Ancient chinese civilization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ancient chinese civilization - Essay Example Ancient China had given the world a lot of useful inventions too, such as the use of paper, the introduction of currency and coinage, its discovery of gunpowder, a cultural heritage like the Great Wall of China built by the emperor Shih Huang Ti whose fairly-recent discovery of his impressive funerary arrangements in a big burial compound containing an impressive array of a terra-cotta army consisting of an 8,000+ life-sized warriors, 400 horses and 100 chariots had astounded archaeologists and historians alike, and the first use of a bureaucracy in the form of civil service to administer an empire. It is said Shih Huang Ti searched for an elixir of youth to attain immortality but failed. The main concern of Confucius was to attain social order and political stability. This is because the period in which he lived was marked by chaos and constant warfare among the various states and people were displaced and inconvenienced as innocent victims of ambitions of various warlords. The key to a peaceful existence, according to the analysis of Confucius, was a return to the virtues of humanity and benevolence in social relations by reciprocity. Confucius asserted that the younger generations must profess filial obedience as a form of duty, one that is forced or emphasized on them as dutiful sons and daughters, because children brought up this way will also end up as benevolent citizens when they turn into adulthood. This is what Confucius meant when he said, â€Å"a young mans duty is to be filial to his parents at home, and respectful to his elders abroad, to be circumspect and truthful . . .† [I:6] because young people who exercise filial piety also are expected to care for their parents when these parents grow old. Filial piety and benevolence translate into kindness for parents and all old people, caring for them always and sensitive to their needs, while benevolence in the larger social sphere will reduce

The Importance of Early Childhood Education in the Development of Jamaican Children Essay Example for Free

The Importance of Early Childhood Education in the Development of Jamaican Children Essay As parents of young children, we often ponder which Early Childhood Program to enroll our children in. At one point in time they were non-existent. As early childhood educators emerged, programs were created. Interestingly, the Montessori approach is a specialized method created by Maria Montessori. The Montessori Method; which is widely used today was created with the focus of children learning from their environment (Morrison, 2009). Montessori’s are not aimed at talented and gifted children; this method is expressed in public and private school settings in conjunction with children attending up to age 18. In addition, Montessori serves the needs of children of all levels of mental and physical abilities (Stephenson, 2011). In 1870, Maria Montessori, the first Italian woman to secure a medical degree (Stephenson, 2011). With her degree she entered the fields of psychiatry, education and anthropology. She had a passion for young minds. She believed that children educate themselves. Montessori became a physician in 1896, attending the University of Rome psychiatric clinic. During her tenure, Dr. Montessori developed an enthusiasm for the study of children with special needs; where she also spoke on their behalf. Twenty-six years later, Maria relocated to San Lorenzo, Rome to study children without disabilities. There she observed fifty children which resulted in success. This success was recognized and spread all over, attracting travelers from all over to this remarkable case study. An in-depth explanation of what a Montessori truly is, Stephenson (2011) clearly states: A Montessori can be defined as a revolutionary method of observing and supporting the natural development of children. Montessori educational practice helps children develop creativity, problem solving,  critical thinking and time-management skills to contribute to society and the environment, and to become fulfilled persons in their particular time and place on Earth. The basis of Montessori practice in the classroom is mixed age group (3 ages- 6 ages in one class), individual choice of research and work, and interrupted concentration. Group lesson are seldom found in a Montessori classroom, but learning abounds. Since Montessori’s death, educators all over continue to implement and notice this method has worked all over the world with all kinds of children (wealthy, poor, gifted, normal, learning disabled, etc.) and environments (from slums, to elegant schools, etc. ). Maria agreed that when physical, mental, spiritual and emotional needs are met, children glow with excitement and a drive to play and work with enthusiasm, to learn, and to create. In conjunction, children exude a desire to teach, help and care for others and for their environment (Stephenson, 2011). During her lectures and travels, Maria Montessori was nominated twice for the Nobel Peace Prize. In addition to the explanation of a Montessori, the following is the Montessori Method. This method meticulously exemplifies how Montessori educators implement the method in various programs across the country. There are five basic principle associated with the Montessori Method. They are: Respect for the child, The Absorbent child, Sensitive periods, The Prepared environment and Auto-education. Respect for the children occurs when educators assist children with new projects, allowing them to learn for themselves. Giving the child room to explore their boundaries flourishes abilities for positive self- esteem (Morrison, 2009). Montessori also believed having respect for the child is a key element. She said (Morrison, 2009), As a rule, however we do not respect children. We try to force them to follow us without regard to their special needs. We are overwhelming with them, and above all, rude; and then we expect them to be submissive and well-behaved, knowing all the time how strong is their instinct of imitation and how touching their faith in and admiration of us. They will imitate us in any case. Let us treat them, therefore, with all the kindness which we would wish to help to develop in them. When it comes to a child’s mind; it can be described as a sponge. Their young minds continuously â€Å"absorb† information. Unintentionally, children cannot help but learn. In their own environments and in shared environments. The Absorbent mind refers to the idea that the minds of young children are receptive to and capable learning (Morrison, 2009). From birth to age six, these are the most important years of the absorbent mind. Shortridge (2003), compiled an essay about the absorbent mind in which Montessori states that the child learns by unconsciously taking in everything around him and actually constructs himself. Using his senses, he incarnates, or creates himself by absorbing his environment through his very act of living. Morrison (2009) adds, â€Å"What they learn depends greatly on their teachers, experiences, and environments†(Ch. 9). In the sensitive periods; learning is most likely to occur (Morrison, 2009). In our text (2009), Montessori recalls a sensitive period: A sensitive period refers to a special sensibility which a creature acquires in its infantile state, while it is still in a process of evolution. It is a transient disposition and limited to the acquisition of a particular trait. Once this trait or characteristic has been acquired, the special sensibility disappears. It is imperative for an educator to observe and ascertain sensitivity periods and sustain the proper environment. Many theorists believe this stage is considered the critical period. The critical period and the sensitive period contain a sensitive difference. The critical period mildly describes a child not receiving the â€Å"right† or enough stimuli during the window; they will be stagnant in learning in the future (Oswalt, 2008). However, theorists who believe in the sensitive period noted it would post difficulty for the childcare giver to attain what was not learned during the learning window of opportunity, still there is room for the child to learn at a later time (Oswalt, 2008). In a prepared environment it is believed children learn best. In an environment where children can do things for themselves; children are at liberty to explore materials of their own choosing. Within these prepared environments, are six principles: Freedom, Structure and Order, Beauty, Nature and Reality, Social environment and Intellectual environment (Irinyi, 2009). Freedom environment includes freedom of movement, the child must experience freedom of exploration. All of these freedom movements lead to a greater freedom (Irinyi, 2009). Structure and order in the classroom mirrors the sense of structure and order in the universe (Irinyi, 2009). A beautiful environment should suggest harmony and should invite the worker to work. Nature and reality strongly influenced Maria Montessori and believed children should actively interact with nature. Social environment promotes the freedom of children socially interacting with one another and also develop a sense of compassion and empathy for others (Irinyi, 2009). Briefly, auto-education is last principal of the Montessori Method. The prepared environment also stimulates auto-education which is the idea that children teach themselves through appropriate materials and activities (Morrison, 2009). Children who decide to â€Å"work† in the â€Å"kitchen† are able to role play as chefs and are able to make themselves and their peers something to eat. In the Early Childhood Education field, Montessori’s are not the only education program developed to focus on children’s developments. The High- Scope theory is based on Piaget, constructivism, Dewey and Vygotsky (Morrison, 2009). Children help establish curriculum. Experiences guide the programs of studies in promoting children’s active learning (Morrison, 2009). The Reggio Emilia approach founded by Loris Malaguzzi (1920-1994), a city in northern Italy, based on the philosophy and practice; that children are active of their own knowledge (Morrison, 2009). Curriculum is project oriented and learning is active. The Waldorf Education founded by Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) highlights the teaching of the whole child-head, hands, and heart (Morrison, 2009). Steiner strongly believed that education should be holistic. The study of myths, lores, and fairy tales promotes the imagination and multiculturalism (Morrison,2009). Combining all of the early childhood education programs, there is no one perfect curriculum. Today, there is a combination of all four education types being taught in school districts. Each approach is important and critical. Personally, I would agree that The Montessori Method best serves the needs because this approach allows children to grow and learn at their pace. They are not forced to retain information if the brain is not processing at the pace that is requested and required for children. Also, the environment plays a serious role in this learning and teaching process. If a child is in a stressed environment, the child is less likely to participate and socialize with his or her peers. When a child is in a peaceful or beautiful environment, the child is more inclined to interact with the world with a clear mind. Indeed, while there are multiple Early Childhood Education programs available, the Montessori Method was created with the focus of children learning from their environment (Morrison, 2009). Not to say that this particular method is paramount, but beneficial results have emerged from this program. In Head Start facilities, High- Scope, Reggio Emilia Approach, the Montessori Method and the Waldorf Education should be integrated in facilities today and for the future. References Irinyi, M. (2009, March 18). Principles of the montessori prepared environment. Retrieved from http://montessoritraining. blogspot. com/2009/03/principles-of-montessori-prepared. html Morrison, G. S. (2009). Early childhood education today. (11th ed. ). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc. Oswalt, A. (2008, January 17th). Senisitive periods in mental health. Retrieved from http://www. mentalhelp. net/poc/view_doc. php? type=docid=7923cn=28 Shortridge, P. D. (2003). The absorbent mind and the sensitive periods. Retrieved from http://www. pdonohueshortridge. com/children/absorbent. html Stephenson, S. M. (2011). The international Montessori index. Retrieved from http://www. montessori. edu.

Definition Of Motivation Business Essay

Definition Of Motivation Business Essay One of the oldest, and most difficult, areas in psychology is the fundamental problem of why people are motivated to do anything at all, and if they do something, why that and not something else. The issue is really two fold; the nature of the driving force (where it comes from: what are its properties) and the direction and maintenance of the drive (what affects does it have on individual behavior). For Westwood (1992:288), motivation, as a concept, has certain specific features: Motivation is an internal state experienced by the individual. Whilst external factors including other people, can affect a persons motivational state, it develops within the individual and is unique to that individual. The individual experiences a motivational state in a way that gives rise to a desire, intention and pressure to act. Motivation has an element of choice, intention or willingness. That is, the individual experiencing a state of arousal (externally or internally generated), responds by choosing to act in a way and at a level of intensity that they determine. Action and performance are a function, at least in part, of motivation. It is therefore important in our ability to predict and understand actions and performance. Motivation is multi-faceted. It is a complex process with several elements and the possibility of multiple determinants, options and outcomes. Individuals differ in terms of their motivational state and the factors that affect it. Furthermore, the motivational state of an individual is variable; it is different across time and across situations. (John Arnold et al, 1995) There are two types of motivation as originally identified by Hertzberg et al (1957): Intrinsic motivation-The self generated factors that influence people to behave in a particular direction. These factors include responsibility, autonomy (freedom to act), scope to use and develop skills and abilities, interesting and challenging work and opportunities for advancement. Extrinsic motivation-what is done to or for people to motivate them. This includes rewards, such as increased pay, praise, or promotion, and punishments, such as disciplinary action, withholding pay, or criticisms. 2.2 The process of motivation Motivating other people is about getting them to move in the direction you want them to go in order to achieve a result. Motivating yourself is about setting the direction independently and then taking a course of action, which will ensure that you get there. Motivation can be described as goal -directed behavior. People are motivated when they expect that a course of action is likely to lead to the attainment of a goal and a valued reward-one that satisfies their needs. But managers still have a major part to play in using their motivating skills to get people to give of their best, and to make good use of motivational processes provided by the organization. To do this it is necessary to understand the process of motivation-how it works and the different types of motivations that exist. A need -related model of the process of motivation is shown in the figure below. This suggests that motivation is initiated by the conscious or unconscious recognition of unsatisfied needs. These nee ds create wants, which are desires to achieve or obtain something. Goals are then established which is believed will satisfy these needs and wants and a behaviour pathway is selected which is expected will achieve the goal. If the goal is achieved, the need will be satisfied and the behaviour is likely to be repeated, the next time a similar need emerges. If the goal is not achieved, the action is less likely to be repeated. This process of repeating successful behaviour or actions is called reinforcement or the law of effect (Hull, 1951). It has, however, been criticized by Allport (1954) as ignoring the influence of expectations and therefore constituting hedonism of the past. (Michael Armstrong, 2001: 155). Attain Goal Need Take Action Establish Goal Figure2.1: The motivation process (Source: Michael Armstrong, 2001:155). 2.3 Approaches to motivation 2.3.1 Theory X and Theory Y Douglas Mc Gregor proposed two distinct views of human beings: one basically negative, labeled theory X, and the other basically positive, labeled theory Y. Under Theory X, the 4 assumptions held by managers are: Employees inherently dislike work, whenever possible, will attempt to avoid it. Since employees dislike work, they must be coerced, controlled, or threatened with punishment to achieve goals. Employees will avoid responsibilities and seek formal direction whenever possible. Most workers place security above all other factors associated with work and display little ambitions. In contrast to these negative views the nature of human being, Mc Gregor listed 4 positive assumptions that he called Theory Y: Employees can view work as being as natural as rest or play. People will exercise self-direction and self-control if they are committed to the objectives. The average person can learn to accept, even seek responsibility. The ability to make innovative decision is widely dispersed throughout the population and is not necessarily the sole province of those in management position. Mc Gregor himself held to the being that Theory Y assumptions were more valid than Theory X. Therefore, he proposed such idea as participate in decision making, responsible and challenging jobs, and good go up relation as approaches that would maximize an employees job motivation. Critics of the theory: Unfortunately, there is no evidence to confirm that either set of assumptions is valid or that accepting theory y assumptions and altering ones acknowledgment will lead to more motivated workers. (Stephen P. Robins, 1993: 208) 2. 3.2 Human Relation Approach The main emphasis of the classical approach was on structure and the formal organization as the basic for achieving high levels of work performance. But during the 1920s greater attention began to be given to the social factors at work and to the behaviour of people in the organization that is human relations. The major impetus to the human relations approach came with the famous Hawthorne studies at the Western Electric company in America (1924 1932). The Hawthorne Studies have been subject to criticize and to a number of different interpretation. But however, the results are regarded; the studies have important implications for organizational structures. They generated new ideas on social interaction, output restrictions and individuals within work groups. The human relations approach marked a change in emphasis away from the precision of scientific management and led to ideas on increasing productivity by humanizing the work organization with the human relations approach, recognition was given to the importance of the informal organization which will always be seen as individuals and members of a social group, with their behaviour and attitude as the key effectiveness. (Laurie J. Mullins, 1992:59) 2.3.3 Scientific Management Approach The scientific management movement was pioneered by the American, Frederic W. Taylor. He saw workers who do manual work to be motivated by money, the greedy robot, and to be too stupid to develop the one best way of doing the task. The role of management was to analyze scientifically all the tasks to be done and then to design jobs to eliminate wasted time and motion. The application of scientific management resulted in significant productivity increases. However, the emphasis on specialization was to become one of the targets of critics of scientific management. They argued, that specialization was ultimately inefficient but, more importantly; it did not allow people to achieve their full potential at work. (Henry L. Tosi et al, 1994:9) Scientific management is often referred to as a machine theory model. It adopts an instrumental view of human behaviour together with the application of specialization and standard procedures of work. Workers were viewed less as isolated individuals and more as units of production to handle in much the same way as machines. The scientific study of work can lead to jobs becoming repetitive, boring and requiring little skills. The ideas behind scientific management have been largely discredited by subsequent management writers. There has been strong criticism of scientific as representing close management control over workers. By removing decisions about their work is cairned out, by division of labour, and by dictating precise stages and methods for every aspect of work performance, management could gain control of the actual process of work. The rationalization of production processes and division of labour tends to result in de-skilling of work, and thus may be a main strategy of ma nagement. (Laurie J. Mullins, 1992:56) 2.4 The motivation theories 2.4.1 Content theory 2.4.1.1 Maslow theory Without doubt the best-known theory is of Maslow (1954). Maslow supposed that people have 5 types of needs that are activated in a hierarchical manner, and are then aroused in a specific order such that a lower order need must be satisfied before the next higher order- need is activated. Once need is met, the next highest need is the hierarchy is triggered and and so forth. Higher Order order of progression Self-actualisation needs Self-esteem needs Social needs Safety needs Psychological needs Lower Order Figure2.2: Maslows need hierarchy Source: A.H.Maslow, Motivation and Personality, 2nd edition, New York: Harper Row, 1976) Psychological needs Psychological needs are the lowest-order most basic needs and refer to satisfying fundamental biological drives such as the need for food, air, water and shelter. To satisfy these positive needs, organizations must provide employees with a salary that allows them to afford adequate living conditions e.g. food and shelter. Employees need sufficient rest breaks to allow them to meet their psychological needs. Organizations may provide exercise and physical fitness facilities for their employees, because providing such facilities may also be recognized as an attempt to help employees stay healthy by gratifying their psychological needs. Safety needs Safety needs are activated only after physiological needs are met. Safety need refer to needs for a secure, predictable, habitable, non-threatening environment free from threats of either physical or psychological harm. Organizations may provide employees with life and health insurance plans, opportunity for savings, pensions, and safety equipment and secure contracts that enable work to be performed without fear and harm. Social needs Social needs are activated after both physiological and safety needs. They refer to the need to be affiliative-to have friends, to be liked, included and accepted by other people. Friends, relations and work colleagues help meet social needs, and organizations may encourage participation in social events such as office parties, sports days, competitions which provide an opportunity for meeting these needs. Many organizations spend vast sums of money on facilitate for out-of-work hours activities for their staff so that people in the same organization, but different sections or departments, may meet, chat and affiliate. Esteem needs Esteem needs refer to a persons desire to develop self-respect and to gain the approval of others. The desires to achieve success have personal prestige and are recognized by others all fall into this category. Companies may have awards, prizes or banquets to recognize distinguished achievements. Printing articles in company newsletters describing an employees success, assigning private parking spaces, and posting signs identifying the employee of the month are all examples of things that can be done to satisfy esteem. The inflation of job titles could also be seen as an organizational attempt to boost employees self-esteem. Self-actualizations needs Self-actualization needs refer to the need for self-fulfillment-the desire to become all that one is capable of being, developing ones potential and fully realizing ones abilities. By working to their maximum creative potential, employees who are self-actualised can be an extremely valuable asset to their organizations. Individuals who have become self-actualised supposedly work at their peak, and represent the most effective use of an organizations human resources. Critics of the theory: The theory has enthusiascally applied to the world of work. However, few have been able to find evidence of the five-(or two-) their system (Mitchell Nowdgill 1976), and there is precious little evidence that needs are activated in the same order. Furthermore, it is not certain how, when or why the gratification of one stimulates or activates the next highest category (John Arnold et al, 1995). 2.4.1.2 Adelfers ERG theory Growth needs Existence needs Relate dress needs Least concrete Most concrete Figure 2.3: Adelfers continuum of ERG needs. (Paul M.Muchinsky, 1993) Adelfers ERG theory is much simpler than Maslows theory, in that Adelfer specifies that there are only 3 types of needs, but that they are not necessarily activated in any specific order. Further, according to this theory any need may be activated at any time. The 3 needs specified by ERG theory are existence, relatedness, and growth. Existence needs These are material and are satisfied by environmental factors such as food, water, pay, fringe benefits, and working conditions. Relatedness needs These involve relationship with significant others, such as co-workers, superiors, subordinates, family and friends. Growth needs These involve the desire for unique personal development. They are met by developing whatever abilities and capabilities are important to the individual. Critics of the theory: ERG theory suggests that, although basic categories of need do exist, they are not exactly as specified by Maslow. The theory has not attracted as much attention as Maslow theory, but seems a reasonable modification of it. However, like Maslow theory it is potentially rather difficult to test (Furnham, 1992). 2.4.1.3 Hertzbergs two-factor theory According to the two factors theory, people have two major types of needs. The first of these Hertzberg called hygiene needs, which are influenced by the physical and psychological conditions in which people work. Hertzberg called the second set of needs motivator needs, and described them as being very similar to the higher order needs in Maslows (1954) need hierarchy theory. Hertzberg at al. (1959) claimed that different types of outcomes or rewards satisfied these two types of needs. Hygiene needs were said to be satisfied by hygiene factors or dissatisfiers, such as supervision, interpersonal relation, physical working conditions, salary, company policies and administrative practices, benefits and job security. When these factors are unfavorable, the job dissatisfaction is the result. Conversely, when hygiene factors are positive, such as when worker perceive that their pay is fair and that their working conditions are good, than barriers to job satisfaction are removed. However, the fulfillment of hygiene needs cannot by itself result in job satisfaction. Unlike hygiene needs, motivation needs are fulfilled by what Hertzberg et al. (1959) called motivator factors or satisfiers such as achievement, recognition, work itself, responsibility and advancement. According to the theory, the factors that lead to job satisfaction are those that satisfy an individuals need for self-actualization (self-fulfillment) in their work, and it is only from the performance of their task that individuals can enjoy the reward that will reinforce their aspirations. Compared to hygiene factors, which results in a neutral state (neither satisfied nor dissatisfied) when present, positive motivator factors result in job satisfaction. Critics of the theory: Attractive though the theory is, it has little empirical support. There is no doubt attributable to the fact that various methodological errors were introduced in the early theory-testing work. These included the real possibility that all the results were the result of classic attribution errors, such that personal failure is attributed externally (to hygiene factors) and success internally (to motivator factors). Secondly, the theory testing work was nearly all done on white-collar workers (accountants and engineers) who are hardly representive of the working population. 2.4.1.4 McClellands Achievement Motivation Theory The need for achievement underlies the higher levels of Maslows hierarchy and also one of Hertzbergs motivating factors. The importance of achievement is emphasised by Mc Lellands, who has developed a theory of motivation which is noted in culture. The work of Mc Lelland is based on the concept of 3 main sets of needs and socially developed motives: The need for Affiliation The need for Power; and The need for Achievement People possess all 3 needs but the relative intensity of affiliation, power and achievement varies among individuals and different occupations. (Laurie J. Mullins, 1992: 206) Those most interested in power seeks positions of control and influence, those for whom affiliation is most important seek pleasant relationship and enjoy helping others; achievement seekers want success, fear failure, are task oriented and self-reliant. These 3 needs are not mutually exclusive. Many people are well motivated by all 3, but invariably one area is predominant. The implication of the theory in practice are that managers can identify employees who are self-motivated, those who rely more on internal incentives and those who could increase their achievement drive through training. (Shaun Tyson et al, 2000: 15) Critics of the theory: Mc Lellands theory implies an individualistic approach to the motivation of staff. The behaviour and performance of work group is as important as for individual motivation. (Laurie J. Mullins, 1992:207) 2.4.2 Process theories 2.4.2.1 Equity theory Equity theories, borrowed by psychologists from economics (Adams 1965), views motivation from the perspective of the comparisons people make among themselves. It proposes that employees are motivated to maintain fair, or equitable, relationships among themselves and to change those relationships that are unfair or inequitable. Equity theory suggests that people make social comparison between themselves and others with respect to two variables-outcomes (benefits, rewards) and inputs (effort, ability). Outcomes refer to the things workers believe they and others get out of their jobs, including pay, fringe benefits or prestige. Inputs refer to the contribution employees believe they and others make to their jobs, including the amount of time worked, the amount of effort expended, the number of units produced, or the qualifications brought to the job. Not surprisingly, therefore workers may disagree about constitutes equity and inequity in the job. Equity is therefore a subjective, not objective, experience, which makes it more susceptible to being influenced by personality factors (Furnham 1992:139). Equity theory states that people compare their outcomes and inputs to those of others in the form of ratio. Specifically, they compare the ratio of their own outcomes and inputs to the ratio of other peoples outcomes and inputs, which can result in any of the 3 states: overpayment, underpayment, or equitable payment. Implication for managers: The management implications are two-fold: firstly that comparative pay and benefits between different groups, sections and levels in an organization, are a major source of motivation and demotivation; secondly, employees need to feel they are fairly dealt with -that they and their colleagues are rewarded equitably for their efforts. Critics of the theory: As one might expect, equity theory has its problems: how to deal with the concept of negative inputs; the point at which equity becomes inequity, and the belief that people prefer and value equity equality. Moreover, the theory is too individualistic. (John Arnold et al, 1995). 2.4.2.2 Reinforcement theory These theories, for there are many, specify how a history of past benefits (or punishments), or reinforcements, modify behaviour so that future benefits will be secured. The direct application of behavioral modification principles to the work situation claims to provide procedures by which human performance can be shaped and altered. At the centre of behaviour modification is the concept of reinforcement contingency: the rate of performance will increase when valued outcomes (reinforcers) are made contingent on the performance. It makes no difference to the theory what the person needs, expects, values or wants, although these factors may impact on the differential power or effect of each reward (and punishment). Furthermore, people perform certain work-related acts that are subject to reinforcement (or punishment and extinction) contingencies. People work with a certain degree of effectiveness, and when a particular behavior result in a reward (there is reinforcement contingency bet ween, say, payment and work efficiency), performance improves. Learning theorists assert that all behaviour is shaped and sustained through the action of contingent reinforcement; work-related behaviours are simply special examples of this more universal phenomenon. (Furnham, 1992). Reinforcement and learning theories are among the oldest in psychology. There has long been a debate concerning the usefulness or otherwise of punishment as a strategy. Problems such as resentment and sabotage may accompany a managers use of punishment (negative reinforcement) is usually not effective, since it suppresses rather than eliminate undesirable responses. They also noted the more quickly reinforcement is given after the response, the more effective it becomes. Implication for managers: Jablonsky and De Vries (1972) have suggested the following guidelines for applying operant conditioning as a motivating technique: Avoid using punishment as a primary means of obtaining desired performance Positively reinforce desired behaviour and ignore undesired behaviour if possible. Minimize the time-lag between response and reinforcement Apply positive reinforcement frequently on a variable ratio schedule Determine environmental factors that are considered positive and negative by individual Critics of the theory: Being very practically oriented, it is very unclear what managers should do to motivate their staff if they are followers of learning theory. Sensitively, subtly and discretely applied, it works well, but sophisticated workforce is sometimes hostile to it. (John Arnold et al, 1995). 2.4.2.3 Expectancy theory Expectancy theory asserts that people are mostly motivated to work when they expect they will be able to achieve and obtain the things they want from their jobs. Expectancy theory characterizes people as rational, logical and cognitive beings, who think about what they have to do to be rewarded and how much the reward means to them before they perform their jobs. Expectancy theory specifies that motivation is the result of 3 different types of beliefs cognitions that people have. These are known as: Expectancy- The belief that ones effort will result in performance Instrumentality The belief that ones performance will be rewarded Valence- The perceived value of the rewards to the recipient Employee may believe that a great deal of efforts will result in getting much accomplished, whereas others believe there are other occasions in which hard work will have little effects on how much gets done. It is possible that even if an employee works hard and performs at a high level, motivation may falter if that performance is not suitably rewarded by the organization-that is if the performance was not perceived as instrumental in bringing about the rewards. If behaviour is not explicitly rewarded, people are unlikely to repeat it. Furthermore, even if employees receive rewards based on their performance, they may be poorly motivated if those so-called rewards have a low valence to them. Porter and Lawler Over the years, Porter and Lawler (1968) adapted and expanded the theory. According to this model, job performance is a multiple combination of abilities and skills, effort and role perceptions. If individuals have clear role perceptions, if they possess the necessary skills and abilities, and if they are motivated to exert sufficient effort, the model suggests that they will perform well. Abilities and skills refer to both physical and psychological characteristics. Role perceptions refer to the clarity of the job description and to whether individuals know how to direct their efforts towards effectively completing the task. Those who have clear perceptions of their role perceptions apply their efforts where they will count, and perform correct behaviours. Those who have incorrect role perceptions tend to spend much of their time in unproductive efforts that do not contribute to effective job performance. Expectancy Expectancy Instrumentality Extrinsic outcome / reward Outcome / Reward Satisfaction Performance Effort Intrinsic outcome / reward Perceived equity of outcomes / rewards Job design, Organizational policies and practice Ability and traits, Role clarity organizational supports, etc Figure 2.4: Porter and Lawlers expanded expectancy model Source: Adapted from Porter and Lawler (1968) Implication for managers: Arnold et al. (1991:176) argues that, if expectancy theory were correct it would have important implications for managers wishing to ensure that employees were motivated to perform their work duties: They would need to ensure that all 3 of the following conditions were satisfied: Employees perceived that they possessed the necessary skills to do their jobs at least adequately (expectancy) Employees perceived that if they performed their jobs well, or at least adequately, they would be rewarded (instrumentality). Employees found the rewards offered for successful job performance attractive (valence). Critics of the theory: Although some specific aspects of the Expectancy theory have been supported (particularly the impact of expectancy and instrumentality on motivation), others have not (such as the contribution of valence to motivation, and the assumption that expectancy, instrumentality and valence are multiplied.) Arnold et al. (1991) note how little attention the theory pays in explaining why an individual values or does not value particular outcomes: no concept of need is involved to address this question. The theory proposes that people should ask someone how much they value something, but not bother about why they value it. (John Arnold et al, 1995) 2.4.2.4 Goal Setting Theory This approach to motivation was pioneered by Ed Loche and his associate, starting in the 1960s and continuing with increasing strength and sophistication ever since. The above figure represents goal setting theory, and shows that the characteristics of a goal and attitudes towards it are thought to be influences by incentives, self-perceptions and the manner in which goals are set. In turn, those goals characteristics and attitudes are thought to determine behavioural strategies, which lead to performance within the constraints of ability knowledge of results (also called feedback) is thought to be essential to further refinement of behavioural strategies. Goal Setting Theory Participation in goal setting (Self-perceived) ability Financial incentive Goal commitment Goal acceptance Goal difficulty Goal specification Direction Intensity Persistence Strategies Knowledge of results Ability Performance Figure 2.5 Goal Setting Theory Source: Adapted from Psychology of work Behaviour by F. Landy. Copyright  © 1989, 1985, 1980, 1976. Brooks / Cole Publishing Company, a division of International Thomson Publishing Inc. By permission of the publisher. What does research say about goal setting? Some further comments can be made on the basis of research evidence first financial incentives can indeed enhance performance. Loche et al. (1981) report that this occurs either through raising goal level, or through increasing commitment to a goal. Second, and unsurprisingly, ability also affects performance. Third, research on goal setting has been carried out in a range of context and fourth, goal setting is magnificently deal about how managers can enhance the performance of their employees. Some other research has directly investigated specific potential limitations of goal setting. Earley et al. (1989) suggested that goal setting may be harmful where a task in novel and where a considerable numbers of possible strategies are available to tackle it. It seems that when people are tackling unfamiliar and complex tasks, goal setting can induce them to pay much attention to task strategy and not enough to task performance itself. Goal setting could be criticized in its early days for being a technology rather than a theory. It successfully described how goal focus behaviour, without really addressing why or through what process goals influenced behaviour. Furthermore, goal setting, suggests that people are most motivated by difficult tasks where success is (presumably) not certain. A continuing issue in goal setting concerns participation. Locke et al. (1981) concluded that there was no evidence from published research that participation in goal setting by the person attempting to achieve the goal produced better performance than if the goal was assigned to him or her by someone else. Kanfer et al. (1994) got students to attempt a simulated air traffic control task and repeated the findings that goal setting can harm performance of unfamiliar complex tasks. But they also found that giving people time to reflect on their performance between repeated attempts at similar tasks eliminate that effect. The breaks enabled them to devote intentional resources to their strategies without having simultaneously to tackle the task itself. (John Arnold et al, 1998) 2.5 Job satisfaction and motivation Locke (1976) defined job satisfaction as a pleasurable or positive emotional state resulting from the appraisal of ones job or job experience. The concept generally ref

Robert Frost Essay -- essays research papers

He thought he kept the universe alone,† to most people the thoughts of being alone are very frightening. It is human nature to search for companionship. In the poem â€Å"The Most of It,† Robert Frost uses a wealth of strong imagery to tell a story of a person who has lost his loved one to death and has to suffer the feeling of loneliness and emptiness created by it. Frost uses the setting of a lake surrounded by a forest to convey a feeling of peace and of being alone to the reader. A man is sitting on the edge of the lake, crying out for someone, his echo being his only company. After time, a buck swam across the lake and appeared on the shore and abruptly runs into the brush, away from sight. Although the man only caught a glimpse of the deer for a short moment, it was long enough for him to feel that he was no longer alone, but had something there, even though it was not tangible. The clues given to the reader that someone has passed on are the words â€Å"wakeâ₠¬  and three lines down, the word â€Å"morning.† A wake can be many things; one is that it is a vigil that is held in honor of a person who has recently died. â€Å"Morning† can be taken as â€Å"mourning† and be seen as Frost grieving for a loved one. One also develops the impression that Frost is mourning a great loss, such as a sould mate, because of the line, â€Å"He would cry out on life, that what it wants/ is not its own love back in copy speech/but counter-love.† That quote shows the reader that the man was alone, so alone, that he â€Å"c...

Holocaust Post to World War II Essay

Let us begin by quoting the superb words of Elie Wiesel (1995), the Nobel laureate for peace in 1986 and Holocaust survivor: â€Å"For the survivor who chooses to testify, it is clear: his duty is to bear witness for the dead and the living. He has no right to deprive future generations of a past that belongs to our collective memory. To forget would be not only dangerous but offensive; to forget the dead would be akin to killing them a second time. The witness has forced himself to testify. For the youth of today, for the children who will be born tomorrow. He does not want his past to become their future† (cited in Hill and Wang, c2006, pg 15). Cruel Massacre Against Humanity in Holocaust Post to WWII Holocaust post to the beginning of World War II gave an account of tragedy and massive killings of majorly Jews in millions. Other killings involved the people of Gypsies who are descendant of Egypt in history, the mentally and physically challenged ancient individuals, political enemies to the ruling government of Nazi of Germany, and racially undesirable individuals who met an untimely dead end in the Nazi Camp’s of Germany after . This holocaust occurred between the years 1939 and the commencement of World War II. It is a great destruction that is characterized by extensive loss of human lives through means such as fire, nuclear arms et cetera. Holocaust at times is also used to represent the genocide in Armenian and Hellenic. Hellenic are Greece speaking people who suffered massive religious killing of about 3 million Christians in Turkey between the years 1915 to 1925 (Dawidowicz, 1975). Prior to the World War II, over six million Jewish people were targeted and destroyed by the then Nazi government and its co-sponsors. Nazi government of Germany developed a great hatred for the people of Jews who have spread and had established tent all over European States. The destruction was caused by an expression of superiority over the perceived â€Å"inferior Jews†. The spreading and the success of the Jews over some citizen of Europe became a matter of crucial talk among the cabinet members of Nazi. Nazi saw them as strange people who must not live. Later on, Nazi resulted into racial war against the Jews. In addition to the Jews, Nazi also developed similar racial hatred to other set of people in the all over world. The list includes â€Å"the people of Roma called Gypsies, the physically challenged or formally called the handicapped, the Slavic people of Russia, Poland and others as mentioned earlier† (Yahil L. 1990). In addition to the basis of destruction on perception of racial inferiority, political and theological reasons were also confirmed as part of the basis for destruction of certain other set of people. Thirdly is the massive destruction based on ideological group belonging and on cultural hatred for the Jews, one of the prominent groups by then were the Communist, the Socialist groups, and the Jehovah Witness movement. Certain homosexual were not spared in the killing. Due to the presence of certain members of the Nazi government who were homosexuals, there was mixed feelings development towards the extermination this set of people. The Jehovah witness movement group recorded the lowest number of casualties because they were less concentrated in a place unlike others. The achievement was made possible owing to regional concentration of the target people to be destroyed. Some were taken on hostage within a wide range of land for a long period before they were been destroyed by biological weapons, diseases, famine, and other forms of military maltreatment. For the physically challenged group, Nazi carried out his mission by including in his policy the so called â€Å"Euthanasia Program† (early killing to prevent prolong living in serious discomfort and pain). Some able body target among the Jews and Poland were captured and unofficially sentenced to hard labor till they meet their death. Post-World War II Holocaust After the WWII, there was an arrival of a different dimension to the war. Holocaust in the mid-1940 to the early 90s was basically the existence of relative tension, and fragile calmness. This is due to the modernized existence of nuclear and atomic destruction that posed more colossal figures in potential victims. On the basis of nuclear power possession, nations were termed superpower of the world. The era was termed cold war among the two major powerful unions – the United States and the Soviet Union of Eastern Europe, Northern and Central Asian continent. The United State came in following the 1942 Washington Act to deliver the Jews from total extinction. Holocaust Literature In the modern study of holocaust, many theories are used to propose the origin of holocaust. While the Intentionalists accept that holocaust is a deliberate act initiated by Adolf Hitler, the Functionalists argue that the genesis of holocaust was rather a policy failure by the government of Nazi to regulate immigration to Europe and expel other migrants out of Europe. Hence, the Jews find their way in with ease and dominate the Europe in their millions. Functionalists disagree on several claims by the Intentionalism on several of their literature pointing finger on the lack of adequate plan on population growth as the genesis of holocaust. There also exist â€Å"holocaust theology† that reviews God’s kindness and protection shield on His own people.

Russias Entry Into the Cold War

Russias Entry Into the Cold War Free Online Research Papers Russia and United States were Allies against the Axis Powers in World War II. It was an unusual relationship due to both countries political beliefs and ideologies. America, which is based on democratic ideals and Russia ruled by an iron fist was enforced by state controlled oppression. It was for the war that and for the elimination of Hitler’s Nazism that the two came together. The Cold War was a result of American’s inability to limit the Soviet Union’s growth in Europe. Franklin Roosevelt’s negotiations with Stalin at Yalta marked the beginning of the dictator’s reign into Eastern Europe. Roosevelt insisted on democratic reforms in Eastern Europe, but he was too soft on Stalin because he needed his help in ending the war. Stalin saw this weakness as a go ahead to take over Poland, Finland , Romania, parts of Yugoslavia, as well as Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. America’s diplomatic concessions with The Soviet Union was a necessary evil due to the cost of many lives in the war. This relationship even in it’s best form was the ground for future tension as Russia and America clung to their ideologies. Ending the war with nuclear capabilities created a further gap between the U.S. and the Soviets. Out of the destruction of the war, both nations would grow to fear one another. This fear would last for more than 40 y ears and end in 1990 with the collapse of Communism. Russia’s philosophical beliefs were far different than America. America was founded on the romantic conception of democratic republicanism and checks of balances. Russia had a history of Czarism and it’s rule remained at the top. After 1917, with the rise of Lenin’s Communist party, government would remain in the heads of still a few powerful leaders at the top. Stalin would control the Soviet Union during World War II . Before the war, Stalin was noted as a brutal man who felt he was inferior and therefore killed off his political enemies as he did in the Great Purge. His leadership consisted of fear and intimidation for which many suffered. No one was able to rise above Stalin and even more so rise against him. Everything was in the hands of the state and very little individualism existed. To the common man, Russia’s governing powers seemed aloof and distant. It was clear that the government was not for the people. Stalinist communism censored religious thought and was atheistic. Communism censored the arts and instilled in education. Everything was replaced by propaganda for the party and for the whole of the state. Thoughts were controlled and no one dared against the system. Those who thought differently were quickly punished. Everything was given to Joseph Stalin, any trust and hope was given to him and he alone ruled the vast majority of Russia (Lee 81-85). American’s viewed Communism negatively due to the fact that so many American’s were religious and didn’t take well to atheism and it is also very critical that many Americans were so distrustful of complete government control. This type of thinking created an US-VS-THEM mentality and that need to rid the world of THEM. This thinking brought Americans face to face with Korea and Vietnam and even China. One of Stalin’s goals was to change the economy and modernize it. He pushed Russia forward from an agrarian society to the mode of heavy industry. A move that would benefit Russia immensely in World War II because war out put would exceed that of Germany after 1941. In the 1930s Russia collectivized the agricultural system. This created such a disturbance because output was much less and many people starved. The thought was that this would feed the great urban population and industrial base (Lee 61). The Five Year Plan was supposed to move the Soviet Union into age of heavy industry. They focused less on consumer needs to produce steel, coal and such things like armaments. This produced such a large amount of massive factories and cities in which they produced their goods. Many peasents found jobs in the cities where urban areas swelled. Despite growth in heavy industry, such output prepared the Soviets for the Barbarossa invasion in 1941. Many of the factories moved from cities of siege to the Ural Mountains during the invasion. This showed some strength of efficiency, however, most of the materials needed for the war came from the American Lend-Lease Program. It was an indicator that American efficiency in production far outweighed the Russian economy. As the war progressed and conferences were held to determine the strategy of the new order of Europe, the psychological impact of who would win want became increasingly apparent. The testing of nuclear missiles was held in secret by the Americans because of their distrust of the Soviets (Grenville 317-318). This was a shift in the American attitude prior to the post wart period. Even when the U.S. bombed Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Truman pointed out to Stalin at Potsdam the implications of what this type of warfare could do. Truman worried that the Soviets would gain their own plans on nuclear warfare. What one has to keep in mind is the fact that at the end of the war, Russia suffered severe lost. 20-24 million people lost their lives, 25 million people were homeless and many homes and factories were destroyed. After 1945, Russia did not gain any more economic support from the U.S. and Stalin did not anticipate it (Grenville 337). Russian’s diplomatic ties with the West was tied into Stalin’s need to expand his empire. He demanded a western front in west Europe, and in France to relieve military pressure on Europe (Kennan 357). Even though, Churchill delayed this front, FDR assured the public that the front would be in the West. Much of this was appeasement to pacify Stalin so he would not abandon the war. The adoption of a somewhat sympathetic manner was adopted to the Soviet policy of post war growth. Reluctantly, America gave in to so much of Stalin’s demands out of war time emotion and fear of Nazi Aggression (Kennan 359-361). On a deeply personal level, Stalin did not want to lose in this war. Even though he did not want to be in it and up until Hitler invaded his country, he felt it couldn’t happen to him. As soon as he received word of the invasion, He didn’t believe it. After the neutrality pact of 1939, it may have been impossible in his mind. Stalin’s invasion of Finland may have put out mixed signals to Hitler that Russia was feeling very confident and that it needed to be checked. Molotov’s rejection of joining the Axis confirmed this. In a short time, Stalin was calling fellow Soviets to his side for the Great War and in a speech to his countryman on November 7, 1941, canonized past Russian heroes and told Russians to stand up to Hitler. During all this socialist propaganda did not erode but much of Stalin’s attention was diverted to the war and bringing his country together. Church doors were open again for Stalin, who studied for the priesthood, that his own party message would not be enough to bring people together (Tumarkin 63-64). This turned out to be a very emotional and draining point for the Soviet citizens for they gave so much for their home. Many women and children went beyond the front lines to defend their homes and built blockades for their defense. The Siege of Leningrad is an example of such horror. Thousands of people starved and or froze to death. People ate cats and dogs and sometimes each other in rare cases. Food was severely rationed and one needed a card to gain it. This Siege lasted for about 600 days. During this time period, Stalin toughened the Red Army to fight back. His philosophy: â€Å"Not A Step Back† pushed soldiers to their limits for to run away not only made you a coward but brought you death for desertion. This war took quite a toll on Soviet citizens and it is a war that they will never forget (Tumarkin 71-73). Reparations had to be made for this mass destruction. Despite, Russian offensives in to the west and the destruction of Berlin, Naturally Soviets would want a piece of Germany even for their own sake of vengeance. It almost seemed acceptable to make big requests after all that happened to them. This was a good chance to gain sympathy so you could get some just rewards. In discussions of post war reparations, Soviet-Western relations balanced out the need to end the war after the Nazi’s were crushed and to build a Europe free from oppression. To this extent is not quite clear how much the U.S. knew of Stalin’s brutality and the suffering of the Soviets and of the peopled conquered by the Soviets. With Roosevelt’s mention of democratic elements in Eastern Europe, Stalin would only let so much freedom continue. In as much as Russia was wronged in the war, Stalin would use the war to get what he wanted and that was control over as much land as possible so that his e mpire would grow. The Cold War in a sense would have been impossible to avoid by 1943-1945. It’s roots based on totalitarianism and the separation of ideas and beliefs caused it become a reality. The U.S. in it’s isolation joined the war after the Pearl Harbor attacks but beforehand only giving monetary aid to the British and Soviets. Roosevelt moved slowly in joining the war and it was in his reluctance that U.S. built such a great war time economy and that America emerged as the Victor. In viewing the two leaders of Soviet Russia and The U.S., Roosevelt was more idealistic and his mind was different from the destructive nature of Stalin’s philosophies. Roosevelt’s Four Freedoms, Freedom of Want, From of Religion, Freedom of Speech and Freedom Of Fear more or less became large part of the American Psyche. The phrase â€Å" The only thing we have to fear is fear itself† is used over and over again in speeches and is well loved. Roosevelt was loved by his people and he had sympathy for the people who were disconnected and poor .The difference between him and Stalin was that Roosevelt seemed sincere and that Stalin earned his respect through fear. Up until his death, Stalin’s Cult of Personality gave people such mixed reaction and fear. Years later his image was seen as only ruthless. It would this one factor that made many fear Communism and it’s growth. This growth grew out of the tyranny and confusion of Germany and Japan as they invaded the Europe and the Pacific. Possibly the only reason why Russia was never feared during the war was because that country suffered as it did at the hands of Hitler. At that time it was doubtful that outsiders knew how vicious Stalin was. Dealing with Russia’s internal problems was the least of the issues that had to be dealt with at Potsdam and Yalta. In Yalta, Roosevelt was accused of signing Eastern and Central Europe into Russia’s hands. Both he and Churchill did not meet the requests of Poland’s exile government for international control. No other countries were invited to Yalta to represent themselves nor they notified of what was said. Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia were declared open for democratic reform but yet these countries remained heavily influenced by Communist powers. Other political parties were murdered or persecuted. Soviets agreed to help the U.S. and in return for Sakhalin and Kurline Islands. Many European nations felt betrayed because they felt that the free and democratic countries did not do what they promised to do. Signed treaties did nothing for these states as they became puppets of the Soviet regime. Going back to 1943, in the Tehran conference, Stalin, Roosevelt and Churchill met for the first time and it was agreed to launch Overlord in June of 1944. Stalin was looking for this support. Russia was asked to participate in the war against Japan. The allies would support the partisans in Yugoslavia. The Three Powers would keep in touch with each other to discuss post war and war issues. Nothing is said about Stalin’s reputation during these meetings and it appears that only thing that appears credible is the fact that Russia is a superpower thanks to strength of the Red Army. At Potsdam, where Germany was divided into four zones and Japan given the ultimatem to surrender that new elected President Truman and Churchill suspect Stalin has ulterior motives. The Atomic bomb is introduced and agreed upon to end the war and Stalin who already has spies discovering this, gives Truman the pat on the back to use it. It is ironic how these men shared so many ideas at these conferences and worked together to end the war became the same ones who started so much fear and distrust. Despite their ideological differences and their aims, they ended two camps of terrorism and in the end, Soviet Russia was just as vicious and tyrannical as the Japanese and the Nazi’s. The U.S. would hunt down and suspect anyone who didn’t support the American way as a trader or a Communist. It is easy to look at the events and ideas that shaped the Cold War and rely on any fact that represents the truth. There are too many issues to think about and dissect. As stated earlier, the differences in the way the U.S. and Russia approached terrorism and what their aims were after the war explain a lot about how the Cold War ensued. Diplomacy is so complex and important for a state. It is important that a foreign diplomat not be outguessed by the other party. As it was for Stalin and his ambitions, the war opened a door for him. His earlier diplomatic ties with Germany gave him the eastern sector of Poland and when Hitler turned the tables on him, it gave him an excuse to move west and take over parts of Europe. Both Russia and America would meet to gain control over Europe but Stalin would figure out the weaknesses of the U.S. and of Britain and use to his advantage. The framework of foreign diplomacy is such that diplomats try to appease each other for a common cause. It is e vident here that the Soviet Union was needed and that the U.S. would support it for those means. The Iron Curtain was created in 1946. In a speech made by Winston Churchill in Missouri, with Truman by his side, Churchill announced that the Iron Curtain divided the continent and that only strong Anglo-American allies can tear it down. God has willed the Americans the Atomic Bomb. This statement divided the U.S. and the Soviets indefinitely. George Kennan, expert in Russian affairs stated that the Soviets ready to attack and destroy the U.S. was largely a creation of the Western imagination. The Soviet Union became an enemy of the American people and it would be the Truman Doctrine that would aid Greece and Turkey and those who are fighting against dictatorships that subjugate them. This is indicative of the Mythical realities of war where there is a Us versus Them mentality and that the enemy lies and that WE tell the truth. They act on a will of power and we on self defense since we are moral and righteous. The enemies will must be broken and WE must use force. The same theory u sed on the Nazi’s and Japanese now focused on the Russians bent to teach them a lesson. Research Papers on Russia's Entry Into the Cold WarAppeasement Policy Towards the Outbreak of World War 2Assess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 EuropeQuebec and CanadaThe Effects of Illegal ImmigrationBringing Democracy to AfricaTwilight of the UAW19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraComparison: Letter from Birmingham and CritoPETSTEL analysis of IndiaCapital Punishment

Postal Service Wants to Offer Payday Loans

Postal Service Wants to Offer Payday Loans Even though it loses massive quantities of it every year, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) wants to loan you money. Short-term â€Å"payday† loans are just one of the financial services the USPS has proposed offering though Post Offices in order to serve the scores of American â€Å"unbanked† individuals and families, while protecting them from predatory payday lenders and, of course, bettering its own dismal financial status. According to a report from the USPS’ inspector general, one in four U.S. households lives at least partially outside the financial mainstream without bank accounts or using costly services like payday lenders – and spends an average of $2,412 each year just on interest and fees for such alternative financial services. â€Å"Many of the 34 million financially underserved households - representing 68 million adults - are treading water very close to the economic edge,† wrote the inspector general. â€Å"Unexpected expenses can push them over the brink into homelessness or bankruptcy, which come with broad social and economic costs.† The inspector general estimates the USPS could bring in almost $9 billion a year by capturing just 10% of the $89 billion spent on alternative financial services in the U.S. every year. â€Å"Postal financial services may appeal to many customers who feel abandoned by major financial institutions,† states the report. â€Å"Postal organizations have an unmatched ability to reach consumers from diverse backgrounds.† As the report notes, many international postal services are already garnering significant new revenue by offering financial services. Of course, the USPS also hopes to make money by charging interest on these short-term loans, but at a far lower rate than those charged by traditional payday lenders. USPS Brand Payday Loan vs. Traditional Payday Loans The USPS inspector general suggests the Postal Service could offer short-term – payday – loans with interest rates of 28%, compared to the average interest rate of 391% charged by traditional payday lenders. For example, a person borrowing $375 from a traditional payday lender would end up having to pay back a total of about $896, including $521 in interest and fees. The same $375 borrowed from the USPS would end up costing only $423, including $48 in interest and fees. â€Å"That single loan from the Postal Service could effectively put $472 back into a consumer’s pocket, which he or she could then use on more economically productive expenses,† stated the report. â€Å"If even one-tenth of the 12 million Americans who take out a payday loan each year got this hypothetical Postal Loan instead, they could collectively save more than half a billion dollars a year in fees and interest.† In addition, says the inspector general, short-term Postal Service loans would allow the estimated 10 million unbanked U.S. households which cannot afford high-interest rate payday loans to borrow the money they need. â€Å"There is a wide range of consumers who need access to small-dollar credit, and the Postal Loan could strongly appeal to these different types of borrowers,† noted the inspector general. â€Å"For example, people whose income varies throughout the year, consumers with no other avenues to credit, families with unexpected expenses, and others.† Finally, contends the report, affordable Postal Service loans would help people break the â€Å"cycle of debt,† that forces them to borrow more money to make payments on existing loans. According to a 2104 report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, more than 80% of payday loans are either extended or followed by another loan less than two weeks later. While the â€Å"average† interest rate for traditional payday loans may be 391%, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) has warned consumers of online payday lenders charging interest rates of 650% USPS Vows Not to Compete with Banks If you own a bank, don’t worry. The inspector general makes it perfectly clear that the USPS has no intention of becoming a bank or even competing with banks. Instead, says his report, in offering small short-term loans and other financial services, the Postal Service would â€Å"greatly complement† the services offered by banks. Correctly noting that banks are closing branches in inner city low-income and rural areas nationwide, the inspector general says the USPS would help banks â€Å"fill the gaps in their efforts to reach the underserved.† And remember, â€Å"The Postal Service also is among the most trusted companies in America, and trust is a critical element for implementing financial services,† he added. Also See: Postal Services Wants to Deliver Groceries

Free Essays on Harper

In the 1850’s, the matter of slavery was beginning to separate the United States, forcing people to side with either the North, which was for the elimination of slavery, or with the South, which had far more need of slaves. In the North, abolitionist groups were becoming more and more adamant that the slaves be set free immediately without compensation to their owners, while the Southerners were growing increasingly resolute that no one would force them to release them before they were ready and willing to do so. Five years prior to the raid of Harper’s Ferry, the 1854 Kansas-Nebraska Act passed by Congress broadened the gap between the two opposing sides. In 1854, Kansas and Nebraska were still territories of the United States that had been obtained from France in the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. This statute declared that the settlers of these regions could determine for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. The passage of this piece of legislation ignored the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had allowed the practice of slavery in Missouri and any new territories south of the 36Â ° 30’ latitude line. Both Kansas and Nebraska were above that line, and clearly should have been automatically declared free regions. Opponents of slavery were furious at this blatant disregard of the Missouri Compromise, which had been such an important law because both the North and South feared that the other would become more powerful through the addition of new territories adhering to their especial stance on slavery. For the past thirty-four years, this act had prevented slavery from spreading into the North, and once the law had been passed over due to the efforts of Southern legislators, what was to stop it from taking over the nation? Enraged abolitionists made the decision to converge their efforts on Kansas in an attempt to save it from becoming part of the slave-state group. Their violent undertaking, and the fight of the Sout... Free Essays on Harper Free Essays on Harper In the 1850’s, the matter of slavery was beginning to separate the United States, forcing people to side with either the North, which was for the elimination of slavery, or with the South, which had far more need of slaves. In the North, abolitionist groups were becoming more and more adamant that the slaves be set free immediately without compensation to their owners, while the Southerners were growing increasingly resolute that no one would force them to release them before they were ready and willing to do so. Five years prior to the raid of Harper’s Ferry, the 1854 Kansas-Nebraska Act passed by Congress broadened the gap between the two opposing sides. In 1854, Kansas and Nebraska were still territories of the United States that had been obtained from France in the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. This statute declared that the settlers of these regions could determine for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. The passage of this piece of legislation ignored the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had allowed the practice of slavery in Missouri and any new territories south of the 36Â ° 30’ latitude line. Both Kansas and Nebraska were above that line, and clearly should have been automatically declared free regions. Opponents of slavery were furious at this blatant disregard of the Missouri Compromise, which had been such an important law because both the North and South feared that the other would become more powerful through the addition of new territories adhering to their especial stance on slavery. For the past thirty-four years, this act had prevented slavery from spreading into the North, and once the law had been passed over due to the efforts of Southern legislators, what was to stop it from taking over the nation? Enraged abolitionists made the decision to converge their efforts on Kansas in an attempt to save it from becoming part of the slave-state group. Their violent undertaking, and the fight of the Sout... Free Essays on Harper In the 1850’s, the matter of slavery was beginning to separate the United States, forcing people to side with either the North, which was for the elimination of slavery, or with the South, which had far more need of slaves. In the North, abolitionist groups were becoming more and more adamant that the slaves be set free immediately without compensation to their owners, while the Southerners were growing increasingly resolute that no one would force them to release them before they were ready and willing to do so. Five years prior to the raid of Harper’s Ferry, the 1854 Kansas-Nebraska Act passed by Congress broadened the gap between the two opposing sides. In 1854, Kansas and Nebraska were still territories of the United States that had been obtained from France in the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. This statute declared that the settlers of these regions could determine for themselves whether or not to allow slavery. The passage of this piece of legislation ignored the Missouri Compromise of 1820, which had allowed the practice of slavery in Missouri and any new territories south of the 36Â ° 30’ latitude line. Both Kansas and Nebraska were above that line, and clearly should have been automatically declared free regions. Opponents of slavery were furious at this blatant disregard of the Missouri Compromise, which had been such an important law because both the North and South feared that the other would become more powerful through the addition of new territories adhering to their especial stance on slavery. For the past thirty-four years, this act had prevented slavery from spreading into the North, and once the law had been passed over due to the efforts of Southern legislators, what was to stop it from taking over the nation? Enraged abolitionists made the decision to converge their efforts on Kansas in an attempt to save it from becoming part of the slave-state group. Their violent undertaking, and the fight of the Sout...

Media Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Media Management - Essay Example This essay stresses that rdio and television managers must share the same basic principles of responsible journalism as the people they hire in running their newsrooms. Regardless of how enthusiastic, well trained and forward thinking journalists may be, public affairs and news programming stand little chance of growth unless the motivation and expertise of airing something, with the exception of music, is nurtured at the management level. This paper makes a conclusion that inexperienced station managers may view maintenance of news as capital intensive and very risky politically and decide not to venture into it. Such managers must familiarize themselves with the numerous examples from other media houses in recent years where the risks have paid off well in terms of loyal audiences, favorable public perception and increased revenue. Managers should evaluate the skills of their newsroom in order to understand the qualities of good news and public affairs programs and also how to maximize advertisement sales due to the effect of local news programming. Media managers must also familiarize themselves with the basics of journalistic ethics because it is them who will the final arbiters and not journalists whenever there are accusations, disputes or ethical calls to be addressed. Media house management should acquaint themselves with key functions of media management such as ethics and law in broadcasting, technology and e ngineering, station promotion and identification and production and creativity. Others include sales principles, advertising and pricing, structure of a radio or TV station, and broadcast programming. Hierarchy of organizational communications needs Just like Maslow's hierarchy of human needs, there is also a hierarchy of organizational communications. The basic level of communication is the customer service that involves being available to execute communications on a responsive and professional basis, but not ordering anything more. This involves the media personnel just doing their job and has been compared to Maslow's physiological needs for food, shelter and water. From customer service, the level of communication goes up to 'media' where an appropriate range of media resources where the work is well produced and receives a high audience rating. This is a very secure and safe way of meeting the needs of the customers but does not add anything more. It is very much like Maslow's human safety need. Achieving the third level of communication requires a little more effort since media development becomes more goal-oriented because it defines the audience and the message and sets priorities to reach its communication objectives. This is the stage where communications becomes more proactive and the level of the work must be scaled down to the level of the

Healthcare Industry Overview Grid Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Healthcare Industry Overview Grid - Essay Example If it looks as if there is a market big enough to make a profitable product, the product is unique in the market and the product can be protected (via patenting or some other means) then businesses are commonly encouraged to dive into the expensive product development phase. Pharmaceutical/ Drug Industry is mainly responsible for developing, producing and marketing drugs that have been approved by the health authorities or governing agencies McGuire et.al, 2007) These drugs are mainly intended for medicinal purposes. Pharmaceutical companies can sell generic or branded medications. However, distribution and selling of such medicines are subject to variety of laws since there are issues regarding patenting, testing and marketing of drugs. The government is very strict in monitoring the pharmaceutical industry since the health of the general public is at stake. Health care personnel can be employed by pharmaceutical companies as medical technologists, chemists, or researchers. Usually, medical and sales representatives are also needed by this industry. Biotechnology researchers are in demand in this industry as well as laboratory assistants. Health Information Systems falls under the category of Health Informatics. It is a multi-disciplinary approach wherein computer science is integrated in health care services. A good health information system integrates â€Å"administrative files, enrollment files, clinical information, surveys and other data† (McGlynn,1998). Companies that offer Health Information Systems provide software services as well as database systems that can help health professionals make accurate decisions about patients. Some of the services provided by HIS are Health Information Management, dictation and transcription, document management and imaging, case management, revenue cycle management, and performance improvement. Health Information Systems

Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

Economics - Essay Example The fiscal expansion which came about as a result of World War 11 led to the end of that period of contraction. As some parts of the world are recovering from what has been described by many as the Great Recession, the debate is on as to whether or not the world went through a depression or a recession. Indeed there are some similarities with the Great Depression of the 1930’s but the official authorities have not characterised it as such. This paper defines recession and depression and explains the differences between them. It also looks at similarities and or differences leading up to the Great Recession which was triggered by the volatility in the stock market and a credit crunch in 2007, and those of the Great Depression which lasted from 1929 to 1933 and extended into the 1940’s. Definitions The Business Cycle Dating Committee (BCDC) at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) defines a recession as a time when business activity is at its peak and therefore starts falling until it reaches its lowest level (â€Å"bottom out†) –a trough (Recession n.d.). A recession normally lasts for a year and is part of a regular business cycle which involves contractions (recession) and expansions. However, there are others which have lasted for up to two years. An example is the Japan’s economic slowdown in Japan in the 1990’s which lasted for 2 years to March 1999 can be considered as a recession since the largest peak to trough decline in GDP during that period was 3.4%. A depression on the other hand represents a slowdown in economic activity where GDP falls by more than 10% (Recession n.d.). It is characterised by rising unemployment, a sustained long term downturn in the economy and normally last for more than three years. The great depression which lasted from 1929 to 1933 and which was prolonged well into the early 1940’s with the â€Å"double-dip† is a prime example of a depression. During this perio d real GDP fell by 30% which is above the 10% benchmark. Unemployment levels soared to never before seen levels and a large number of families and single persons were losing there homes. Thousands of business closed there doors while others downsized. Differences between a recession and a depression The Economist (2009) quotes Saul Eslake, the Chief Economist at ANZ Bank as saying that the difference between a recession and a depression is more than just size and duration as noted in the definitions above. Eslake indicates that the cause of the downturn is also of importance (qtd. in The Economist, 2009). Eslake went on to state that a recession usually results from tight monetary policies while a depression is the result of a â€Å"bursting asset credit bubble†, a sharp decline in credit (contraction) and a fall in the general price level (The Economist 2009). Eslake further stated that during the Great Depression prices fell by approximately 25% and nominal GDP shrank by al most 50%. A depression Eslake suggested does not have to be as severe as in the 1930’s. They can either be mild or severe. Additionally, Eslake (qtd. in Economist 2009) indicates that the economic downturns (slumps) which followed on the heels of the collapse of the Soviet Union and the ones which characterised the Asian crises were not depression. The reason Eslake states is that inflation increased sharply. Eslake also suggested that the downturn in the e

Investment Enhancement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Investment Enhancement - Essay Example This will help business people have adequate international portfolio diversification. Moreover, shareholders yearning to diversify a precarious investment, for example, stocks in a developing market, via international diversification, would be more profitable in areas which are negatively correlated, as well (Markowitz, 1952). Nations with stock prices moving in a different direction are perceived to be negatively correlated, while states with stock prices moving in a similar direction are perceived to be positively correlated. The principle of diversification stipulates that a portfolio comprising largely positively correlated benefits embrace the portfolio al an advanced risk than a negatively correlated stock prices portfolio. Lack of precise fortitude of stock market price progress keeps all portfolios at an advanced risk level than anticipated because of the existence of a diversifiable risk (Markowitz, 1952). This paper will look into the impact of international portfolio diver sification on an investment portfolio, investigate alternative investment vehicles, and explain how the use of derivative securities can further enhance a portfolio’s performance. ... Nonetheless, if a client would take about 30% of his money and allot it in international stock markets, the entire investment will not be dependent on how an economy or stock market is performing (Markowitz, 1952). In turn, this creates a much larger mode of diversification. Studies conducted in developing countries highlight viability of establishing investment federations to meet the participants’ political needs. Results from this study indicate the supremacy of international diversification in an investment federation over individual country investment. Another study assesses the probable advantages of a Mauritian business person when diversifying his venture into a number of African equity markets. In addition, the research looks at the gains that may result for non-African investor venturing in African markets. The result is that there is a low correlation in African stock markets. This can lessen the risk and increase earnings for both universal and Mauritian investors when they invest in chosen African nations. The advantages of international portfolio diversification incorporate many nations, even politically instable nations. Investor should invest in all countries regardless of political stability. This is because investing in politically frail countries may produce profits that more than the anticipated risks (Markowitz, 1952). Thus, it can be concluded that international portfolio diversification gives profits and reduces risks. Question B There are a number of alternative investment vehicles. They may include hedge funds, private equity firms, venture capital firm, among others. Hedge Funds Hedge funds are investment vehicles that put together investors’ funds in a broad variety of investments.

Human Resources Management in Supporting Corporate Strategy Dissertation

Human Resources Management in Supporting Corporate Strategy - Dissertation Example man and operational risk in an organization 14 2.13Talent management 15 2.13.1Talent management in Abu Dhabi government 15 2.14Employee engagement 15 2.14.1 Culture Difference 16 2.15Total quality management in HRM 16 2.15.1TQM practice in UAE 17 Chapter 3 Methodology 19 3.1 Research Philosophy 19 3.2 Research Approach 21 3.3 Research Design 23 3.4 Data Collection Methods 24 3.5 Data Analysis 24 3.6 Limitations 25 Chapter 4 Findings and Analysis 26 4.1 Evaluation of the human resources system 26 4.2 Primary research findings 27 4.2.1 Analysis of the ethical questionnaire 27 4.2.2 Analysis Interview Questions Answers 30 4.3 Discussions 34 Chapter 5Conclusion& Recommendations 35 Chapter 6 Personal Reflections 37 References 40 Appendices 45 Research Proposal A 45 Interview Questions B 51 Interview Questions & Answers C 52 Online survey questions& Results D 59 Ethics Form E 71 List of Figures Figure 1 The number of respondents from different departments of Abu Dhabi 28 Figure 2The distri bution of the length of service of the respondent 28 Figure 3The responses of the respondents in response to the agreement of the Abu Dhabi vision 2030 29 Figure 4Ratings provided by the respondents with their concern about their respective departments 30 Chapter 1 Introduction Research Question What is the methodology that being utilized in the current HRM system of Abu Dhabi government entities and institutions? Is this methodology adequate to support Abu Dhabi business strategy in terms of recruiting and developing employees and managers? If yes, rationale support is needed. If not, rationalize it with evidence(s) and suggest solutions to improve the current methodology. Aim: The aim of this research to improve human resources practices in Abu Dhabi government entities that will support... The attainment of the prosperity and the generation of wealth has been the apex criterion of the government of Abu Dhabi and the Federation of the United Arab Emirates has highly relied on the people which it thinks to be the true wealth. For the purpose of the achievement of its role, federation of Abu Dhabi will be highly focusing on the achievement of its own comprehensive and multifaceted vision. The vision was targeted at the creation of a confident and security and also towards the establishment of a sustainable and globally competitive economy. The high level management of Abu Dhabi has entitled all the governmental entities in the preparation of a policy paradigm which would be consisted of a large number of integrated initiatives already implemented and will be incorporated in the future for the purpose of achieving sustainable development. For materializing the vision, there must be effective functioning of coordinated work within the governmental entities and that of the A bu Dhabi government. The continuation and distribution of the understanding of the objectives of the Abu Dhabi government will generate the superstructure of future success dynamics. The competitive and globalised economy depended on the influx of human capital, the dimension of the social and human resource policy incorporates within it a systematic amalgamation of multifaceted goals and initiatives which needs to be highly understood both by the government and the private sector as they act.

China and United States Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

China and United States - Essay Example In China, roadways are often congested due to limited highway systems inter-linking rural and urban areas. In the United States, most everyone in the country has access to a vehicle as well as the roadways necessary to carry large amounts of traffic efficiently. This creates the opportunity for better costs for businesses in relation to shipment and delivery (logistics) because products can actually be moved from region to region in the United States without delays. In addition, the United States’ close proximity to other industrialized nations gives the United States competitive advantage by being able to have raw products delivered more cheaply than through expensive, overseas transportation networks. opportunities outside of their geographic household. It is a regular occurrence in the United States, today, for workers to commute long distances in order to seek better paying careers, therefore this is another advantage over China in terms of choice where industries can choose top talent from all over the country. In this way that business or organization is getting the best-skilled people and bringing advantages to the business in the process. The end result is a more efficient business which provides more efficient products and services to the local community, leading to a more sustainable national economy. Technology is superior for the United States in just one way: The amount of people who currently have access to the Internet and have the funds to buy consumer goods. In the United States, there are many more people with access to online shopping and other commercial activities, giving economies a better opportunity to increase profit success. This gives companies in the United States the opportunity to appeal to a wider group of customers through Internet technology, email, and other online offers. This strengthens the foundations of Capitalism in the United States and creates a stronger national economy in the process. In China, there is not

Investment Enhancement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Investment Enhancement - Essay Example This will help business people have adequate international portfolio diversification. Moreover, shareholders yearning to diversify a precarious investment, for example, stocks in a developing market, via international diversification, would be more profitable in areas which are negatively correlated, as well (Markowitz, 1952). Nations with stock prices moving in a different direction are perceived to be negatively correlated, while states with stock prices moving in a similar direction are perceived to be positively correlated. The principle of diversification stipulates that a portfolio comprising largely positively correlated benefits embrace the portfolio al an advanced risk than a negatively correlated stock prices portfolio. Lack of precise fortitude of stock market price progress keeps all portfolios at an advanced risk level than anticipated because of the existence of a diversifiable risk (Markowitz, 1952). This paper will look into the impact of international portfolio diver sification on an investment portfolio, investigate alternative investment vehicles, and explain how the use of derivative securities can further enhance a portfolio’s performance. ... Nonetheless, if a client would take about 30% of his money and allot it in international stock markets, the entire investment will not be dependent on how an economy or stock market is performing (Markowitz, 1952). In turn, this creates a much larger mode of diversification. Studies conducted in developing countries highlight viability of establishing investment federations to meet the participants’ political needs. Results from this study indicate the supremacy of international diversification in an investment federation over individual country investment. Another study assesses the probable advantages of a Mauritian business person when diversifying his venture into a number of African equity markets. In addition, the research looks at the gains that may result for non-African investor venturing in African markets. The result is that there is a low correlation in African stock markets. This can lessen the risk and increase earnings for both universal and Mauritian investors when they invest in chosen African nations. The advantages of international portfolio diversification incorporate many nations, even politically instable nations. Investor should invest in all countries regardless of political stability. This is because investing in politically frail countries may produce profits that more than the anticipated risks (Markowitz, 1952). Thus, it can be concluded that international portfolio diversification gives profits and reduces risks. Question B There are a number of alternative investment vehicles. They may include hedge funds, private equity firms, venture capital firm, among others. Hedge Funds Hedge funds are investment vehicles that put together investors’ funds in a broad variety of investments.

China and United States Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

China and United States - Essay Example In China, roadways are often congested due to limited highway systems inter-linking rural and urban areas. In the United States, most everyone in the country has access to a vehicle as well as the roadways necessary to carry large amounts of traffic efficiently. This creates the opportunity for better costs for businesses in relation to shipment and delivery (logistics) because products can actually be moved from region to region in the United States without delays. In addition, the United States’ close proximity to other industrialized nations gives the United States competitive advantage by being able to have raw products delivered more cheaply than through expensive, overseas transportation networks. opportunities outside of their geographic household. It is a regular occurrence in the United States, today, for workers to commute long distances in order to seek better paying careers, therefore this is another advantage over China in terms of choice where industries can choose top talent from all over the country. In this way that business or organization is getting the best-skilled people and bringing advantages to the business in the process. The end result is a more efficient business which provides more efficient products and services to the local community, leading to a more sustainable national economy. Technology is superior for the United States in just one way: The amount of people who currently have access to the Internet and have the funds to buy consumer goods. In the United States, there are many more people with access to online shopping and other commercial activities, giving economies a better opportunity to increase profit success. This gives companies in the United States the opportunity to appeal to a wider group of customers through Internet technology, email, and other online offers. This strengthens the foundations of Capitalism in the United States and creates a stronger national economy in the process. In China, there is not

International Corporation Essay Example for Free

International Corporation Essay Hard Rock Cafe International founded in 1971, as one of the worldwide entertainment and dining brands, internationally- highly praised music. It has a network of 122 signature Hard Rock Cafes in 41 countries and owns the worlds greatest collection of music memorabilia. Founded by two Americans, Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton, they are enterprising and music loving. Peter brought a real understanding of the restaurant business, and Isaac brought many creative attributes and together they made the Hard Rock Cafe (â€Å"The Hard Rock Cafe Story†, 2005). Hard Rock Cafe was an instant classic, entertain and attracting customers with its first-rate, but fairly priced casual American charge, warm service and ever-present rock n roll music and sensibility. They offer quality, classic American food in their unique, high-energy, music memorabilia-packed atmosphere. Hard Rock Cafe has finally become the worlds leading collector and exhibitors of rock n roll memorabilia (â€Å"The Hard Rock Cafe Story†, 2005). Known for its collectible and fashion merchandise, live concerts, Hard Rock Live performance venues, www. hardrock. com and Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos, Hard Rock Cafe International, Inc. is a totally owned subsidiary of London-based The Rank Group Plc. Hard Rock Cafe International provides visitors around the world with a unique experience that combines food and merchandise with the largest collection of rock memorabilia on the world. Hard Rock Cafe has become a global phenomenon. (Adelstein, 1999) People should keep their eye out as Hard Rock Cafe continues to take music into the next millennium, because at Hard Rock, music is truly the universal language. In latest years, Hard Rock has expanded its cafe limitations by reinforcing its music connection through music-related products and programs such as collectible and fashionable Hard Rock Cafe merchandise, the Hard Rock Records music label, www. hardrock. com, Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos, and Hard Rock Live music venues. Not only they can rock hard, they know how to throw a party. Opening celebrations for each new Hard Rock Cafe all around the world are started by live musical performances (â€Å"About Hard Rock cafe†, 2005). Hard Rock Cafe has been governed by a guiding service with law talent and honest philosophy, Love All Serve All. Means a place where all have always been welcome, in spite of age, sex or class. Hard Rock Cafe remains amazingly faithful to its original intentions. Its rock n roll sensibility a Hard Rock Cafe legacy- remains at the very center of all Hard Rock restaurants and every development hard work undertaken by Hard Rock Cafe. Classic American food, served up by a skilled, caring and helpful wait staff, is still the order of the day at Hard Rock Cafe. And a their commitment to widespread humanitarian causes under the banner Save the Planet- has helped make Hard Rock a legitimate cultural force, from coast to coast, continent to continent (â€Å"The Hard Rock Cafe Story†, 2005). Nowadays, Hard Rock Cafe International, with Hard Rock Cafe at its center, is an entertainment and leisure company that continues to successfully expand the Hard Rock Brand through limitless music-related ventures. Hard Rock Cafe is innovating on a system wide modernization program for the 21st century and adding a new day part, a nightclub with live music. Hard Rock is best known not for its food but for its atmosphere. The cafes ask for donations of music memorabilia and have the worlds largest collection of such. Time after time, their guests have told them that they are looking for an opportunity to make a personal, physical and sometimes even spiritual connection to the music and artists of their time. Then Hard Rock Cafe offer a entertaining, unique and educational look at the evolution of music, that can effects on world events and the emotional appeal and timeless energy as told through priceless memorabilia, interactive displays, educated guides and self-guided tours (â€Å"Hard Rock Cafe Announces Plans†, 2002). For Hard Rock Cafe the biggest challenge facing reputable restaurant chains like theirs is losing their customer. In addition, there have been many new competitors, paying attention by a low cost of livelihood and rising people, offering a comparable dining experience. Moreover, employee turnover has continued to increase. Fighting this situation, Hard Rock Cafe wanted to take improvement of their well-built brand image, combined with excellent customer service and constantly high food quality and to attract more customers from the close region (â€Å"Hard Rock Cafe sets new dining trends†, 2004). At Hard Rock Restaurant, to serves their customer they do not applied manual POS (Point of Sales) systems. The reason why The Hard Rock restaurant is do not make use of manual POS solution because it was based on manual processes, it was inefficient and costly to train new staff— and tracking lost revenue was nearly impossible. Before a new employee was ready to work on the restaurant floor, they have to follow the intensive classroom education for a week. From this activity expected, deliver the new wait-staff and cashiers that enable to memorize extensive information, from standard menu items and services options, to preparation alternatives, pricing details and corporate service policies (â€Å"Hard Rock Cafe sets new dining trends†, 2004). To be confident for the long term, The Hard Rock Cafe management needed to find a way to enhance customer service and reduce the amount of time that customers had to wait for their orders. Moreover, they had to decrease on training costs, as well as organization more-effective profits controls and a process for tracking customer preferences and sales trends to advance productivity. To face a great deal disturbance in the technology industry lately, the restaurant’s major concern in selecting a new POS resolution was dependability. Not just of the restaurant’s new systems, but also of the technology source delivering them. Then they use the new IBM technology-based solution (â€Å"Hard Rock Cafe sets new dining trends†, 2004). Hard Rock Cafe expects a full return on investment (ROI) for the new IBM technology-based solution. ROI expected can reduce the cashier headcount and staff training costs. Hard Rock Cafe wait-staff and cashiers can trust in rapid access to concurrent menu and pricing information to respond quickly to diners, by leveraging new functionality. Besides, human error during the order-entry process has been reduced to nearly nothing, resulting in better consistency, efficiency, and customer satisfaction (â€Å"Hard Rock Cafe sets new dining trends†, 2004). To constrain decision making about promotions, pricing and staffing, Hard Rock Cafe managers can track member of staff and customer activities, enabling the company to collect precious business data. By that method, they can rapidly identify popular items, advantage information to cross-sell extra menu items and track the preferences of common. The customers have seen the new technology and they often comment on the new modern system and Hard Rock Cafe innovative approach to reform the dining experience. This will affect customer faithfulness over the long term by enabling Hard Rock Cafe to leverage unforgettable, first-rate service and the strong brand image to attract a bigger base of both visitor and local customers (â€Å"Hard Rock Cafe sets new dining trends†, 2004). To build financial system work well, strategy for the Hard Rock Cafe are: ? They should fix the infrastructure and the existing corporate systems, ? They must invest in customer-facing programs ? They supposed to provide technologies that will drive traffic to Hard Rocks website (www. hardrock. com) and from there to the restaurants