Organizational Technology Plan Essay

Team C is researching University of Phoenix and the technology used at the school. The team will research new technology, workforce training, and recommendations to stay ahead of future challenges. In addition, team C will cover value chain analysis and primary technology the school uses for instructions. University of Phoenix has extensive support activities that students and instructors access daily. Team C will retrieve information and recommend ideas for UOPX to create a more enjoyable learning environment. The team will also cover the different ways UOPX uses the Internet to market products available to all stakeholders. Challenges University of Phoenix has set itself apart by creating a competitive advantage for working adults seeking to further his or her education. Points of differences include advanced technology and communication networks, service-oriented staff in a virtual environment, and easy access of training modules for students of all levels. Although technology has proved a point of difference for UOPX, it also is a hurdle for those intimidated by new advancements. Fear of technology is a consideration. The target market for UOPX is adults who have been away from college for 10-15 years or more. With this market comes a clientele removed from technology that did not exist when he or she enrolled in high school or college. This supports a strategy of establishing partnerships with organizations such as Microsoft or Apple to assist in managing server workload as well as attracting new customers. Staying ahead of the technology curve is essential, and organizations such as Apple can introduce new customers as well as offer new mediums of communication that can bring more awareness to each brand. One example would be developing an Apple tutorial available within the UOPX library. This would help to train, service the students, and enhance their academic experience. University of Phoenix needs to continue to enhance the on boarding process with orientation classes and a consistent stream of tutorials to engage new students to the online program. The current model includes communication networks including e-mail, blogs, chat forums and online forums. This is effective but will become dated if UOPX does not stay ahead of the technology curve. â€Å"Current struggles with bandwidth size for wireless networks is a good example of the need to anticipate and stay ahead of the competition† (Information Systems and Technology Articles, 2011). In addition to the software, it is important to be aggressive with hiring talent who is current with tomorrow’s technology. Recruiting from organizations such as Microsoft, Google, and other technology companies will inspire creative and innovative thinking that will assist in maintaining a competitive advantage and attract new markets. Value Chain Analysis University of Phoenix is an accredited college that is available for adult learners seeking a learning environment, which is flexible, has challenging curriculum, provides a supportive learning environment and is a top-rated college to attend. University of Phoenix has five goals that help students understand what key subjects are essential to his or her education; professional competence and values, critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, information utilization, and collaboration (University of Phoenix, 2011). University of Phoenix primary activities related to value chain analysis is apparent; the learning environment has been constructed. An online campus is available for those adult learners not able to attend an educational campus. The value chain support activities are readily available for any student to research via University of Phoenix website or by calling an academic counselor who can provide information and answer any student or potential students’ question or concern. Primary Activities University of Phoenix was technologically created so learners are provided the same learning experience as those students who attend on-campus classes. Virtual students can feel they are provided the same learning environment and are just as engaged as if sitting in a classroom. This technological edge gives University of Phoenix a competitive advantage over many other universities not offering virtual classrooms or just started to implement virtual learning. Dr. John Sperling, a Cambridge-educated economist and professor-turned-entrepreneur, established University of Phoenix in 1976. He saw an opportunity to cater to working adults seeking higher education by offering convenient class times at local sites (University of Phoenix, 2011). University of Phoenix is the nation’s largest private university, offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs at more than 200 locations as well as online in most countries around the world (University of Phoenix, 2011). Support Activities Many organizations use some type of support services put into place to help the people who need it. At University of Phoenix, there are support systems to help the students who require help. Most of the students at University of Phoenix are online students and the need for technical support and help desks are extremely important to facilitate with the success of the student. When students and instructors need to meet deadlines, the most important system in place is technical support. UOPX even has help desks for the student or teacher help him or herself instead of talking to a support specialist. Often this list is full of questions that can help solve many common problems. University of Phoenix has numerous types of help desks for the students not just for technical questions. (Regan and O’Connor, 2002. p. 246). UOPX has enrollment specialists and staff members available to help the student enroll in the program they are seeking and properly prepare for the upcoming course. Because University of Phoenix is predominantly online campus, help desks and technical supports are necessary from the start of the course to graduation to ensure the success of the instructors and students. These systems are in place and are usually 24 hours so that help is available when needed. Innovative Approaches University of Phoenix uses innovative approaches toward higher learning and uses the business technology to help them approach new information and old. Data mining is utilized by the business world to help them discover how customers like or dislike a certain product or process; University of Phoenix uses data mining to find new and old information that can be used in classes. Harvard Business School is considered one of the top business schools in the world; the professors teach information that can be useful in all business schools. The information taught by the Harvard professors is available online and in websites like those that are available in the UOPX library. By collaborating with sites like EBSCOhost, Gale PowerSearch, and ProQuest students can research information that has been reviewed by professionals from different sources. Another source of information and also a source of friendship that helps the University of Phoenix with communication, learning, and camaraderie are the e-mail, individual class threads. In addition, the new phoenix connect forums that allow students and faculty to keep in touch with each other. The online learning environment is new to many students and the idea that a person can receive his or her bachelorettes’ in an online class is hard for the professional world to grasp. According to a study about the online learning experience, â€Å"In comparing students who had and who had not completed online courses, Dobbs, Waid and del Carmen (2009) found that students who had completed online courses viewed the online experience as positive, would likely take more online courses and wished faculty would put more materials online† (Deggs, Grover & Kacirek, 2010). With this in mind, the online education experience is improving and using more technology to help students gain access to the material that is available. Internet Use University of Phoenix uses the Internet to recruit staff, for customer service and marketing purposes. In the instance of recruitment of new staff, one can find job listings on careerbuilder.com and the phoenix.edu site. This is an added benefit for University of Phoenix to uses the Internet to reach a larger demographic of potential staff. Staff recruiters are available via e-mail if there are questions or concerns. University of Phoenix is quite transparent and open for comments and suggestions. When dealing with marketing, one can stumble across a non-University of Phoenix site and see a banner that can be clicked on to, acquire information about the school. â€Å"University of Phoenix is recognized as the pioneer of online higher education and has been at the forefront of advancing education through technology for more than 30 years† (Mary Berry, UOPX). With Phoenix Connect alone, University of Phoenix is not only tackling customer service for students but also a marketing tool for the university. Banners, blogs, videos, and social networking are exceptional ways that University of Phoenix has used the Internet. Potential students want to know that the university is on the cutting edge and can provide a quality education. By having these avenues to research and learn online are additional advantages and benefits to students and potential staff. Organizations to Move University of Phoenix must remain a dynamic organization with regard to technology. Using Michael Porter’s Value Chain model, technology is a key support system that influences each of the value chains (NetMBA: Business Knowledge Center, Strategy, 2010). For University of Phoenix to continue to look ahead to future opportunities for growth the outbound logistics and operations units will need to adapt to change. The operations value chain for UOPX is the transformation of the raw materials into a finished product or service. This correlates to the network and infrastructure that UOPX uses today. Advances in technology affect UOPX more than most organizations because they rely on this technology as a primary support system to present the finished product to its customers. Technology advances to increase productivity and service will enhance the website, increase the efficiency and speed of service, introduce new tutorials, and change the design and brand of the network used by students. How the product is delivered describes Porter’s outbound logistics value chain (NetMBA: Business Knowledge Center, Strategy, 2010). Brick and mortar organizations would refer to this as the packaging and presentation. Phoenix presents this value chain as the online experience it provides the students. Enhancements and technology upgrades to the library, blogs, academic advisory center, and access to the writing and mathematics center for excellence contribute to the online presentation that UOPX provides for the students. Advancements in technology will drive change with Phoenix because it is more than just a support system for the value chains. People upgrade technology at home and at work via communication media, smart phones, and wireless technology. UOPX must embrace this change and adapt it to the current model to remain current with the expectations of its customers and faculty. Embracing this change will ensure that UOPX is keeping pace with the expectations of the public, and stay ahead of competition using technology as a point of difference. Manager Responsibility An essential part of organizational change is the learning curve involved in the implementation plan within the organization. The four phases consist of vital key components involved within managements grasp include unfreezing change, learning, change, and refreezing. Unfreezing change is the management skill of making sure that all parties involved within the change ahead, are current, and prepared for the learning curve ahead. Management must create urgency for the need to change toward each individual. The second phase will include a period of learning. This will be considered the urgency brought upon by the first phase of needing to be prepared for adaptation of change. During this period, the change will focus on changing the old attitude so that each individual is acclimated for the new company vision. Vision during the implementation phase is extremely important to guide each individual. The next phase is called the change phase that takes place after the unfreeze phase. The most optimal time to introduce this phase is once everyone has communicated his or her differences or concerns about the phase. This will include organized meetings within the company to brainstorm within each department. Final phase of this process is called the refreeze phase. The refreeze phase will inclusively bring together the entire process and knowledge gathered by each process. Staff will be encouraged to attend the advanced training sessions created to make the change possible. Through attending these sessions or training classes, each employee will unknowingly become more comfortable with the change. Implement Change Participation will allow employees to be part of the planning and implementation process; he or she can contribute to identifying and understanding the goals of the strategic plan. Education is another factor to help overcome resistance to change from employees. Leaders should educate employees about the strategy before and during the implementation process. Education is a method that supplies individuals with information he or she needs to understand the reason for change. A method a leader can use in the negotiating process is to identify and offer incentives to individuals who resist change such as giving him or her important role in the implementation process. Management and Knowledge Every business needs a good manager to be successful. Without a knowledgeable manager the business will not thrive. One of the most important jobs of a manager is the ability to find and recruit new employee’s that will be able to aid in the success of the business (Change Management Learning Center, 1996-2011). Once the manager has the employee trained and ready to work, the manager will need to have the knowledge to manage the employees. Successfully managing employees is not easy and would require the knowledge of the laws and regulations of employee’s rights. The employees represent the business and are the people that the customers turn to for help. If properly trained and managed the employees will be a huge reason that customers will be loyal. Customer loyalty is partly based upon how much the customer can trust and rely on the business. So training employees to be the best representatives is the absolute most import job of a manager. Managers are also responsible for overseeing the daily business to include stock and supply. It is important for a business not to run out of anything that will help them be successful. The manager must oversee that equipment is staying in good repair and that all the employees be responsible for his or her own duties. Also when needed a manager must restructure any plan or process not working up to standards. Because of changing times and constant technological upgrades new processes are a must, and where there is new processes there must also be new training to learn new processes. The manager is the one person who everyone goes to, when there is an issue or problem it is the manager’s expertise and knowledge that will help the employees to have a good working condition Areas of Manager Knowledge At University of Phoenix, management must be knowledgeable of process re-engineering and restructuring, innovating application of goods and services approaches to managing employees as a vital element in the value chain, methods of achieving, and maintaining customer loyalty. To remain and compete as one of the top nation’s largest private universities offering degree programs in 200 locations as well as online courses in many countries around the world. An organization must be aware of what consumers want and need to keep up with the changing times and remain successful. â€Å"Planning is specifying the goals to be achieved and deciding in advance the appropriate actions needed to achieve those goals† (Bateman & Snell, 2009) . In today’s world of technology, University of Phoenix must be able to invent new ways of advancing the company, coming up with competitive advantages while staying progressive, looking for revolutionary technological advances. Planning involves analyzing current situations as well as projecting and estimating future requirements. Company Preparedness Top management in any company has the responsibility to communicate the organization’s vision and guide strategic planning. Consistent and clear communication with team members is other key factors to identify desired outcomes. Leaders will achieve success by simply communicating with the team his or her shared vision, achieving milestones, and celebrating large, or small wins. Team members should share in the vision without fear of reprimand because he or she voices an opinion or challenges premises. Internal Resistance Organizations understand that changes in technology are a constant in today’s business. Management needs to understand that with those changes individuals will react differently depending on how the information is conveyed to the employee. Management understands that individuals will have issues or concerns with new technology changes in the workforce. Individuals who have those issues or concerns should understand that management has his or her best interest in mind when making those changes. Organizations that have a direct communication style with those individuals will ask members of his or her staff what his or her thoughts are with the new change. This will give direct feedback regarding what individuals think about the changes. Individuals, who express those concerns, are more apt to understand the change and move forward. Managers who will use this style can understand that not all members of his or her staff will express his or her concern. Management should develop a straight talk with individuals when he or she has gathered information about any changes in technology within the organization. Management should be straightforward with individuals when the information is needed to be communicated with individuals so that the individual can understand the change and how this will affect his or her job. Employees who are included with developing changes will understand those changes and work on developing a positive attitude toward those changes. Management should understand that some individuals will not understand the changes and do not want to make those changes. Individuals who are part of those groups should be addressed as individuals who need extra attention and understand what concerns that he or she has. Those individuals are people who do not understand those changes and should have extra training to help those individuals with his or her issues. Management should include trainers with any new change in technology so that individuals could be trained on the new processes with the company. Trainers with a hands-on approach with employees are a tool that can assist with the negativity an employee may experience. Employees will be more open to express his or her concern with a coworker who is a trainer. The trainer can take that information and pass it on to management. Management can sit down and come to positive conclusions for all parties involved to provide better solutions to employees. The solution to resistance from employees during technology changes can be implemented differently. It depends on the individual and not every individual will be positive with any change in an organization with technologies. Management needs to let people know the benefits of those changes, and involve as many people as possible to ensure people can understand the changes. Involvement and open talk with employees with make the resistance dwindle as much as possible. Management must prepare for those changes and be open with individuals to show him or her change. Effective Communication of Change Companies are prone to change regardless of how hard an organization attempts to limit changes. Companies like University of Phoenix embrace change because they know it drives the competitive edge. Recently University of Phoenix went under some drastic changes for the betterment of the school and most important the students. This was highlighted in the media as well as on the Internet. One example of how the university effectively communicated changes was by having their representatives speak to the media and reporters about why they were changing compensation for employers and eliminated staff members. The following is a statement from a representative at University of Phoenix about changing compensation, â€Å"We are the first to do so among proprietary schools, and it is an important change that is clearly something that regulators and policy makers in Washington want to see† (De Groote, Michael of Deseret News). This statement alone lets any potential student know that the reason for the change is to align with what the government wants to see. This puts in the customers mind that the UOPX is serious about abiding to guidelines and policies. Making such a statement is a bold move and advantageous in creating the competitive edge for the university. Because the university is the first to make such a change this allows students whether new or old, know they are serious about the accreditation of the school. They proved this by making a tough decision even though it may have displayed weakness but were essential at the time. Ownership UOPX markets itself as an accredited institution that provides education at the highest level. It provides students an online library with resources that represent the integrity of the university and the product UOPX delivers to its students. This information and the content provided represent the outbound logistics and the sales and marketing value chain for University of Phoenix. The university packages this information to attract students to the benefits and value of the product. Accuracy, quality, and flow of this information (outbound logistics) will determine the success of this value chain and the impact on the entire system. If this value chain breaks down the synergy of the organization will be lost. The raw materials and operations value chains can be managed perfectly but if the logistics of the customers’ access to this information is flawed, UOPX will fail. More important, technology becomes a key support to this value chain because the content, accuracy, and accessibility of this information is a primary point of difference for UOPX. Leaders must have excellent communication with the technology team and logistics team to coordinate the product in a way that offers value to the student but not overwhelming him or her with complicated application to access the information. Accuracy and quality of the information will reflect the sales and service value chain. UOPX markets itself as an institution that affords students every benefit of a traditional brick and mortar university. With that statement UOPX must ensure that all information obtained from the students complies with privacy regulations and material found within the university library is credible. Communicate Change University of Phoenix is at the forefront of technology in an educational environment. The company is continually looking for the best technology to be used in the adult education field. To stay at the top as the largest private university the organization must be able to communicate internally with employees and externally with customers. Different resources reach out to different individuals. Apollo Group is the parent company of University of Phoenix. Within the walls of the company Apollo group uses several ways to communicate with employees about technology changes coming down the road. The organization uses both broadcast e-mail as well as individual e-mail to relay information on technology researched, beta tested, and progressed pertaining to the implementation plan. The organization uses an internal website and network to allow employees to learn more about different projects and give input to the project teams. Employees can access training materials for the new technology implemented or considered for implementation. Social Contract Social contract will meet these principles of social contract through actively contributing revenue earned through the successful implementation of new technology. This shows the benefit rather than just the revenue by exemplifying to the public that this company is in support and contributes to welfare of society and not just focused on maximizing profit. University of Phoenix’s annual report will highlight the progress of our social responsibility on many levels. Including furthering members of society education, minority help, donations to arts, and social welfare agencies that will improve many social conditions. Through implementing a well planned/organized technology, these standards of ethical issues will be met. Ethical issues concur with the science of human duty to one another. Giving social responsibility to society exemplifies an easy and unique decision for our future investors. â€Å"Primary functions, such as product research and development, production, and marketing; and support functions, such as human resources, public relations, and information systems† (Regan & O’Connor, 2002, p. 17) are extremely important primary functions involved in actively and directly involving the production and marketing for this product. The IT department expanded to other departments of the new technology will correlate a focus on organization-wide management to develop skills of knowledge management in training and development issues. Ownership Any organization has social responsibilities to the community and the employees. Technology plays a role in that responsibility. Not only does University of Phoenix use technology to service its customers but also to help the employees of Apollo group. The University of Phoenix uses secure technology programs to transmit information with the Department of Education and Direct Loans. The student’s social security number, birth date, contact information, and sometimes banking information must be secure. Personal information must be protected because of privacy rights set in place by the federal government. One of the largest reasons to protect this information is identity theft. This would be the biggest failure of social responsibility. Technology Technology is used to help employees as well. Apollo group employs people across the nation. Human resources to provide benefits and pay to all employees use technology. Paperwork for different types of leave is transmitted electronically. Changes in personal information are kept on the human resources website. The University of Phoenix uses technology to improve and support the well-being of the employees. Through the internal intranet system, the employees have access to resources to become healthier, physically, and mentally. Through the same HR site, employees can view paychecks, vacation, sick hours, change personal information, and complete training. Technology is continually being used to help employees. Many items have to consider when researching going global. In fact, the world is becoming a smaller place in terms of business. With all the new technology, it is easy for a business to be productive in other countries. E-mail, video teleconferencing, the Internet, and e-commerce are some of the methods used by businesses so that they can be in more than one place. Many rules apply that may make the transition difficult if not known. Possessing an IT manager is a must when going global because of the rules and regulations of other countries for the Internet. Web accessibility in some countries is limited that would make setting up the Internet in another country difficult. Each country has policies and procedures that must be followed in order for use of the Internet to be used (W3C Web Accessibility initiative, 25 August 2006). This means that a company should understand the policies and procedures before they purchase their property in the country. Being online will be one of the m ost important tasks this business will have. Without the use of the Internet the business will be, blind so to speak from their sister locations, and this may pose a problem to the company. The long term effects of cultural and languages differences on a company’s business operations can be positive and negative for an organization depending on how that organization is prepared for that development. Organizations must understand the countries culture when expanding to that country. Different cultures have different customs that is acceptable and unacceptable in that country. The long-term effect of an organization moving into a country and conducting business not fully aware of those habits and customs in that country can result in very negative for that organization. Different nations have different customs that he or she is accustomed too. If an organization crosses those lines in the form of the employee, those employees will not work as effetely as he or she should. This happens because of an individual upset with the organization and spending more resources complaining about what had happen. This result for the organization will take time to resolve to make things work for the better. That organization must communicate with the employees and other members of the community what the goal is for the organization. If the goal is positive for both the organization and country than that business will result in a win-win solution for everyone involved. In an organizations standpoint it should be able to communicate effetely so that miscommunication cannot accrue. If an organization does have miscommunication, the organization must be able to correct that miscommunication as quickly as possible to save the organization from down time. Organizations can benefit from expanding globally if it is done correctly. The correct way to do this is to have research done on the country that the organization is looking to expand. This will ensure that the organization is successful in working with that organization. The long-term effect for doing business that must expand to stay competitive is positive for the organizations and expands employment for other people involved. Expansion is a necessity for organizations. With that necessity, the expansion should have the research needed to support effective communication within that organization. Ownership UOPX markets itself as an accredited institution that provides education at the highest level. It provides students an online library with resources that represent the integrity of the university and the product UOPX delivers to its students. This information and the content provided represent the outbound logistics and the sales and marketing value chain for University of Phoenix. The university packages this information to attract students to the benefits and value of the product. Accuracy, quality, and flow of this information (outbound logistics) will determine the success of this value chain and the impact on the entire system. If this value chain breaks down the synergy of the organization will be lost. The raw materials and operations value chains can be managed perfectly but if the logistics of the customers’ access to this information is flawed, UOPX will fail. More important, technology becomes a key support to this value chain because the content, accuracy, and accessibility of this information is a primary point of difference for UOPX. Leaders must have excellent communication with the technology team and logistics team to coordinate the product in a way that offers value to the student but not overwhelming him or her with complicated application to access the information. Accuracy and quality of the information will reflect the sales and service value chain. UOPX markets itself as an institution that affords students every benefit of a traditional brick and mortar university. With that statement UOPX must ensure that all information obtained from the students complies with privacy regulations and material found within the university library is credible. Communicate Change University of Phoenix is at the forefront of technology in an educational environment. The company is continually looking for the best technology to be used in the adult education field. To stay at the top as the largest private university the organization must be able to communicate internally with employees and externally with customers. Different resources reach out to different individuals. Apollo Group is the parent company of University of Phoenix. Within the walls of the company Apollo group uses several ways to communicate with employees about technology changes coming down the road. The organization uses both broadcast e-mail as well as individual e-mail to relay information on technology researched, beta tested, and progressed pertaining to the implementation plan. The organization uses an internal website and network to allow employees to learn more about different projects and give input to the project teams. Employees can access training materials for the new technology implemented or considered for implementation. Social Contract Social contract will meet these principles of social contract through actively contributing revenue earned through the successful implementation of new technology. This shows the benefit rather than just the revenue by exemplifying to the public that this company is in support and contributes to welfare of society and not just focused on maximizing profit. University of Phoenix’s annual report will highlight the progress of our social responsibility on many levels. Including furthering members of society education, minority help, donations to arts, and social welfare agencies that will improve many social conditions. Through implementing a well planned/organized technology, these standards of ethical issues will be met. Ethical issues concur with the science of human duty to one another. Giving social responsibility to society exemplifies an easy and unique decision for our future investors. â€Å"Primary functions, such as product research and development, production, and marketing; and support functions, such as human resources, public relations, and information systems† (Regan & O’Connor, 2002, p. 17) are extremely important primary functions involved in actively and directly involving the production and marketing for this product. The IT department expanded to other departments of the new technology will correlate a focus on organization-wide management to develop skills of knowledge management in training and development issues. Ownership Any organization has social responsibilities to the community and the employees. Technology plays a role in that responsibility. Not only does University of Phoenix use technology to service its customers but also to help the employees of Apollo group. The University of Phoenix uses secure technology programs to transmit information with the Department of Education and Direct Loans. The student’s social security number, birth date, contact information, and sometimes banking information must be secure. Personal information must be protected because of privacy rights set in place by the federal government. One of the largest reasons to protect this information is identity theft. This would be the biggest failure of social responsibility. Technology Technology is used to help employees as well. Apollo group employs people across the nation. Human resources to provide benefits and pay to all employees use technology. Paperwork for different types of leave is transmitted electronically. Changes in personal information are kept on the human resources website. The University of Phoenix uses technology to improve and support the well-being of the employees. Through the internal intranet system, the employees have access to resources to become healthier, physically, and mentally. Through the same HR site, employees can view paychecks, vacation, sick hours, change personal information, and complete training. Technology is continually being used to help employees. Many items have to consider when researching going global. In fact, the world is becoming a smaller place in terms of business. With all the new technology, it is easy for a business to be productive in other countries. E-mail, video teleconferencing, the Internet, and e-commerce are some of the methods used by businesses so that they can be in more than one place. Many rules apply that may make the transition difficult if not known. Possessing an IT manager is a must when going global because of the rules and regulations of other countries for the Internet. Web accessibility in some countries is limited that would make setting up the Internet in another country difficult. Each country has policies and procedures that must be followed in order for use of the Internet to be used (W3C Web Accessibility initiative, 25 August 2006). This means that a company should understand the policies and procedures before they purchase their property in the country. Being online will be one of the most important tasks this business will have. Without the use of the Internet the business will be, blind so to speak from their sister locations, and this may pose a problem to the company. The long term effects of cultural and languages differences on a company’s business operations can be positive and negative for an organization depending on how that organization is prepared for that development. Organizations must understand the countries culture when expanding to that country. Different cultures have different customs that is acceptable and unacceptable in that country. The long-term effect of an organization moving into a country and conducting business not fully aware of those habits and customs in that country can result in very negative for that organization. Different nations have different customs that he or she is accustomed too. If an organization crosses those lines in the form of the employee, those employees will not work as effetely as he or she should. This happens because of an individual upset with the organization and spending more resources complaining about what had happen. This result for the organization will take time to resolve to make things work for the better. That organization must communicate with the employees and other members of the community what the goal is for the organization. If the goal is positive for both the organization and country than that business will result in a win-win solution for everyone involved. In an organizations standpoint it should be able to communicate effetely so that miscommunication cannot accrue. If an organization does have miscommunication, the organization must be able to correct that miscommunication as quickly as possible to save the organization from down time. Organizations can benefit from expanding globally if it is done correctly. The correct way to do this is to have research done on the country that the organization is looking to expand. This will ensure that the organization is successful in working with that organization. The long-term effect for doing business that must expand to stay competitive is positive for the organizations and expands employment for other people involved. Expansion is a necessity for organizations. With that necessity, the expansion should have the research needed to support effective communication within that organization. To allow a company to grow, the expansion globally may need to take place. Whereas this would be an excellent feat to take on, there are technology issues that can occur in the process. It is best to prepare oneself for any technology issue that may arise. First, it is important to understand where the company plans to spread globally and if that country is capable of meeting the standard s required in the United States. One issue that may arise is some â€Å"countries lack the infrastructure to support such technology† (Encyclopedia of Business, p. 1). If this occurs, a solution may be establishing intermediate technology for the time being. Another problem could be security when business is conducted online. Other countries may not uphold the same privacy acts as The United States therefore customers could suffer because of this. One key issue would be the Internet and how quickly information can be communicated. Looking at University of Phoenix the online students would suffer in another country if they did not have comparable Internet to the United States. This would hinder their schooling, and this would not be something the university would want for the student. Another factor would be the time difference and tech support available for students who need it in other time zones. Hence, it is crucial to research and know the location thoroughly so these technology issues would not take place. Team C completed extensive research on University of Phoenix’s technology plan and current upgrades. UOPX has a business description of giving all individuals the chance to receive a degree to improve his or her marketability and improving his or her lively hood. Technology has an enormous impact on UOPX because a majority of students attends classes on-line. The university has a stringent policy on proper conduct of students and faculty. UOPX requires and expects all stakeholders to respect and treat all students and employees with proper etiquette. In addition, UOPX has students and instructors around the world. This requires UOPX to establish technology and support staff that is well versed in the technology that is used by all stakeholders. UOPX has consistently been on the for-front of technological advancement for on-line classes. The university has consistently sought out the best and brightest individuals in the technology field to stay ahead of all other on-line universities. Because of being on the for-front, UOPX has continued to set the standard with-in the for-profit universities. References Information Systems and Technology Articles. (2011, April). Wireless Infrastructure: Can our Current System Handle Bandwidth Demands. Retrieved from http://www.phonix.edu University of Phoenix. (2011). Introducing PhoenixConnect: The University of Phoenix Academic Social Network. Retrieved from http://www.phoenix.edu/colleges_divisions/business/articles/2011/01/introducing-phoenixconnect-the-university-of-phoenix-academic-social-network.html Regan, E., & O’Connor, B. (2002). End-User Information Systems: Implementing Individual and Work Group Technologies. [University of Phoenix Custom Edition e-Text]. : A Pearson Education Company. Retrieved from chap7,pg.6 , TEC401 website. Deggs, D. Grover, K. Kacirek, K. (Sep. 2010) EXPECTATIONS OF ADULT GRADUATE STUDENTS IN AN ONLINE DEGREE PROGRAM. College Student Journal, 01463934, Sep2010, Vol. 44, Issue 3 retrieved June 4, 2011 from EBSCOhost Bateman, T.S., & Snell, S.A. (2009). Management: Leading and Collaborating in a Competitive W orld. (8th ed.) McGraw-Hill. University of Phoenix, (2006-2011), retrieved on June 2, 2011 from http://www.phoenix.edu/ Change Management Learning Center. (1996-2011). An Overview of Change Management. Retrieved from http://www.change-managment.com/change-managment-overview.htm http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700088460/University-of-Phoenix-enrollment-drops-because-of-changes-to-enrollment-recruiting-practices.html NetMBA: Business Knowledge Center, Strategy. (2010). The Value Chain. Retrieved from http://www.netmba.com W3C Web Accessibility initiative. (25 August 2006). Policies Relating to Web Accessibility. Retrieved from http://www.w3.org/WAI/Policy Regan, E. A., & O’Connor, B. N. (2002). End-User Information Systems: Implementing Individual and Work Group Technologies (2nd ed.). Pearson, NY: Prentice-Hall.

MSc Development Finance

Furthering my knowledge in finance and economics is one of my goals. As a native of Brunei, a developing country, I would like to contribute to my country’s progress with the use of the knowledge and skills that I acquired during my undergraduate studies. Majoring in accounting and economics has provided me extensive knowledge of various economic principles and theories and their application in the business world. Although the University of Manchester has given me sufficient knowledge in the field that I have chosen, I believe that pursuing to study under this programme would provide me a broad yet focused knowledge in development finance and its practical application in the public sector. I chose to pursue this programme because of its international focus, group work, and emphasis on learning public finance, bank and non-bank financial institutions, international finance organizations, aid agencies and other finance-related areas of study that can help in understanding how the financial theories governing our country and the world economy work. The program is also designed to teach me financial inclusion and microfinance in relation to poverty reduction. My interest in development finance first sparked during my junior years. My wish to contribute to my country’s progress was further intensified by a course about economic policies of developing countries and their role in the international market. Working at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Development in Brunei under the Finance Department for summer internship last summer 2007 has also provided me first-hand experience and knowledge in international trade. I am confident that this university has the capacity to provide students with knowledge beyond the conventional financial educational program. The programme of University of Manchester also includes strengthening the analytical decision-making skills of students. It also offers wider academic opportunities and school resources that will deepen my expertise and broaden my perspectives. I am especially interested and looking forward to the overseas field visit which is a crucial part of the programme. Most of the countries visited are developing countries like Brunei which face similar economic situations. The programme also allows students to conduct research in government and non-government organizations and other universities in the U.K. This can not only broaden my knowledge and hone my skills in finance, but also enhance my socializing and communication skills. With hopes and persuasion in my mind, I aim to establish a career that can contribute to the further development of the financial situation in my county. One of the careers that I have in mind is a job in Brunei Investment Agency (BIA). As mentioned earlier, my country is a developing country. Although we are an oil-producing country, I believe that in terms of investment and contribution to the world economy, there is still much room for progress. Through this programme, I know that I would be able to obtain what is necessary to achieve my goal. Thus, I see myself successful in a career on this field and making Brunei a more developed and investment-focused country. Â  

The System of Electronic Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

The System of Electronic Business - Essay Example Whereas supply chain management is relatively straightforward to define, e-logistics inspires varying definitions. E-logistics can be defined to be the mechanism of automating logistics processes and providing an integrated, end-to-end fulfillment and supply chain management services to the players of logistics processes. Those logistics processes that are automated by e-logistics provide supply chain visibility and can be part of existing e-Commerce or Workflow systems in an enterprise (Zhang 2008). On the other hand, in a commercial manifestation, UPS presents its e-Logistics service as the hosting of a virtual logistics department for other companies that then present this capability as their own, but leave UPS to run and manage it (Levy 2008). These viewpoints can be considered as two halves making a whole in the light of the case study that we have selected: UPS, the company under consideration applies e-logistics in Zhang's sense to its own internal operation and offers e-logistics as in Levy's description to its business customers. With regard to these definitions, e-logistics is a part of supply chain management in general, but not an obligatory part. Supply chain management may or may not include such e-enablement. However, in this paper, our goal is to investigate the situation when supply chain management does use the Internet either wholly or partially and in particular what advantages or disadvantages are conferred by e-logistics. If the supply chain business process relating to e-logistics is most natural that of order fulfillment, other processes that complete the picture are customer relationship management, customer service management, and demand management. These processes involve all of the major departments of a typical company which is those of quality, logistics, marketing and sales, production, R&D, and finance (National Research Council 2000). A common theme in works on supply chain management is the competitive advantage to be gained from a fully integrated supply chain. Integrating into a single supply chain is hailed as the deciding factor for companies that will now succeed or fail (Handfield & Nicolas 1999).

Managerial accounting final project Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Managerial accounting final project - Coursework Example Required: 1. Prepare a correct analysis of the changes in volume on operating income. Prepare a tabulated set of income statement at levels 200,000; 250,000; and 300,000 yo-yo. Also show percentages of operating income in relation to sales. 2. Compare your tabulation with the manager’s tabulation. Why is the manager’s tabulation incorrect as the above? Answer1: Volume in Units 200,000 250,000 300,000 Sales @ $3 $600,000 $750,000 $950,000 Unit Variable Cost@ $1.40 $280,000 $350,000 $420,000 Contribution Margin $320,000 $400,000 $530,000 Fixed Costs* $150,000 $150,000 $150,000 Operating Income $170,000 $250,000 $380,000 Operating Income Margin (%) 28.33% 33.33% 40% *Fixed Costs Fixed Manufacturing Costs $125000 Fixed Selling & Distribution Costs $25000 Fixed Costs $150000 Answer 2 The manager used $2.00 full cost per unit to calculate the impact of changing sales volume over the operating income which is misleading. The effect of variable cost differs with the increase or decrease in sales volume which is best described and exposed in the contribution method. The operating income as calculated by the contribution method reveals the increase of operating profit at a different rate with respect to sales than the analysis created by the manager. As per the manager’s analysis, at 200,000 sales volume the operating profit to sales percentage rests at 33.33% whereas, our analysis reveal it to be at 28.33%. Hence, manager’s analysis shows an artificially better picture of income. On the other hand, operating income to sales ratio of 31.5% is misleading as it provides a deteriorated picture of the income/sales ratio. The actual operating income margin is 40% at 300,000 level of sales. Question 2: Chapter 6 Assume that XYZ company reports the following costs to make 17.5oz bottles for its juice cocktails: QYZ company Cost of making 17.5-ounce bottles Total Cost for 1,000,000 bottles Cost per Bottle Direct materials $80,000 $0.080 Direct labor 3 0,000 0.030 Variable factory overhead 60,000 0.060 Fixed factory overhead 85,000 0.085 Total Costs 255,000 $0.255 Another manufacturer offers to sell XYZ the bottles for $0.25. The capacity now used to make bottles will become idle if the company purchases the bottles. Further, one supervisor with a salary of $60,000, a fixed cost, would be eliminated if the bottles were purchased. Prepare schedule that compares the costs to make and buy the 17.5-ounce bottles. Should XYZ make or buy the bottles? Answer Description Make Buy Each bottle Total Each bottle Total Purchases Costs 0.25 250000 Direct Material 0.080 80000 Direct Labor 0.030 30000 VOH 0.060 60000 Fixed Factory OH 0.060 60000 Total Relevant Cost 0.23 230000 0.25 250000 Savings on Making 0.02 20000 Conclusion: The company should make to save $20,000 as the analysis

American Civil War Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

American Civil War - Assignment Example The southerners wanted to crop their land into the newly acquired states so that they could extend their cotton fields. Acquiring new land meant that these people would require more slaves thus making Texas and other states slave states. Northern states wanted the new states from Mexico to be free states. This motion was moved in congress but was always opposed by the southern states because they had a higher representation in the senate. David Wilmot, the congressman of Pennyslavania, introduced the Wilmot Proviso of 1846, which advocated for mexican acquired states from to be free from slavery. The Wilmot Proviso was raised in the house of representatives. Its main aim was to raise funds to support peace negotiations to end the Mexican American War. The Wilmot Proviso was also supporting a bill by President James Polk to raise 2 million dollars to end the war. The intention of the Wilmont Proviso was to prevent slavery being introduced in the new Mexican states. The Wilmont Proviso was passed to the senate for approval, but was never approved. Some parts concerning the Proviso were passed. The Free Soil Party was also against the introduction of slavery in Texas and other states acquired from Mexico. This party was strong in the New York city and was mainly supported by the former anti-slave members of the Democratic Party. The Free Soil Party, which lasted between 1848 and 1852, argued that free soil and free people contributed better to the growth of the economy. California sought to be recognized as a free state in 1849. This was faced by opposition especially from the southern states that advocated by slaves providing cheap labour for their farms and working long hours. The request was also controversial because gold had been discovered in California and there was a Gold Rush. Henry Clay drafted the Compromise of 1850 that admitted California as one of the free states, and other territories such as Nevada, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico would not have slave ry any more. Another development in the Compromise of 1850 was the solution to the Texas border problem. Additionally, in Columbia, the slave trade that was practised in the area was abolished, but slavery was still permitted. The Compromise of 1850 increased the number of free states, causing an imbalance between the states supporting slavery and free states. This contributed to the American Civil War. 2 The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 was created by the Senator of Illinois Stephen Douglas. This act, which involved two territories Kansas and Nebraska, allowed these territories to decide for themselves if they wanted to allow slavery in their land. This arrangement was against the Missouri Compromise of 1820 which did not allow slavery north of latitude 36 degrees 30’. Following the enactment of the Kansas-Nebraska Act, those supporting slavery and those against moved into the Kansas and Nebraska teritorries in order to affect the outcome of the elections. The first election since the passing of the Kansas-Nebraska Act was held. Those supporting pro-slavery won, but the election was nullified because of rigging. Other elections were held by the supporters of anti-slavery, but the rest refused to vote. This led to a war between the anti-slavery supporters and those supporting slavery. After the war, both parties established parallel governments within the territory and Kansas was not recognized as a state. In another election, the pro-slavery supporters won but again accused of cheating in the elections,

Comprehensive Study Of The Major Asset Classes Essay

Comprehensive Study Of The Major Asset Classes - Essay Example Before anyone even thinks about buying any stock thoughts need to include an investment strategy that fits your life, your personality and your risk absorption. Up front, what can you afford to lose? There are differing methods of trading stocks or any asset in the market. While some might consider it a game, when your money is on the line, it’s not a game. Before you begin its best to paper trade (trading on paper without actually investing any money or a mock scenario) for a while until you are consistently making money through whatever strategy you choose. When your actual money is on the line, you will be dealing with your own emotions of fear and greed. The following information delves into more detail of the procedure of buying any financial market asset, different types of stocks, equities and mutual funds. It also includes some of the advantages and disadvantages of the differing types. How to Proceed Trading can be done through a bank, a broker or online trading. Onli ne trading has become very popular because of its convenience. Any investment has to be backed by an account that contains monetary funds. It depends on the bank or brokerage firm as to what the minimum deposit will be for opening a new account. The amount usually ranges from $500 to $2000. However, if you prefer to use online trading as an intraday trader, you would need a minimum of $25,000. An intraday trader buys and sells stocks repeatedly during the day. You will need to fill out forms with the brokerage firm and make a deposit into an account opened with them. Most brokerage firms furnish their own software for trading online; however, there are independent companies that provide online trading software. When you buy you can choose a market or limit order. The market order is purchased at whatever is the current price. The limit order is placed at a price you choose. It’s especially helpful to shop around for brokers and banks because they all have their own set of rul es, and fees. Purchasing Stocks Exactly what is a stock? When you buy stock in any company, you actually own part of that company. If the company does well, so will your stock. If the company does poorly, so will your stock. A stock is not diversified, so this can be seen as a disadvantage. Placing money into one stock can limit your options. You can reduce your risk somewhat by investing in larger more solid companies. Stocks can be purchased anytime through your broker, bank, or online. Online is the most desirable way to purchase stocks because it is convenient, quick, and very accessible. One very favorable advantage to stocks is they are very liquid; meaning you can convert them to cash very easily by selling them anytime. The average person is normally not very good at picking excellent performing stocks. All stocks have ups and downs and it usually takes a professional or an experienced trader to recognize the fluctuations in certain stocks and sectors. The easiest way is to pick stocks that you like or products that you use and would like to own. A good starting point would be to pick from 10 to 15 on average. Examples could include whatever you like in the way of foods, clothing, etc. such as Gap or Abercrombie. Just because it’s a popular brand does not mean the stock will do well. A deeper probe into the history of the stock, the company, and the fluctuations will

Initial public offerings corporate finance 501 case assign 1 Essay

Initial public offerings corporate finance 501 case assign 1 - Essay Example This is the recommended option for the company as the online auction enables more bidders to participate and will also allow the investors to gain the joy and satisfaction of wining. The online auction has been defined as, ‘Online auctioning is the process whereby users log onto a website and bid for items or services posted on this website by other users. The way online auctioning works is similar to normal auctioning outside the cyber world, but has allowed the auction to reach a much greater audience’ (Newton). The option is very flexible and it allows a vast number of people to participate in the auction. There will be lower levels of time and there will also be higher levels of flexibility for the investors to invest from any part of the world. Skype will most likely attract customers which include large mutual funds, technical investors, professional investors, foreign investors, large organizations and institutions and the pension managers. The Large mutual funds and the pension managers are mostly likely to be highly attracted to this online auction due to the simple fact that there will be no quota on the amount of shares that they can buy. In terms of the technical investors there will be a sense of interest in the Skype stock as the prices will be low and these will the way to target this group of people. Professional investors will seek to bid close to the lowest prices and make a major investment in the company. Large investors will seek to get large chunks of the shares and since there are not geographical boundaries, foreign investors will also like to make some purchases. In short the dominance of large institutional investors or the favorite investors of underwriters will be interested in the stock and will be aim at investing as much as possible as it will be very beneficial and fruitful in the long run (Salkind). Each of the above mentioned have a certain amount of direct interest in the

EBays Globalization Strategy Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

EBays Globalization Strategy - Case Study Example The researcher states that the current economic downfall and the uncooperative financial trends of the dollar are other major factors that have worsened the existing scenario. eBay has now decided to revamp the entire website and measures to provide buyers more protections, sellers with loyalty programs are on the anvil. The core competency of eBay is its online auctions. The online auction marketplace model was the main factor that spelled success for eBay over the years. As the company does not think and act like a retailer, their initial strategy of not dealing in any way with the fixed-price market suited their core competency to a very great extent. Now, with its foray into this unvisited and untapped segment of the market, eBay is facing the dire consequences of not sticking to its original plan. This year eBay reported a revenue decline of around 16%, which it’s the first of its kind for this e-commerce company. An analyst at New York-based Sanford C. Bernstein, Lindsay says â€Å"Its a sign that eBay hasn't been able to buck the trend of poor consumer turnout during the holiday season. Unless they can get the core marketplaces business to turn around, and a fair bit of that will depend on the economy, then they're going to have to look at some more strategic measures.† The business model of eBay initially was to mainly help people trade practically anything on earth and conduct commerce through the Internet on a global basis. â€Å"A weakness in consumer spending and strength in the U. S dollar has reduced the value of overseas sales.† EBay’s main aim earlier was to make the process of online buying and selling fun using the system of the auction. Their main focus was using umpteen entrepreneurial strategies and business skills to create smart and efficient tools for the website and use a winning strategy to become the most popular and well-known e-commerce company and the best Internet retailer of all time.

Commercial Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico Research Paper

Commercial Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico - Research Paper Example The mainland shore of the Gulf is shared by the United States and Mexico and it covers more than 4000 miles from Cabo Catoche in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico to Florida Keys the US (GMP, 2011). According to GMA (2008, p5), the Gulf of Mexico covers an estimated area of about 600,000 square miles. Due to its unique location, the Gulf is rich in diverse natural resources that play a critical role in defining the economic, environmental, political and social dimensions in the region. According to GMA(2008, p2), the gulf offers aquatic resources that include recreation, navigation, commercial fishing, oil and natural gas in addition to rich habitats for diverse marine life. This paper investigates the problems associated with commercial fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and their impacts on the American culture. According to GMA(2008, p7), the five US states bordering the Gulf of Mexico have a total gross domestic product of over $2.2 trillion and much of the economic activities depend on the natural resources from the gulf. The economic contribution of the Gulf of Mexico to the United States is significant. ... These ports provide the country with a good infrastructural network of enhancing international trade. The population growth in the gulf region has been increasing, recording 103% growth from 1970 to 2008 (GMA, 2008, p 11). The region is highly attractive to job seekers and retirees because of the availability of many opportunities and favorable climatic conditions. By 2015, Polunin (2008, p 37), predicts population increase of 10 % in the gulf region compared with an average of 7% in total population of the United States. The rapid population growth in the region has resulted to a vibrant construction industry to cater for the housing needs. According to GMA (2008, p 11), 30 percent of the leading counties in building residential houses are located in the gulf coast region. The Gulf of Mexico is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes but residential developments are on the increase. In addition to residential buildings, construction of seasonal homes is also gaining prominence in the gulf region. This is attributed to the scenic attractions that draw people from all over the country for vacations (GMP, 2011). The Gulf of Mexico is one of the largest water bodies in the world and it consists of a wide marine diversity ranging from shrimps to unexploited corals in the deep horizons of the water. Due to the wide ecological diversity of the region, many environmental activities have been established in the Gulf of Mexico. They include national parks, wildlife preservation regions and wetlands. According to GMA (2008, p13), half of all the wetlands in United States are located in the coastal areas in the gulf. The wetlands provide suitable habitats for a wide variety of biological resources including sea turtles, fisheries, nesting waterfowl in

Athanasius Biography Essay Example for Free

Athanasius Biography Essay Athanasius is counted as one of the four great doctors of the church in the Roman Catholic church as well as one of the great doctors of the church in Eastern Orthodoxy where he is also labeled the Father of Orthodoxy. He is also celebrated by many Protestant who label him as Father of the Canon, Athanasius is venerated as Christian saint whose feast day is May 2 in western community. May 5 is the Coptic orthodox church and January 18 is the other Eastern orthodox churches. St. Athanasius was born in the city of Alexandria or possibly the nearby Nile delta town of Damanhur, California 296-298. It is speculated that his parents were wealthy enough to afford giving him an esteemed secular learning. He came from a Christian family despite accounts to the contrary as in his writings, he tells more than once of an aunt. who taught him some principles of the Christian faith, and a father who did the same as well as mentioning (once), his mother doing the same. He has a Christian brother and later in his life is one of his exiles, he hid in his father’s tomb in what appears to be describe as a Christian cemetery.He knew Greeks and he admits to not knowing Hebrew. The old testament he quotes frequently came from the Septuagint Greek translation his knowledge of the old testament is limited to the Septuagint. He was able to write a letter in exile with no access to a copy of the scriptures and quote from a memory verse in the old testament. The combination of scriptural study and a Greek learning was characteristic of the famous Alexandrian school of element, origin Dionysius and Theognostus. It was from St. Alexander of Alexandria.Bishop of Alexandria 312-328 himself an Origenist that St. Athanasius received his main instruction. His earliest work against heathens – on the Incarnation, bears traces of origenist, Alexandrian thought but in an orthodox way. The Alexandria of his boyhood was an epitome, intellectually, morally and politically of the ethnically diverse Greco Roman World. St. Athanasius seems to have been brought early in life under the immediate supervision of the ecclesiastical authorities of his native city.He was ordained deacon by the contemporary patriarch Alexandria. In 319-325, he served as a Alexander’s secretary at the first council of Nicaea, already recognized theologian and ascetic. He was the devious choice to replace alexander as the Patriarch of Alexandria on the latter’s dealth in 328. Despite the opposition of the followers of the Arius and Meletius of Lycopolis. Athanasius spent the first five years of his patriarchate visiting the churches of his territory which at that time included all of Egypt and Libya. During this period he established contacts with the hermits and monks of the dessert including Pachomius. Athanasius became occupied with the disputes with Byzantine Empire and Arians which occupy much of his life. Athanasius first problem lay with the meletians who had failed to abide by the terms of the decision made at the first council of Nicaea which had hoped to reunite them with the church. Athanasius himself was accused of mistreating Arians and the followers of Meletius of Lycopolis. On the death of Emperor Constantine I, Athanasius was allowed to return to his see of Alexandria shortly after Constantine son. The new Roman Emperor Constantius II renewed the order for Athanasius banishment in 338. Athanasius went to Rome where he was under the protection of constans, the Emperor of the West. Pope Julius wrote the supporters of Arius strongly urging the rein-statement of Athanasius but the effort proved to be in vain.He called a synod in Rome in the year 341 to address the matter and at that meeting, Athanasius found to be innocent of all the charges raised against him. Julius also called the council of sardica in 343. This council confirmed the decision of the earlier Roman synod and clearly indicated that the participants saw St. Athanasius as the lawful patriarch of Alexandria.Athanasius to return to Alexandria, Athanasius return was welcomed by majority of the people of Egypt who had come to view him as a National Hero. During the time Athanasius assembled several documents relating to his exiles and returns from Exile in the Apology against the Arians, however upon constans dealth a civil was broke which left constantius as sole Emperor, renewing his previous policies favoring the Arians that banished Athanasius from Alexandria again. Athanasius left for upper Egypt, where he stayed in several monasteries and other houses. He computed his work Four Orations against the Arians and depended his recent conduct in the apology to Constantius and Apology for his flight. Athanasius received about the persecution of Non Arians by the New Arians, Bishop George of Laodicea prompted Athanasius to write his more Emotional History of the Arians in which he describe Constantius as precursor of the anti-Christ. Athanasius work include his two part against the Heathen. The Incarnation of the word of God. They contribute the first classic work of developed orthodox Theology. In the first part, Athanasius attacks several pagan practices and beliefs. The second part presents teaching on the redemption, Also in these books put forward the belief that the Son of God, the eternal word through whom God created the world entered that world in human form to lead men back into the harmony from which they had earlier fall men. His other important works include his letters to Serapion which dealth with the divinity of the Holy Spirit and his classic life of Saint Anthony which was translated into several languages and played an important role in the spreading of the ascetic ideal in Eastern and Western Christianity. He also wrote several works of Biblical Exegesis primarily of volumes in the old testament which are preserved in excerpts regarding the Book of Genesis, The Song of Solomon and Psalms. His works as ascetic include the aforementioned life of Saint Anthony as well as a discourse on virginity, a short work on love and self –control and a treatise on sickness and health which is only preserved in fragments. Athanasius letters include one letter concerning the decrees of the council of Nicaea (De Decretis) which is an account of the preceding’s of that council and another letter in year 367 which was the first known listings of the New Testament. Athanaius anticipates future controversies in defense of the humanity of Christ. Athanasius was not a speculative Theologian as he stated in his first letters to Serapion he held unto the tradition teaching and faith proclaimed by the apostles and guarded by the Father’s. He held that not only was the Son of God consubstantial with the father but so was the Holy Spirit which had a great deal of influenced in the development of latter doctrines regarding the trinity Veneration. Arian Controversy In about 319 when Athanasius was a deacon a presbyter named Arius came into direct conflict with Alexander of Alexandria. It appears that Arius reproached Alexander for what he felt misguided or heretical teachings being taught by the bishop. Arius Theological views appear to have been firmly rooted in Alexandrian Christianity and his Christological views were certainly not radical at all. He embraced a sub ordinationist Christology that God did not have a beginning but the logos did heavily influenced by Alexandrian thinkers like origen which was a common Christological view in Alexandria at that time. Support for Arius from powerful bishops like Elisebios of Caesaria and Eusebio’s of Nicomedia, further illustrates how Arius sub ordinationist Christology was shared by other Christians in the Empire. Arius was subsequent by excommunicated by alexander and he would begin to visit the support of many bishops who agreed with his position. Athanasius succeeded Alexander as bishop of Alexandria as a result rises and falls of Arianism ‘s influence after the first council of nicae, emperor Constantine banished from alexandrea, but he was restored after the death of Constantine I. Athanasius was restored on at least five separate occasions, perhaps as many as seven, this gave rise to the expression Athanasius contramundun or Athanasius against the world. he spent his final years repairing all the damage done during the earlier years of violence, dissent and exile and returning to his writing and preaching undisturbed on May 373 having consecrated peter II . one of his presbyters as his successor . Athanasius died quietly in his home. Quotes from St. Athanasius He said: â€Å"Jesus that I know as my redeemer cannot be less than God. at the council of nicae Both from the confession of the evil spirits and from the daily witnesses of his works. It is manifest them and let none presume to doubt it that its savior has raised his own body and that he is very Son of God having his being God as from a Father, whose word and wisdom and whose power He is. He it is who in these latter days assumed a body for the salvation of us all. and thought the world concerning the Father, He it is who destroyed death and freely graced us all with incorruption through the promise of the resurrection, having raised His own body as its first fruits and displayed it by the sign of the cross as the monument to his victory over death and its corruption. New Testament canon St. Athanasius is also the first person to identify the same 27 books of the new testament that are in use today , up until then various similar list of works to be read in churches were in use A canon of New testament book is his Easter letter from Alexandria written in 367 usually referred to as his 39th Festal letter, A Synod in hippo in 393 repeated Athanasius and Damascus New testament list( without the Epistles to the Hebrews and a synod in cartage in 397 repeated Athanasius and Damascus complete new testament list.

Moving through levels of care in health

Moving through levels of care in health A Health system can be defined as a group of people whose primary focus is to improve the health or wellbeing of others (WHO, 2005). These entities could include organizations such as hospitals and other health care services that respond to the needs of the population. This essay will focus on the three levels of care: Primary, Secondary and Tertiary and explore how patients move through these three levels of health care in New Zealand (NZ), the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US). The similarities and differences between these systems will be highlighted and the accessibility of these providers will be discussed. There are three different levels of care in terms of Health Systems, each addressing the necessities of the patient and are organized into Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Care (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). Primary care is usually the first point of contact for many individuals and focuses on ambulatory care such as general practitioners (GP’s), midwives and pharmacists. Healthcare at this level tends to be family orientated and situated around communities, treating ordinary, every day health problems (Alberta Physician Link, n.d.). The Secondary care level usually involves much more specialized services and is generally hospital based; examples include specialized physicians like pediatrics and obstetrics (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). Tertiary care typically involves specialist physicians such as cardiac surgeons and immunologists. Care at this level comprises of the treatment of uncommon and complicated diseases (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). The margin between secondary an d tertiary health care is difficult to distinguish between as enhancements in modern day technology means that surgeries that are associated with tertiary level is being introduced to local hospitals (French, Old, Healy, 2001). Patient flow through the three levels of Primary, Secondary and Tertiary care differs from country to country and is dependent on the country’s focus and organization. Each country operates differently in order to respond to the needs of the population. Patient flow in most cases is a stepwise process and enables efficiency in Health care systems. In New Zealand, individuals who have health problems will go directly to their GP as their first contact (French et al., 2001). The reason for this is, unless it’s an accidental and emergency situation, New Zealanders’ can only gain access to secondary and tertiary services by referrals from their GP’s. GP’s can be described as ‘gate keepers’ who hold the key to higher levels of health care (French et al., 2001). Only by obtaining this key – in this case a referral, will patients in NZ be able to gain access to secondary and tertiary care. The same situation also applies to private health sectors (French et al., 2001). If further diagnosis is required after seeing the GP, the patient will be referred to a specialist at a public hospital who will be the sole decision maker in deciding the urgency of the situation. If specialized assistance is required, the patient and their GP will be notified within ten days and will have an appointment within six months (Cumming et al., 2013). GP’s taking on the role as gate keepers will lead to the development of a strong patient-caregiver relationship, which eventually leads to better health outcomes (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). In the United Kingdom, the British National Health Service (NHS) provides health care. The GPs here also take on the role of gatekeepers and apart from treating every day problems; they also provide prevention services such as immunization to prevent diseases and vaccinations (Boyle, 2011). Similar to New Zealand, patients are unable to gain access to secondary services unless they have a referral from their general practitioners (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). This system differs from New Zealand in that a referral from a GP to access health care at the tertiary level is quite unusual and is usually attained by a referral from the secondary care level (Wheeler Grice, 2000). The exceptions to these regulations are accidental and emergency situations, for example, a trip to the Accidental and emergency department (AE) would not require a referral. The US health system focuses more on care at the tertiary level. This health system differs from NZ and UK in that patients are able to access secondary and tertiary levels of care without a referral (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). In the US, patient flow is not as efficient and it has become customary for individuals to approach any doctor of their choice depending on their health problems (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). The numerous roles specialists and doctors have to undertake accentuate the huge gap in primary care. In NZ and the UK where physicians specialize in providing health care at the secondary level, tertiary physicians in the US have to provide health care at both the primary and secondary level in order to make up for the lack of primary care providers (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). Access to health care is how obtainable medical care is. There are numerous barriers to access and these include factors such as cost, transport and locations of hospitals relative to where individuals live. Each country differs in the way they attack certain barriers. The US health system focuses more on the concept of the dispersed model in terms of organization and is more orientated towards tertiary care (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). Health insurance is a major factor that influences individual’s access to healthcare. Individuals in the US have employers who aid in the costs of health insurance. However, individuals who have employers that do not cover health insurance, have to figure out their own way to access health care (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). More often than not, it is these individuals who do not fit the criteria for public health insurance and do not have the means to obtain private health insurance due to expensive premiums (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). The number of uninsured people has been increasing and countless employers have responded to the ever-growing costs of health insurance by no longer providing it for their employees. Health insurance in the US poses as the biggest financial barrier towards access and Bode nheimer and Grumbach accentuates this point. Their findings reveal that those who are not insured receive less care, resulting in bad health consequences. The two main public health insurance companies in the US are Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid’s target audience is for citizens aged 65+ and in low-income families while Medicare’s targets disabled individuals and residents who are 65+, under 65 year olds are funded by private insurance (The Commonwealth Fund, 2012). However, many physicians do not accept people with Medicaid insurance as this means they receive less payment. Compared to the individuals who are uninsured, those who are insured with Medicaid have a much more stable source of health care and access to other services. However, in contrast to the others who are privately insured, they are more likely to have difficulties when pursuing medical care and other prescriptions (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). Numerous residents are underinsured and uninsured (The Commonwealth Fund, 2012) resulting in less people obtaining access to medical care. People are entitled to refer themselves to any level of health care depending on their situation, resulting in a large out of pocket fee if they were uninsured. However, access to health care is incredibly beneficial for the well off individuals who are able to afford private insurance. The US health system primary focus on the tertiary level impacts access as it allows entry into any level of care depending on the patient’s choice and this is incredibly advantageous for those who are well off, but poses as a disadvantage for the poor and those who cannot afford health insurance. In NZ, the health system focuses more on the regionalized model in terms of organization and is orientated towards primary health care. The Government along with the District Health Boards (DHB) and Primary Healthcare Organizations (PHO) plays a huge role in delivering health care to individuals in NZ (Gauld, 2012). There are two types of PHOs established, interim and access (Malcolm, 2004). Access PHOs subsidies 60-70% of GP costs for those in disadvantaged areas, whereas Interim PHOs subsidies 30-40% of GP costs for those who are in less disadvantaged areas (Malcolm, 2004). This will enable those who live in underprivileged areas to gain access to health care, without worrying about costs. Most hospital fees are free of charge with some additional expenses depending on different situations (Cumming et al., 2013), the government also subsidizes visits to the GP. This means that those who struggle financially will be more likely to access primary health care, enabling better health o utcomes, especially because a referral is needed in order to access secondary and tertiary levels of care. Individuals are also able to obtain private health insurance, allowing them to receive a private appointment with a surgical consultant before individuals who are noninsured, resulting in a reduction in wait times for surgery (Cumming et al., 2013). However, there could be a limit in choices of private providers as they are mainly situated in the main centers, limiting access for those in rural areas (Cumming et al., 2013). Large distances and small numbers of care providers make it difficult for populations in rural areas in NZ to access health care (Cumming et al., 2013). This poses as a significant barrier that limits access as those who live a great distance away have a limited amount of options in terms of health care. The distribution of health care services and physicians in rural areas is smaller as this life style is undesirable, reducing rural populations’ acce ss to health care (Cumming et al., 2013). Access in NZ is beneficial as hospitals are situated in good geographic locations as studies reveal that 90% of individuals are able to reach a district hospital within an hour (Cumming et al., 2013). NZ’s focus on the primary health care level impacts access as it allows individuals whom require specialized care to gain access by referral from a GP. Compared to the US, access to health care in NZ is favorable for those who live in good geographical locations but poses as a disadvantage for those in rural areas. In the UK, the health system is similar to NZ in that its health system is structured like the regionalized Dawson model and orientated towards primary health care (Bodenheimer Grumbach, 2009). The British National Health Service (NHS) provides primary care and hospital services (Boyle, 2011). Most primary health care is free and is covered by the NHS, although there are some out of pocket payments that are not covered (Boyle, 2011). Free primary health care would maximize access, as those who struggle financially will still be able to seek treatment without concerns of payment. Boyle’s research also reveals that there has been many unnecessary trips to the AE were not considered as crucial, possible reasoning for this could be due to their inability to obtain primary health care. Waiting times in the UK poses as a barricade to health care, with some patients waiting up to 18 months for surgeries, however, the average waiting time has now been reduced to 18 weeks (Boyle, 2011 ). Long waiting times reduces access which means that less people will be able to receive the care that they need in the time that they require it. These wait times could’ve instigated numerous avoidable AE trips that could’ve been solved by the GPs. The UK is quite successful in terms of access as it has many after hour services including AE, NHS Direct and after hour GP services (Boyle, 2011). These services will maximize access to health care, as more people will be able to obtain the care they need in the time that they require it. The structure of the UK’s health system primarily focuses on the primary level, its impact on access just like NZ, enables entry into higher levels of health care through a referral from a GP. Access in the UK is beneficial to all residents due to the free primary health care being provided along with after hour services. No health system is perfect. Every health system has certain flaws that could be improved. However, all health systems have something common, they all have a goal to provide care for those in need.

Essay --

Linguistic profiling is the auditory form of racial discrimination by making judgment solely based on the way a person speaks and sounds. This type of racial discrimination has been detected in regards to housing, job opportunities and the criminal law. The effects of linguistic profiling is detrimental to individuals who are perceived as having an undesirable accent. These perceptions often lead to stereotypical misconceptions that society has created or attached to a certain race group. Dr. John Baugh, a professor of linguistics from Stanford University of California, was the inventor of this term. He conducted an experiment to examine the reaction of Americans to different accents. He calls properties that are advertised for rent and uses different accents. He uses an African American accent, a Latino accent and finally a neutral American accent. During these calls there was no mention of job history, qualifications, credit scores or educational background. His findings concluded that the minority dialects inquiries were often disregarded particularly in the affluent communities. Many times the researchers determined that those with the minority accent were often told by the property managers that there were no Ladesh 2 vacancies, but openings were available to those who spoke in a Standard English accent. â€Å"Those who sound white get the appointment,† Baugh says. â€Å"When challenged in lawsuits, many businesses deny that they can determine race or ethnicity over the phone. However, Baugh’s ongoing study shows that over the phone many Americans are able to accurately guess the age, race, sex, ethnicity, region of heritage and other social demographics based on a few sentences, even just a hello.† (†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.) Baugh ... ... confused and even shocked. That is when John realized that when he spoke to them on the phone he used his professional voice and often he was criticized for â€Å"sounding white†. That’s when he made the discovery that they were shocked because they expected him to be white. In fact, four agents told him the properties were no longer available. This whole idea of linguistic profiling encompasses steering, redlining, and overall racial discrimination towards individuals based on their personal characteristics. The assumptions and preconceived notions, the stereotypical associations are what is keeping racism alive. The way Ladesh 7 in which we talk shouldn’t be a negative, but in fact should be embraced by our cultural differences. The content of our words can be debated and questioned, but the way we sound when we speak these words should not.

The Market Orientation of Coca-Cola Essay -- Business Management Studi

The Market Orientation of Coca-Cola I had researched the information by contacting the Coca-Cola's customer service help-line for an information pack and by contacting The Coca-Cola Company's Industry and Consumer Affair's officer (Alneka Warren) by email. I have also visited the Business library for further information relating to Coca-Cola and used various textbooks and various web sites from the internet. The two marketing orientations are: 1. Product orientation 2. Market orientation Product orientation This can be defined as "An approach to business which places the main focus of attention upon the production process and the product itself" (Needham & Dransfield 1995). Market orientation Market orientation is defined by Ian Chambers as "A market orientated business is one which continually identifies, reviews and analyses consumer's needs." Market orientation is reflected on the Coca-Cola Company's mission statement: "Consumer demand drives everything we do." Another brief from their mission statement includes "We will serve consumers a broad selection of the nonalcoholic ready-to-drink beverages they want to drink throughout the day." Coca-Coca has an "action orientation", instead of waiting for change to happen it is at the leading edge, driving action forward. Findings A market orientated organisation like Coca-Cola would: ? Know what its customers, consumer, client needs. As they know people like Coca-Cola and want it available to them. ? Understand ...

Beyond Free Will in Mary Shelleys Frankenstein Essay -- Frankenstein

Beyond Free Will in Shelly’s Frankenstein  Ã‚   One of the greatest gifts God has given to man is free will.   Free will is the ability to choose our own life’s path, to make decisions, and to suffer our own consequences. God has intended free will to allow us to live our own life by the rules we choose.   However, does free will reach a certain point as which to not crossover?   Man has always envied God, and has always tried to become god-like.   Does this ambition compromise our free will?   In Mary Shelly’s classic novel Frankenstein, Viktor Frankenstein’s tries to bring the dead back to life, and he is successful in animating a creation of his own.   The consequences of his ambition compromised his free will and destroyed his life.   Viktor Frankenstein reached the point of free will which man is not intended to cross over.   Viktor Frankenstein is a fool for trying to play God.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Free will was a gift granted to man right from the start of history.   In the story of Genesis, free will granted by God allowed Adam and Eve to eat from any tree in the garden, including the tree of knowledge.   However, God did set a rule.   â€Å"The Lord God commanded the man, â€Å"You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.†1  Ã‚   Now, in this story, man is tricked by the serpent, representing the devil, and eats from the tree of knowledge.   He does not die in a sense, but is cast out of paradise and is forced to work off the land for the remainder of his now mortal life.   In a letter from Paul to the Galatians, Paul writes, â€Å"You, my brothers, were called to be free.   But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature.†2  Ã‚   In thes... ...†9  Ã‚   Giving life is God’s job, and any man who tries to become god-like in this sense will surely suffer the consequences of his actions according to Mary Shelly.   I completely agree, and I will conclude with a retrospective quote from Viktor Frankenstein.   â€Å"Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow.†10 1. Genesis 2: 16-17   (NIV) 2. Galatians 5: 13a   (NIV) 3. Shelly, Mary.   Frankenstein, Norton Critical Edition, p. 30 4. Shelly, p. 32 5. Shelly, p. 49 6. Shelly, p. 115 7. Shelly, p. 116 8. Shelly, p. 137 9. Luke 7: 14-15   (NIV) 10. Shelly, p. 31 Works Cited: Shelly, Mary. Frankenstein. Quality Paperback Book Club, New York. 1994. Beyond Free Will in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein Essay -- Frankenstein Beyond Free Will in Shelly’s Frankenstein  Ã‚   One of the greatest gifts God has given to man is free will.   Free will is the ability to choose our own life’s path, to make decisions, and to suffer our own consequences. God has intended free will to allow us to live our own life by the rules we choose.   However, does free will reach a certain point as which to not crossover?   Man has always envied God, and has always tried to become god-like.   Does this ambition compromise our free will?   In Mary Shelly’s classic novel Frankenstein, Viktor Frankenstein’s tries to bring the dead back to life, and he is successful in animating a creation of his own.   The consequences of his ambition compromised his free will and destroyed his life.   Viktor Frankenstein reached the point of free will which man is not intended to cross over.   Viktor Frankenstein is a fool for trying to play God.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Free will was a gift granted to man right from the start of history.   In the story of Genesis, free will granted by God allowed Adam and Eve to eat from any tree in the garden, including the tree of knowledge.   However, God did set a rule.   â€Å"The Lord God commanded the man, â€Å"You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die.†1  Ã‚   Now, in this story, man is tricked by the serpent, representing the devil, and eats from the tree of knowledge.   He does not die in a sense, but is cast out of paradise and is forced to work off the land for the remainder of his now mortal life.   In a letter from Paul to the Galatians, Paul writes, â€Å"You, my brothers, were called to be free.   But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature.†2  Ã‚   In thes... ...†9  Ã‚   Giving life is God’s job, and any man who tries to become god-like in this sense will surely suffer the consequences of his actions according to Mary Shelly.   I completely agree, and I will conclude with a retrospective quote from Viktor Frankenstein.   â€Å"Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow.†10 1. Genesis 2: 16-17   (NIV) 2. Galatians 5: 13a   (NIV) 3. Shelly, Mary.   Frankenstein, Norton Critical Edition, p. 30 4. Shelly, p. 32 5. Shelly, p. 49 6. Shelly, p. 115 7. Shelly, p. 116 8. Shelly, p. 137 9. Luke 7: 14-15   (NIV) 10. Shelly, p. 31 Works Cited: Shelly, Mary. Frankenstein. Quality Paperback Book Club, New York. 1994.