also be able to offer advice about any uncertainties you have about whether you are exercising a duty of care towards the people you support effectively.