A very brief history of human relations management

Human Relations Management began with Mary Parker Follet, a social worker with 25 years of experience working with schools and non-profit organizations. She is best known for developing ideas of constructive conflict (also called cognitive conflict). She believed conflict could be beneficial. She believed the best way to deal with conflict was not domination or compromise, but rather integration. Elton Mayo, best known for the Hawthorne Studies, investigated the effects of lighting levels and incentives on employee productivity.Chester Barnard, an experienced top executive, became very influential (and best known) for his ideas about cooperation and the acceptance of authority. He proposed a comprehensive theory of cooperation in formal organizations and defined an organization as â€Å"a system of consciously coordinated activities or forces of two or more persons. † The human relations school of management is also known as motivational theory. Not everyone is on board with a ll its concepts; however, it would be hard to argue the fact hat it has changed management practice overall (and over a period of years) for the better.Human Relations Management Theory considers employees differently than the more overbearing management theories strong in the past. Largely based on theories of Douglas McGregor, HR Management Theory makes the assumption that people want to work. The assumptions are also made that people are responsible, self-motivated, and wanting to succeed; and, further, that they nderstand their own position in the company hierarchy.McGregor called this Theory Y. Theory Y is the total opposite of what McGregor called Theory X. Theory X takes the view that employees are lazy, not at all motivated, seek only their own security from work, and that they require supervision and discipline. In a nutshell, Human Relations Theory clearly views workers as much more than a cog in the company wheel. It makes the assertion that businesses prosper as they hel p their employees prosper.

Ancient Rome and Bravery

BRAVERY what is the first thing that comes to mind when the word bravery is said? For most people a war hero or a superhero comes into their minds. Probably every language has a word for bravery, but there is only one true meaning. The word bravery is â€Å"showing a brave spirit or courage†(Random, p. 164) when hard times are thrust upon or happen to them. Bravery is not only what people do, but how they do it. The concept is also â€Å"showiness, splendor, and magnificence†(Random, p. 164). Bravery may be shown in different ways: a person may jump from a plane or walk on fire to show that he/she is truly brave. Then again, sometimes bravery is something that a person has inside him or her and is never shown as an action at all. For thousands of years, people have used words that describe the concept of bravery. The history, or etymology, of the English word bravery is as follows. The word originated in Latin as barbarous. The Romans who spoke Latin were warriors so it is logical they would have a word that talked about their courageous actions. The Vulgar Latin, which was spoken Latin, was transformed by Middle French in the middle Ages as well as by Middle English. This form of English was what was spoken in the 12th to 15thcenturies. From the Middle English evolved the English we speak today and with it, the word bravery. Throughout history, people have talked about the concept of bravery in many ways. The Greek writer and philosopher Euripides said, â€Å"The man who knows when not to act is wise. To my mind, bravery is forethought† (Euripides, p. 11). In the Middle Ages, George II of England said that â€Å"bravery never goes out of fashion† (George, p. 261). Later, Francoise de la Rockefoucould said, â€Å"True bravery is shown by performing without witness what one might be capable

This paper presents an implementation

Abstraction: This paper presents an execution of Multistructure PIDFLC. Modification has been made to construction of the proposed PIDFLC in order to do it acts as PDFLC, PIFLC or PIDFLC depending on two external signals. Two versions of this accountant have been designed utilizing VHDL linguistic communication for FPGA execution. A new bundle has been designed in VHDL codification to implement trigonometric maps and fourth-order Runge-Kutta method to prove the proposed design with nonlinear systems. The accountant was able to bring forth an end product in 0.3 millisecond for additive workss and 0.7 millisecond for nonlinear works. Therefore, the proposed accountant will be able to command many systems with high trying rate. Keywords: PIDFLC, FPGA execution, nonlinear systems, Altera. Categorization: XYZ ( Electronic instrumentality and control )T. Jain, V. Patel and M.J. Nigam † Execution of PID Controlled SIMO Process on FPGA Using Bacterial Foraging for Optimal Performance † International Journal of Computer and Electrical Engineering, Vol. 1, No. 2, P: 1793-8198, June 2009.V. Tipsuwanporn, S. Intajag and V. Krongratana † Fuzzy Logic PID accountant based on FPGA for procedure control † Proc. IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics, Bangkok, Thailand, Vol. 2, pp. 1495-1500, 4-7 May 2004.Obaid Z. A. , Sulaiman N. and M. N. Hamidon â€Å" FPGA-based Execution of Digital Logic Design utilizing Altera DE2 Board † International Journal of Computer Science and Network Security, VOL.9 No.8, P: 186-194, July 2009.Obaid Z. A. , Sulaiman N. , M. H. Marhaban and M. N. Hamidon â€Å" FPGA-Based Fuzzy Logic: Design and Applications – a Review † International Journal of Engineering and Technology, vol. 1, figure 5, P : 491-502, December 2009.Leonid Reznik, â€Å" Fuzzed accountants † , Newnes, first edition, 1997.1. IntroductionThe simplest and most usual manner to implement a fuzzed accountant is to recognize it as a computing machine plan on a general intent computing machine. However, a big figure of fuzzed control applications require a real-time operation to interface high-velocity restraints. Software execution of fuzzed logic on general purpose computing machines can non be considered as a suited design solution for this type of application higher denseness programmable logic devices such as FPGA can be used to incorporate big sums of logic in a individual IC. Semi-custom and full-custom application particular integrated circuit ( ASIC ) devices are besides used for this intent but FPGA provide extra flexibleness: they can be used with tighter time-to-market agendas [ 1 ] , [ 2 ] , [ 3 ] , [ 4 ] .2. Layout of the Proposed AccountantBy and large, this accountant accept two types of end products, the first 1 is the works ( Yp ) and the 2nd 1 is the coveted end product ( Yd ) , both of them is digital signals, and present the control action signal as a digital end product. It besides accepts four 8-bit digital signals that represent the addition parametric quantities needed by the accountant ( relative addition Kp, derivative addition Kd, built-in addition Ki, and end product gain Ko ) , and other two one-bit signals to choose the type of the accountant ( PD fuzzy logic accountant, PI fuzzy logic accountant, or PID fuzzy logic accountant ) . Fig. 1 shows the general layout of the accountant bit in a unity feedback control system. Fuzzy accountant applications do non necessitate high truth. Accuracy of 6-9 spots is adequate and is rather sufficient for different applications. Many designed FIS french friess use this scope of spots [ 5 ] , since two versions of the accountant have been designed to do a comparing in which version is closest to Matlab-based design: the first one uses 6 spots for each input and end product variables, and 4 spots for rank grade, while the other uses 8 spots and 6 spots severally.3. Structure of the Proposed PIDFLCBy and large, to stand for PID fuzzed logic accountant, it was required to plan a fuzzed illation system with three inputs that represent the proportional, derivative, and built-in constituents, and each one of them can hold up to eight fuzzy sets. So that the maximal figure of the needed fuzzy regulations to 83=512 regulations. To avoid this immense figure of regulations, the proposed accountant has been designed utilizing two parallel PD fuzzy logic accountants to implement the PID fuzzy logic accountant. The 2nd PDFLC has been converted to PIFLC by roll uping its end product. Fig. 1 shows the construction of proposed PID fuzzy logic accountant. Both accountants, PD fuzzy logic accountant and PI fuzzy logic accountant, receive the same mistake signal. The mistake signal is calculated by deducting work s end product ( yp ) from the desired end product ( yd ) . The chief block in the PD fuzzy logic accountant is the fuzzed illation block. The proposed fuzzy illation block is two inputs, one end product fuzzy system of Mamdani type that uses singleton rank maps for the end product variable. The first input is the error signal vitamin E ( n ) , and the 2nd input is the rate of alteration of mistake signal defined as the difference between two back-to-back mistake values. Before come ining the fuzzed illation block, each one of these two inputs have been multiplied by a addition coefficient inside the PD fuzzy accountant ( Kp and Kd or Kp and Ki ) . In similar mode, the end product of the fuzzed illation block is multiplied by a addition coefficient inside the PD fuzzy logic accountant, ( Ko ) . At the same clip, the end product of the fuzzed illation block in the 2nd PD fuzzy accountant is multiplied by a addition coefficient so accumulated to organize the uPIFLC. Both end products ( uPD and uPI ) are added together to organize the PIDFLC end product ( uPID ) . Since each PDFLC has its ain additions and regulations, the concluding design could work as a PDFLC, PIFLC or a PIDFLC ) depending on the two choice lines sw1 and sw0 — — , where, sw1sw0= 00, gives PD fuzzy logic accountant, sw1 sw0= 01 gives PI fuzzy logic accountant, and sw1 sw0=0x gives PID fuzzy logic accountant. The chief constituents in the proposed PD fuzzed logic accounta nt are: Input/Output block, Fuzzifier block, illation engine block, and Defuzzifier block.4. Test Bench and Simulation ResultsFor the intent of simulation symmetric triangular fuzzy sets and singleton fuzzy sets with 8 lingual variables have been used for input and end product variable severally, in add-on to govern tabular array of 64 fuzzy regulations. At first, a trial is performed to do certain that the fuzzed illation system used inside the FPGA-based design is working decently This trial is performed to do certain that the fuzzed illation system used inside the FPGA-based accountant ( 6FBC or 8FBC ) is working decently. This trial involves bring forthing control surface utilizing fuzzed sets and regulation tabular array, this trial has been used to do a comparing between both types of FBC with Matlab-based ( MSBC ) , and shows that 8FBC is superior to 6FBC and it ‘s much close to MSBC. Case Study 1: Second order theoretical account may stand for procedure such as place control of an ac motor [ 7 ] Equation ( 1 ) shows the mathematical works theoretical account, distinct transportation maps of this theoretical account has been obtained utilizing ZOH method, and the selected sampling period ( T ) is 0.52. The values of Kp, Kd, Ki, and Ko used in this trial were selected utilizing test and mistake. The accountant gives action at 0.3  µs ; when PIDFLC applied for this system, as shown in Fig. 2, 8FBC response is near to the responses utilizing MSBC, with zero mistake and small overshot. The Average differences between MSBC and 6FBC for Step response and control action are -0.0256 and -0.0009 severally, and The Mean differences between MSBC and 8FBC for Step response and control action are -0.0030 and 0.0021 severally, since the 8FBC is superior to 6FBC and its much stopping point to MSBC. Case Study 2: This instance is considered as a particular instance with the proposed design, because of VHDL accepts four mathematical operation merely, add-on, minus, division and generation, since it ‘s hard to stand for non-linear elements like trigonometric maps. In this instance, a mathematical theoretical account of nonlinear works has been used to prove the proposed accountant with unity feedback control system ; this theoretical account is characterized by Equation ( 2 ) and Equation ( 3 ) . The first order filter on U to bring forth u represents an actuator. Assume the initial conditions y ( 0 ) = 0.1 radians ( = 5.73 deg. ) , y? ( 0 ) = 0, and the initial status for the actuator province is zero. For simulation of the fourth-order, Runge-Kutta method has been used with an integrating measure size of 0.01. Again, this works has been designed utilizing MATLAB package ( for simulation in MATLAB ) , and in non-synthesizable VHDL codification ( for simulation in ModelSim ) . A particular bundle was designed in VHDL codification to implement trigonometric maps and fourth-order Runge-Kutta method which are non available in Quartus II ( or in ISE ) criterion libraries. The values of Kp, Kd, Ki, and Ko used in this trial were selected utilizing test and mistake. The accountant gives action at 0.7  µs after the input latching. When utilizing nonlinear system for trial, both versions ( 6FBC and 8FBC ) supply by and large good responses though there is some oscillation. ( one mu st non be deceived by the steady province mistake that appears in Figure ( 4 ) , since it represents less than 1 % of the end product scope in the instance of 6FBC and less than 0.5 % of the end product scope, in the instance of 8FBC ) . The absolute mean difference between the nonlinear works response, utilizing MSBC, and the nonlinear works response, utilizing 6FBC, is less than 0.0155. The absolute mean difference between the nonlinear works response, utilizing MSBC, and the nonlinear works response, utilizing 8FBC, is less than 0.0085 as shown in Fig. 3.5. Execution of the Proposed PIDFLCThe proposed PIDFLC has been implemented utilizing Altera DE2 board, this board offers a rich set of characteristics that make it suited for usage in a research lab environment for university and college classs and can used for any design executions, every bit good as for the development of sophisticated digital systems by utilizing hardware description linguistic communication ( HDL ) . All con nexions are made through the Cyclone II 2C35 FPGA device in order to supply maximal flexibleness for the user. Therefore, the user can configure the FPGA to implement any system design.6. DecisionSimulation environments have been built utilizing non-synthesizable VHDL codification for the intent of simulation in ModelSim, and the same design is coded in Matlab for the intent of simulation in Matlab ( MSBC ) . Two version of the accountant has been designed, the first one is 6-bits which uses 6-bits for each input/output variables ( 6FBC ) , while the 2nd uses 8-bits each input/output variables ( 8FBC ) . Two instance surveies have been used in order to prove this accountant. From these consequences, 8FBC is superior to 6FBC and it ‘s much close to MSBC. The accountant was able to bring forth an end product in 0.3 millisecond ( after input latching ) for additive workss and 0.7 millisecond for nonlinear works. Therefore, the proposed accountant will be able to command systems w ith high trying rate.RecognitionsThe writers would wish to thank foremost, our God, and all UPM staff and all friends who gave us any aid related to this work. Finally, the most thank is to our households and to our states which born us.

Management theories Essay

Classical Management theory and Human Relations theory have played an vital role in the history of modern management .It is two qualitative leap of modern management system. As two relatively complete system of Management theory, Classical Management theory and Human Relations theory has made its own unique contribution. This essay aims to identify key similarities and differences between two theory by comparing detailed aspects which including focus, the comprehension of structure ,basic assumptions of person and the task of leader, simultaneously, exploring how Classical Management theory and Human Relations theory can reconcile the incompatibilities between the approaches. Classical Management theory was developed during the Industrial Revolution in order to deal withthe problem about inefficiency in the factories. it mainly contained of Weber(1922)’s Bureaucratic management,Taylor(1911)’s Scientific Management and Fayol(1925)’s General Management Principles. As Taylor (1911) wrote in his books â€Å"the purpose of scientific management is how achieve the maximum efficiency â€Å",these theory highlighted the importance of using scientific and standardized methods in workplace ; pointed out the study will continue to improve the working methods; determine the many principles to operate the organization more efficiently and emphasized the salary as a potential factor of motivation. Human Relation theory was proposed by a America behavioral scientist named Mayo (1933) after that Classical Management theory had been presented for nearly 20 years . According to Meyao (1933)the most important factor that effected the productivity are not condition and treatment ,but the human relation in workplace.Human Relation theory stressed the importance of human factors ;advocated improving managers’ interpersonal skills and changing leadership; emphasized the informal organization Classical Management theory and Human Relations theory contain many aspects that share differences and few aspects share similarities. Firstly, on focus,the classical management approach emphasized a concern for task (output).Thus, using the methods of Optimization of techniques and strict management in order to improve workers output is what the classical  management theory concentrate on. In contrast ,the Human Relations Approach focuses on both the workers themselves and efficiency, This aimed at increasing the work productivity through satisfaction and collaboration. Secondly ,according to the comprehension of organizational structure .in Classical Management approach . The organizational structure should be formal and clearly. Weber (1922) wrote that an ideal administrative structure has characteristics which including: a clear organizational division of labor ;a top-down hierarchy; a professional management system and a strict independent rules and discipline. Whereas the Human Relations Theory proposed the perspective that there is a informal organization existed in enterprise besides formal organization.The role of this formal is to safeguard the common interests of the members so that protect the common interests from additional loss caused by negligence of internal individual or external interference. For instance ,a group which the members are not arranged by manager but the reason of which have common values or personal interests is a informal organization. Thirdly ,on basic assumptions of person, the classical approach adopts standardized the methods of working ,as well as training of employees and they worked more like machines. Therefore , the staff often regarded as â€Å"economic person â€Å"in Classical Management theory ,this approach also states that the salary is the only way to stimulate the enthusiasm of employees to work .While Human Relations theory proposes treated staff as â€Å"social person † so that not only does it consider collaboration factor to motivate worker but also views strong worker relationship, recognition and achievement as motivators for increased productivity. It’s based on the most popular Maslow(1943)’s hierarchy of needs which stated that every person has some needs which affects his performance and motivation. These needs in the order from the most basic are Physiological needs, Safety needs, social needs, Esteem needs and Self-actualization needs. ( Maslow ,1943) Finally ,the task of leadership under classical management theory is to set the staff to set work standards, and supervise employees complete the  project efficiently .While under the Human Relations theory, the task of leader ship was to facilitate cooperation or coordination among the workers while providing assistance and opportunities for their personal promotion and development and was to be seen as â€Å"an agent for intra and inter group communication. † (Donnelly,2008) Although both two theories on the theoretical though and the approaches are totally different. They still contain a few similarities . For example,they both believe in organizations as closed, changeless entities which shared a common point common â€Å"increased productivity â€Å",It was the final goal either of approaches focused on the target that attempted to find the most efficient way for arranging and managing tasks. It is difficult to identify which theory is more superior, in most case .modern enterprise associate two management approach to increased productivity. How to balance it is what the leader should ponder. Therefore ,the two major theoretical thought of management theory are well described by Douglas McGregor’s theory X and theory Y in his book named ‘The Human Side of Enterprise’ Theory X relates to the classical approach that holds that People need, and indeed tend to be directed and controlled .In the meantime ,leaders should use strict rule and punishments to regulated workers behavior. Theory Y relates to the human relations approach, the idea that management’s task is to create an environment where employees can be innovative and productive or satisfied in the workplace at least. For instances, In 1960s, a new mode of production named â€Å"just in time † (also named Lean Production) was implemented Toyota Automotive Corporation .JIT is good combination of two theories. it helps corporation overcome the first energy crisis .The core of JIT is produce timely and appropriately. Equalization and standard production cycle time and standard operating sequence reflect classical management, while Employees can intervene in the production process and develop personal initiative. The mode of production also stressing coordination ,this factors reflect thought of Human Relations theory. In the nutshell.As two of the most significant studies in field of  management,Classical Management theory and Human Relations theory have their own particular merits and limitations. the two theories should not be simply isolated, a single and combined together, but to be a relationship of organic whole. Because of diversity of modern economic environment, A good leader should be the one who can balance various theories and put into practice depending on different situation.which means none of management theories is superior to the other. Reference: Fayol,H (1949) General and Industrial Management.New York :Harper= Taylor,F.W(1911) The Principles of Scientific Management.New York: Harper Donnelly,R.(2008) The Role of the Manager. Scotland: Pitman Publishing. Donnelly, R. (2000) Schools of Management Thought. Scotland :Pitman Publishing. Maslow ,A. H. (1943) A Theory of Human Motivation.New York:Psychological Review. Mayo,E.(1933) The Social Problems of an Industrial Civilization.Boston :Harvard University Press. McGregor,D(1960) The Human Side of Enterprise .New York: McGraw-Hill Bibliography: Davis,R.C. (1951) The Fundamentals of Top Management .New York: Harper

Crime in Kansas City

Atlanta, and Cleveland. Kansas City's crime risk is more tun three times the national average. i guess it could be worse. e could be St. Louis, the ations number one city for crime. The national crime data from 2011 showed that Kansas City had the 10th highest rate of violent crime of 72 US cities with more than 250,000 people. Our murder rates were seventh highest of the 72 large cities, and second highest of its midwestern peers. These figures show that supporters of state control have few facts on their side when arguing that the current arrangement does much to keep the crimes in Kansas City low. Boosters of local control point out that a change could lead to more innovative approaches to battling crime.Elected officials and the entire city hall staff ust have more responsibility and accountability for reducing crime in the future. Kansas city is one the few US cities without local control of its police agencies. KCS police staffing and police budget were compared to 10 other cit ies: Denver, Fort Worth, Indianapolis, Memphis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, Omaha, St. Louis and Tulsa. Kansas City had the second highest cost for its Police Department per 1,000 residents. And the third highest number of uniformed and civilian employees per 1,000 residents. So that being said, why does Kansas city have such a high crime rate?Kansas City, with a land area of almost 320 square miles, is somewhat split into two separate divisions. south of the Missouri River, and north of the River. Two very different from each other in many ways. south of the river is more urban, which would make since because Down Town KC is south of the river. north of the river is mostly all suburban. The main difference between these two sides of the river is Crime Rate. North of the river, north Kansas city is relatively safe. With a total of 15 homicides over the last five years, thats an average of only three annually.South of the river is he part of Kansas City that gets most of t he headlines for violent crime. its a dangerous place to live, especially anywhere around Troost Avenue to the interstateate 435. What i am getting at is, since the northland isn't where all of the crime is at, move some of the law enforcement from the North to the South. I read an article that was explaining what they are trying to do to help the crime rates to stop increasing, and basically all it was saying was that the one way police can be more effective is through communication. They simply said, you take the areas where the crime is, and thats where you put the cops.I feel like it shouldn't be that simple. Crime can happen anywhere, so Just because crime happens in the south of you put a bunch of cops in one area, it would be way less likely to have crime. But if all the cops are in one area, then theres no cops anywhere else, and crime will start moving to other places where it shouldn't. The next article i read was from the Missouri Torch, they interviewed the Mayor of Kans as City, Sly James. James said the main solution is Just to educate. He said, â€Å"All along the way, adults have failed to take nessacary steps to break the cycle of an ducation system that has been inefficient at best. Exactly, people wouldn't know what is right from wrong if you don't tell them growing up.

How Music Makes the World Happy

Analysis Memory Cost In the last 30 years, the need for hard drives to be capable to hold more memory has been on a very fast rise. This Is due to our operating systems that are larger and the fact that more people needing or wanting to use computers more. Technology has grown so much. 20 years ago only about half of us had computers in our homes. Today almost everybody has at least 1 desktop and 1 portable. We keep pictures of our children on computers, have more programs to use in everyday life, control our finances, do school work, our Job has a need for computers, and love to play games ND use the internet.Every day these things take up more and more memory storage. The last time researchers hit a limit for expanding memory was 2005. We take this fact, that there are limits, for granted. That every now and then there is a limit that cannot be topped. Researchers say that that limit again Is going to reached somewhere around 2013-2015. There Is a new technology for the HAD (hard d isk drive) called the HAM (heat-assisted magnetic recording). This will bring massive storage growth and raise the Industry way beyond 100 TUB. Currently there is a 100 TUB hard drive. When will it be commercially available?After researching several charts I would say in about 5-10 years. At this point the average person would not even need this much memory and the price would be extremely expensive. So I am going to say in about 5-10 years we will meet supply and demand on a 100 TUB hard drive. Ten years from I am predicting that I could buy a 8 TUB hard drive for around $100 dollars. I cannot get a very educated guess on this because the all the history charts on this vary. But I took what I could buy today and used Morel's law and came up with an 8 TUB hard drive will cost about $100 dollars In the year 2023. And that Is If we even use HAD at that time.

Critiqing two of my peers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

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Facing Poverty with a Rich Girls Habits Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

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Discourse, Field-Configuring Events, and Change In Organizations Shell Essay

Discourse, Field-Configuring Events, and Change In Organizations Shell - Essay Example In an attempt to determine the safest and environmentally friendly way to dispose its spar, the company considered to dispose its Brent Spar by sinking it in 6000 feet of Atlantic water. This move was undetermined since the disposal could possibly contaminate other seawater thereby leading to human and environmental dangers (Wheeler et.al, 2009, p. 19). Intentionally, the company ignored critical assumptions made by environmentalist regarding the disposal of this waste. The company was therefore faced with an environmental problem allegation mainly from Greenpeace. This includes regular oil spills, drainage of harmful water into a canal and emission of dangerous gases from the pump. Crime and unemployment were external ethical issues that faced the oil industry. It is cited that the Nigerian government did not utilize the profit earned from the company in infrastructural development and other economic activities that tend to improve economic growth. Instead, the government channels these funds to finance political party’s activities. Unemployment created insecurity within the nation. The government and the system of public officials were cited as the most corrupt in the globe. This was due to misappropriation of government funds, thereby increasing crime in the country. The Nigerian government has the largest number of shares in the company formed collaborations with other industries thereby diluting company’s operations. In this perspective, this strategy was against the will of other shareholders. Considering the initial attempts to take over the company, any collaboration made between the company and United State oil companies placed the company at risk, but the Nigerian government did not put into consideration the decisions of other shareholders when initiating this partnership. It therefore sets up joint ventures with other multinational oil companies (Wheeler et.al, 2009, p. 34). After negotiation and a long debate on proposed

Timeline of Historical growth in Terms of Technological Advances Essay

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(not sure) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

(not sure) - Essay Example The functions of the IMF, WB and WTO have expanded in ways unforeseen to eventually affect a wider than ever range of policies and programmes. Necessarily, the international organizations exerted influences over national jurisdictions, which generally fell into two categories. The first is in the form of expansions in broader and deeper conditions applied to borrowing members, including each nation’s domestic and municipal governance, and the policy-setting framework of their economic institutions. The second has to do with the set of commitments binding upon the member states upon establishment of the World Trade Organization in 1995, extending further into other areas traditionally governed by local legislation (Woods & Narlikar, 2001). Financial intrusions. The first kind of interference was intensified during the 1990s upon the occurrences of the regional financial crises during the 1990s, prompting the industrialized and powerful members of the IMF and World Bank to call for â€Å"forceful, far reaching structural reforms† and correct the perceived weaknesses in the domestic financial systems in the member countries – referring, in retrospect, to the weaker member nations of the IMF and World Bank. Kapur (2001) determined that the international financial institutions’ (IFI’s) â€Å"performance criteria† which formed the condition for loans, for a sample of 25 countries, rose from some 6 to 10 in the 1980s, to 26 measures in the 1990s. The number of programme objectives likewise increased, requiring countries to mobilise, redefine, strengthen or upgrade an expanding range of government processes (Wood & Narlikar, 2001). Many have protested that the level of conditionality being imposed by the IFIs was never intended in their original mandates, which in al aspects gave deference to the absolute sovereignty of states within their jurisdictions. In the late nineties, the conditionality and policy-based lending expanded from what

Management of information technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Management of information technology - Essay Example The organisation at the very beginning will need to explore all avenues where electronic information systems are required to manage information better. All departments should be consulted to arrive at common consensus for the need. At various levels the thought process may come to a halt due to various factors. We shall identify and explore a few. Management Issues - An organisation need to answer the question of management of the IT resource if it proceeds with the investment. An IT resource like a supply chain management software is required to be handled by a staff of experienced IT professionals who are also aware of the core business processes of the organisation. Failure to do so will result in incorrect reporting of information and ultimately lead to mismanagement. Organisational Issues - At an organisational level investment in IT could bring out some structural as well as financial issues. An organisation will need to consider its core business requirements, investor interests and well as financial implications while considering a potential investment in IT. Technological Issues - Technological issues if not planned for may derail an entire project at the implementation stage. Overlooking CTQ (critical to quality) parameters can result in doing more harm than good. Let us now look at the various issues that may arise when an organisation may invest into IT. At a management level, there may well be numerous issues. Lets look at a few which might be more common. Administration - While an organisation may want the most sophisticated software available in the market, it however needs to answer management related questions before proceeding. The organisation needs to see if it has the work force capacity to handle such a shift. Does it have the required people with necessary skill set to successfully implement and support the technology If not then who would manage this technology Many technology vendors have come up with their own solution to this issue since it is the most common and is certain to arise. While most vendors would offer specialised training to an organisation's staff, few also offer to provide dedicated staff to the organisation for day to day administration of the product. Organisations also recruit IT staff to manage the acquired product if the data is sensitive. For example an organisation would definitely would want to have an IT employee specializing in the technology in question if it is financial in nature or deals with the organisations product. If the product is unique in the market, maintaining a dedicated resource becomes all the more important. Security Issues - "Managers, consultants, IT professionals and customers believe that they have finally discovered what makes organizations work: knowledge---that invisible force that propels the most successful companies to stock market values which far exceed the visible assets of their financial balance sheet". (Borghoff & Pareschi 1997, p.835) Since technology investment deals with data which in the hands of certain individuals translates into Knowledge, protecting it is very important. An organisation may answer the security management question by restricting access of the technology to individuals on a need to know basis. This will ensure that those

Communication with Families Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Communication with Families - Essay Example Working parents, especially fathers, or those who live at distant locations are â€Å"less involved† in their children’s education â€Å"unless the school organizes opportunities†¦in various times and in various places† (Epstein, 2001, p. 407). C. The teacher said that the document contained some information that came â€Å"directly from our state education office†. This technical information was less likely to be understood by less educated parents. Secondly, the teacher said that the â€Å"web site will also allow us to communicate by e-mail†, but he did not consider the fact that many parents would not be having any computers at home or e-mail addresses through which they could communicate with school authorities. D. The information that came directly from the state education office would have affected less educated parents since they might not have understood such formal phrases. Secondly, those parents who did not know how to use internet or did not have computers at home got no help in getting to know how to use the website. Mendoza (2003) asserts that â€Å"when professionals use technical terms and jargon without sufficient explanation, parents may not understand key information about their children†. E. The teacher could have shown greater sensitivity to the parents by explaining the instructions of state education office in easier words so that every parent could have understood it. Mendoza (2003) states that the difficult reading level of the written materials makes them â€Å"potentially inaccessible to parents with lower literacy skills or to second-language English speakers†. Secondly, the teacher should have considered how those parents were going to communicate who did not have computers at their homes. F. A parent plays a vital role in his child’s education. He has to stay well informed about his timetable. He

BUSINESS ETHICS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

BUSINESS ETHICS - Essay Example Management for business and economics should come from both aspects of â€Å"external† and â€Å"internal.† From external aspects as in terms of political force, legal directives, sociocultural practices and education. From internal aspects as in terms of positive faith and conduct of business companies and people, self-regulation of business unions, etc. The external aspect alone cannot accomplish this direction because it requires the inner responsibility of business nor is the internal aspect adequate because business, like any societal group, is only a sole element of society and needs supplementary external management and guidance. Nonetheless, the internal aspect is becoming more significant as the economic players have the benefit of more autonomy and thus abide by more accountability. In this period of fast globalisation and secularisation, where authority is moving away from its conventional hub in the West, the world will be inestimably poorer, more unsafe, and more brittle and most of all, more directionless —lacking the essential sense of rationale to help direct its voyage — if it is with no strong religious aspect. Given the tremendous challenges of globalization and secularization, it appears definitively prudent to place the religious approaches to business ethics into the global framework. This sets far above the ground standards, of which, until at present, the realistic and theoretical accomplishments of business ethics have fallen noticeably undersized. Business is component of the societal order. Its prime rationale is to fulfill material and human needs by manufacturing and dispensing goods and services in a proficient style. How this function is carried out the ways as well as the closing stages is central to the entire society. Along with the development in material wealth in the business world, there is rising in some sectors a value system which is damaging to the healthy development of human

The Determinants of FDI in Nigeria and its Effects on the Growth of Research Proposal

The Determinants of FDI in Nigeria and its Effects on the Growth of SMEs - Research Proposal Example In this particular area, there are two approaches that are commonly applied namely the macro approach and the micro approach. Macro approach encompasses empirical examination of effects of FDI on the general economic growth in areas related to the creation of employment, business and industry as well as international relationships (Ip, 2010, p.90). On the other hand, the microeconomic approach focuses on the impacts of FDI on the grass root economy in various sectors like skills development, employment generation specifically the establishment of small businesses being highly emphasized on. Foreign direct investment refers to the direct investments made to businesses or production process in a given country by companies or individuals from other countries. This exercise is achieved by either buying the targeted business entity or by expanding corporates operations. In Rivers State Nigeria, FDI involves the movement of both financial and human resources (capital) from abroad. Some of these resources are owned by individuals, governments while others are owned by leading multinational corporates (Great Britain, 2009, p.102). There exists the number of factors that make Rivers State a favorable destination for many investors. Therefore, it is essential to have a brief understanding of the state that has become a target of many foreign investors. Rivers State is among the 36 states that Nigeria made up of (Mitee, 2010, p.85). The state contributes a lot to the Nigerian economy because of the presence of oil-rich fields, the presence of refineries and seaports among other various industries that spread out across the state. As a result, the state has become one of the most targeted areas by foreign investors who in this case comprises of both leading multinational corporations as well as individuals who travel to the state to seek employment.  

Can Character and Communities Survive in the Age of Globalization Essay

Can Character and Communities Survive in the Age of Globalization - Essay Example This has made a world a â€Å"global village† where we interact with peoples of different cultures, use their products and services, and also sell them ours. All these have a significant influence on our lives as is discussed in the later part of the essay. Online Oxford Dictionary defines character as â€Å"the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. Whereas community means â€Å"a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common†. While nations on the whole seem to be benefited from the advantages of globalization which includes economic development, cheap availability of goods and their consumption, high mobility of goods, capital and plentiful labor; the communities within the economy are in fact negatively influenced by the increased globalization. The aforesaid advantages are often associated with globalization but its potential weaknesses are never discussed in great detail, and that is a growing concern t hese days. To show the connection or the relationship between globalization and character/communities let us consider the example of Pak Mun Dam in Thailand. It was constructed with the support of World Bank in 1994 on two rivers flowing in Thailand. Initially the dam was built to meet the power requirements of the country and for the welfare of the people, but it resulted in severe damages to the groups and communities living there. As soon as the dam was built, around 117 square kilometers of land was flooded which caused around 3000 families to move from their living place, fisheries of the Mun River were also adversely affected. Around 25,000 villagers claimed to have been affected by the construction of dam and many protests were also staged, but inadequate compensation was paid to them in return of all they lost. The dam also failed to produce the projected power output and therefore the entire project was unsuccessful. So this was just one of the many examples where economic prosperity and development was exchanged for dislocated people and destroyed communities. Communities play a vital role in any society. Through small groups and communities people find ways to interact with each other, to learn about themselves. Besides, every group or community has its boundaries and its very own identity and culture which gives the people living within it a good sense of belonging and fulfills their social needs as well. At the core of these communities lie the families. The people belonging to different families and the relationships existing among them give any community its true meaning and reason for its existence. Through families people participate in different social activities organized through the community. Hence the family-community exchange is very crucial for the survival of both communities and the character. Communities provide the families with culture, facilities, values and protect it from the measures that could otherwise jeopardize the satisfac tion of wants. And families, then again, protect these cultural values and norms through its social activities and passing these values from one generation to the other (Robertson). With the advent of globalization, the world today exhibits the nature of a global village with everything global, new, different, faster and turbulent. Globalization results in economic development and

Poetry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 13

Poetry - Essay Example I feel that the poet has tried to connect the moves of gymnastics with love and life. People rise and fall in life just like gymnasts rise and fall on their tracks. The poet talks about gymnasts, who may be walking straight on the balanced beams, yet they are not so efficient to walk straight on the path of love. They may be well prepared with powdered palms, yet the path of love and life is so slippery that they find themselves incapable of dealing very proficiently with the ups and downs of life. I can very well imagine that all they have are ropes of no hope, to which they are clinging. They think that these ropes will save them from falling or that these ropes are strong support for their feet; but, what they do not understand is that there is no hope attached to these ropes. These ropes are unfaithful, or in other words, this support is weak. And I feel sorry to think that, when they grow old, broken and bruised, they look into their lives as if they were nightmares. In the poem, ‘Apportioned’, written by Erin Badough, I feel that the poet has talked about how he fears the quick passing of time, and future. The tick-tick-tick of the clock reminds him of his miserable present and dreadful future. It is a harsh reality of life, as I see, that man fears the passing of the time because he fears his mortality. He fears what lies ahead of him. Therefore, he feels chained to time. The narrator dreads a future filled with hammers and nails and saw-toothed blades, which are only metaphors that are talking about hardships that life offers. He wishes to put his thoughts into the reader’s mind so that the latter may well know what he thinks and feels. I feel that this poem is a superb example of how man goes from one phase of life into another, and what wishes and fears he has in his mind while he looks at the clock, doing tick-tick-tick. Anyone can relate to this poem, because it is the story of

Marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 6500 words

Marketing - Assignment Example ISO works process framework would be used to show how SIX Sigma might be laid out and what information will be needed to implement this tool. There are many tools that make up this collective and they need to be fully researched in the first instance for early stages and consultants/experts in the implementation of these tools are required to avoid pitfalls caused by redundant data. One problem that is required to be addressed with these tools is that of measuring potential work flows and bottle necks in the production process. "Six Sigma seeks to improve the quality of process outputs by identifying and removing the causes of defects (errors) and minimizing  variability  in manufacturing  and  business processes." (one six sigma web) The 'Qualicoat' status requires us to do much of the processes of Six Sigma would and we run a zero defects policy with any defects being reworked. New innovation such as Quality control measures before the Powder coating process will mean that many of the issues will be taken care of on the production line. Where Six Sigma and learn thinking tools will come into their own will be more visible in our data processing and customer liaising as well as in our order processing and sales activities. Sales personnel will be able to predict work flows with new centralised communications and above mentioned tools will assist in that role facilitating negotiations at first contact with customer queries. Six Sigma and Total Quality Management (TQM) are tools that are going to be used to push the changes forward and improve on employee participation towards a culture of due diligence. Various tools are now being introduced to engage the workforce in dialogue to identify problem areas, provide training and walk-through them in meeting new goals while actually improving their working environment. Brief look would be given to the questionnaires and language that are going to be used to encourage change. One problem is the resistance to c hange that has been experienced in the past because of people being stuck in the old ways of carrying out processes thus introduction of Six Sigma terminology will create confusion and animosity. These terminologies would only be used within management to avoid unnecessary chaos. It is to be assured that there is the balance of communication therefore new responsibilities are properly defined along with the changes in processes. In order to enhance data collection and processing new management positions would be introduced. There are several objectives of TQM that include process improvement, observing behaviour changes over a time period, defect prevention, developing operational definitions, priority of effort, developing improvement check forms and check lists, developing relationships of cause-effect, measuring capacity of the system, assisting teams in making better decisions and separating trivial from significant needs. TQM on the whole revolves around a few main things that include systems for facilitating improvement, techniques and tools for improvement, Senior Management and all employees’ commitment, team work, customers - Supplier relationships, effective vision, mission, strategy and goals, communication and trust. A systematic approach towards quality management involves components like modification of the processes and the inputs, examining of the processes performance, planning of the inputs

Western progressives Essay Example for Free

Western progressives Essay Enforcing cooperation between the CIA and the FBI and the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) is essential in dealing with terrorism. This is unarguably true; however, the same premise should be enforced between municipal, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. All levels of response, including investigation and information gathering, are crucial pieces to the puzzle when dealing with homeland security and terrorism. After all, it is not just international terrorist organizations overseas that need to be monitored. There are many domestic-based groups actively or passively operating in everyones own backyard. Whether an investigation is local, state, or federally based, money is one nexus that, if exposed, can bring all agencies together. International and domestic-based terrorist organizations generally have one feature in common: the need for financing. As documented in Steven Emersons remarkable video documentary for the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) that aired in November, 1994 titled â€Å"Jihad in America,† terrorist organizations, regardless of how much they despise and loath the U. S. , have no problem seeking support and financial backing in the U. S. Based on this critical need, perhaps the best approach for dealing with terrorism is to track money and finances. (Rick 2004 93) It can be detrimental to be one-dimensional and not to consider global approaches to homeland security and terrorist-related information. It has been demonstrated that terrorist activity cans occur anywhere and at any time, but financial support is an ongoing process with many guises. This need exists and perhaps poses the greatest opportunity for law enforcement to expose and exploit in order to gain the upper hand in tracking and monitoring potential homeland security threats. Homeland security and terrorism have received Ð ° great deal of public attention over the past couple of years. Most of the attention came from the federal government and the media. Law enforcement agencies, based on this attention, were force-fed Ð ° multitude of methods and practices for dealing with homeland security and terrorism matters. Some local and state agencies established homeland security units in an attempt to keep up with the growing concerns facing the ever-evolving world of terrorism. Traditional managers and administrators also reacted to this crisis, predictably, by having their agencies develop plans of action and contingency plans and by identifying potential targets that exist within their jurisdictions in case of an attack. However, this can be construed as nothing more than window dressing. Something near and dear to all managers is the budget, and this, perhaps, is the leading cause as to why only â€Å"window dressing† has been applied. (Rick 2004 115) â€Å"By launching so forcefully Ð ° global war on terror, President Bush has challenged head-on Ð ° long-cherished tenet of Western progressives. This has been that insurgency is the authentic voice of the oppressed; and the more adamant its leadership, the more this truth is confirmed. Shades here of the dozens of medieval ballads that created the Robin Hood legend. Shades, too, of Ð ° modern disposition to write indulgently of outlaws, gangland bosses and their ilk-Jesse James, Ned Kelly, Reggie Kray, Rob Roy†¦ On the more overtly political plane, the literati tend to give ultra-Left revolutionaries (Mazzini, Lenin, Mao Tse-tung, Gerry Adams†¦) extensive and often empathetic press coverage compared with more moderate reformers or, of course, the anciens regimes. Moreover, the more dismal the status quo antes, the more these tendencies prevail, the underlying assumption being that anything must be an improvement. Alas, the materials of history suggest that unyielding repression is very liable to be replaced, through revolutionary upheaval, by brutality more uncompromising, albeit in Ð ° new guise. Robespierre was far more vicious than Louis XVI. Stalin was much worse than the Tsars. Nor does the current dearth of political thought, especially in the developing countries, inspire confidence that future revolutionists would be any better. (Neville 2004 45). References Alexander Moens, Lenard J. Cohen, Allen G. Sens; Praeger, 2003 NATO and European Security: Alliance Politics from the End of the Cold War to the Age of Terrorism Amy Goodman, David Goodman; Allen Unwin, 2004 The Exception to the Rulers: Exposing Americas War Profiteers, the Media That Love Them and the Crackdown on Our Rights. Anthony H. Cordesman; Praeger, 2002 Terrorism, Asymmetric Warfare, and Weapons of Mass Destruction: Defending the U. S. Homeland. Barry Cooper;, 2004 New Political Religions, Or, an Analysis of Modern Terrorism. University of Missouri Press. Bruce Nardulli; Rand, 2003 The Global War on Terrorism: An Early Look at Implications for the Army. Bulent Gokay, R. B. J. Walker; Frank Cass, 2003 11 September 2001: war, terror, and judgment. Chris E. Stout; Praeger, 2002 The Psychology of Terrorism: Programs and Practices in Response and Prevention Vol. 4. Christopher Preble 2004 Exiting Iraq: Why the U. S. Must End the Military Occupation and Renew the War against Al Qaeda : Report of Ð ° Special Task Force, Cato Institute. David J. Whittaker; Routledge, 2004 Terrorists and Terrorism in the Contemporary World. Dr. Amit Gupta 2003 Strategic Effects of the Conflict with Iraq: South Asia; Strategic Studies Institute. Dr. Anthony L. 2003 Strategic Effects of the Conflict with Iraq: East Asia: Smith; Strategic Studies Institute. Elizabeth Wishnick. 2004 Strategic Consequences of the Iraq War: U. S. Security Interests in Central Asia Reassessed; Strategic Studies Institute. Frederick H. Gareau;, 2004 State Terrorism and the United States: From Counterinsurgency to the War on Terrorism Clarity Press. Gabriel Kolko 2006 The Age of War: The United States Confronts the World. Hooman Peimani; Praeger, 2003 Falling Terrorism and Rising Conflicts: The Afghan Contribution to Polarization and Confrontation in West and South Asia. James M. Lutz, Brenda J. Lutz; Routledge, 2004 Global Terrorism. R. Martin; 2002 Defeating Terrorism: Strategic Issue Analyses. Strategic Studies Institute. John Richard Thackrah; Routledge, 2004 Dictionary of Terrorism. Lynn E. Davis, Gregory F. Treverton, Daniel Byman, Sara Daly, William Rosenau; Rand, (2004) Coordinating the War on Terrorism. Mary Buckley, Rick Fawn; Routledge, 2003 Global Responses to Terrorism: 9/11, Afghanistan and beyond. Max G. Manwaring 2003 Strategic Effects of the Conflict with Iraq: Latin America; Strategic Studies Institute. Michael R. Ronczkowski; CRC Press, 2004 Terrorism and Organized Hate Crime: Intelligence Gathering, Analysis, and Investigations. Mohan Malik. 2002 Dragon on Terrorism: Assessing Chinas Tactical Gains and Strategic Losses Post-September 11 Strategic Studies Institute. Neville Brown; Routledge, 2004: Global Instability and Strategic Crisis. Paul De B. J Taillon; Praeger, 2002 Hijacking and Hostages: Government Responses to Terrorism. Paul De B. J Taillon; Praeger, 2001 The Evolution of Special Forces in Counter-Terrorism: The British and American Experiences. Paul K. Davis, Brian Michael Jenkins; Rand, 2002 Deterrence and Influence in Counterterrorism: Ð  Component in the War on Al Qaeda. Paul Mcgeough; Allen Unwin, 2003 Manhattan to Baghdad. Peter Van Der Veer, Shoma Munshi; 2004 Routledge Media, War, and Terrorism: Responses from the Middle East and Asia. Rahul Mahajan 2002 The New Crusade: Americas War on Terrorism. Richard Ð . Clarke 2004 Against All Enemies: Inside Americas War on Terror. Richard Crockatt; Routledge, 2003 America Embattled: September 11, Anti-Americanism, and the Global Order. Rick Anderson; Clarity Press, 2004 Home Front: The Governments War on Soldiers. Robert S. Tripp, Kristin F. Lynch, G. Drew, Edward W. Chan; Rand, 2004 Sandra Silberstein; Routledge, 2002 War of Words: Language, Politics and 9/11. Sherifa Zuhur;, 2005 Saudi Arabia: Islamic Threat, Political Reform, and the Global War on Terror: Strategic Studies Institute. Shireen Hunter; Frank Cass, 2004 Strategic Developments in Eurasia after 11 September. Stephen Biddle; Strategic Studies Institute, 2002 Afghanistan and the Future of Warfare: Implications for Army and Defense Policy. Supporting Air and Space Expeditionary Forces: Lessons from Operation Enduring Freedom. Thomas G. Weiss, Margaret E. Crahan, Goering; Routledge. (2004) Wars on Terrorism and Iraq: Human Rights, Unilateralism, and U. S. Foreign Policy. Thomas R. Mockaitis, Paul B. Rich; Frank Cass, 2003 Grand Strategy in the War against Terrorism. Yassin El-Ayouty, Gerald J. Galgan, Francis J. Greene, Edward Wesley; Praeger, 2004 Perspectives on 9/11.

The United States Consumption of Nonrenewable Resources Essay Example for Free

The United States Consumption of Nonrenewable Resources Essay The United States consumes 85% of nonrenewable energy sources to provide energy throughout the states: 40% comes from oil, 23% from natural gas, and 22% from coal. These nonrenewable energy sources are also called fossil fuels, which take about 300 million years in the making. Fossil fuels are termed nonrenewable because they are not easily reproduced. The U. S. can produce a considerable amount of petroleum. But the increased energy consumption leads to the gradual depletion of its petroleum reserves. Thus, U. S. has been importing oil since 1939. U. S. also depends on natural gas, which is a by-product of oil production. Since petroleum reserves of U. S. is depleting, production of natural gas is also affected. U. S. imports natural gas from Canada. About 27% of coal reserves is found in U. S. Since 1950, U. S. has been producing more coal than it can consume. U. S. exports the surplus to Canada, Brazil, and Italy among others. But U. S. coal reserves are also facing depletion. So coal exportation has decreased since 1991. Increased energy consumption can be attributed to increasing population, rapid industrialization, and continuous economic expansion. The increased energy consumption leads to the utilization of more of the now limited natural resources. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the United States’ total energy consumption is estimated to rise from 97. 7 to 136. 5 quadrillion Btu between 2002 and 2025. What will happen to U. S. ’s energy situation? One, continued use of fossil fuels will increase emission of carbon dioxide and will intensify today’s problem on global warming and acid rain. Two, since there is scarcity of nonrenewable energy sources, U. S. , in the future might exhaust all of these. Importation could be the next step, but budget should be considered. Last, U. S. might exhaust other countries’ sources on nonrenewable energy, too. When this happens, the world might experience the greatest energy crisis ever. Think wisely! Act wisely! Conserve energy now! References An Energy Overview  ­Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Energy Imports and Exports. (2008). libraryindex.com. Retrieved May 22, 2008, from http://www.libraryindex.com/pages/1486/An-Energy-Overview-ENERGY-IMPORTS-EXPORTS.html Conservation. (2008). Alternative Energy. Retrieved May 22, 2008, from http://www.altenergy.org/transition/conservation.html Energy Conservation. (2008). libraryindex.com. Retrieved May 22, 2008, from http://www.libraryindex.com/pages/1559/Energy-Conservation-FUTURE-TRENDS-IN-CONSERVATION.html Non-Renewable Energy. (2008). Alternative Energy. Retrieved May 22, 2008, from http://www.altenergy.org/transition/conservation.html Shepard, K. (2005–2006). Non-renewable Energy Sources. Peak to Prairie Home Inspection Service. Retrieved May 22, 2008, from http://www.peaktoprairie.com/?D=188

Reflective essay of personal and professional development

Reflective essay of personal and professional development This assignment is a critical analysis and reflection of my continuing personal and professional development (CPPD) needs in practice. This account will identify practical needs that I must improve with supportive evidence based research, and evaluate the impact of this need for my personal development as a future qualified nurse. My learning need was with assertiveness in communication when working with a staff nurse during admission. To meet the need and demonstrate the ability to engage in advancing my care, Gibbs (1988) framework model of reflection will be used. To maintain confidentiality as emphasised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC 2008), a pseudonym Tommy will be used to protect the patient’s anonymity. In addition, I will be using the post-registration education and practice (PREP) guidelines (NMC 2011) to maintain up to date knowledge and skills as well as empowering a lifelong learning in my nursing career. (NMC 2012) My skills in communication have improved in all contact and this has been acknowledged in every practice. However, I thought of this learning need, when I recognised my weakness was with assertiveness in communication when working with a staff nurse, faced with a difficult patient during admission. I took part in this learning activity in November, 2014 during my placement in hospital. I identified this need during the second week of placement, as I was able to perform patient admissions under the supervision of my mentor. The need to improve this skill was established from my mentor’s feedback and I agreed that it must be developed in order to help avoiding errors in future practice, improving my decision-making skills and professional satisfaction. I have spent a good amount of time to research and critically analyse this learning need However I felt this could be an ongoing process of improvement as Webb (2011) identified, supported by the Department of Health’s (201 3) ongoing process of improvement in the NHS to be more efficient and less bureaucratic. I again felt this was important for me to work on because it had an impact on the patient and me as a future qualified nurse (Fowler, 2008). Tommy is a 50 year old who suffers from right leg cellulitis and lives alone with his cat. I felt my first meeting with Tommy was challenging as I found it difficult to present myself as a self-assured, assertive and empathetic student nurse due to the impression that the situation was out of my comfort zone. I observed from the beginning of the visit that this gentleman was unable to cope; however I felt that I could not make a direct statement without coming across as patronising or a dominant student nurse. On the positive side, I chose to improve this learning need so that I would learn to be prepared with the knowledge and set of skills I must have in managing complex patient care in future placements (Fowler, 2008). Having encountered patients who have refused requests from other student nurses and staff nurses alike by expressing their dislikes, disagreements and sometimes even anger when offered treatment, I have observed that patients sense how the student nurses present themselves and could base their decision on the student nurses’ abilities to communicate assertively (Fowler, 2008). This also made me think about my self-awareness and empathetic skills. As I listened to Tommy’s emotional concerns, he opened up about being terrified of not having anyone in his house to feed his cat while he was in hospital because he had no close relatives. I responded calmly and confidently, using clear language that my intention was to obtain his permission to allow health professionals offer long term support to him (Fischhoff et al, 2011). As student nurses, our main role involves patient interaction and several studies have indicated that student nurses lack assertive skills evidenced by Bekkum and Hilton (2013) McCabe and Timmins (2005) qualitative study in two schools (n=30). It highlighted that most student nurses were assertive but chose not to display this skill to maintain positive interpersonal relations and avoid conflict. However, quantitative study (n=72) by Almost (2006) deemed it important to measure nursing students’ level of assertiveness prior to, and near completion of their pre-registration programme and to offer help throughout their programme to develop their assertiveness. Almost also considered the conflicts mainly developed from the multi-professional roles that student nurses have and that the basic nursing functions of caring and controlling can result in tension. Many researchers have challenged these such as Iglesias and Vallejo (2012) qualitative study identified that work have established that conflict resolution techniques can be achieved through compromise and collaboration which the nurses can use for their specific work environments. However all the previously mentioned approaches suffered from serious limitations as Tommy’s safety could have been compromised when nurses failed to speak up or be heard, identified by Page’s (2004) qualitative study. I found Almost (2013) very appropriate when giving personal care because this technique would have enhanced my learning need earlier in my nursing programme to improve patient care. Bekkum Hilton, (2013) qualitative study support and acknowledgement on these account findings imply that, education programs ought to be taken into account. The perceptions of the participants risks involved in not being assertive and the focal point must be on changing these perceptions rather tha n attempting to change student nurses’ values or focusing solely on specific assertive behaviours to improve student emotional intelligence. Based on the findings, I realised that my practice was out of date therefore would cost the National Health Service (NHS) and impact negatively on patients’ care. As identified by Smith’s (2012) phenomenological study, 75 per cent (n=20) of student nurses felt unable to verbally express their concerns when working with qualified nurses. Yet Jones’ (2013) qualitative study identified that 60 per cent (n=30) of student nurses felt confident by the end of their training. However, there is little consensus in the research available although I feel my experience reflects Smith’s (2013) findings. My inability to be assertive during patient admission was because I was working with an experienced qualified nurse and hiding behind my mentor limited my development in skill. This impacted on my clinical ability when I failed to be an assertive student nurse. It also shows in these research studies I was not using up to date practice. White’s (2009) phenomenological study identified that 75 per cent (n=28) nursing students in clinical placements suffer from self-doubt, have anxiety about their clinical performance and do not possess the characteristics of strong self-confidence. A qualitative study conducted for student nurses by Jones, Mccoy and Pitt (2013) have indicated that majority of student and staff relationships highlight that a sense of belonging was central for student nurses for a good clinical experience. A students sense of belonging and feeling a part of the team were essential before students could learn. This is reflected in Lathlean and Levett-Jones’ (2009) quantitative study (n=200) of student findings on third year student nurses who participated in the study as they had been on a number of clinical placements. This explanation, however, seemed to overlook the fact that many students feel compelled to work hard in order to fit in the nursing team rather than become motivated to le arn. This has made me realise that although being in a good nursing team, I would still prioritise looking after my patients by paying more attention to the patient needs and expectations. A qualitative study conducted by Lyndon (2006) mentioned that student nurses’ ability to make a clinical decision could be influenced by patient situation, availability of resources and interpersonal relationships. Student nurses, however, on a variety of situations, can experience moral distress as Ganske, Iseminger, Lachman and Murray (2012) have identified in their phenomenological study. These two articles revealed that the ability to communicate with patients should not cause moral distress as student nurses would neither be aggressive nor patronising, nonetheless the interaction would achieve the patient’s best interest. This is reinforced by Grumbach and Bodenheimer, (2004) qualitative study which identified (n=18) of student nurse, who noted that greater disability may be as a result of anxiety in some cases and loss of self-confidence. However, Begley (2010) phenomenological study (n=20) identified and argues, little has been investigated to explain the reasons why assertive behaviour occurs in one situation and not in another. Results suggest that, student nurses’ standard measures of assertiveness and of anxiety are irrespective of their scores p=00.1 chances. One should consider the consequences of student practitioners being assertive, while making a decision regarding how to behave I felt this was helpful in reminding me how important self- confident skills can aid improved patient care. Although, their underlying theories of subjectivity are very different, there are some important affinities between the researches that correlate which I believe would help me care better in future pla cement. In addition, Begley’s (2010) qualitative study established that patients were to be considered as partners in their health care delivery. Trust does not come easily for people and I have since learnt from past experiences that patients need to be included and actively involved in the planning and evaluation of their care. By learning to ask open questions helped promote and encouraged patient expression and enabled patients to enhance trust in a relationship as I have shown my interest and investment in the patient’s care and treatment. This study has an impact in addressing my need and offered help on how to be assertive when dealing with difficult patients. As highlighted by White (2014) qualitative study, majority of student nurse depend on their mentors to be assertive and sometimes adopt it as coping strategies. Even though, this is a small number of student nurses, (n=30) to base a judgement on, it provides statistically relevant data and allows an insight into practical experiences. I also felt this research was significant for me to work on my assertiveness, because it had an effect towards the patient and me as a future qualified nurse. I solely depended on my mentors for assertiveness as a coping strategy. Conversely, these poor coping strategies I adopted were highlighted in a qualitative study by Fischhoff et al, (2011) where common coping strategies utilised by student nurses being assertive in clinical settings are explored. Although this is a small sample size (n=18) which does not provide statistically relevant data, it is qualitative design allows an insight into the student nurses experience of assertiveness coping strategies (Parahoo, 2006). I found these results of the thematic critical analysis linked to my own clinical experience, including the poor coping assertiveness strategy I adopted. This was due to underestimating my capacity from the onset of being self-assured and self-confident without being aggressive (REF). I found that these researches gave me insight into how unethical and limiting avoidance practices are when dealing with patients, which was seen in a small number of participants in this study (n=3) (Morris Turnball, 2006). I felt this was helpful in remindi ng me how important assertiveness skills can improve patient care (Morris Turnbull, 2006). Besides, Fischhoff et al, (2011), descriptive study postulates assertiveness in student nurses who become attached to their mentors remain as consistent helpers for weeks in their placement during the period from the first till the third year, and it is suggested that this is due to the students underestimating their capacity from the onset of being self-assured. Although this is a small sample size (n=207) which does provide statistically significant relevant data, 60 percent (n=127) were more positive compared to 40 percent (n=83). Its quantitative design allows an insight into the student nurses’ experience of assertiveness skills (Begley, 2010). Nonetheless, Phillips and Simmonds (2012) phenomenological study supported this descriptive study and further on said this is a key concern for some student nurses within practice setting. The concept of assertiveness and understanding concept as student nurses will enable them to consider that the patient’s aggressiveness might be about other issues rather than their care. In a phenomenological study of (n=50) nursing students in London, Monsu (2014) identified that greater disability may be as a result of anxiety and loss of self-confidence dealing with a difficult patient. Findings of these researches do not seek to be generalised but were reliable to me due to the appropriateness of the methodology and the thematic analysis being correctly applied. This will aid me in caring for my patients in future practice. In a questionnaire survey of (n=200) student nurses in London, Smith (2013) identified that 70 per cent (n=49) of university students preferred mentors to do all the assertiveness communication for them due to underestimating their ability. Only 20 per cent (n=4) of students responded and of those who did respond, many of them did not fully complete the questionnaire. The data suggested that 70 per cent of students who preferred a mentor to do all the assertiveness communication do not constitute very strong evidence. Yet Monsu (2013) argues that from his own experience as a student in placement, there was a strong attachment with mentors being assertive in all him / her communication which did help with the assertiveness skills needed for future practice. This cannot be generalised as Monsu (2013) is not referring to a piece of empirical research but to his own experience. Having identified the context of Monsu’s (2013) own experience argument, I found it very relevant to me and it topped my hierarchy of evidence, but does not appear to have been undertaken in a thorough manner to help my caring for patients in future due to their lack of a soundly-based qualitative theory compared to Smith (2013). Having discussed with my mentor what happened during the admission; it felt good to have attempted the interaction with the patient and recognised some of his needs. Even though the patient seemed reluctant, I demonstrated the ability to remain calm although I did struggle with my approach when I spoke to him about offering more support. Instead, I focused to help the client respond to my questions and identify what his concerns were. I believe during that incident, I showed assertive behaviour because I maintained my duty of care to the patient. I have reflected that this would have an effect on my clinical ability if I had failed to be the patient’s advocate. With the DOH (2009) updated work on providing guidelines on consent to treatment and putting these principles of consent into practice, my actions caused me to consider my practice whether obtaining informed consent would be an issue. Tommy fully realised that he should comply with the nurse as she understood the conseq uences if his pains were not treated (Cole, 2012). According to Baldwin, Duffield, Fry and Merrick (2011) the interaction between the decision-making, skill development opportunities, social support and identity comes with the nursing role so as to be prepared for the upcoming nurse population to meet new challenges. When this type of situation happens again, I believe I have the skill to show my assertiveness skills by using compromise as well as recognising the boundaries of my actions. Using clinical decision skills and asking open questions, which I can gain from meeting other patients would enable me to show that I am a self- assured, reliable and trustworthy student nurse. I need to try and achieve leadership skills that could be essential for patient satisfaction and to achieve this, I have learnt to engage in leadership activities such as handovers and undertaking tasks on behalf of my mentor. I recognised that once I fitted into the clinical environment, I needed to be more actively involved in challenging clinical situations such as detecting unpredictable patient deterioration and learning to make quick clinical decisions. Cook Leathard (2004) suggested that good student nursing leadership and good quality nursing care will be effective if nurses go through leadership training program mes during the early stages of their career. This can help me in preparation to become more aware of how I feel, think and act in front of my patients. Reflecting and learning to be assertive can increase my confidence and self-esteem through appreciating what I have done well and maturely, accepting the improvements I must make to become a better nurse in the future. Having said that, I was satisfied that I had the opportunity to practice nursing handover, as it is one of the vital roles of a qualified nurse and one aspect of nursing care that is required of me when I am qualified.Loseby, Hudson Lyon (2013) wrote, handovers are information that can influence the delivery of care. In the process of this learning experience I felt well supported by my mentor giving me several opportunities to practice my handover until I felt more confident and less anxious because she created quality time for me and necessary feedback that helped my learning need as well as other aspects ofnursing. McCloughen, O’Brien Jackson (2010) defines a mentor as someone that helps others grow by teaching them, encouraging them and being interested in their success. This is also further supported byHamric, B.A., Hanson, M.C., Tracy, F.M., OGrady, T.E.,(2013) who indicated that a good mentor is one who spends quality time to foster growth, committed to the developme nt of their learning need, willing to share and feedback on any rough spot in their career development. In conclusion, I have critically analysed and reflected on clinical learning needs, which are essential for my continuing professional development. As a student, critical analysis and reflection helped to facilitate good learning outcomes so that I can relate and apply concepts to clinically orientated situations as well as explore and evaluate evidence. Also my clinical learning need was acknowledged through mentor feedback by showing assertive skills in communication with difficult patients. This need is an on-going process of development for me. However; I recognised that attempting interactions with patients and collaborating with nursing staff will help in my development to be a more self-assured nurse. Participating and engaging in leadership activities such as handovers and task delegation would be beneficial at this stage of my learning. Through the reflection and recognition of these learning needs, I could only move forward and continue to develop my learning proficiency as a student nurse towards professional competency as a qualified nurse. 1 | Page

Information systems in organisations

Information systems in organisations Abstract Successful system roll-out is not a task that can easily be achieved. As many organisations and governments have found to their cost, it is not simply the case that they can throw money at an information system in the hope that it will be successful. The primary case study used is that of the London Ambulance Service Computer Aided Despatch system. After looking at the background of the case the implementation and subsequent failure are discussed. The reasons for failure are explained, which show the project as essentially being doomed from the start. Although system failure is a common occurrence many organisations do not seem to learn from the mistakes of the past, resulting in several other high profile cases. There are some strategies, however, that can be adopted in order to combat against failure, which mainly side on the softer aspects of system design such as management, organisational culture and human relations. What are the major causes of systems roll-out success or failure? What strategies can organisations take to ensure the success? To answer this question fully we must first understand what an information system (IS) is; and more importantly, what constitutes the success and, or failure of an IS. An information system in an organization provides processes and information useful to its members and clients (Avison Fitzgerald, 2003). Flynn (1992) also describes it as An information system provides procedures to record and make available information, concerning part of an organization, to assist organizations-related activities. An IS is made up of a complex set of factors, including human, organisational, technical, political and financial factors (Flowers, 1996). The interaction between these can give rise to either the success or failure of a system roll-out. The success of an IS is measured mainly on whether or not it meets the productivity target of being developed on time and to budget, and the quality target of meeting the clients requirements. A successful system is one that meets its targets of quality and productivity (Flynn, 1992). An IS is deemed unsuccessful if it fails either one, or both of its targets. In some instances the system is never actually delivered to the end user, which obviously is another case of system failure. An unsuccessful system is one that fails to meet either its quality or its productivity targets (Flynn, 1992). Successful system roll-out is not the easiest of tasks, with many governments and companies finding this out to their cost. In some cases these cost have run into hundreds of millions of pounds. The latest Standish Group report CHAOS Summary 2009 shows that more projects than ever are failing, and also that the number of successful projects is on the decrease. Only 32% of projects met their targets and could be classed as successful; with 44% of systems meeting either only some or none of their targets and 24% were never completed (The Standish Group, 2009). There are estimates that the cost of project failure in the U.S. alone is well in excess of $100 billion; emphasising just how costly a problem system roll-out can be if not done correctly. One reason as to why there are so many instances of IS failure is partly due to the fact that a lot of the time they are constructed without a full understanding or anticipation of reality (Xalles Limited, 2005). This is known as the Vacuum Mentality syndrome (Xalles Limited, 2005). These realities include changes in technology, changes made by the user community, reorganisations, changes of needs, change of key players and project sponsors, issues with resources and changes of processes (Xalles Limited, 2005). This idea is backed up by Maddison Darnton (1996) who explain that human issues are usually more important than technical ones in determining success or failure. Highlighting the fact that it is not necessarily technical issues with an IS that are the main problems during the development process, but instead ones regarding human incompetence. One of the most dramatic IS failures reported in recent years is that of the London Ambulance Service Computer Aided Despatch (LASCAD) system. The LAS is the biggest ambulance service in the world, dealing with over 2,500 emergency calls a day. This inevitably put massive strains on the manual paper-based system that was being used, which already had several major problems with it. This led to the standards of performance falling below the ones agreed to as part of the national standards for ambulance response. It was, therefore, imperative that a new, more effective computer aided despatch system was introduced in order to meet the performance levels. The new system worked by a Control Assistant receiving an emergency call and entering the details given by the caller into the CAD system. Using call-box identifier and mapping systems, the exact location of the caller was calculated. Based on the information on the incident the CAD then worked out a level for the emergency, thus informing the Control Assistant on the appropriate specialist vehicles and skills that should be deployed to the emergency. The most appropriate and closest vehicle to the incident was then pinpointed via the use of mobile data terminals and the vehicle tracking system, and despatched to the emergency. The CAD system sent details of the incident to the vehicle via the on-board computer. Throughout dealing with the incident the crew were constantly updating the CAD system as to their arrival at the scene, their depart ure from it, their arrival at the hospital, and finally when they were free to deal with another call (Flowers, 1996). The intention of the CAD system was to eradicate the inefficiencies of the old paper-based system. However, as the LAS soon found out this was far from the case. On Monday 26th October 1992 the entire LASCAD system went live. It became quickly apparent, however, that it could note cope with the volume of calls. A number of calls were somehow getting lost in the system, leading to duplicate calls being made (Flowers, 1996). This meant that people who were in emergency situations had to wait, in some cases, for 30 minutes for their call to be dealt with. Even when the calls were dealt with, the ambulance allocation system had also failed meaning this had to be done manually, resulting in further delays. Amidst the confusion, it was even reported in some cases that two ambulances turned up to a single emergency, or that one never turned up at all (Flowers, 1996). As the day progressed, the number of calls increased, putting even more pressure on the already faltering system. The newer calls were now overwriting the earlier calls, resulting in even more incidents not being dealt with. The situation became that bad that all the queues were cleared in an attempt to decongest the system. However, this only succeeded in making the problem even worse, as a new flood of calls that were previously lost came through (Flowers, 1996). It was only Tuesday afternoon when the system was eventually shut down as a result of the escalating situation (Finkelstein, 1993). The LAS were instead forced to revert to a former part computerised system. Just over a week later they were back using the fully manual system. It is impossible to consider all of the factors that contributed to the demise of the CAD system. However, there are several major issues which could, ultimately, be seen as the contributing factors towards its failure. Flowers (1996) states that the primary reasons behind the failure were those of the design of the system, the management ethos, the procurement process and the timetable to which the system was developed. The system had been designed without sufficient testing, and on the basis that it would be operating in a perfect world where everything goes according to plan. It relied solely on the requirement that all the information received was perfect. In reality this was far from the case, and so the system was unable to sufficiently despatch resources to the incidents. As highlighted in the official inquiry into the failure: It is probable that the development team did not have full appreciation of the importance of these elements or, at least, of the consequences of failure, or less than perfect performance, of any one part (Finkelstein, 1993). The management ethos at the LAS was one that was inward looking and old-fashioned (Flowers, 1996). As a result of the recent restructuring which had been forced upon the LAS by the National Health Service, there were reported high levels of stress amongst senior management, which had seen a great number of previously loyal staff quitting (Mellor, 1994). In the years leading up to this there was a distinct lack of investment in areas such as the training and development of managers. During the implementation process a report was commissioned by the LAS into staff attitudes. It was clear to see from the results that staff had little faith in the management and were not satisfied with their jobs. This view had already been exposed from the result from a survey conducted in 1989 (Flowers, 1996). The official inquiry also highlighted a culture within the organisation that bred a fear of failure amongst the employees; whereby the success of the system was the one and only consideration (Flowers, 1996). This created an atmosphere in which people were scared to mention any problems or doubts they had with the system. As a result the system had become a sacred cow, in the fact that it became unreasonably immune to criticism from anyone associated with it. Senior managers believed that the system could be developed at a cost of just  £1.5 million. To meet the stringent financial restrictions regarding the purchase of the system, it was recommended by the selection team that the LAS accept the lowest offer, no matter who the tender was; unless they believed they had good and sufficient reason on the contrary (Flowers, 1996). The consequence of being forced to accept a tender in this manner was that the one with the lowest offer was an inexperienced small software company that had gravely underestimated that task at hand; hence the reason for their offer being considerably lower than all others. Having never worked on a project of this kind the companys resources were massively stretched, leading to falling standards in areas such as quality assurance, resulting in several mistakes being made with the development of the software. The inflexible time scale of just 6 months to which the system was set was far less than the industry average of 18 months for a project of this scale. It was believed by a vast majority within the LAS that the time scale was highly unrealistic. Inquiry Team member Paul Williams stated that The timetable was impossible (Mellor, 1994). Staff complained of the inadequacy of the training received for the system. There were major doubts about the quality of the training received and that it was provided long before the system was actually implemented; meaning it was not as effective as it could have been. The situation was made even worse by the fact that the control room staff were trained separately to the ambulance staff, which caused the potential for miscommunication. Other reasons include the fact that it had been decided by management that there was to be a trade off between the performance of the system and usability. The system was developed with little input from system users such as ambulance crews, with no LAS staff being assigned full time to the project (Mellor, 1994). These, therefore, were not ideal conditions in which to launch the new CAD system. Flowers (1996), on the other hand, argues that there is never an ideal time to introduce a major new computer system. However, he does also go on to say that rarely has such a large scale information system ever been introduced under such difficult circumstances (Flowers, 1996). This was not the first time that the LAS had tried to implement a CAD system for ambulances. Beginning in the early 1980s the system was doomed after tests revealed it would not be able to deal with the sheer volume of calls and so was abandoned in 1990 at a cost of  £7.5 million. For a system roll-out to be successful it must contain these four phases: Implementation Planning, Implementation Delivery, Post-Implementation Support, Post-Implementation Analysis (Xalles Limited, 2005). These implementation methods are based on a number of principles and assumptions. The approach by management to the project should be disciplined. As the case of the LASCAD has shown; strong and effective management is essential for the success of a system. Managers should be able to competently handle and issues or problems that develop during the implementation of the system. Accurate and concentrated documentation is needed in order to effectively communicate throughout each of the implementation phases. The end user(s) should be kept in mind throughout the development process so that the System Requirement Specification can be met. It is essential that organisations learn from the mistakes of others regarding the roll-out of an information system. However, this can pose quite difficult as many organisations, if they have difficulties, tend to keep these problems in-house, as not to bring any negative press to themselves. In conclusion it is clear to see that the roll-out of a successful IS is not an easy achievement, with organisations not always learning from the mistakes of others. After reading several case studies of high profile IS failures including LASCAD, TAURUS and Heathrow Terminal 5, it shows that the price of failure are extremely high with these companies losing tens of millions of pounds between them, and in the case of the LASCAD people losing their lives. These cases also highlighted that the main contributing factors towards the demise of each project were in fact from poor management, rather than technical difficulties. It is argued that the main factors for success comprise of timing and budget, perceived usefulness and ease of use, fitting the organisations business strategy and objectives, the management culture and human relations, and lastly acceptance of the system by the user(s) (Maddison Darnton, 1996). In order for a system roll-out to be successful all of this must be ta ken into consideration. Bibliography Avison, D. Fitzgerald, G. (2003). Information Systems Develolpment: Methodologies, Techniques and Tools Third Edition. Mcgraw Publishsing Flynn, D. J. (1992). Information Systems Requirements: Determination and Analysis. McGraw-Hill International Flowers, S. (1996). Software Failure: Management Failure: Amazing Stories and Cautionary Tales. John Wiley Sons Ltd. Finkelstein, A (1993). Report of the Inquiry Into The London Ambulance Service. International Workshop on Software Specification and Design Case Study. The Communications Directorate. Finkelstein, A Dowell, J. A Comedy of Errors: the London Ambulance Service case study. School of Informatics, City University. Lin, A (2009). Information Systems in Organisations. Department of Information Studies, The University of Sheffield. Maddison, R. Darnton, G. (1996). Information systems in organizations: improving business processes. Chapman Hall. Mellor, P. (1994). CAD: Computer-Aided Disaster (High Integrity Systems). Vol. 1, 2, pp. 101-156. The Standish Group (2009). 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