The Roles and Barriers of Curriculum Leaders an Example of the Topic Scholarship by

The Roles and Barriers of Curriculum Leaders Leadership is experienced everywhere in the world, it is seen in organisations, schools, governments, small groups as well as in families. It enables a system to run well, effectively and with a sense of direction. Leadership therefore is not about power, accomplishments or what we do but it is about creating a domain in which human beings continually deepen their understanding of reality and become more capable of participating in the world and creating new realities. Need essay sample on "The Roles and Barriers of Curriculum Leaders" topic? We will write a custom essay sample specifically for you Proceed The functions that enables school systems and the schools to achieve goals and ensure quality of students in what they study and learn is therefore referred to as curriculum leadership. Supervisors, principles, classroom teachers and team leaders can all work together to discharge these responsibilities as the functions are goals oriented and the ultimate goal is to maximise student learning by providing quality learning content therefore making a distinction between curriculum, that is what is learnt and instruction which is the content taught. (Fullan 2004) Several theories in regard to leadership have been developed by philosophers from different schools of thought. (Gary 2001) came up with various leadership theories which focus on characteristics and behavioural success of leaders. These theories try to explain leadership and the different approaches used by leaders to effectively lead others. College Students Often Tell Us: How much do I have to pay someone to make my essay today? Specialists advise: Get Academic Writing At Reasonable Price With Us Cheap Essays Within Hours Write My Essay For Me Cheap Write My Essay Online Cheap Writing Service Reviews Contingency theory developed by Fred Fielder focuses on situations which affect a leaders effectiveness. The situations are such as leader-member relationship, which refer to the degree of confidence subordinates have in their leader. Another situation is task structure which refers to the degree to which followers works is routine in contrast to non routine and the final one is position power which include rewards and punishments associated with leaders formal authority, position and support that he or she receives from supervisors. The second theory is contingency theory which states that the most successful leaders are those who increase subordinate motivation by making sure they have control of outcome, reward them for their performance, encouraging them to achieve group and organisational goals and take into account their characteristics and the type of work they do. This theory explains why people perform well where their efforts are recognised by their leaders. For example in institutions where students are rewarded for their good work, there is usually stiff competition for the reward and this therefore improves the performance of the students Leader-style theory by Vroom and Yetton describes ways which leaders can make decisions and guide them to determine the extent to which subordinates should participate in decision making. The theory holds that organisational decisions should be of quality and subordinates should accept and be committed to the decisions made. The final theory is Hersey and Blachard theory which identifies three dimensional approaches for assessing leadership effectiveness; leaders should exhibit leadership and task behaviour, leader effectiveness depends on how his or her leadership style interrelates with the situational finally willingness and readiness of an employee to do a task. Leaders are on day to day basis faced with many roles which make them to be effective. These roles enable them to be able to handle the students and persons who are their juniors and allow them interact directly with team members. Curriculum leaders have both managerial roles as well as leadership roles. Managerial roles stresses on the role of leaders as custodians of institutions and also as a source of control of their institutions. The leaders should be able to manage all the curriculum activities of their institutions and ensure that they are running well and well adopted by the students. On the other hand, leadership roles stress on being the role model and making sure that there is discipline and sanity in the institutions. This creates a good picture to the community surrounding them and therefore holds a high level of respect from the people dealing with them as well as the community at large. This role also deals with improvement of instructional practice and performance which enables the curriculum leaders to be coalition builders as well as brokers among the perse interests of both the students and teachers of their institutions. Another role of curriculum leaders include monitoring team members behaviours and take action if needed in respect to team performance (Hackman 2002). The leader is meant to monitor performance and progress towards task accomplishment and if problems are discovered the leader should gather information to determine the nature of the problem and use it to implement an effective solution (Hackman 2002). Another role of curriculum leaders includes focusing on the enactment of team orientation which includes factors with motivational implications (that is promoting shared goals creating positive effect and shaping perceptions). Orientation represents effective bonds that connect members to the team and its mission. Team coherence represent team members collective bond and is also part of this role and includes development of linked inpidual goals checking team strategies and a compatible network of role expectations across team members. As (Koslowski 1996a) states team leaders have the role of building a new team. He or she should develop them into a coherent, seamless and well integrated work unit as the ongoing teams experience outflows and inflows overtime. Therefore as new replacements are brought to the team, there is need to socialise, assimilate them and make sure that they fit in the team. The other roles of curriculum leaders in schools are; One is to create a moral purpose which is a social responsibility to others and to the environment. School leaders with a moral purpose make a difference in the lives of their student. They are determined to close the gap between high performing and lower performing schools and students as they have the intension of making a positive difference in their schools. Another role is to improve relations as it leads to betterment of schools. The leaders should build relationships with perse groups and people who think differently. As cultural change principal knows that building relationships and teams is a difficult skill, he or she should therefore work hard to develop full range of emotional intelligence domains and self management of emotions and empathy towards others. This not only boost scores for the next year but also lays a foundation for two years and beyond (Fullan 2004) knowledge creating and sharing is another role of leaders. Leaders should share and seek knowledge to ensure continual learning which add to students knowledge base. Curriculum leaders should appreciate that it is a both intellectual and moral profession therefore he or she should remember that they are engaged in practising, studying and refining the teaching craft. Effective leaders should be coherent makers (Fullan 2004), understanding the change process, ability to build relationships and creating and knowledge sharing help create coherence through checks and balances embedded in their interaction. Leaders with deep moral purpose provide guidance but can also be blinders if their ideas are not challenged by change dynamics, give and take relationships and ideas generated by new knowledge. Leadership and sustainability is another role faced by curriculum leaders. They can attain sustainability by developing social environment, learning in context, cultivating leaders at all levels and enhancing the teaching profession. According to (Collins 2001), an organisation cannot flourish for long with the top leader alone, schools therefore need leaders at many levels, curriculum leaders therefore has the responsibility of developing leaders from the lowest to the to level of education. To be able to deal with complex problem leaders need many years of experience and professional development of the job and to a certain extent, a school leaders effectiveness in creating a culture of sustained change will be determined by the leaders he leaves behind. Leadership succession is also likely if there are many leaders at all levels hence organisations should set their sight on continual improvement at all levels by nurturing, cultivating and appointing successive leaders who are moving in a sustained direction. It is also the role of curriculum leaders to set policies which should be followed by students. The policies can be achieved by setting performance targets, approve standards, monitor school performance, adjudicate conflicts over design performance issues, administer rewards and buffer non instructional issues, this enables smooth running of the system and therefore reduce their work load. Curriculum leaders also have professionals which include developing standards and setting new instructional practices, design pre-service and in-service learning, conducting model professional development and creating benchmarks for practice and content. The final role of curriculum leaders in schools is to enhance the teaching profession. This is because there will only be a pool of quality principals and leaders if we have a large pool of quality teachers who form ranks of the quality principals (Elmore, 2000). Despite the important leadership and managerial roles experienced by curriculum leaders, there are several barriers that they experience which hinders the full implementation of their roles. One of the barriers is the problem with the standard setting in curriculum which is set by staff officials who are already removed from schools and free from accountability. These standards are often not supported with other systematic changes like new approaches to teacher education therefore the standards are often fragmented and contradictory making it difficult for curriculum leaders, (Woolfolk 1994). In conclusion, the curriculum system complication is also another barrier which represents an almost impossible task for curriculum leaders. The complications faced also force the students to master several benchmarks which therefore make the system hard for both the student and the curriculum leaders.Curriculum leaders of late experience cultural barriers and difficulties when undertaking their leadership roles, this is due to lark of training on the many different cultural values and practices for different students and this therefore creates a misunderstanding between the student and his or he leader. The leaders should therefore have their own lessons on different cultures and how to handle students of different levels and races so as to ensure easy management of his or her duties. Learn more: ApplicationResponse to the ResumeWriting a research paper Bibliography Elmore Richard 1996, Restructuring in the classroom: teaching, learning and school management, Jessey Bass, Sanfransisco. Michael Fullan 2004 Moral imperative of school leadership, Corwin press ISBN 1412914779. Richard Hackman 2002, leading teams, Harvard business school press, London Richard .F Elmore 2000 Building a new structure for school leadership, Albert Shanker institute New York. Woolfolk Hoy, A. & Hoy, W. K 2006 Instructional Leadership: A research-based guide to learning in schools 2nd ed.Boston MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Emily Dickinsons Mother, Emily Norcross

Emily Dickinsons Mother, Emily Norcross Emily Dickinson is one of the most mysterious writers in literary history. Although she was a literary genius, only eight of her poems were published in her life, and she lived a secluded existence. But, this quiet life at home can be compared to the isolated life her mother lived. About Emilys Mother: Emily Norcross Emily Norcross was born on July 3, 1804, and she married Edward Dickinson on May 6, 1828. The couples first child, William Austin Dickinson, was born just 11 months later. Emily Elizabeth Dickinson  was born on December 10, 1830, and her sister, Lavinia Norcross Dickinson (Vinnie) was born several years later on February 28, 1833. From what we know of Emily Norcross, she seldom left home, only making brief visits to relatives. Later, Dickinson would rarely leave home, spending most of her days in the same house. She isolated herself more and more as she grew older, and she seemed to become more selective in whom she saw from her circle of family and friends. Of course, one marked difference between Dickinson and her mother is that she never married. There has been a great deal of speculation about why Emily Dickinson never married. In one of her poems, she writes, Im wife; Ive finished that... and She rose to his requirement... / To take the honorable work / Of woman and of wife. Perhaps she had a long-lost lover. Perhaps, she chose to live a different sort of life, without leaving home and without marrying. Whether it was a choice, or simply a matter of circumstance, her dreams came to fruition in her work. She could imagine herself in and out of love and marriage. And, she was always free to spend her flood of words, with passionate intensity. For whatever reason, Dickinson did not marry. But even her relationship with her mother was troubled. The Strain of Having an Unsupportive  Mother Dickinson once wrote to her mentor, Thomas Wentworth Higginson, My Mother does not care for thought-- , which was foreign to the way Dickinson lived. Later she wrote to Higginson: Could you tell me what home is. I never had a mother. I suppose a mother is one to whom you hurry when you are troubled. Dickinsons relationship with her mother may have been strained, especially during her earliest years. She could not look to her mother for support in her literary efforts, but none of the members of her family or friends saw her as a literary genius. Her father saw Austin as the genius and never looked beyond. Higginson, while supportive, described her as partially cracked. She had friends, but none of them really understood the true extent of her genius. They found her witty, and they enjoyed corresponding with her through letters. In many ways, though, she was completely alone. On June 15, 1875, Emily Norcross Dickinson suffered a paralytic stroke and suffered from a long period of illness thereafter. This period of time may have had more influence on her seclusion from society than any other, but it was also a way for the mother and daughter to become closer than ever before. For Dickinson, it was also just another small step away into her upper roominto her writing. Vinnie said that one of the daughters must be constantly at home. She explains her sisters seclusion by saying that Emily chose this part. Then, Vinnie said that Emily, finding the life with her books and nature so congenial, continued to live it... A Caretaker Till the End Dickinson cared for her mother for the final seven years of her life, until her mother died on November 14, 1882. In a letter to Mrs. J.C. Holland, she wrote: The dear Mother that could not walk, has flown. It never occurred to us that she had not Limbs, she had Wingsand she soared from us unexpectedly as a summoned Bird Dickinson could not understand what it meant: the death of her mother. She had experienced so much death in her life, not only with the deaths of friends and acquaintances, but the death of her father, and now her mother. She had wrestled with the idea of death; she had feared it, and she wrote many poems about it. In Tis so appalling, she wrote, Looking at death is dying. So, her mothers final end was hard for her, especially after such a long illness. Dickinson wrote to Maria Whitney: All is faint indeed without our vanished mother, who achieved in sweetness what she lost in strength, though grief of wonder at her fate made the winter short, and each night I reach finds my lungs more breathless, seeking what it means. Emilys mother might not have been the genius that her daughter was, but she influenced Dickinsons life in ways she probably didnt even realize. In total, Dickinson wrote 1,775 poems in her life. Would Emily have written so many, or would she have written any at all, if she had not lived that solitary existence at home? She lived for so many years alonein the room of her own. Sources: Emily Dickinson Biography Emily Dickinson Poems

Strategic Leadership - Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Strategic Leadership - - Case Study Example It will not be correct to say that Wal-Mart chose a particularly attractive industry because firstly it is evident that throughout Wal-Mart’s lifespan, the retail industry has been having intense internal rivalry among several major players. Secondly, in all areas of retail that Wal-Mart ventured into it began as an underdog for example to Price Club in Warehouse Clubs; to Meijer and Fred Meyer in Supercentres; and to King’s, Korvette’s et al in discount chains. The fact is that Wal-Mart developed unique competitive advantages to propel itself to industry leadership. Some of the key drivers to its competitive advantage are as follows. Putting good-sized stores into little one-horse towns which everybody else was ignoring (Bradley & Ghemawat 3), heavy investment in Information Technology (IT), the pushing-from-the-inside-out pattern of expansion and its human resource management – characterized by empowering its employees at all levels. How have Wal-Mart' s strategy and source of competitive advantage changed over time? How do Wal-Mart's costs compare to those of the industry? Please be specific. Wal-Mart’s strategy at inception was to set up stores in those small towns that were being ignored by the other big retailers. To encourage the residents of these towns to shop locally instead of travelling to the big towns Wal-Mart provided goods at attractive prices. This strategy ensured that by mid-80s one-third of Wal-Mart stores were located in areas that were not served by its competitors (Bradley & Ghemawat 3). The organization then moved to a strategy that involved investing heavily in information systems (IS) and empowering its store managers with freedom to set prices to meet local market conditions (Bradley & Ghemawat 4). The IS increased the efficiency and effectiveness of its supply chain management system which enabled the company to reduce operational costs, increase efficiency and maintain their low price competit ive advantage. As the Wal-Mart grew in size and market share it began using its huge buying power to influence the behavior of its suppliers. For example it set up vendor-managed inventory systems with key suppliers to replenish stocks at its stores and warehouses. When other competitors began catching up with the use of information systems, Wal-Mart implemented a diversification strategy which involved investing in the development of supercenters and international expansion. Wal-Mart’s prices were typically 2 – 4% lower than their competitors in most markets. How sustainable is Wal-Mart's source of competitive advantage at the time of the case? Identify the main threats to Wal-Mart's competitive position. Put yourself in the role of CEO of one of Wal-Mart’s rivals: How would you attack Wal-Mart? Wal-Mart’s has been exploiting the low pricing strategy for a long time such that it has an effective organization design that ensures that it operates like a we ll-oiled machine. As lastname (118) states, Wal-Mart has coherent and logical strategies in place to maximize on its

Sea Levels and Melting Glaciers Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Sea Levels and Melting Glaciers - Research Paper Example They continue to say it’s a myth regardless of recent, clearly observable weather anomalies such as record heat, droughts, storms and floods in addition to melting ice caps and glaciers causing rising sea levels. These climate events were predicted by scientists’ years ago. Others admit the earth is warming but deny the source claiming naturally occurring global temperature cycles are to blame. By simply acknowledging the facts and ignoring political agendas, man’s impact on climate change becomes clear, unlike the air we breathe. Man-produced air pollutants, chiefly carbon dioxide, are commonly referred to as â€Å"greenhouse gases.† Carbon dioxide is emitted naturally by mammals when they breathe out and taken in by growing plant life. This cycle does not pollute the air, however, carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere from the use of fossil fuels such as coal and oil by factories, electric power plants and automobiles not only pollutes the air but i s causing an imbalance of the earth’s greenhouse effect. Part of the sun’s energy is reflected back into space by the atmosphere while part is allowed through and warms the earth. Naturally occurring substances in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, keep this balance and the earth’s temperature relatively constant. ... We have records of massive hurricanes striking what’s now New York as far back as the mid-13th century.† (Cooke, 2012). However, the warming seas, altered currents and higher sea levels due to higher climate temperatures made the storm larger, directed it on a path closer to the coast and amplified the reach of inland flooding. It seems reasonable to assume that global warming deniers, in general, have not objectively researched the available data. The oil and coal industry tries to sway public opinion by spending millions to convince people â€Å"clean energy† is too expensive and not yet a viable option while hyping their own efforts to reduce carbon emissions such as by using â€Å"clean coal† technology, a process that does not exists. â€Å"The airwaves are filled with corporate-financed climate misinformation.† (Begley, 2011). Even those who refuse to believe the scientific data cannot escape the undeniable reality that unusually extreme weathe r events are taking place more frequently. â€Å"Worldwide, the litany of weather’s extremes has reached biblical proportions.† (Begley, 2011). In 2010 Texas experienced a record drought. Many parts of the state did not have rain the entire year. Nearly1000 tornadoes ripped across the nation’s Midwest killing hundreds of people and causing billions of dollars in damage while record flooding inundated this region. Flooding in Australia and Pakistan left millions homeless. Heat waves in Europe and Russian have killed thousands. China, like Texas, endured drought conditions in most of 2010 which destroyed several millions acres that were once fertile farmlands. Sea levels are rising by varying degrees on almost every coastline. This is just the beginning and the worst is yet to

Basic Education Curriculum Essay Example for Free

Basic Education Curriculum Essay The Revised Basic Education Curriculum (RBEC) is on its 7th year of implementation this school year 2005-2006 with slight modifications, with emphasis to rubrics/student performance as basis of grading system. Teachers are required to prepare their syllabus based on the objectives of the revised Basic Education Curriculum. Lesson plans were also patterned and organized to meet the objectives of the implemented curriculum. All test items; tables of specifications were prepared and/or updated. Demonstration teachings were conducted for staff development during school level workshop. Department heads make periodic observation of classes to monitor the implementation of the RBEC. Integration method, collaborative teaching, peer teaching, team teaching, motor activities, visual as well as oral activities in classes were noted and observed. Mentoring is also being practiced.

The Information Technological Human Resources Management Techniques Commerce Essay

The Information Technological Human Resources Management Techniques Commerce Essay The information technology in human resources management application, will be helpful for the re-definition and optimizing human resources management operation flow.This also raises the working efficiency, improves the grade of service, and thus increasing the information and professional human resources management platforms productivity. Certainly, in as much as information technology has contributed to the growth of human resource management, it is also important to highlight that human resource management will continually to grow in all ramification. But the information technology also to a certain extent steady developed certain function for the human resources. This research will analyze all aspect of the usage of technology in human resource management and how opportunities are still there to aid the advance of human resource. LITERATURE REVIEW Understanding of HRM De Cenzo and Robbins (1996: p8) defined HRM as the part of the organization that is concerned with the people as a whole and renders support in all aspect to them. Sequel to this, is the definition given by Bratton and Gold (2003: p7), that HRM is the strategic approach to managing employment relations with emphasis to the capability of the employees so as to sustain competitive edge. Lastly, Alan Price (2004: p32) gave a rather accurate HRMs definition as that part of the organization responsible for recruiting capable, dynamic and committed people, so as to manage and reward their efforts which will lead to competencies for the organization. The most important part of the organization is human resource management. Having a human resource management is not just the fact but having an effective one tat is able to align the organization goals into action is the most important thing. Finding revealed by Evan et al (2002) shows that human resource management is a core part and asset of any organization because it is very important in the sustaining of business success. Cross (2000), shows that human resource management inter-connects all people in the management and development of the organization. Likewise, human resource management is the driving force of the organization. According to the business dictionary, human resource management is defined as an administrative activity associated with planning, recruitment, selection motivation as well as developing people through work. (http://www.businessdictionary.com) Information technology on the other hand takes a proactive definition which looks at the Today, human resource management is now faced by many problems which is fast making it less effective in many ways. PRESENCE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN HRM The importance of technology cant be ignored wisely because of the many advantages it gives to employees as well as the overall success it provides for human resource management which equally translates to the overall organizational structure in a positive way. Information technology, by no doubt has helped to value the workforce as a relevant asset that defines the overall organizations culture and philosophy. The use of information technology in human resource management can be seen visibly in the mode and operation of human resource management. Today, the training and selection method is done via the use of information technology and this is fast making the overall process more effective than ever as a whole. Jerman-Blazic, (1996) stated that the use of internet and information technology offers much quicker access to latest scientific and technological innovations of the companies and research institution. This particular true because human resource will continually pay attention to transformation of employees in the organization just as technology would be driving tool to accompany this objective. Acquiring and gathering fresh knowledge whether supplementary or existing ones can only be attained via information that is technological in nature. Further to this, this researcher feels that information technology offer awareness and it is the driving force of changes as well. This observat ion can be seen by the research conducted by Lindstrom, Moberg Rapp (1997) which says: With Internet and (more broadly) Information-and-Communications-Technology (ICT) development in the full swing for the last two decades, organizations have been provided with a whole range of new possibilities for performing work and structuring organization In another review, new technology may also be required for implementing a low cost strategy if the technology can improve efficiency (Mondy, Noe Premeaux 1999, p148). The adoption of information technology assists closely in the cost analysis of any intending project that the human resource is undertaking since there are improved efficiency in all ramification. The process of human resource planning requires some level of technological application which will be incorporated into the overall strategic implementation of the company. Mondy, Noe Premeaux (1999) also concluded that aligning information technology to human resource management supports the overall implementation of plan as well as conducting analysis. Likewise, in time and labor management, the use of information technology cant be ignored because it is advantageous. IT enables the gathering and application of employee time and work information. It enables the tracking of employee in a scientific way that allows for easy analysis. It also enable human resource managers or senior personnel to know which employee is actually performing and the ones that are not performing and show improvement. Druckers work (2001) also added to this view by supporting that IT tracks employees performance.. It is a known fact that many organization differ in their approach to human resource planning and practices. E-HRM IN THE TODAY ORGANIZATION Ernst finds that electronic human resource management (e-HRM) is a web-based tool to automate and support HR processes. The implementation of e-HRM is an opportunity to delegate the data entry to the employees. eHRM facilitates the usage of HR marketplaces (e-recruitment) and offers more self-service to the employees (http://www.thestep.gr) The need to gather and have conceptual knowledge in this modern world is fast becoming a necessity and thus the adoption and use of information technology in human resource is no longer a new thing. When human resource and information technology are brought together, we see that there formulation leads to what we call e-HRM. A term used to denote the adoption of information technology in the human resource management department or policies. Information technology and human resource management is now known as e-HRM (Zhang Wang). IT has brought about revolution in organization through the adoption just as firms are now having corporate website which is now shifting the manual form of doing job to the computerized one such that mistake are eliminated to the minimal level. Consequently, the process of hiring new employees has been challenging and quite tasking. Tim Knox, in his article entitled expert strategies for hiring best employees suggests the use of information technology of hiring potential candidates to the job. The traditional view should be discarded and give way to the claims of Tim. Today, many companies through the human resource department are now employing employee through the Internet and other technological means. This is helping to reduce the demanding circle of having to be so physically in all the process that requires attentions. Kanungos (2006) work can be used to support this argument as he labelle d out that IT is so relevant and important also in the profit accumulation of the company. Knowledge management is very crucial and important for gathering knowledge that will be useful in all ramifications and surfaces of the organization. Since human resource department works with all departments, there is a need to understand that information technology is very essential and important as well. Likewise, recalling Jens et al (2010) work, one is able to see that HRIS and eHRM is used only at the professional and bureaucracy level. This view is thus misleading because not all human resource managements are operating at the bureaucracy level. Supporting this claim is the work of Mukama (2003). HRIS would only benefit the organization and has nothing to do with bureaucracy. CONCLUSION Information technology in human resource management plays a major role not only by the usage but also by the implementation and evaluation. It is a know fact that IT has helped to move human resource management forward to a level in which organizational activities are now less demanding and easy to use. There is now a pressing need to understand the role and use of information technology in all aspect of the organization as well. This is because many literature reviews on this research topic focused on information technology in the overall organizational context while others focused on Human resource information system (HRIS) and e-HRM. The human resource management has more than enough functions and thus the use of information technology should applies; researchers on this topic should bear this on their mind always. This research focused on all areas that information technology is making impact in the human resource management, however, there is still a need to further research on impact of IT in developing nation as it is obvious that are not adjusting fast to this trend. Word counts excluding references: 1,589. BIBILIOGRAPHY REFERENCES De Cenzo David A. and Robbins Stephen P. (1996) Human Resource Management 5th edn, John Wiley Sons Inc, Canada Bratton John and Gold Jeffrey (2003) Human Resource Management: Theory and practices, 3rd edn, Palgrave Macmillan, London Alan Price (2004) Human Resource Management in a Business Context, second edition, John Wiley Sons Inc, Canada Evans, P, Pucik, V, and Barsoux, JL (2002)  The Global Challenge. Frameworks for International Human Resource Management, McGraw-Hill/Irwin, New York Cross, E (2000) Managing Diversity-The Courage to Lead, Quorum Books, Westpoint, CT, USA Business dictionary.com human resource management http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/human-resource-management-HRM.html. Accessed on 10th October 2010 Jerman Blazic, B. (1996). Internet. Ljubljana: Novi Forum Lindstrom, J, Moberg A. Rapp B. (1997), On the classification of telework. European Journal of Information Systems 6, pp. 243-255. Mondy RW, Noe RM Premeaux SR(1999) Human resource management 7th edn Prentice hall international, USA Kanungo, RP (2006) Cross culture and business practice: are they coterminous or cross-verging?  Cross Cultural Management: An International Journal, 13: 1, 23-31 Drucker, P. (2001). The Essential Drucker, Butterworh-Heinemann Oxford, UK   Zhang, Li1; Wang, Hong, Intelligent information processing in human resource management: an implementation case in China Blackwell Publishing Expert Systems, Volume 23, Number 5, November 2006 , pp. 356-369(14). Tim Knox expert strategies for hiring best employees Mama http://www.timknox.com/amazon. Accessed on 23rd October 2010 Ernst Biesalski knowledge management and e-human resource management http://www.thestep.gr/trainmor/dat/%7B0aa92187-62c6-4b0e-ad94-c71652d05db8%7D/article.pdf. Accessed on 24th October 2010 Jens Kaasbà ¸ll and Marlen Stacey Chawani, Gro Alice Hamre Jon Sandvand Competencies and Learning for Management, Information Systems Journal of Information, Information Technology, and Organizations Volume 5, 2010 Mukama, F. (2003). A study of health information systems at local levels in Tanzania and Mozambique.Improving the use and management of information in health districts. Unpublished Master, University of Oslo, Oslo.

What Is the Relevance of Organisational Behaviour to Practising Managers?

Organisational behaviour can be defined as study of the interaction among individuals, groups and the organisation. Then this knowledge is focused towards the efficient and effectiveness of the organisation. With that said, organisational behaviour is relevance to practising managers in giving them a greater understanding of the process and interacting of individuals, groups and the organisation on a whole and how each one relates to the other.Hence, managers need to show forth some of their skills (PLOC; Planning, Leading, Organising; Controlling) required in order to understand how the various individual within the organisation interact with each other, how they perform with the task given and how efficient and effective they are, as it relates to completing the given task. Next, we look at the group interaction. In this case, the manager is able to match the individual’s abilities according to their strengths and weaknesses, to gain the best result for the project the group would be undertaking.Thus by understanding the individual, it leads to better working groups and a reduction in conflicts that would arise. An example of, placing individuals with conflict into different groups or ensuring that they understand that, they personally feelings for each other shoe not effort they work or they attitude towards the project. Last we look at the organisation. Managers would find that when they is smooth running or co-ordination, between individual’s and their work and the interaction of individual with their work it is the basis for a smooth running organisation.However, everything would not be perfect since there are always upside and downside to everything. So in conclusion, organisational behaviour is relevant to managers within an organisation. Since when all the aspects of the organisation are function properly, it can be attributed to the various attitudes (behaviours) of the individuals that form the workforce (heartbeat) of the organisation. In the end, a greater understanding, and respect for the individual is need (eg: motivation, respect for religious believes, etc) in order for the organisation to operate at it highest potential.

The Evolution of English Churches

The development of English churches The English churches which are emerged during the epoch of different reigns and its architectural features are a alone country of survey. It varies in many facets from other manners of architecture every bit good as the stuffs used. The period from 600 AD to 1900 AD was the period in which the different architectural manners were emerged. It starts with the Anglo Saxon period to Victorian period. It is a huge country of survey in which the picks of construction were selected based on many grounds like influence of households or swayers, handiness of stuffs etc. Each and every period was landmarks of the architecture which influenced in the building of English churches within the cultural boundaries. During the reign of different emperors, the fortunes for doing different assortments in the building of churches became a tendency and it created different architectural manners. Every manner has difference in many facets and the workers followed the forms in similar mode on all the buildings in that period. Anglo Saxon period The Anglo Saxon period started from 600 AD to 1066 AD. The plants which carried out during this period depicts the influence of Roman business in the Britain. Later it became the far making manner of architecture spread to some other parts of Europe. The relatively geographical isolation, the distribution and handiness of edifice stuffs and workingmans contributed to this manner of British architecture which we call now as Anglo Saxon period. The influences can be seen particularly in the Basilica program, the Celtic program, etc. All the earliest churches which were built here whilst Britain belonged to the Roman Empire and in the southern parts where the influence of the Christianity predominated for long afterwards were in the basilican manners. Outside the southern England these were seldom found during the terminal of 7th century. The digging work which was carried out at the Roman town of Silchester, Hampshire, revealed a 4th century Christian church of this type. Augustine’s foremost cathedral at Canterbury has similar characteristics of St Peters basilica at Rome. Each Anglo Saxon church had its ain distinctive characteristics which is the ground the current province of each church is different other than its land program. The churches were low, unpretentious and purely functional. That is the difference of Anglo Saxon edifices with the replacements. The best sanctum crosses are done with rock in this period which are shown as an illustration of early Christian art in the northern portion. The favorite subjects of the Anglo Saxons were animate beings, birds, foliages, vines and scriptural characters. The workers chiefly worked with cocks and chisels. The church walls look strong and solid though they were non truly thick. Quoining was another characteristic of the Anglo Saxon walls in which the rocks will be placed on top of the other at the point where two walls met. Towers at this period were square, rectangular or round in form. It reaches a upper limit of 70 pess. They were non professional in building techniques that they could construct traversing towers on pies and arches. The Windowss were little and the church was affected by conditions jobs. Glass was available but it was really expensive because of its foreign beginning. Most of the Windowss were directly sided and unit of ammunition headed. There were cells built under the organic structure of the church which is called as the crypts. These were found in the edifices which were built by the well traveled missionaries. This was a convenient topographic point to hive away, exhibit and were besides used to conceal hoarded wealths or sacred relics which were collected during the pilgrim's journey. The crypts walls were thick and were divided into differentiated countries. These were the peculiar characteristics which were subsequently became treatments and hallmarks of the Anglo Saxon architectural manner. During its broad heritage of more than 5 centuries the manner made its grade in the history of British church building every bit good as the overall architecture of the British edifices, though it varied in assorted countries of England. The Norman and Transitional period These were another noticeable period which played a major function in doing the elegant manner of the British architecture. The Norman period extended from 1066 AD to 1160 AD and the Transitional period was 1150 AD to 1200 AD. Like the Anglo Saxons, the architecture in Normandy where they developed a manner of Romanesque which has its ain regional and local features. Edward the Confessor made the Norman architecture implemented in the ecclesiastical affairs. The Council of London, 1075, moved dioceses to big Centres and at that topographic point cathedrals were started in Norman manner. This tendency was ended by the male monarch William II who made great demands on the church architecture. Until 12th century the Anglo Saxon church art and sculpture was far advance than the Norman architecture. The first church which is built in Norman manner after the conquering of were solid looking and solemn, and was virtually barren of any coloring material or ornament. Norman architecture was developed in the late 30 old ages of the 11th century as it did in Normandy, but the church edifice rushed in front. The overall thought was to supply every small town with a topographic point of worship and as a consequence every medieval church will stay Norman in beginning. The ornamentations were unusual including the beak caput which was a favorite signifier of ornament, which take us into which is used in adorning truss tabular arraies. The caputs of firedrake, birds, animate beings etc were given a long beak or pointed mentum which extended over a convex modeling to turn over below. The Norman walls were holding rubble infilling between the teguments of appareled rocks and were looking midst and solid. The faces had shots which were made during the carving of the axe. Buttresss were introduced in this period which was meant chiefly for projecting from land degree against the exterior wall, in contrast to the Saxon pilasters which appeared at many points on wall surfaces. They were rather apparent built in one phase with upper surfaces inclining towards the corners. The towers were no longer provided as the chief entryway to the church, whereas it is used as the domination portion of the church which is noticeable than anything in the environment. The Normans developed a technique for back uping the cardinal tower with wharfs which is placed merely at the angles, which became the best advantage of the tower design. Towers were fundamentally built in rectangular or square base but may be built round where there is a deficiency of stuffs. The Windowss were extremely setup carbon monoxide related with the exterior wall surface, but were used as a natural visible radiation beginning. The doors were decorated with sanctuary arches which were the most dramatic characteristic of the eleventh and 12th century architecture. The perpendicular boards of oak were used as the door elements which was battened horizontally and press sets were given outdoors. The chief designs used by the Normans for their founts were round unmounted, round mounted on a cardinal root with several other supports which his either used for functional capacity whereas the square unmounted is normally thick cornered and is holding cardinal root. They carved the objects which they were most afraid of every bit good as the objects they like the most with lasting stuffs. In this period legion cosmetic thoughts were developed which was begun with petroleum carving and a figure of regional manners were evolved. In the transitional period the builders and the Masons were seeking for new ways of showing their development accomplishments. The usage of axe was replaced by chisels and cocks which made a new tendency and gave good consequences. The first transitional pointed arches were constructional which was non seen earlier. Sometimes the unit of ammunition headed arches and the pointed arches were placed side by side in such a manner that one can see how short a infinite of clip that latter took consequence. The highs of towers in this period increased and the gaps which were round in form besides contained some pointed arches. The transitional period may be otherwise called as the transmutation period from Norman to the Early English period. The Early English period It was the period in which the Victorians liked the least but for which they accorded the descriptive term ‘first pointed’ was curious to England in the old ages between Romanesque and geometrical Gothic. This period extended from 1200 AD to 1300 AD and was a glorious age where the British ecclesiastical plants started to do its English manner. In this period the barbarian enthusiasm in the architectural positions and beliefs were dominated by the echt spiritual ideas. It was influenced by the reigns of Richard ( 1189-99 ) and John ( 1199-1216 ) and their ideas made much alteration in the buildings at that clip. By the starting of 13th century the church has become rectangular or cruciform in its land program. The builders have got an thought how to manage burden and structural strains by the clip of this period in 13th century. They did experiments on the burden facets and a new assortment in the building techniques was created. The most abiding design in this period was crocket. The design was influenced by the classical capitals of abroad which was altered and made in the concave hook form with shafts and had a lobbed visual aspect. On the borders of arches and goons the Canis familiaris caput was sculptured and was the precursor of the designs in the 14th century. In some countries the churches were little and tower less. The wall doesn’t have much greater thickness to maintain them up and back up the weight from above. The walls still had a rubble masonry construction but the cognition gained by the Masons helped to better a batch in the structural parametric quantities. The realization of the mistakes in the old building plants made noticeable alteration in the walls and even in the arrangement of window. The form of window was changed to indicate headed and it extended to the tracery. The buttresses projected more from the wall than earlier and were extended above the land degree to an extent. They were largely straight sided and the borders were chamfered. The twine classs were little and elegant which can be seen throughout the edifice and had about tantamount characteristics which they were resembled. The Decorated The first Edwardian epoch was another aureate period which the Victorian loved the most for its pureness. They called this period as in-between or 2nd pointed when the church architecture resembled the Gallic constructions in the 14th century. This period started by the terminal of 13th century, to be specific 1300 AD and ended at 1377 AD. Though it has similar characteristics of Gallic manner of architecture, it doesn’t peculiarly resemble that in the concluding phase. The imaginativeness and wild thought of the emperors every bit good as the creative persons made the churches more adorned than earlier. They included more seats to the church and made it more secular than earlier. Inside the church societal events took topographic point and became more unfastened to the populace. The internal walls were coloured decently and they covered more with cosmetic elements, whereas the services were made of ritual. Overall cosmetic result of this clip was ne'er been realised. During this clip the building of many churches remained unfinished because of decease of Masons and builders due to blight. Even though these calamities happened, the term decorated genuinely depicted in largest churches. There was non much promotion in the program or executing of the church edifice, but the basic programs of aisled nave, sanctuary, western tower, north and south porch had great alterations in 14th century. Largely the new ornaments were seen in the outside. Large Windowss were inserted in to the sanctuary walls. Normally a big church was constructed with three floors named arcade, triforia and clearstory, whereas in smaller 1s the in-between bed was omitted. There were legion moldings in the 14th century, but were much less undercut than earlier. Crockets became more attractive as they implemented a natural incurvate manner. Interior walls became more decorated in coloring material, whereas the surfaces were non prepared good. Another characteristic was the cyma reversa arch which was applied every bit widely as possible. Buttresss achieved the maximal flawlessness in footings of its proportions every bit good as cosmetic beauty. They were wider than earlier and were holding more jutting visual aspect at the base. Roofs were largely built in lumber and were covered with rock tiles, lead or herpes zosters. Builders tried better ways of structural agreements which was another advantage of this period. It was non until this period and even so none excessively shortly in most countries, that full advantage began to take topographic point of the clearstory, and it became a standard characteristic. Builders started adding parapets which were better treated and has became a major component of ornament. Although some octangular towers were put up, two, three or four phase square program was largely preferred. Cornice was decorated with ball flower, rolling four leaf ornament or little caputs. Windows became another separating characteristic of the church in both figure and size, in a proportion to the available sizes. Windows of little churches had four visible radiations and may widen up to 9 in larger edifices. The outside porches were made reasonably apparent with its roofing at sensible highs and exterior gaps similar to interior room accesss. They may or may non incorporate parapet walls. But will be decorated with heraldry. Some of them were unfastened work lumber porches which were built on rock or wooden base. Doorways became more pointed whereas it varied in size. Pedestals were made in different phases like unit of ammunition, square or octangular with smaller base country. Another flowery illustration was the sides of the bowl which was divided by either the buttress or shaft, which were topped by pinnacles. The base of these was frequently on caputs or knots. Perpendicular age This age was between 1377 AD and 1547 AD when a curious English manner of church architecture was born. This period was the longest in the history than any other periods and had batch of single typical characteristics. In parish churches this tendency was executed by Masons who were non the best but who could get by with its simple lines. They had elegant manners which had beautiful proportioning. The basic perpendicular run alonging continued to widen throughout the edifice. When compared to the cosmetic age, the plants were looking plainer and the inside of the churches became colder. The form of the shadiness, shadow and visible radiation was non affected for the sculpture detailing and Masons concentrated in doing big Windowss in high walls. The shell of the church had become a topographic point for puting dominant characteristics which can be given as an illustration for originative excellence. There was an astonishing rise for the wood worker whose plants were considered every bit as Masons. Voluntary administrations came for supplying community services in the 14th century. Some of them were rich trading administrations who have the capacity to construct their ain chapels or take over a portion of church. The program of the church was made alterations harmonizing to the demands of clubs and persons for chapels and chantries. The nave walls which had protruded from the roof were taken down and reconstruct to include a clearstory. This became an ineluctable standard characteristic of perpendicular churches. Surface was decorated widely where some twine classs were omitted in small town churches smaller in size. Dripstones or label Michigans were returned at the springing of the arch, which were on occasion curved towards the wall and embattled. Walls were built high and was constructed of skillfully shaped ashlars, but weakened in themselves by the extent to which the surface country was reduced to a lower limit in order to suit big Windowss. Spouts were provided for transition of H2O from the parapet keeping. George masons experimented with different parapets and a great assortment of parapets were introduced in this clip. The parapet was constructed in elaborate ornamentation spliting into three parts named get bying set and valance. One of the disadvantages of the dilutant walls was to take slender buttresses still from the walls surface. Diagonal buttresses climbed the tower and corresponded with the phases, be givening to decease into the wall merely below the parapet. Flying buttress was non widely accepted in the state and was on occasion put up the whole length of the nave. The most beautiful roofs were built unfastened and appeared high and broad, had an absence of tie beam. The cock beam roof was considered sole for the eastern states. It support arch bases widening from the horizontal stations to the church caput. Sometimes the larger churches tried to hold a dual cock beam roof and they remained the richest among the extremely decorated 1s. The complicated vaulting was experimented during this period even though it was relatively rare.

Coca Colas Business Policy in Zambia and El Salvador

Coca Colas Business Policy in Zambia and El Salvador Introduction According to the Word Bank, about 1.35 billion people in the world today live below the international poverty line, which is set at $1.25 per day. In addition, it is estimated that the recent global financial and economic recession increased this number by 64 million people.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Coca Cola’s Business Policy in Zambia and El Salvador specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More What this means is that a significant number of people in the world today live under extreme poverty (Raman 103). As a result of this, it is important to encourage investment in the private sector. Investment in the private sector is important considering the fact that the ability of governments to foster development and provide aid is limited. Right now, the government is under a lot of pressure to provide the citizens with basic infrastructure using the meager resources. The resources are overstretc hed, meaning that the government needs help from the private sector. Investors in the private sector will provide the citizens with, among others, employment and infrastructure. For more than three decades, private corporations around the world have emerged as essential pillars as far as economic development is concerned. The private corporations have created job opportunities and other benefits in the society, contributing significantly to the reduction of poverty in the world (Walsh and Dowding 106). There are debates revolving around the impact of private investors on the global economy. Analysts are especially concerned with the impacts of these organizations on the economy of the developing countries. The debates notwithstanding, it is important to note that private corporations have significantly improved the economy as far as the developing nations are concerned.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The organizations have improved the business environment in these countries, in addition to providing the citizens with employment and other social amenities. Private organizations are aware of their impacts on the economy of the developing nations. They are aware of the fact that their operations affect the life of individuals in the community within which they are operating. As a result of this, the organizations recognize that their success or failure impacts on the community they are operating from. It is as a result of this realization that such companies have taken the initiative to transfer skills and knowledge from the developed world to the third world economies (Stanford 54). The current paper is written against this backdrop. In this paper, the author focuses on the operations of a multinational company with significant impacts on the regional and global economy. The companies selected for this analysis are Coca Cola and SABM iller. In this report, the author focuses on the business policy adopted by the Coca Cola Company and SABMiller. In addition, the author critically analyzes how the two companies have assisted the government in reducing levels of poverty in the country. The report is a case study of the operation of the two companies in two developing countries. The two countries are El Salvador and Zambia. The impacts of the two companies on these two economies are critically analyzed. Coca Cola’s Business Policy in Zambia and El Salvador Zambia: Background Information In spite of the fact that Zambia has recorded a positive economic growth in the past five years, it remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The country attained independence in 1964. Immediately after independence, the country had the potential to emerge as one of the leading economies in Africa.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Coca Cola’s Business Policy in Zambia and El Sa lvador specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More However, the economy of the country declined sharply in the 1990s. Analysts blame the economic decline in the country on corruption. Corruption increased immediately after independence, and it persisted into the 1990s. The country’s economy started to recover in 2003. For the next five years, the country recorded an average of 5% in economic growth. The positive growth is largely attributed to the establishment of a favorable environment, which was conducive to investment. The country attracted investments from other nations, both within and outside Africa. The boom in copper mining is another reason why the country recorded a positive economic growth. Other factors leading to this growth post- 2003 include low inflation rates and improved political stability. In 2005, the country was relieved of most of its foreign debt. To this end, the country received a 4 billion USD debt relief. In 2008, th e price of copper in the international market plummeted, which affected the economy of this country negatively. The decline in the price of copper on the global market was brought about by the recent economic recession. The economy of the country revived in 2009 when the effects of the economic recession on the global economy tapered off. Since then, the country’s economy has continued to grow at an average rate of 6.3 percent per annum. However, in spite of this impressive economic growth, about 64% of the population in the country lived below the poverty line by the end of 2006. The current macroeconomic outlook in Zambia is positive. However, there are various factors that continue to negatively affect economic development. For example, more than 80% of the nation’s working population is involved in agriculture (Sherelle 38).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More El Salvador: Background Information Currently, El Salvador is recovering from the effects of ten years of civil war. It is one of the poorest countries in Latin America. A series of natural disasters, coupled with the plummeting prices of coffee in the world market, have worsened the situation. The economy of the country recorded a steady positive growth between 1996 and 2006. The economic growth was especially significant after dollarization in 2001. According to Mexico Food (71), dollarization has increased the cost of living. In addition, dollarization has reduced interest rates in the country. In spite of these positive impacts, dollarization has not significantly reduced poverty levels in the country. The country has experienced labor shortages in the recent past as a result of migrations. Most of the citizens have migrated into the United States of America and into other western nations. The effects of poverty in the country vary from one group to the other. For example, and a ccording to Mexico Food (72), poverty levels are disproportionately higher among women and farm workers compared to the rest of the population. After the civil war, the country was faced with additional challenges, including violence and crime. Rate of crime has increased as a result of increased economic inequalities and pervasive poverty. Other factors attributed to the rise in crime include increased access to illicit firearms, underemployment, and unemployment. All these factors have negatively affected economic development in the country (Mexico Food 71). The success of efforts made by the government and other stakeholders to revive the economy is hindered by these factors. Coca Cola- SABMiller Value Chain: Background Information Coca Cola is one of the most popular multinational corporations in the world. It has established local operations in various countries around the world. The bottling of Coca Cola products is carried out by local companies, which are usually under the m anagement of local investors. Since the company was started in 1852, it has developed more than 500 still and sparkling brands of soft drinks. In addition to this, the company has operations in more than 200 countries around the world. In these countries, the country works in collaboration with more than three hundred bottling partners. Coca Cola manufactures various products. The products include, among others, syrups, beverage bases, and concentrates. The manufactured products are then sold to the bottling companies (DATAMONITOR 2). The company has operations in El Salvador and Zambia. The bottling operations in El Salvador and Zambia are carried out by SABMiller. In both countries, Coca cola has very few employees. Majority of employees are drawn from the local population. The few employees shipped in by the company are mainly tasked with the responsibility of providing technical and marketing advice to the local operators (Market Watch 22). In spite of the fact that El Salvador is geographically small, it is an important market for Coca Cola products in the region. On the other hand, Zambia medium sized as far as physical boundaries are concerned. As a result of this, Zambia is one of the top twenty markets for Coca Cola products in Africa (Sherelle 39). It is a fact beyond doubt that competition is stiff in the two markets. However, Coca Cola has countered this by developing an elaborate business policy. Coca Cola Company’s business policy is aimed at promoting continual growth in El Salvador and Zambia. Coca Cola Company controls the largest market share in both countries compared to the competitors. For instance, in the category of sparkling beverages, Coca Cola accounts for 51% of the market share in El Salvador and 73% in Zambia (Dibadj and Powers 111). In 2009, the profits of Coca Cola in Zambia declined significantly. The decline was attributed to the company’s heavy investment in manufacturing glass bottles. The cost of manufacturing the bottles was very high as a result of decreased supply. The revenues generated by the company from its operations in El Salvador have recorded a consistent positive growth in the past five years. It is a fact that the prices of the company’s products in El Salvador are significantly lower compared to those in Zambia. However, the company has managed to increase the revenues in this country by increasing the sales volumes (Madhavan 35). Coca Cola’s Business Policy in Zambia and El Salvador: Macroeconomics Job Creation As already indicated earlier in this paper, the number of individuals employed directly by Coca cola and SABMiller in these countries is very small. However, the value chain resulting from the operations of the two companies in the two countries employs a large number of people. For example, it is estimated that more than 3,810 jobs are created by the value chain in Zambia. The implication here is that one direct job from the Coca Cola-SABMiller value s ystem generates 10 other jobs in the Zambian economy. The value chain is responsible for more than 4,300 formal jobs in El Salvador, which translates to more than 1% of all formal jobs in the country. The implication here is that for every direct job created by the Coca Cola- SABMiller value system, there are three formal jobs created in the El Salvador economy. Most of the formal jobs linked to the Coca Cola- SABMiller value chain in the two countries are created in sales, distribution, bottling, and non- farm supplies’ sectors. In addition to the formal jobs, the value chain in the two countries has created a significant number of informal jobs. The informal jobs are found in the retailing of products and harvesting of sugar cane sectors. The value chain system has created more than 65,000 retail outlets in El Salvador and more than 26,000 retail outlets in Zambia (Nevin 44). Revenue Distribution The revenue generated from the sale of products manufactured by this company i s shared among all the partners in the value chain. In El Salvador, each 12 ounce bottle is sold at 4.25 USD. In 2010, the cost of a bottle was 62% of the selling price. The recommended price of the same bottle in Zambia is 5.04 USD. In 2010, the cost of one bottle was 76% of the selling price. Each value chain partner receives a profit that is pegged on sales volume and the cost structure. In 2009, the sugar farmer in El Salvador received 2.2% of the profits. The retailer and the distributor in the country received 35.5% and 56% of the profits respectively. There are variations in cost structures and the types of business conducted by the company in the two countries. As a result of this, revenue distribution in the two countries is significantly different (Sellers 141). Tax Contributions The revenue realized by the government in the two countries as a result of taxes imposed on the two companies varies. The revenue largely depends on the taxation systems adopted by specific countr ies. The total revenue in terms of taxes collected by the government in El Salvador from the operations of the two companies is significant. In the past five years, the government has collected approximately 51 million USD from the two companies in terms of taxes. In Zambia, the system’s tax contribution in the past five years is approximately 53.5 USD (Walsh and Dowding 109). Sourcing suppliers The Coca Cola-SABMiller value chain extends beyond the borders of the two countries. In 2010, the total amount that was spent on procurement in Zambia was 26 million USD. Seventy five percent of the amount was used in purchasing inputs from the region or from other countries in the world. In El Salvador, 73 million USD was used to procure inputs. Sixty four percent of the money was used in buying inputs from other countries in the world. Supplies are mainly sourced from Central America in the case of El Salvador and from South Africa in the case of Zambia. In attempts to spur the grow th of the local economies, SABMiller and Coca Cola endeavor to source supplies locally in both countries. However, most countries in the developing world are not in a position to provide most of the inputs required for the smooth running of the two companies. One explanation for this is the limited capacity of industries in these economies. The main factors taken into consideration by the two companies when purchasing supplies are quality, availability, and price. In many cases, local suppliers lack the technical ability and capacity to meet the system’s demand. In addition, the business policies adopted by SABMiller and Coca Cola with regard to environmental and labor standards are quite stringent. As a result, most companies in the developing economies lose the opportunity to partner with Coca Cola (Madhavan 45). Livelihoods Informal and Formal Sectors Just like in most other developing nations, the jobs created by the Coca Cola- SABMiller value chain in El Salvador and Zam bia are mainly in the informal sector as opposed in the formal sector. In Zambia, the informal sector accounts for about 90% of the nation’s economy. In El Salvador, the informal sector is responsible for more than 60% of the economy. Informal workers toil in the sugarcane fields, as well as in distribution and retailing channels. Although the jobs in the two countries are not regulated, they are important for the survival of the poor in the two nations. The livelihood and job security of workers in the two nations depend on whether they are formally or informally employed. The individuals working in the formal sector are entitled to social welfare. In addition, they can effectively negotiate with the employer. In contrast, their counterparts in the informal sector lack such rights. The individuals engaged in the informal sector are forced to endure unpleasant working conditions. The lack social security and are disproportionately affected by fluctuations in the market. Most people lack the opportunity to engage in formal work. As a result, they have no option but to stick to the informal sector (Regassa and Corradino 107). Benefits, Living Wages, and Minimum Wages In El Salvador, the employees receiving the highest pay in the Coca Cola- SABMiller system are in formal employment. The employees include those engaged in the sugar mills, bottling company, and distribution outlets. The purchasing power of the formal employees is very high compared to that of the informal employees. In addition, those who own retail shops have a higher income than those working in the sugarcane fields. The income of the latter is slightly above the minimum wage. In Zambia, formal employees in the Coca Cola-SABMiller system receive salaries that are above the average wage set in the country. The employees of Zambia Breweries receive the very high salaries compared to the rest (Sherelle 39). Capacity Building and Training Both companies have invested heavily in efforts to impr ove the capacity, skills, and knowledge of business partners in the value chain. The efforts include, among others, providing sugar producers with credit programs and technical assistance. For instance, SABMiller, under Industrias La Constancia (ILC), invested 800,000 USD in the training of workers in 2011 alone. The objective of this investment was to improve the capacity of the employees, as well as help them to advance their careers. On the other hand, Zambia Breweries spends about 95,000 USD each year to train employees. Zambia Breweries’ sales representatives are encouraged to mentor retailers and assist them gain skills necessary for business development (Raman 112). Empowerment According to Nevin (47), it is hard to quantify empowerment. However, it is one of the most important aspects of corporations investing in developing and transitional economies. Nevin (47) notes that empowerment among employees is evaluated by the degree to which they are capable of coming toget her to make collective bargains. In addition, empowerment among employees is determined by their effectiveness in using channels of communication to receive audience. Empowering employees in the developing world is very important. It ensures that they benefit from economic growth brought about by increased investment. When people are empowered, they become assets to the company. They protect the business against potential conflicts and emerging tensions. In addition, they provide the company with insights that help in product innovation and in improving production processes (Dibadj and Powers 134). Workers in the Informal Sector The capacity of employees in the informal sector to come together and agitate for the changes they need in practices and policies is very limited. The limited capacity is observed among independent retailers, distributors, and sugarcane harvesters in the Coca Cola-SABMiller value chain. The individuals in these sectors are incapable of organizing themselves. In most cases, they are incapable of influencing business policies in the company or in the government. In Zambia, the National Association of Marketers is charged with the responsibility of communicating with the relevant stakeholders on such issues as marketplace amenities, local authorities’ fees, and licensing. However, the number of informal employees joining this organization is very small (Sherelle 41). Price Negotiations In most cases, sugar producers are incapable of determining the price of the commodity. Regulatory restrictions, such as quotas, make it very difficult to include farmers in price negotiations. The difficulty is observed in both El Salvador and Zambia. Despite the fact that the costs of inputs increase on a regular basis, the farmers are not in a position to negotiate with the millers. In both countries, there are organizations representing the interests of producers. However, small-scale producers remain unrepresented (Sellers 140). Stability and Se curity Sugarcane Harvesting Harvesting sugarcane is a very rigorous process. Laborers working in the fields have suffered from such injuries as poisoning and burns. Poor wages and lack of access to basic amenities and medical services are cited as some of the main factors exposing workers to such dangers (Walsh and Dowding 110). Crime The level of crime in El Salvador has remained very high since the civil war. Partners in the Coca Cola-SABMiller value chain, including distributors, suppliers, and sugarcane producers, report cases of vandalism, extortion, and muggings on a regular basis. For example, the area within which ILC is located is regarded as a crime zone. Consequently, the company has put in place round-the-clock security programs to enhance the safety of the members of staff. Additionally, ILC came up with a program to train young men who were involved in crime in the past. They are trained on how they can start small businesses to improve their life. Leaders in Nejapa, w here ILC is located, have pointed out that poverty is the main reason why rate of crime is very high in the town. Owners of distribution businesses are afraid of expanding their businesses because of the high levels of organized crime (Regassa and Corradino 109). Dangerous Roads The condition of the roads in Zambia is quite poor. The poor conditions of the roads are a threat to the safety of truck drivers, who work for long hours (Sherelle 42). Women Participation and Gender Diversity Coca Cola and SABMiller promote the participation of women and minorities in the labor market in both countries. In the developing world, women are disadvantaged, especially with respect to access to healthcare, employment, and education. They are denied basic rights because of culturally-determined gender roles in the community. Their opinion does not count in the decision making process, and they are especially prone to violence (Market Watch 23). Women and SABMiller In both countries, formal jobs ar e largely dominated by men compared to women. The company has a strong policy that discourages discrimination on the basis of gender. However, most of the work in the bottling company requires physical strength. As a result, it is considered as a man’s job. In addition, insecurity has contributed to the underrepresentation of women in the value chain. The entire Coca Cola-SABMiller value chain is dominated by male workers. There are various factors responsible for this underrepresentation, including insecurity (Mexico Food 73). Women in Distribution In most cases, women work together with their husbands in retail and distribution outlets. The number of female business owners in the two countries is very small. For instance, the two largest distribution outlets in Zambia are owned by couples. Stanford (54) notes that women in Zambia are concerned about gender discrimination with regard to access to business growth and career advancement opportunities. Distribution in both coun tries is characterized by insecurities, which discourage women from owning such businesses. In both countries, a significant number of women own and operate small retail outlets. Most outlets are close to their homes. As a result, they work and take care of their families at the same time. Seventy six percent of retail outlet owners in El Salvador are women. In Zambia, 35% of the outlets are either owned or managed by a woman. Zambia Breweries and ILC train small scale retailers. However, women retailers in Zambia face various challenges accessing credit services. As a result, their capacity to grow is very limited. In El Salvador, the situation is significantly different from Zambia. Most of the women interviewed in one study pointed out that they accessed credit facilities with the same ease as male retailers (Regassa and Corradino 107). Sustainability and the Environment Both companies have demonstrated their commitment to environmental and social sustainability. Both of them hav e elaborate corporate social responsibility (CSR) systems. They are independently evaluated each year (DATAMONITOR 8). Depending on their supply chain and business operations, multinationals determine access to quality water among members of the community. Companies operating in close proximity to local communities give back to the society by sponsoring clean water initiatives and ensuring that they treat their wastewater. In this regard, businesses should ensure that their operations do not interfere with the ability of the locals to access quality water. Coca Cola Company and SABMiller are registered members of CEO Water Mandate (CWM). According to the stipulations of CWM, member companies are committed to strengthening water sustainability practices and policies (Market Watch 25). In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly pointed out that human beings have a right to clean water. The Assembly encouraged countries and multinationals to transfer technology, build capacity, and provide necessary resources to third world countries to assist them provide affordable, safe, accessible, and clean drinking water to their populations. During the convention, The Assembly averred that 900 million people in the world lacked access to clean and safe water (Walsh and Dowding 113). Just like in the developed world, the agricultural sector consumes more water in third world countries compared to other sectors. Water is the major component of the products manufactured by Coca cola. In addition, water is used as a coolant for machines. Other areas where water is used include in washing facilities and in the manufacturing processes. The value chain significantly affects the farms in the third world. In Zambia, farmers use a lot of water to wash sugarcane after harvesting. However, the use of water during harvesting in El Salvador is less compared to Zambia. The major reason for this is that it is usually wet during harvesting in El Salvador (Dibadj and Powers 145). Coc a Cola is a registered member of Bonsucro, which was established to limit the negative impacts of sugarcane farming and processing. As a member of this organization, Coca Cola encourages sugarcane producers to use environment-friendly practices, such as drip irrigation. The reduction of negative effects on the environment effects is appraised by independent evaluators. Currently, Coca Cola is working with producers in Zambia and in El Salvador to design pilot projects that will benefit the environment and the producers (Nevin 45). In the two countries, the Coca Cola-SABMiller value chain system is located close to sources of water. The same water is used in other industrial, agricultural, and domestic processes. The main issue in Zambia is access to water. On the other hand, the main issue in El Salvador is availability of water. Managers in the bottling plants engage members of the community by showing them how to use water to benefit everyone. In addition, they train them on how t o use water with minimal negative effects on the environment. Zambia Breweries and ILC observe the requirements of the water stewardship committee in Coca cola (Raman 103). SABMiller ‘Water Dialogues’ One of the major plants operated by Zambia Breweries is located near residential areas. The plant supplies clean water to the residents of two nearby towns. Residents of another town use water from an adjacent spring, which is also used by the plant. The plant has provided the community with several standpipes of clean water for free. In exchange, the community protects the plant’s pipes from vandals. One of the major plants operated by ILC, as well as residents of the surrounding community, uses water from the San Antonio River. ILC is treats all wastewater before it is discharging into the river, but other industries in the area do not. For some time, the community assumed that ILC was among the industries releasing untreated water into the river. ILC, together wi th the local authority, informed the community that wastewater from the plant was treated. The company entered into discussions with the community on what should be done to deal with the pollution caused by the other industries. The other industries have started treating their waste water. They are now working together with members of the community to conserve the environment (Raman 110). Packaging and Recycling Landfill waste is one of the most challenging waste management issues in the developing world. Contaminants from the landfills leak and contaminate groundwater, endangering the health of members of the surrounding communities. SABMiller has initiated a recycling program in both countries. 70% of all Coca Cola products in Zambia are sold in returnable bottles, with the rest sold either in plastic bottles or in aluminum cans. The use of returnable bottles is eco-friendly because they are returned to the company, washed, and reused. Coca Cola and SABMiller had proposed a progra m to recycle aluminum cans and plastic bottles. However, due to the limitations of the Zambian recycling industries, the program has not taken off. In El Salvador, 52% of the products are sold in plastic bottles, 35% in returnable bottles, and 9% in cans. The recycling plants operated by ILC are very efficient, but they were adversely affected by the economic recession. As a result, some of them closed down (Sellers 144). Products and Marketing Beverage companies are tasked with the responsibility of making sure their products are safe for consumption. The companies should realize that some people in the society may be negatively affected by their products. In the developing world, these companies should ensure that their message is presented in a way understandable to consumers (DATAMONITOR 7). Product Portfolio The company’s product portfolio in the two countries is fairly limited. Most people in the countries consume sparkling beverages. Sales of juice in El Salvador have continued to rise in the past two years. The company has more than 500 brands and more than 3,300 products (Market Watch 25). Consumer Perceptions and Marketing Coca Cola has spent over 5 million USD in marketing its products in El Salvador. The brand is associated with success and inspiration in the two countries. The products are integral parts of family and cultural celebrations. Fanta is the most popular product among children in the two countries. The business policy adopted by Coca Cola includes a Global Responsible Marketing Policy (GRMP). The policy discourages the marketing of the company’s products to children aged less than twelve years (DATAMONITOR 9). Nutritional Labeling Under GRMP, Coca Cola committed to display nutritional labels on all its products by the end of 2010. The products sold in returnable bottles in both countries did not have the labels as of 2009. The company is reluctant to provide such information on returnable bottles because it will force it to replace all bottles that are currently in circulation. In 2011, the company established a telephone number that consumers could call and get such information. Consumers in both countries point out that they do not comprehend the information on the cans and plastic bottles. In addition, they do not think that the company should provide such information on returnable bottles (Madhavan 41). Under GRMP, the company commits to measure and monitor the degree to which the policy is adhered to. In addition, it has come up with a Review Process to make sure that the policy is fully implemented. The findings made are documented in the CSR report at the end of every year. The International Food and Beverage Alliance conducted an independent audit and found that Coca Cola had complied with the provisions of GRMP. The level of compliance was more than 96% for television adverts and 100% for print and online adverts (Company Spotlight, 24-26). Conclusion Coca Cola operates in more than 200 cou ntries in the world. In most of its operations in the developing nations, the company has streamlined its value chain to ensure it remains profitable. In addition, streamlining the value chain helps in protecting the environment, improving welfare of the employees, and improving the quality of products. The company has achieved this through a diverse business policy. The policy addresses the role of the company in the countries’ macroeconomics, livelihood of employees, worker empowerment, job security, participation of women in the labor market, marketing of products, and protection of environment. DATAMONITOR. â€Å"The Coca-Cola Company: Coca-Cola Company SWOT Analysis.† DATAMONITOR 20 June 2011: 1-9. Print. Dibadj, Ali, and Steve Powers. U.S. Beverages Snacks: Opportunity Outweighs Risk. Black Book 2.3 (2011): 13-24. Madhavan, Ananya. CSR at Coca-Cola. Vikalpa: The Journal for Decision Makers 37.2 (2012): 34-51. Market Watch. Company Spotlight: The Coca-Cola Compa ny. Marketwatch Drinks 4.8 (2012): 22-28. Print. Mexico Food. Drink. Mexico Food Drink Report 1.1 (2012): 71-85. Print. Nevin, Tom. Coca-Cola: 125 Years of Making Friends. African Business 381 (2011): 44-45. Raman, Ravi. Community–Coca-Cola Interface: Political-Anthropological Concerns on Corporate Social Responsibility. Social Analysis 51.3 (2012): 103-120. Regassa, Hailu, and Laurie Corradino. Determining the Value of the Coca Cola Company A Case Analysis. Journal of The International Academy For Case Studies 17.7 (2011): 105-110. Sellers, Patricia. The New Coke. Fortune 165.7 (2012): 138-144. Sherelle, Jacobs. Major Brands in Africa. African Business 389 (2012): 38-42. Stanford, Duane. Cokes Last Round. Bloomberg Businessweek 4202 (2010): 54-61. Walsh, Heather, and Timothy Dowding. Sustainability and the Coca-Cola Company: The Global Water Crisis and Coca-Colas Business Case for Water Stewardship. International Journal Of Business Insights Transformation 4.5 (2012): 106 -118.

Too Many Partners A Challenge To Partnership Working The WritePass Journal

Too Many Partners A Challenge To Partnership Working Introduction Too Many Partners A Challenge To Partnership Working ). Strong leadership and management In order for a joint working to be successful, there must be strong leadership and management structure in place. The importance of having a strong leadership and integrated management structure has been identified by Rutter et al. (2004) Aims and objectives Practitioners from the various agencies involved in the joint working should understand the ultimate goals, aims and objectives as well as the eligibility criteria for the new initiative to become a success (Cameron et al. 2012). Roles and responsibilities The agencies involved should understand their roles and responsibilities to prevent conflicts. Responsibilities may include administrative tasks, budget management and coordination of material resources(Cameron et al. 2012).   Team building Another factor that is likely to promote joint working is team-building and arranging for weekly meetings. Regular team-building events and subsequent weekly meetings allows for the various agencies to share information and to discuss issues arising (Clarkson et al. 2011). Additionally, such team meetings enhance the understanding of the different professional roles and prevent conflict between the different professions by building trust and rapport between the various agencies or groups involved. Information sharing Other factors that may promote joint working include mechanisms for sharing information such as using shared information technology systems and shared documentation. Such effective sharing mechanisms lead to timely assessments of needs (Cameron et al. 2012) Factors hindering joint working  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Aims and objectives Whilst we have shown that an understanding of the aims and objectives is key to success of a partnership, it should be noted that such shared purpose can be problematic as well. For example, studies by Clarkson et al (2011), Asthana Halliday (2003) and Glasby et al (2008) which examined some of the integrated care services found a general lack of understanding of the central aim of partnership working among the health care practitioners. Without a shared understanding of the aims and objectives among the various agencies involved, then it becomes difficult to develop a sense of purpose.   Further, this difficulty is made worse if there are conflicting roles and responsibilities. Roles and responsibilities Roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined to avoid conflicts between the professionals involved. In their study, McCormack et al. (2008)found that a shortage of clarity of the roles and responsibilities of the professionals involved in the joint working resulted in delays in treatment and inappropriate referrals. Organizational difference Partnership working can also be undermined by competing organizational visions. If organizations are in competition about the joined-up agenda, the initiative may not be successful. This is evident in a study by Young (2003) on partnership working between the local authorities and NHS. Young’s study foundthe partnership as undermined by the differences in resource and spending criteria between the parties involved. Poor Communication and coordination As noted above, communication is critical to the success of a partnership working. Poor communication hampers collaborative efforts which may result in delays in service delivery. Using specialist languages that some partners are not familiar with and communicating selectively may fuel suspicion and personal agendas leading to conflicting messages which undermine collaborative efforts (Cameron et al. 2012).Almost all tragedies which have resulted have been a direct result of poor communication and failure of professionals to coordinate with each other. This is especially the case where there are too many partners involved and where there is a lack of clarity of the responsibilities of each partner. Power and hierarchical relationships Partnership can also be hindered by power and hierarchical relationships. Some practitioners may perceive others to be below them in terms of their status. When perceived status differences occur, the dominant high status professions such as the medics may silence the contribution made by the others (Clarkson et al. 2011). Such kind of perceived status difference hinders integrative efforts and can stultify effective partnership. There is a host of other factors that may hinder partnership working including difficulty in information sharing due to incompatibility of the IT systems, lack of trust and respect, relationship between agencies, and financial uncertainty among many others. These barriers can perhaps be addressed by arranging for a local forum where practitioners can meet regularly and share issues arising. Whereas there many benefits to partnership working, such joint collaboration can prove to be extremely difficult especially where there are too many partners involved. Partnerships that involve too many partners often suffer from poor communication and coordination, competing organizational visions, lack of clarity with regard to the roles and responsibilities of the professionals involved, duplication of roles, unclear accountability, too many referrals between agenciesand lack of trust and respect among several other factors (Douglas 2008). These barriers tend to hinder the effectiveness of partnership working and can ultimately lead to failure in delivery of services as seen with the case of Victoria Climbie. However, there are many success stories where many partners were involved. The future holds promising for more partnership involvement and collaboration as more community development workers are increasingly funded by primary care trusts. Further, many government funded initiatives are currently being implemented to promote the integration of services and multi-agency partnership including the Sure Start, Best and Connexions, Youth Offending Teams, and Childrens Fund (Cheminals 2009). Conclusion It is very hard to predict the dynamics and outcomes of partnership working especially where there are many partners involved due to continually evolving nature of such partnership. Partnerships that involve too many partners suffer from a range of factors that may stultify joint working including poor communication and coordination, competing organizational visions, duplication of roles, unclear accountability, and too many referrals between agencies among several other factors. Whereas the practicalities of adopting a multi-agency approach can prove to be difficult, promoting integration of services and joint approach to service delivery is key to addressing key societal problems which cannot be constrained neatly within traditional boundaries such as poverty, crime, social exclusion, community safety and inequality. These problems are highly complex in nature and since no single actor or entity has sufficient knowledge and information required to solve them, it becomes extremely important to have multi-agency partnership working. 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Effective practice in health, social care and criminal justice: a partnership approach. McGraw-Hill International Carnwell, R. and Carson, A., 2005. ‘Understanding partnerships and collaboration’,in R. Carnwell and J. Buchanan (eds) effective practice inhealth and social care: a partnership approach. Maidenhead: Open University Press. Cheminals, R., 2009. Effective multi-agency partnerships: putting every child matters into practice. Sage Publications Clarkson, Brand, C., Hughes, J and Challis, D., 2011. Integratingassessments of older people: examiningevidence and impact from a randomized controlled trial, Age and Ageing, vol 40, no 3, pp 388−391. Douglas, A., 2008. Partnership working. Routledge. Dowling, B. Glendinning, C. and Powell, M., 2004. Conceptualising successful partnerships Health and Social Care in the Community 12(4) 309-317 Fletcher, J. K., 2006. 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