The historical cost accounting convention. - 2253 Words

INTRODUCTION Realised-profit, matching-based, historical cost accruals accounting (HCA) has for over fifty years been repeatedly challenged as being an inadequate basis for the measurement of income which reports increments in the value of businesses. Such challenges continue unabated and are made by both accounting standards regulators and by academic commentators. Despite its obvious deficiencies for measuring valuation based income, and subject to concept of prudence, internationally HCA remains the dominant basis for reporting and share prices appear to be influenced by reported earnings. This paper will go through few criticisms of our standard accounting model, look at possible alternatives and finally will provide a detailed†¦show more content†¦Opportunity costs are commonly used in economics and do not have much relevance here, however accounting bodies and academic commentators have forwarded new methods of accounting using the current asset value, as opposed to the conventional acquisition cost. Replacement costs could be used as a possible alternative to historical cost method. In crude terms Replacement costs (RC) may be defined as the estimated amount that would have to be paid in order to replace the asset as the date of valuation (Page 46,Lewis Pendrill, 2000). An advantage of replacement cost is that it focuses on the services the asset will provide rather than the precise physical asset. It therefore excludes speculative gains that might be made from selling a building to a purchaser who will redevelop it for an alternative use; equally it allows valuations to reflect the use that the current owner can make of an asset, even if a purchaser would not be able to employ the asset as profitably. However there is an immediate flaw noted in its definition, where the costs have to be estimated. Estimation has to be carried out after reviewing the asset, the market, and if an identical asset is still being traded in the market. Further difficulties inherent in the estimation are noted when the asset in the market is either not identical or obsolete. In these cases usually the replacement costs are much higher.Show MoreRelatedAdvantages and Disadvantages of Hstorical Cost Accounting1241 Words   |  5 PagesHstorical Cost Accounting Advantages and disadvantages of historical cost accounting, alternatives to historical cost accounting 2.1 Introduction Accounting concepts and conventions as used in accountancy are the rules and guidelines by which the accountant lives. The historical cost accounting convention is an accounting technique that values an asset for balance sheet purposes at the price paid for the asset at the time of its acquisition. The historical cost accounting is the situationRead MoreAccounting Concept and Conventions1685 Words   |  7 PagesACCOUNTING CONCEPT AND CONVENTIONS In drawing up accounting statements, whether they are external financial accounts or internally-focused management accounts, a clear objective has to be that the accounts fairly reflect the true substance of the business and the results of its operation. The theory of accounting has, therefore, developed the concept of a true and fair view. The true and fair view is applied in ensuring and assessing whether accounts do indeed portray accurately the businessRead MoreAccounting Research: Advantages of Cash Flow1720 Words   |  7 Pagesdependent on accounting conventions and concepts/principles * Cash flow reporting satisfies the needs of all users better since cash flow is more direct with its messages. Some of the interested user parties are: * Creditors   -repayment of debts, overdue accounts * Management -cash flow reporting provides the type of information which decision should be taken re: relevant costs ( decision based on future cash flow) * Shareholders amp; Auditors -cash flow accounting and reportingRead MoreThe Use of the Historical Cost Convention and the Accrual Concept for Stewardship and for Decision Making2814 Words   |  12 PagesPaper on:- â€Å"The use of the Historical Cost convention and the accrual concept for stewardship and for decision making† Topic 1: The Historical Cost Convention Introduction The historical cost convention is unarguably one of the most debated topics in the theoretical base of accounting. Some are of the opinion that it should be done away with, while others believe that it plays a vital role in presenting an accurate picture of the business concern. The Historical cost convention has different uses andRead MoreThe principle of historical cost is still used in accounting when there is a large measure of agreement that it is inappropriate. Discuss.1226 Words   |  5 PagesSynopsis. Historical Cost Accounting is a traditional valuation method as it reflects only on the past cost of the asset, however in the contemporary business environment companies must remain flexible and transparent. This belief has lead to the creation of several other valuation methods, due to word constraints I have focused primarily on Fair Value Accounting as an alternative to Historical Cost Accounting. Although Fair value accounting is a theoretically superior valuation methodology, thereRead MoreAccounting Concepts, Conventions and Solutions3647 Words   |  15 PagesContents QUESTION ONE: Accounting Concepts and Conventions 1 a) Accounting Concepts 1 i) The going concern concept. 1 ii) The accruals concept (or matching concept) 1 iii) The entity concept: 3 iv) The money measurement concept: 3 v) The historical cost concept: 4 vi) The realization concept: 4 vii) Duality concept: 4 b) Accounting conventions 5 QUESTION TWO: Clashing accounting concepts and conventions that might bring about inconsistency in the accounting process 9 1. Clash betweenRead MoreEssay about Discuss the Need for Regulation in Financial Reporting1524 Words   |  7 Pagesfinancial reports in different ways. There are international differences in accounting practices. Accounting practices differ from country to country and so do the regulatory frame work and the balance between the public and private regulation. Over the years, bodies like the EU have been formed. There is need for accounting regulation as all these different countries coming together may have different accounting standards, thus there will be the need for financial reports regulation. In the Read MoreEffect of Accounting Concepts on Financial Statement1735 Words   |  7 PagesTHE EFFECTS OF ACCOUNTING CONCEPTS ON FINANCIAL STATEMENT 5.1 ENTITY CONCEPT The first accounting concept is entity concept. These concept shows accounts are kept for entities and not the people who own or run the company.   Even in proprietorships and partnerships, the accounts for the business must be kept separate from those of the owners. This is because what whatever amount the company owes to others is not the liabilities of the owners. The maximum amount that the owner is going to loseRead MoreDo Financial Statements Tell the Truth?1736 Words   |  7 Pagesnot have bought the stuff if we didn’t think it was going to generate more cash than it cost us.) However, even if our firm’s managers are honest and competent, allowing them to conjure instant profits with optimistic estimates of asset values might tempt corruption. Potential investors might be reluctant to rely on statements compiled this way. In the United States, firm assets are initially valued at â€Å"cost†. Very simply, we say an asset is worth whatever a firm paid for it. For our machinery,Read MoreEssay about Measurements in Accounting: Finacial Reporting578 Words   |  3 Pagesin financial statements, which are historical cost, current cost, realisable (settlement) value and present value. Fair value is not included in the measurement bases, but it is a widely used basis now, and it will be discussed with other measurements as below. 2.2 Measurement Bases ï‚ž Historical cost shows a prudent attitude to measure the past performance and net assets which are actually incurred. It is reliable when based on actual transactions. ï‚ž Current cost, just as its name implies, shows

Organizational Culture And Performance By Kotter And Heskett

Organisational culture refers to a diverse system of shared values, principles and behaviors that influence the behavior of employees in organisations. Organisations exist to achieve certain goals, ranging from profits and reputation to efficient work practices and an efficient working environment. The culture of an organisation has a strong influence on employee behavior and organisational performance and is therefore the catalyst which determines the success or failure of an organisation. As stated by Kotter and Heskett in their book ‘Corporate Culture and Performance’ â€Å"strong corporate cultures that facilitate adaptation to a changing world are associated with strong financial results† (2015). The true value of a company is no longer determined by looking through financial statements. In the 21st century, a strong organisational culture is viewed as an intangible asset through its ability to improve performance and the success of the organisation. However, in an organisation with a weak organisational culture, it can be viewed as a liability that possesses the potential to hinder business performance and success. There are three levels of organisational culture that enforce its presence. The first layer of organisational culture refers to that of assumptions. Assumptions are usually taken for granted yet reflect beliefs about desires, practices and reality. They are the fundamental components on how an employee determines the right behavior and feels about his job andShow MoreRelatedOrganizational Culture And Human Behavior1323 Words   |  6 Pages2014). A major factor of a project’s success is the behavior of the employees. Employee behavior is influenced by organizational culture and leadership. This paper will briefly explore the influence organizational culture and human behavior have on the success of projects, in particular projects plagued with conflict. First, this paper will discuss the influences organizational culture has on the success of projects. Secondly, the role project leadership plays in the success of projects and how projectRead MoreLiterature Review on Corporate Culture1878 Words   |  8 PagesManagement Literature Review â€Å"During the 1980s the concept of corporate culture captured the imagination of management researchers and practitioners alike. In particular, Peters and Waterman’s (1982) book entitled In Search of Excellence: Lessons from America’s Best-Run Companies proclaimed that the key to corporate success was a strongly unified corporate culture.† Wilson (1996:87) Corporate culture has always been a part of every business since it was first introduced in the 1980’s. It doesn’tRead MoreThe Effects Of Managerial Strategies On Organizational Efficiency1924 Words   |  8 PagesStrategies on Organizational Efficiency Mary Curran, Shannon, Gasper, Rexford Sirmans PAD3003 Spring 2016 Group Project The need for administration and management to focus on managerial strategies is paramount within an organization. The potential impact these strategies may have on an organization are extraordinary. Managerial strategies and organizational cultures impact decision making and organizational performance. Management strategies shape and define organizational culture, which inRead MoreThe Current Business Environment Is Characterized By Hyper Competition3248 Words   |  13 Pageswith internal and external organizational constraints. There are also the issues of globalization, government regulations, advances in technology together with an ever changing customer needs and requirements. Creating and sustaining competitive advantage have thus become a major business challenge (Schein, 1992). Corporate or organisational culture that fits the business environment enables competitive advantage as an organization benefits from its culture. Corporate culture could also be related toRead MoreThe Impact Of Japanese Culture On Corporate Culture792 Words   |  4 PagesIn the early 1980s the term â€Å"corporate culture† was developed and broadly known by the 1990s. The trend began with two books that examined the challenges that Japan posed for American industry, Theory Z (Ouchi 1981) and The Art of Japanese Management (Pascale and Athos 1981). The trend continued with two books that concentrated closely on American industry, Corporate Cultures (Deal and Kennedy 1982) and The Change Masters (Kanter 1983), and surpass to perhaps the book that best exemplifies thisRead MoreMarket Based Management1727 Words   |  7 PagesGrade on Assignment: Instructors Comments: Introduction The Market-Based Management philosophy was developed by Charles Koch 25 years ago while working in Koch Industries. The basic idea of the Market Based Management rely in improve organizational performance and profitability by applying free market principles by allowing employees to act on their own knowledge. Also, MBM allows organizations to evaluate the tools of total quality management and other ideas in order to mobilize the knowledgeRead MoreTo What Extent Can Organisational Culture Be Managed? Is It Critical to Organisational Success?3488 Words   |  14 PagesTo what extent can organisational culture be managed? Is organisational culture critical to the success of an organisation? Peter Anthony (1994) asserts that the pursuit of change in a cultural sense has been considered synonymous with the pursuit of excellence for organisations. It is true that a wide variety of management practitioners view the control of organisational culture as something both possible and necessary for organisational success (Brown 1993). A survey of organisational practicesRead MoreDialogue As A Form Of Communication1073 Words   |  5 Pages (William Isaacs, past director, MIT’s Dialogue Project) The work dialogue stems from the Greek roots ‘dia’ and ‘logos’ which means â€Å"through meaning†. Dialogue serve as a great part in bringing a drastic change in the organisational culture of the companies on my levels. David Bohm s (1996) popular book, On Dialogue, defines dialogue as a form of communication from which something new emerges; participants must evidence a relaxed, non-judgmental curiosity, with the aim of seeing thingsRead MoreThe Importance of Corporate Culture in International Market5157 Words   |  21 PagesPaschaloudis-Haidos-Pantelidis- Anastasiadou-Dapis, 656-667 â€Å"The Importance of Corporate Culture in International Market: The case of Procter Gamble† Dr D. Paschaloudis, K.Anastasiadou Technological Educational Institute of Serres Department of Business Administration, Greece dim@teiser.gr, ak@teiser.gr S. Haidos University of Sunderland, Business School U.K stefhai80@yahoo.gr Dr P. Pantelidis Technological Educational Institute of Serres Department of Business Administration, Greece pantelidis@cRead MoreA New Way Of Looking At Employee s Job Attitudes Or Behaviors1304 Words   |  6 Pagesachievers in need quality since managers and leaders who are diverse to expanding their development won t understand any physiological responsibilities. (Greenberg Baron 2003, p195). Furthermore, Influence over power is indispensably vital to the organizational character. Having power implies more grounded employer stability and better monetary rewards, and having the capacity to impact others all the more effortlessly and perform out one s occupation all the more practical (Magee Galinsky 2008).

The Impact of genetic fingerprinting and gene profiling in Forensic Science Free Essays

Gene profiling and genetic fingerprinting was unheard of in Forensic Science 20 years ago. DNA testing was initially introduced in the 1980s and the first court case, which saw a man put behind bars due to the forensic evidence was in 1985. Following the success of the use of physical proof, numerous cases around the world from paternity tests to identification of American soldiers from the Vietnam War have been solved. We will write a custom essay sample on The Impact of genetic fingerprinting and gene profiling in Forensic Science or any similar topic only for you Order Now A person’s DNA (de-oxyribonucleic acid) can be found from a single strand of hair, skin under a murder victim’s nails or bodily fluids such as sweat, saliva, semen and blood. The chances of a sample of DNA being the same as another person, other than monozygotic twins is 1 in 24 million. This is why recent cases such as that of Sarah Payne rely so much on DNA samples found at the crime scene. In this case a single strand of Sarah’s hair was found on Roy Whitting’s sweatshirt and matching fibres from his sweatshirt were found on her shoe, although there was slight controversy as to whether the evidence was contaminated. The method for extracting the DNA from a sample is a complex one. The technique was first developed in this country in 1985, the year of the first proven case. Firstly the DNA must be extracted from the sample of body tissue or fluid. This could be a very small amount in a criminal investigation where the offender could’ve taken every precaution to avoid being caught. A process called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) then multiplies the sample and produces millions of identical strands of DNA. PCR is completed by a â€Å"repetitious, cyclic programme of heating and cooling the substance together with a heat resistant DNA polymerase and two specific DNA primers. The polymerase and primers reproduce a small region of a genome, the whole of the DNA of the organism.† – quoted from DNA in Forensic Science by J. Robertson, A.M. Ross and L.A. Burgoyne. Forensic scientists use PCR to produce plenty of DNA to carry out all the necessary experiments to obtain a conclusive result. The DNA is then broken up, using enzymes, into standard fragments. The enzymes used cut the DNA at precise sequences of A C G and T in the DNA. A few fragments are then chosen and separated by size on a gel. The gel is then exposed to radioactive samples of the DNA. This produces different sized bands and the bands that have the same sequence of DNA are prominent. Generally the DNA evidence found at the scene is tested and the suspect may have a blood test or a saliva sample from the inside of the cheek, which will also be tested. The two samples will be tested and compared several times. If the two samples have 5 bands or more that match the result is considered as decisive. In 1992, after many years of arguments for and against the gene profiling, the National Research Agency accepted the method as a reliable one to help identify criminal suspects and shortly after the procedure entered the mainstream court system. Genetic fingerprinting is now so common it’s difficult to avoid in everyday society. The accuracy of gene profiling is very good. The chance of two people sharing one band of DNA is approximately 1 in 30. This may not seem like there is much chance of identifying a person, as there is a fairly high possibility of it being a number of people. However, the National Research Agency has a policy stating that at least 5 bands have to match for the test to be considered as positive. This means that the probability goes from 1 in 30 to 1 in 30 x 30 x 30 x 30 x 30, which is equal to 1 in 24 million providing the two samples aren’t from blood relatives. This is why genetic fingerprinting is considered as firm proof in a court of justice. Overall, the chance of getting a DNA test wrong is slim, providing the tests are carried out properly. However, just because someone’s DNA is found at a crime scene doesn’t prove that the suspect is guilty. There are many other areas of law that need to be investigated before a verdict can be decided. Some offences that are committed rely almost solely on forensic evidence such as that of rape. If semen is discovered and recognized as that of the suspect then that is nearly a conclusive result. The suspect may claim that the other party consented to sexual intercourse, but would find it difficult to deny that intercourse took place. Nevertheless, forensic evidence does have its problems. Firstly the tests have to be carried out in fully sterile conditions to ensure that the DNA isn’t distorted in any way. It is crucial that the sample before PCR takes place is not contaminated as PCR will produce several thousands of exact clones and all the forthcoming tests could be inaccurate. Also, over time mutation of a sample takes place, gradually decreasing the likelihood of identifying a suspect perfectly. There have been experiments carried out to test how quickly mutation takes place. Scientists have found that, with blood and semen stains kept at room temperature for more than four years, it was almost impossible to identify any reliable DNA information due to mutation. In some cases, such as rape, the evidence can disappear within a matter of hours. When testing for semen in a rape case, the DNA should be found within 20 hours of the crime. Following the first 20 hours, the probability of obtaining an accurate identification decreases hour by hour. Conclusion With the slim chance of 2 people’s DNA making a full match, gene profiling is a definite way of proving whether a person was at a crime scene or not. Whether they actually committed the crime is a different matter. Providing all tests are carried out well and the DNA is extracted properly and without contamination then the results should be extremely accurate. On the whole, gene profiling has taken forensic science that stage further and it has developed to being a crucial part in identifying criminals all over the world. There remain ethical difficulties which have yet to be resolved, for example, the establishment of a DNA database, human rights and civil liberties, the use of DNA information in unrelated legal cases, etc, but these issues will be addressed in due course. How to cite The Impact of genetic fingerprinting and gene profiling in Forensic Science, Papers

Japanese companies running out of excuses - myassignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Japanese companies running out of excuses. Answer: After the heady days of the US and global financial meltdown of 2007/2008; the UAW allowed some manufacturers to introduce two-tier wages with the aim of lowering production costs and to spur growth in the depressed automotive sector . Apart from helping save the auto makers, the system has helped spur a growth in jobs in the industry, with hitherto closed factories being opened and creating job opportunities for the unemployed, even if the entry wages are nearly half that of tier 2 employees (Lee, 2011). The two-tier systems has helped create jobs and spur the growth of jobs in the US Auto industry Inevitably, the two-tier wage system raises concerns due to the wide wage disparity between new and established workers; this is more of a social issue than an economic one. Viewed through the prism of economics, the two-tier wage system is sustainable, especially in the short to medium term; this is because it makes sense to have more people productively employed, gaining crucial skills while helping automotive workers balance their books and regain profitability that can guarantee even the entry level workers earning less a job and stable income in the future. In the short and medium term, the system has been very successful (Wernle, 2014). In the longer term, however, it will not be sustainable, especially from a social angel because as the FIAT CEO has argued, it is likely to create resentment and two classes of workers within the same factory. Talking of its sustainability, the answer is yes and no; yes because from a purely economic angle, it will be acceptable for unemployed p eople to accept jobs at a lower wage rate than remain unemployed. Some of the drawbacks to two tier wage systems is obvious resentment from those paid less and problems with unions of equal pay for equal work. It will also help the auto makers lower costs and gain profitability, and this will lead to expansion and opening of new plants that will increase employment. Meanwhile, the entry level employees will eventually move to the established employees rank and earn more wages. Elsewhere, it has been successful, tied to the seniority system that has long been a tradition in Japanese companies (White, 2018). The concerns of the FIAT CEO are justified by social factors, where eventually, there will be resentment and class issues based on wages that can adversely impact productivity and cooperation among staff: this is why Marchionne thinks it will create two classes of workers. Some drawbacks of the system is that it will be complicated in the long term when auto makers become profitable and have to negotiate wages with the UAW. These are legitimate concerns; experienced workers in the lower wage bracket are likely to seek greener pastures, disrupting their current employers, so in the long t erm, the system as presently implemented is NOT sustainable: what is required is its evolution to something better Using non GM workers may be economically sound but social unsustainable; based on the Hierarchy of needs and sociological functioning, employees seek loyalty from employers and vice versa. While it may work in the short term, it is unsustainable in the medium to long term: this would be Marchionnes thoughts about the approach, it still will create resentment as well. The two-tier system will go away in the near future, with the most likely scenario is for it to evolve, say to be used for interns rather than full time employees. Union pressure, and worker demands for equal pay for equal work will eventually see its disbandment, or at the very least, its evolution (Chen, 2011) References Chen, L. (2011).Two-Tier Wages Are Likely to Evolve - NYTimes.com. [online] Nytimes.com. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2011/09/18/can-detroit-sustain-its-two-tier-pay/two-tier-wages-are-likely-to-evolve [Accessed 23 Feb. 2018]. Lee, D. (2011).Two-tier pay system brings reopening of GM plant, reviving hope. [online] LA Times. Available at: https://articles.latimes.com/2011/dec/18/business/la-fi-economy-wages-20111218 [Accessed 23 Feb. 2018]. Wernle, B. (2014). Why mess with 2-tier wage success?. [online] Automotive News. Available at: https://www.autonews.com/article/20140526/OEM02/305269987/why-mess-with-2-tier-wage-success%3F [Accessed 23 Feb. 2018]. White, S. (2018).Japanese companies running out of excuses not to raise wages. [online] Japan Today. Available at: https://japantoday.com/category/business/Japanese-companies-running-out-of-excuses-not-to-raise-wages [Accessed 23 Feb. 2018].

Computer Viruses Essays (441 words) - Computer Viruses,

Computer Viruses A computer virus is an illegal and potentially damaging computer program designed to infect other software by attaching itself to any software it contacts. In many cases, virus programs are designed to damage computer systems maliciously by destroying or corrupting data. If the infected software is transferred to or accessed by another computer system, the virus spreads to the other system. Viruses have become a serious problem in recent years, and currently, thousands of known virus programs exist (Reed 85-102). Three types of viruses are a boot sector viruses, file virus, and Trojan horse virus. A boot sector virus infects the boot program used to start the system. When the infected boot program executes, the virus is loaded into the computer's memory. Once a virus is in memory, it can spread to any floppy disk inserted into the computer. A file virus inserts virus code into program files. The virus then spreads to any program that accesses the infected file. A Trojan horse virus (named after the Greek myth) hides within or is designed to look like a legitimate program. Some viruses interrupt processing by freezing a computer system temporarily and then displaying sounds or messages. Other viruses contain time bombs or logic bombs. A time bomb is a program that performs an activity on a particular date. A logic bomb is a program that performs an activity when a certain action occurs, such as an employee being terminated. A worm, which is similar to a virus, copies itself repeatedly until no memory or disk space remains. To detect computer viruses, antivirus programs have been developed. Besides the detecting of the viruses, antivirus programs also have utilities to remove or repair infected programs or files. Some damaged files cannot be repaired and must be replaced with uninfected backup files. The table below outlines some techniques used to protect computer systems. Table Techniques for Virus Protection and System Backup Using Virus Protection Software Backing Up Your System Install virus protection software on every computer system. Develop a regular plan for copying and storing important data and program files. Before use, scan every floppy disk with a virus scan program to check for viruses. Implement a backup plan and adhere to its guidelines. Check all programs downloaded from the Internet or bulletin boards for viruses. Keep backup copies of files in fireproof safes or vaults or off-site If your system becomes virus infected and you have questions, contact the National Computer Security Association (NCSA) for low-cost assistance (Elmhurst, 6 Nov. 1998). Bibliography Chambers, Anita R., and Zachary W. Peters. "Protecting Against Virus Attacks." Computers May 1998: 45-62. Elmhurst, Mark. "Virus Infection: Where to Obtain Assistance" Word 97, Project 3. http://www.scsite.com/wd97/pr3.htm (6 Nov. 1998). Reed, Margaret E. An Introduction to Using Computers. Chicago: West Davidson Jones Publishing Company , 1998.

Things Fall Apart Essays - African Writers Series, Free Essays

Things Fall Apart Essays - African Writers Series, Free Essays Things Fall Apart In the book Things Fall Apart, Chinua Achebe is trying to give an explanation of what it is like to live in an African society. The story is about a man named Okonkwo who is a member of the Ibo tribe. Achebe is telling the story of Okonkwo from his childhood till his death. Before I read this book I did not have a very good idea of how people lived in Africa, and the ideas of I did have about life in traditional African societies turned out to be untrue. Achebe did a very good job of illustrating a traditional African society, and by reading this book I now have a much better idea of what life is like in a non-western society. I think that this was Achebe's goal in writing this book, to educate people about some of the struggles people have and life in traditional African societies. The title Things Fall Apart is a good choice for a title of this book. The main character, Okonkwo, did not like the way his father lived. He thought that a man should be strong and do typical male tasks. But Okonkwo's father, Unoka, did not fit mold according to Okonkwo. Okonkwo was ashamed of his father, and told himself that he would make a better life for himself and his family. Okonkwo was able to do this, he became very successful in the Ibo tribe and had gained a very high standing in the tribe. It was his goal to become an elder in the tribe, and it looked like he was going to achieve that goal. Okonkwo was banished form the tribe for seven years for killing a boy, and was forced to live with his mother's tribe for the seven years. Okonkwo lost all of his titles and his standing in the Ibo tribe. After the seven years had passed, Okonkwo went back to the Ibo tribe and had to start his live over. Over the seven years that Okonkwo was away, the Ibo tribe changed a lot. Most of these changes were do to the missionaries which had come to Africa to try to convert people to Christianity. Okonkwo could not accept these changes, and in a rage of anger he killed a clansman. This was the worst crime a man could commit. After Okonkwo did this he realized that there was no hope for redeeming himself and no way that he could become an elder. So he hung himself because he could not live with the fact that he would never regain his standing in the tribe. He would have most likely been killed for committing this crime anyway. Basically Okonkwo's life fell apart on him, hence I feel that the title Things Fall Apart is very fitting for this book. I thought that Achebe did a good job at writing this book. After getting into the book I found it very easy to read and follow. It took a while to get use to the names of the people in the book, and the Ibo words and phrases. I thought that the purpose of this book was not directly stated, but it was implied. The purpose was to show people what it is like growing up in a traditional African Society, and Achebe did a good job a showing that. The book is chronologically organized, starting with Okonkwo as a child and ending with his death. I feel that the audience level for this book would be high school and above. I think that there are a lot of implied messages and ideas that mature readers will pick out easier than younger readers. I feel that the book is not biased, and I feel represents the African people as well as the white missionaries fairly. So overall I feel that the book was very well written and found it enjoyable to read. I found it ironic that both Okonkwo and his father, Unoka, ended up the same way. Both ended up being put in the evil forest after their death. Unoka ended up in the evil forest because he did from a strange disease, while Okonkwo ended up in the evil forest because he had killed a clansman. I found this ironic because it seemed the Okonkwo tried to everything different from his father. Okonkwo did not agree with the way Unoka lived, and he told himself that he was not going to live that way.

Diplomatic Role of Residual US Forces in Iraq Essay

Diplomatic Role of Residual US Forces in Iraq - Essay Example he revenue end up being used in making the situation better rather than being utilized in development projects like improving the infrastructure hence pulling the countries development downwards. The political situation in Iraq has affected the gulf cooperation council (GCC) countries for instance Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UEA and Bahrain. The situation in Iraq has however been improved to some extent through the intervention of various groups that are all aimed at restoring peace in the country. This is nonetheless a justification that the country is in a good position currently and even in the future as the condition of the people in Iraq is faced with a lot of uncertainty due to the external forces that come in the name of assisting but in the long run end up not helping considerably as they have their hidden agenda. This has in a way contributed to an increased poverty level of the people. This paper looks into the diplomatic role of residual US forces in Iraq. Iraq is a country that has faced a lot of political instability especially after the war led by the US in the year 2003. The war was mainly aimed at destroying the society of Iraq through insecurity and lack of peace making the United States and other interested parties to easily gain access to the resources in the country especially the rich oil reserves. Since then, the political situation in the country has not been good which led to the signing of an agreement between the country and the US where the latter was to offer assistance in regard to restoring peace in Iraq through provision of security in the country by laying down particular strategies aimed at bringing the Iraqi people together and preventing any foreign or external attacks. The decision was made based on the United States’ capabilities in terms of equipment and military forces which could be of substantial help to the country. The agreement was also in favor of the United States as it could now have some acc ess to the oil

How Multi-sensory Teaching Materials helping students with Dyslexia Essay

How Multi-sensory Teaching Materials helping students with Dyslexia - Essay Example Knowing how each of these components affect the other makes the school teachers and school administrators have a better idea on how they can improve the overall learning experience of students with learning disability. A case-based investigation was conducted to test the difference between the use of pure visual and hearing sensory with the use of multisensory teaching materials which does not only stimulate the students’ visual and hearing sensory but also their kinaesthetic (motor memory) and tactile (hands) sensory. The research findings revealed that the use of multisensory teaching materials is better since students with dyslexia can have visual dysfunction, hearing impairment or both. This study also provided some ways on how to apply a whole school approach when implementing the use of multisensory teaching materials in the local schools. Defined by the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, dyslexia is â€Å"a brained-based type of learning disability that specifically impairs a person’s ability to read† (NINDS, 2010). Even though the level of dyslexia varies from one person to another, it is common for students with dyslexia to have problems with reading, writing, and spelling out words. With a gender ratio of 3.29 boys to 1 girl, Cantonese-speaking Chinese children in Hong Kong between the age brackets of 6 to 10-1/2 years old were found to have an incidence rate of 0.66% dyslexia cases (Chan et al., 2008). Despite the high incidence rate of dyslexia among the Cantonese-speaking Chinese children in Hong Kong, there are still a lot of middle and high school teachers who are inadequately prepared to teach students whose academic reading and writing skills are below the average level (Strickland & Alvermann, 2004, pp. 1 – 13). Modifying the teaching methods and educational environment are necessary to enhance the

Interview Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Interview - Essay Example This paper will discuss the problems experienced by Asian immigrants during their stay in USA. Being an immigrant in the USA, it is very hard to find a job even with good academic qualifications. The country has a culture of prioritizing the Native Americans and hence the immigrants find it hard to find a job. The job market is USA is flooded making many people unemployed. This situation makes it difficult for Asians to find jobs in USA. The expectations of the immigrants are very high due to the country’s economic position but in the end they feel very disappointed (Waters, Mary and Karl 429). Most of the employers will be reluctant to choose an immigrant over an American. The employers have a perception that the Americans are better than the Asian immigrants in all ways. To find a job, the Asians will have to obtain a work permit. Obtaining a work permit is very easy for Americans but very troublesome for the immigrant, the process that the immigrant is required to go through are very complex and most of them give up in the process. There is a lot of scrutinies and the requirements to obtain a permit are high. This is a discouraging factor to immigrant and most of them end up doing dirty jobs in order to survive. The interview I did on Kawon Kim Park who is an Asian immigrant proved that most Asian immigrants will want to study in the USA but not work in the USA. She was certain that after school she wouldn’t want to work in the USA due to the high competition especially for the Immigrants. According to a report by the AAPI initiative, the average poverty level of Asian immigrants in USA is 12.6 which is below the average USA poverty level (AAPI initiative retrieved from http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/aapi/data/critical-issues). Such statistic creates an impression that life is difficult for Asian immigrants in the country. The statistics indicate that over 61% of the Asian immigrants

Digital Bangladesh: Concepts of Development

Digital Bangladesh: Concepts of Development Background The phrase Digital Bangladesh, although is composed of the catching word Digital, stands for a concept which benefits the country as a whole by using Information and Communication Technology for management, administration and governance in order to ensure transparency, accountability and answerability at all levels of society and state. Digital Bangladesh will provide us an ICT driven knowledge-based society where information will be readily available on line and where all possible tasks of the government, semi-government and also private spheres will be processed using the state of the art technology. So, in order to build a digital Bangladesh, we should emphasis on efficient and effective use of modern ICT in all spheres of the society with a view to establish technology driven e-governance, e-commerce, e-production, e-agriculture, e-health etc. for emphasizing the overall development of the common people, the major stakeholders of the country. Backbone of Digital Bangladesh ICT is the backbone of any digital initiative. It covers the vast area of information ensuring connectivity through the information technology, communication technology and of course the telecommunication technology. Without the development of the ICT sector, the dream of a Digital Bangladesh would not be possible. The main factors of ICT are the physical backbone and the intellect. Computer Systems, Network Machineries, Software, Wire and Wireless Connectivity Systems, Broadcast Hardware and many other Hardware and Accessories are the physical backbone. The trained human behind the backbone are the intellect. To materialize the idea of digital Bangladesh, development of countrywide backbone and expected number of human recourses are the basic needs. On the other hand, while mass people are concern, availability, accessibility and affordability must be ensured; otherwise the objective of building a digital Bangladesh could not be achieved properly. Due to globalization, more specific ally due to booming of ICT like most of the country of the globe, Bangladesh has already been connected with the outside world through the information super highway. Relationship between development and digitization Information technology reduces costs, saves time, improves efficiency, raises comfort levels and increases the confidence of citizens. Hence, developing countries such as Bangladesh should leverage the power of IT to leapfrog poverty barriers, and promote economic and social development. But we have to keep in mind that technology (ICT) alone can not alleviate economy, nor guarantee dynamic service delivery to citizens. It is important to understand that ICT facilities Good Governance but ICT itself do not guarantee Good Governance. Status of our country Telecommunication and Internet: backbone of communication Until recently, International Telecommunication System of Bangladesh has been dependent on satellite which was slow and had narrow band width. According to Telecommunication Policy of the government, International Telecommunication Network system is being regulated now by BTCL. Bangladesh has presently been connected with Information Super Highway through Submarine Cable since May, 2006. International Voice Circuits have been increased by more than 200 percent. IPLC (International Private Leased Circuit) has been opened with different companies. BTCL is connected with Singapore and France and Italy for Internet through 12 X STM-1. The Router capacity of BTCL has been enhanced through up-gradation of digital Data Network. Installation of NGN TAX (Next Generation Trunk Auto Exchange) is going on. It will enhance the inter district Telecommunication facilities. Access Network through Copper Cable, Optical Fiber, x-DSL, Wi-MAX is under process with a view to bring broadband connectivity and other facilities of the Submarine Cable System to the door-step of the subscribers. Mobile phone: media of communication Over last few years, a great revolution has taken place in the cellular phone usage in Bangladesh. It is evident from the table that the number of cell phone subscribers is growing rapidly compared with the fixed phone subscribers in Bangladesh. The growth rate of fixed phone subscriber was 15.26 percent in 2008. Against this, the growth rate of cell phone subscribers stood at 117.57 percent in 2004 and 35 percent in June 2008. Computer: tool of digitization Human Resources: work force for digitization World Scenario This digital revolution has created a brand new economic sector that simply did not exist before. Computers, modern telecommunication and the Internet all reduce communication costs and break down geographical borders. In addition, ICT can be an important driver in poverty reduction and assure sustained economic growth, better public welfare, and strong social solidity and democratic forms of government. In the developed nations government policies are being established which attempts to ensure that all citizens will get opportunity to access the effective use of ICT in order to enable them to participate in the educational, social and economic activities and democratic process. Developed countries are getting much benefit from the advancement of ICT. People living in developed countries have the best access to the fastest computers, best telephone services, competitive Internet Service Providers, and a wealth of content and training relevant to their lives. For example (Legard, 2001 ): The total Internet bandwidth in Africa is equal to that in the Brazilian city of Sao Paolo. The total Internet bandwidth in all of Latin America is equal to that in Seoul, South Korea. As a proportion of monthly income, Internet access in the United States is 250 times cheaper than in Nepal and 50 times cheaper than in Sri Lanka. In the United States, gn 1e6 54.3 percent of citizens use the Internet, compared to a global average of 6.7 percent. In the Indian subcontinent, the proportion is 0.4 percent. The digital divide around the world is usually measured through statistical indices such as the number of telephone lines, personal computers, websites and Internet users and their ratio to the total population. Table:1 shows a picture of such type of statistics of some world including Bangladesh. Although, there is an overall increment that has been enjoyed throughout the years in various areas of information and communication technologies, the improvement is very minimal in terms of global progression and not as good to be mentioned as an upcoming information society of the world. In fact, despite all these improvements, according to the ICT Development Index, Bangladesh moved down 6 places, from rank 132 in 2002 to rank 138 in 2007. This clearly indicates that there were countries that were ranked below Bangladesh in the 2002 index and they achieved significant improvements to exceed our rank in 2007. The examples include some developing and least developed countries like Pakistan, Gambia, Cote dIvoire, Senegal, Madagascar, Mauritania and Benin. The country that expanded most worldwide in ranking is Pakistan, moving up to 19 places, from the rank 146 in 2002 to rank 127 in 2007. Though the rank is still low, the progress has been significant in the past five years because i n 2002 there was almost no ICT access and usage in the country, whereas in 2007, 8% households had computers and internet penetration reached 10.7%. This proves that the country has improved in two areas of ICT while Bangladesh improved significantly in one area, which ranked us below Pakistan. So, an overall consistent increment in penetration levels starting from mobile telephones to fix telephone lines and from internet to personal computers is highly needed for making Bangladesh the digital one. India has led the use of remote sensing satellite information for locating irrigation projects. The Internet has been effectively used in some of the villages to ensure effective dissemination of agricultural commodity price information. The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in India has used IT effectively, to enhance competitiveness of the dairy industry and to provide benefits to the rural masses. Towards digital Bangladesh we can use the Indian experience of using ICT in different sectors of the agriculture. Since more than half of our population is employed in agriculture, our planner should put ICT to good use in agriculture. The Simputer was developed by scientists from the Indian Institute of Science, and a software company called Encore. One can get computing facilities at a drastically lower cost as simputer only cost US$150 per piece compared to US$ 400 for a PC. Further, it has a local language interface. This is an instance of how the scientist, academia and industry can collaborate to develop technology to suit a particular economy. We can learn this lesson also from our neighboring country. In Bangladesh, 51% of the population does not have access to essential drugs. Further, there are only 26 physicians per 100,000 population compared to 279 for US and 162 for China. ICT can help bring medical expertise to Upazilla and District headquarters. Tele-medicine, for instance may link healthcare centers in remote locations, through satellites, with super specialty hospitals at major towns / cities. Thus it can bring connectivity between patients at remote end, with specialist doctors, for medical consultations and treatment. Our shortcomings Access to the Technology Inadequate technical and policy capacity is a fundamental barrier to digital Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, the lack of technical capacity and public managers perceptions of ICT is problematic in regard to issues such as migration to IP-based networks, implementation of mobile communication systems, and e-commerce applications, though capacity building measures do exist. One of the chief obstacles to effective e-governance is a lack of awareness about the usefulness of the Internet in policy making, coordination of policy implementation, creating portals in engaging important actors in the policy process, and in building an open and transparent public platform for wider participation. The reason for Digital Divide in Bangladesh is that the telecommunications infrastructure is deficient. In Bangladesh, the telephone density is only about 0.5%, which is the main reason for insignificant internet connection in the country. ICT infrastructure support is inadequate as compared to other countr ies in this region there is lack of any centralized policy to progress of ICT in the country. There is also some lack of holistic approach to infrastructure creation. The Internet facilities in sub-urban and district level are lag behind. No suitable network among the research institutes is established. Economic Barriers The economic condition of the people is one of the vital issues for computer use and internet connectivity. Generally, on average wealthy and educated as well as young, urban and male have the internet access, which appears that economic solvency education are the major factor during internet diffusion. Most of which are not favorable in Bangladesh. The budget provision for establishment, maintenance and expansion of computer networks in the country is inadequate. Reliable power supply is a major hindrance to develop telecom infrastructure in the rural areas. Literacy Barrier The Bangladesh is facing acute crisis of skilled computer user due to literacy problem. Lack of skilled manpower in public and private sectors is created. Information in the net is designed in the advanced technology which requires adequate knowledge for the user. Moreover, overall less educated community who are not very computer friendly. There is also some lack of proper motivational activities to promote e-commerce and e-government Language Barrier Language problem is another vital issue for the local user of the internet/web. There are very few web sites available in local language i.e. in Bengali. Local people are not very much frequent / efficient in English as language. Content Barrier Lack of Local Social Issues in the Net Contents in the web is not sufficiently enriched with information and services required by the local user. Still, local webs are concentrated with their product service promotion. Information based web services have not yet available in the net with local information. Social Cultural Environment As male group of the society can avail the web access facility from commercial centers or outside the home but the local women community of Bangladesh has limited access due to some social and cultural environment. Unfortunately, due to family obligation service, they can not spare sufficient time for using the net. Use of ICT within the government is still limited as only a small number of civil servants have Internet access. The high cost of IT equipment The high cost of IT equipment accessories which acts a barrier towards proliferation of IT accessneeds to be lowered. Due to high tariff levels, the cost of hardware and software in Bangladesh is significantly higher as compared to the rest of the world. For instance, A PC in Bangladesh costs around 12-15 months of average per-capita income as compared to Chinas 4 months and USAs 12 days. Hence, we need to reduce the tariff levels of ICT equipment and accessories to bring even a bigger population under Internet coverage. So the Inadequacy has been created in the man machine ratio. Steps to be taken Development of mobile applications As mass people in the urban as well as in the rural area use the cellular phone, we have to establish different kinds of mobile application. So they can easily enter into the information world. Most of our people live in with a lower economic condition, so the house hold computer is a dream for them. As the literacy rate is very poor and a person must has a minimum level of knowledge to operate a computer, so it is not feasible for our country that most of the people have access of computer in his house and also use the internet. But a mobile could easily be operated by all level of people. Those applications must be developed locally with relevant content and languages that promote advanced technology uptake. It is a knowledge driven technology; so, we need the people who have skill, knowledge, information and a level of education. For a future Bangladesh a tech shabby generation is significantly important. This generation would be the driving force for a digitized, prosperous and humane nation. To develop this kind of generation it needs to an education policy and national human resource policy. It is another hard truth that this objective could not be achieved over night, but a good beginning is essential, which will create the expected human resource that will manage, administer and govern future Bangladesh. Ensure a wide range of value added services (VAS). People could be instructed about product feature and cost clearly by avoiding elusive ideas or language. The services that are made available through the use of ICT should be freely available to all who might wi sh to make use of them. Awareness building program could be launched for everyone in phase by phase or categorically or geographically to aware them how they could be benefited from the use of the ICT. ICT Education and Human Resources Different types of IT education program could be launched for different people of the different level of education. It may be the IT discipline, Diploma courses, Training programs, only the introductory courses etc. Technology is important but not works without a person behind. Building of an IT educated work force is the most important segment of digital Bangladesh initiative. It needs strong commitment and strategic planning for sustainable Digital Bangladesh. The beginning must concentrate on the development of infrastructure in terms of hardware, software and manpower. Merely buying several lakhs of computers and distributing them among several thousand workstations located in colleges, schools, hospitals and clinics will not digitise Bangladesh. Locally produced qualified manpower must be available to keep the system running without depending on foreign experts. The project presupposes that Bangladesh will be able to build its technical and managerial capacity to design the necessary digital network system, procure and install all the equipment properly, and to educate, train and deploy necessary personnel to operate and maintain the nationwide ICT network. To produce such human resources, the government must assign highest priority to the promotion of science, technology and management education. We must prepare a separate plan to produce adequate num ber of scientists, computer and communication engineers, software engineers, technology management experts, etc. Distance education has tremendous potential to spread learning in any country. E-learning is a cost-effective way of providing education at a distance. This is especially important considering that around 80% of our illiterate population is from the rural areas. In this context, it is essential that the government, the industry, NGOs and academia forms partnership to accelerate the Digitalization process. Together, they need to create an enabling environment for the proliferation of ICT in Bangladesh. There are some basic steps that Bangladesh needs to foster online education to be offered by Open University and our National University.Private companies and NGOs can partner, in order to enhance awareness and utilization of ICT at the grass-roots level. For instance, NGOs can work to bring elementary computer literacy to the people of rural Bangladesh. They can make arrangements so that IT professionals and educators visit rural schools and help students get familiar with technology. Conclusion Digitization helps increase operational efficiency and productivity provided the supporting infrastructures work properly. This is a tool that will help accelerate economic development and increase competitive edges of Bangladesh in the world market. Wide-scale digitisation is likely to help Bangladesh become a mid-income country sooner than otherwise possible. However, for proper management the government needs to define its vision, mission and goals and formulate strategies and prepare action plans supported by necessary financial and human resources so that the plans can be implemented. The forces of globalization and technology are continuously reshaping our economy. The impact of information and communication technology (ICT) is giving rise to a new type of economy the knowledge based economy. It is necessary to mention that in the short run Digital Bangladesh aims at E-Governance and service delivery through utilizing ICT. But the vision Digital Bangladesh encompasses the whole arena of a knowledge based Digital Economy. Bangladesh cant afford to achieve that goal in the short and medium run. The thinkers, technocrats and IT experts have to focus on the short run issues and measures the present Government should undertake to digitalize Bangladesh. It is important to start digitalizing service delivery organs like Police, City corporation, Land Department, Tax Department, PDB, Water supply, Gas and other authorities also including sectors like Banking, Insurance, Customs, Tax Collection. Urgent steps should be taken to digitalize institutions like Bangladesh Bank, NBR, PSC, UGC, EC, ACC and other vital institution to go a step ahead towards Good Governance. Our government must take proactive steps to take technology to rural citizens. However our dream towards digital Bangladesh has a long way to go. Digitalization of Bangladesh will depend how best the Government can leverage the power of ICT to increase the access to information of its population.

Doubling in Kyds The Spanish Tragedy :: Spanish Tragedy Essays

Doubling in Kyd's The Spanish Tragedy      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The World's Classics version of Kyd's the Spanish Tragedy has more than fifty-three roles*. This number can go much higher depending on the exact number of plural parts the director decided to allot. In other words, the script may read simply "nobles," or "attendants" and the reader can not be completely sure of the number of people referred to. If the performing company was limited in players, there may be only two "knights" but if the director had a large cast he may send in six. This means, after working on the doubling possibilities for three weeks, I can not be one hundred percent sure of which characters were played by whom because I do not know exactly how many parts I am trying to fill. Add that to the fact that there are some parts which only show up once in the whole play and share the stage with only one person. These particular roles can be played by almost anyone in the cast. Therefore, I paired up as many roles as I thought were necessary and left the r est to find an available player to take them.    In order to pair up some of the parts, the minimum number of players needed to be known. This will determine how many cast members had to be available not just for doubling but for staging the scene with the most roles at one time. This would be scene four in Act one. There is a minimum of twenty-two roles that need to be filled. Minimum because there are three plural roles: Spanish nobles, Trumpeters, and Attendants (Kyd, 2), which means at least two of each, and sixteen roles with individual titles. Thirty-one roles were then left to be divided amongst the cast as double parts and, in some cases, triple parts.    These remaining roles can not just be handed out randomly though. There are two basic guidelines used to determine who gets what parts: (1) An actor must play the same role throughout the entirety of the play and, (2) Two characters meeting in a scene can not be played by the same actor since it is impossible for one player to be in two different places at the same time. (unixg.ubc.ca) The attached chart shows all the meetings of characters in The Spanish Tragedy.

The Barriers to Effective Communication

â€Å"A barrier to communication is something that keeps meanings from meeting. Meaning barriers exist between all people, making communication much more difficult than most people seem to realize. It is false to assume that if one can talk he can communicate† (Windle & Warren, nd). Communication is a process by which information is transmitted from one person (sender) to another (receiver).Before the message reaches the receiver, errors in transmission occur. It is estimated by psychologists that in every communication, there is approximately 40-60% meaning loss (Jenkins, 2007).It is therefore essential to know the various barriers that cause communication breakdown and possibly try to minimize these errors if we are to make our communication more meaningful. The core barriers The greatest barrier towards communicating effectively is stereotyping. This preconception on another person makes one view the other’s communication with a lot of prejudice. There is a tendency to wrongly hold a person’s views. There are stereotypes in all walks of life such as religion, gender and race.In racial stereotyping for example, a person’s believe to be more knowledgeable than the other because of skin color makes him or her disregard the other’s communication. This eventually breaks down the communication (OPPapers, 2010). There are a number of people who tend to assume that the people they are talking to know their thoughts. Such misjudgments are very dangerous to communication. An article by Effective-communicating, The importance of effective communication states that, â€Å"When you assume, you make an ‘ass’ out of ‘u’ and ‘me’ (Effective Communicating, 2008).Insufficient knowledge on the specific subject of communication can lead to errors on communication. If the person sending the message falls short of words in the information to be transmitted, the receiver is exposed to an unclear message tha t is mixed-up. On the other hand, the receiver may fail to understand information that is beyond his or her knowledge. It may be very hard for a teacher to understand scientific terms used by a scientist in any form of communication (College of Marin, nd). In relation to knowledge, language can pose a great danger to communication.There are many languages as people are from different backgrounds. Use of a language that the recipient does not understand will not pass the message. The different dialects and accents also create barriers. There may exist semantic gaps where words have same pronunciation but with a multiple of meanings. Some people tend to use inappropriate words in specific contexts and difficult vocabularies. The receiver will not be mesmerized but will be left in total confusion (Jain, 2010). Information overload is another barrier towards effective communication. A message that is too crowded with words tends to be misunderstood.Receivers tend to create barriers unde r these circumstances. A lecturer from collage of Marine on Barriers to effective communication advises that, â€Å"If you are selling an item with twenty five terrific features, pick two or three important features to emphasize instead of overwhelming your receiver (ho-hum) with an information avalanche. † (College of Marin, nd). Emotional interference leads to misunderstandings in communication. A person who is overexcited, angry, fearful, hostile, or resentful may be very much emotionally preoccupied to give or receive the right message.In case of dislike, ‘hearing’ will be a great problem. Emotional distractions create interference with creation, transmission and reception (College of Marin, nd). Emotions if given a chance will show up always and they become a barrier when they make people get overwhelmed (People Communicating, 2009). Physical distractions occur amidst communication. A noisy environment or a bad telephone line disrupts the receiver of the mes sage from hearing. Distractions are also possible with written messages especially when it is poorly formatted, has spelling errors and grammatical deficits.The physical appearance of the message will be too unprofessional and sloppy. The receiver’s concentration to such messages will be put off. Bright lights especially when one is using a computer can distract the receiver in getting the correct message (College of Marin, nd). Physical barriers can also be created by the geographical location. For example, at a workplace, employees in different quarters will have difficulty in communicating effectively (Margaritasmith, 2009). The sender may lack the basic communication skills.The receiver will greatly be affected in the interpretation of the intended message when the sender is faced with a problem in choosing the words needed and arranging them in a comprehensive manner. Others tend to rehearse on what they will say especially after scrutinizing who the speaker is. For inst ance, many students who lack good communication skills will first rehearse on what to say before meeting a teacher. On the other side of the coin, there are a great deal of receivers who have poor listening and reading skills. They have trouble in hearing and in the interpretation of messages (College of Marin, nd).Personal lack of interest can pose a great threat to communication. A person who is disinterested will carelessly listen or hurriedly read the sent message, misinterpreting the intentions of the sender. Failure of the sender to recognize the needs and the status of the receiver affects communication also. The sender should therefore prepare a message with the trait of the receiver in mind. The medicine of an angry customer is listening to his complains for some time (College of Marin, nd). Inappropriate channel also leads to breakdown in communication.For example, giving detailed procedures over the phone may be quite frustrating on the side of the decoder. A patient for instance, may choose to call a doctor to seek treatment. It would be illogical for the doctor to prescribe any treatment without a face to face encounter with the patient. The chain of communication may also affect the message; the greater the chain of communication, the higher the probability of its misinterpretation. For instance, if a sender uses a ten people chain to rely the message to the receiver, there is no doubt that the recipient will get a completely distorted message (College of Marin, nd).A very long communication chain and a poor medium selected can break up the communication (Jain, 2010). Communication is two way. The sender must get feedback from the recipient. In conversations for instance, there must be turn-taking. If the sender does not give the recipient time to respond or ask questions, he or she may pretend to understand what the sender is saying. It is also important for the sender to interpret the receiver’s non-verbal cues as they carry a lot of mea ning in any given communication. Failure to do so may cause ineffectiveness in communication (College of Marin, nd).Effective communicators, as Boulden spells out in his book, communicating for success: The seven keys of effective communication â€Å"†¦work into building relationships by asking questions and listening to the answers to gain information and use this process to reach consensus† (Boulden, 2009) Other barriers that affect communication include socio-cultural diversities such as age, gender, social status, educational level, economic status, cultural background, and religion.They as well affect communication (Jain, 2010). In different cultures for instance certain gestures are interpreted differently and therefore communication can be misunderstood (Ueeka, 2009). Conclusion Barriers of communication seem to be part of our lives. However careful we are in our communications errors in communication will always be felt. Some barriers are complex to deal with and may be beyond our capabilities.All that we need to do to alleviate this problem is to try and minimize our faults in communication.References Boulden, G. (2009). Communication for success: The seven keys of effective communication.London: Ala International Publishing College of Marin. (nd).Lecture: barriers to effective communication. Retrieved from http://www. marin. edu/buscom/index_files/Page565. htm Effective Communicating. (2008). The importance of effective communication. Retrieved from http://www. effective-communicating. com/importance-of-effective-communication. html.Jain, R. (2010). The barriers to effective communication. Retrieved from http://ezinearticles. com/? The-Barriers-to-Effective-Communication&id=1210011 Jenkins, M. (2007). Barriers to effective communication at work. Retrieved from http://www. alliancetac. com/? PAGE_ID=265 OPPapers. (2010).Barriers to effective communication. Retrieved from http://www. oppapers. com/essays/Barriers-Effective-Communication/778 41? topic People Communicating. (2009). Barriers to effective communication. Retrieved from http://www. people-communicating. com/barriers-to-effective-communication. html.Margaritasmith. (2009). Barriers to effective communication- Effective communication- Document transcript. Retrieved from http://www. slideshare. net/margaritasmith/barriers-to-effective-communication-effective- communications Ueeka. (2009).Overcoming potential barriers in effective communication. Retrieved from http://www. ueeka. com/docs/overcoming-potential-barriers-effective-communication. html Windle, R. & Warren, S. (nd). Communication skills. Retrieved from http://www. directionservice. org/cadre/section4. cfm.

Google Speech

Presenter: General Purpose: Specific Purpose: Central Idea: Informative Speech Outline Sample Student To inform To inform the audience about Google Incorporation and its significant and various technological innovations. Google is more than a search engine; it is one of the most technologically innovative companies of the 21st century. l. Introduction A. Imagine yourself walking into a bookstore that contains billions of books. Billions of books that's not organized, not in alphabetic, categorical, or genre order; No employee to assist you and no centralized system.You need to find a specific book in short amount of time. Posed in this predicament, it is extremely doubtful you'll be able to find that book. The World Wide Web is no different; it is a highly disorganized collection of documents in many different formats. But thanks to search engines, we know there's a solution. B. Google is the most popular search engine used by everyone in the world today. It provides users organized and relevant search results in a matter of seconds. It is also one of the most technologically innovative companies of the 21st century.C. Based on my research through reading books, Journals, and rticles I have gathered substantial information about Google Incorporation. D. Three main points people should know about Google is: 1. History of Google Incorporation 2. The Science Behind Google's Search Engine 3. Google Project Glass II. History of Google Incorporation A. Larry Page and Sergey Brin 1. 1998 – Founders of Google Incorporation. 2. 1995 – The two met in Stanford University. a. Stanford computer science grad students. 3. Collaborated on a search engine called BackRub. . According to Steven Levy author of In The Plex, â€Å"Page understood that web links were ike citations in a scholarly article. It was widely recognized that you could identify which papers were really important without reading them†simply tally up how many other papers cited them in note s and bibliographies. Page believed that this principle could also work with web pages. † B. Start of Google Incorporation 1. 1997 – Larry and Sergey changed the name of their search engine to Google, which was derived from the play on word â€Å"Googol† a.A mathematical term for the number represented in the figure 1 followed by 100 zeros equal to 10100. 2. An investor writes Larry and Sergey a check for $100,000 a. 1998 – Both privately incorporate Google b. They set up a workspace in a friends Garage in Menlo Park. 3. According to Global Business Magazine by 1998 Google had an uncanny knack for returning extremely relevant results. Even though Google had yet to significantly penetrate the search market, by the end of 1999 they had raised $25 million in venture capital, moved into bigger offices twice and hired 40 employees and a company cook.C. Google Onward 1 . According to Google's Company History Timeline, from 2000 through 2013, Google aunched and r eleased a wide variety of new internet based applications, services, products, made key partnerships and acquisitions. a. From Just releasing 15 different languages supported by Google. com (e. g. French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Google has released numerous apps and services such as: i. Google Books – search for free books online it. Google Docs ; Spreadsheets – use docs that are similar to Microsoft office Word and Excel spreadsheet online for free iii.Google Health – store and manage medical records online iv. Google Cloud – ability to save data online . Google formed key partnerships with companies like Yahoo! and AOL. d. Google acquired key companies such as: i. Pyra Labs – the creator of blogger it. Youtube e. Google released products such as: i. Nexus One – Android Smartphone (Nexus 4 New V. )) it. Nexus Tablets (Nexus 7 ; Nexus 10) iii. Samsung ChromeBook Laptop Transition: Now that we know how Google got started, let's look at what makes it go. Ill. The Science Behind Google's Search Engine A.Google PageRank Algorithm 1. It is the most well-known Algorithm named after Google's co-founder and CEO Larry Page. . According to Randall Stross author of Planet Google, â€Å"An algorithm is a set of rules for solving a particular problem; it's the essential building block used in constructing complex computer software. Google's PageRank algorithm†¦ [Fixed the problem of the disorganized documents of the World Wide Web by the algorithm's ability to]†¦ index and analyze web pages. B. How does the PageRank Work? 1 . According to Google. om PageRank works by counting the number and quality of links to a page to determine a rough estimate of how important the website is. a. The undamental theory is: the more links leading to a website from other websites, the more important that website receiving those links becomes. 2. In other words, according to Luis Posselt's article What Google Page Rank is and how it works? Google Page Rank can be seen as a popularity ranking tool because in fact that is what Google does when ranking websites. Google basically with the algorithm behind PageRank will give more page rank to the more popular websites. a.Luis Posselt states that PageRank is a â€Å"vote†, in which all the other web pages vote (through links rom web pages to other web pages), that determines how important a web page is. b. However, PageRank doesn't regulate which webpages are included in the search results when a search term is entered into Google; that is determined by the significance of titles, keywords and phrases contained within those pages. C. Google Panda Algorithm 1 . According to Brafton. com, the name â€Å"Panda† comes from the Google engineer Navneet Panda, who developed the technology that made it possible for Google to create and implement the algorithm. . According to Google. com the Panda Algorithm was implemented to improve the ser experience by ca tching and demoting low-quality sites that did not provide useful original content or otherwise add much value. 3. At the same time, it provided better rankings for high-quality sites†sites with original content and information such as research, in-depth reports, thoughtful analysis and so on. Transition: Now that we know how Google works, let's look at what they are working on for the future. IV. Google Project Glass A. In 2012 secret lab of Google – Google X 1 . Unveiled their plans to release the Google Project Glass. . Eye glasses that Google+ Glass . It is basically a computer inside a pair of glasses 2. It has a 1. 3cm display, which comes into focus when you look up and to the right. 3. Users will be able to take and share photos, video-chat, check messages, events, access maps and the internet. C. Technology of the Future 1 . Google demonstrates in a creative video what this technology might enable users to do in the future. 2. The video portrays what the user s ees through the glasses; like information and apps such: Google calendar, Google+, time, temperature, camera, chat location, and more. D.Smartphone Experience . According to PCMAG. com the Google Glass projects a smartphone-like experience into your field of vision: a. You can see texts, emails, check the weather, and queue up your music. b. You can respond or make calls with voice activated commands. c. The augmented- reality interface can highlight things you see in real life and tell you more about them. d. You can also share live video of what you are seeing with someone else. E. Google Glass Hardware Specifications

Rock N Roll in the 1950s essays

Rock N Roll in the 1950s essays Rock n Roll, characterized by it's pulsating drums, repetitive chord progressions, stepped up tempos, and loud guitars, provided. American teens of the 1950's the perfect excuse to dance crazy new dances, and wear wild new hairstyles. Thought only a fad, Rock n roll continued on to become one of the world's most popular and recognizable music forms. The explosive events of the mid-1950s first introduced the idea of rock 'n' roll to the world. It is the themes and artistic styles of that very special, very brief time, that spawned the movement, and that later artists have simply refined and redefined. The 1950s were rather safe and innocent, and rock 'n roll established a foundation for the ideals that youth could pursue in such an environment. When issues of race relations, war, sexuality, drugs, ecology, and world hunger arose in later years, rock 'n roll was forced, like every other ideology, to respond to them. Many of these concerns were of central importance to the kids who reared on in rock 'n roll as a lifestyle that only heightens the significance of their common response, as expressed in and through the music. Music in the 1950s lacked overriding social or political themes, but the energy, vitality, and originality of rock 'n roll is unmatched by almost everything that has come along since. In 1955, rock n roll was still just a vague notion, an alternative term for Rhythm n roll was a channel for young Americans to pour out their emotions. Through songs by artists such as Elvis Presley and Little Richard, teenagers were able to pinpoint their feelings. Among these songs arose a spirit of revolt-teenagers werent children anymore, they were nearly adults. Rock n roll songs gave t...

Radio Frequency Identification Implications for the environment Research Paper

Radio Frequency Identification Implications for the environment - Research Paper Example The fundamental technique that forms the background of the technology is that the tagged object has emissions which are encrypted and read by a reader which would then give an output. The reader, as well as the object, is usually placed at a distance which would allow for the transmission of the radiated signals. The distance can vary from a few inches to even over a meter. With the advent of computing technology, the readers have incorporated what bear semblances to the microchips that computers have. The chips are like microprocessors which are able to execute certain commands and even process information intelligently to give logical output. This is what is referred to as smart cards and they also have the virtual digital memory. Every technology has its downside. Likewise, the RFID chips have been proven to impact on the environment (Raymond, 2006). Consequently, in the following discourse, an analysis of the impact that they have on the environment is carried out. The essence of the technology was to ease human interaction. However, it is undeniable that the technology has also had an impact on human life in ways which are detrimental if viewed from the perspective of safeguarding the human community. These include its applications in learning institutions as well for security reasons. The point of detest in this application is that the aspect of privacy which every person should be accorded is in a way violated. Therefore, the essence of human interaction is to allow civility and freedom. In most cases, the tags or chips are usually used to monitor the movements of people. However, natural human interaction is not always limited. Thus, any technological invention which puts imminent threats to the free will of interaction that every person has would be viewed as not good for humanity. Its application comes, for instance, in schools where registered students would be the only ones allowed to access some

Online Pizza Security Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 7000 words

Online Pizza Security - Research Paper Example We are facing many computer criminal attacks from diverse countries and continents. It is the need of the hour that we should realize these various shapes of computer criminal actions and should make an effort to avoid them as far as possible. In this way, we can lessen the possible damage concerning online computer crimes and their activities. Presently we are surrounded by a lot of new computer-based security problems. These problems are rising more and more due to viruses, phishing, worms, spyware hackers, etc. As we assess this problem from the deep then we see that no Internet user is secure from this type of computer security attacks. Now we are facing biggest danger form the online money frauds. Lots of people are uncertain from the online transactions. In our online Pizza system, we need to make sure that there is no security hole in the system working and online cash transaction. In this way the public will feel free regarding the online transaction and our business will gai n more customers loyalty. In presence of above-mentioned security limitation and difficulties, we can face problems regarding the web-based business. In a business such as online Pizza people need to enter their details (house address, name, gender, phone number, email, etc), so in this regard, they can feel some security dangers regarding the leakage of their personal data and information. So we need to consider potential security issues and establish a better security plan regarding the handling and management of these security issues and problems. This chapter is mainly planned to initially identify the main security issues we can face regarding the online pizza website and then I will suggest the main parameters we can follow to handle these security-related aspects.   Ã‚  Ã‚  

Create a proposal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Create a proposal - Essay Example Problem Statement Diabetes is considered epidemic amongst African American women with the rates amongst women 20 years and above recorded to be approximately 12% and 25% amongst women of 55 years and above (Kirk et al, 2007, pp 135-142). Statistics from the National Women’s Health Information Center, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) 2002, shows that diabetes is more prevalent amongst African-American women compared to white women. Because of the high rates of mortality and morbidity recorded in diabetes-related cases, there is need for preventive measures amongst African American women population. Objectives The main objective is to examine examine diabetes epidemic among African-Americans based on the various range of risk as well as structural factors contributing to the prevalence of the disease especially amongst women. The research proposal will cover three stages which include inspection of the available sources to obtain statistics and information on usage figures. Then there will be qualitative research providing in-depth information on the issue in question. Literature Review Patient-provider perceptions and the correlation between random serum glucose concentration and glycated hemoglobin are some of the differences in diabetic related cases in African Americans and Whites. This research will show the differences between the perceptions of patients and providers on diabetes related perceptions as well as examine its association if any with self-care behaviors and with special comparisons between African-American and White patients. The research will bring to the fore front the part played by ethnic variation in the correlation between random serum glucose concentration and glycated hemoglobin (American Diabetes Association, 2009, pp 13-61). According to Dana et al 2009, the manner in which a person experiences, understands and identifies diabetes is referred to as diabetes perceptions (Dana et al, 2009, p347). Research on patient- provider differences has found congruence with regard to diabetes-related attitudes, beliefs and perceptions. Research also shows that patients and providers generally agree on the core components of effective care of diabetes but have entirely different understandings of diabetes and the priorities for self management (Burns and Grove, 2007). Methodology Qualitative Research The objectives will be answered through the application of detailed qualitative information. The research will focus on exploring and establishing the nature of reactions towards diabetes epidemic among African-Americans based on the various range of risk as well as structural factors. The study will utilize questionnaires and at the same time apply efficient procedures in line with ethical methods for data collection. There will be an eleven item demographic showing participant profile, eight items dealing with health educator profile and questionnaire with thirty-nine items. Variables in the study include; he alth beliefs, knowledge of diabetes, nutrition, physical activity, health education classes, monitoring of glucose, support from social dimensions such as families, and finances involves. Qualitative research provides ways through which the researcher presents his/her point of view on research issues

Gender Differences in Fundamental Movement Patterns Essay Example for Free

Gender Differences in Fundamental Movement Patterns Essay Raudsepp and Paasuke (1995) tested 60 8-year olds (33 boys and 27 girls), finding that there are no sex differences in the kinematics of running. However, they found that boys perform better in overhand throwing and in tasks evaluating motor performances and muscle strength. Girls outperformed the boys in two tasks: sit and reach and balance (p. 294). This study merits discussion on several fronts. First, the researchers hypothesize that factors other than biological account for the gender differences in motor skills that they found in their tests (p. 301). Second, the researchers note that biological variables had been considered in previous studies (p. 294), and they made this point a significant aspect of their own investigation. Third, the children were given classes before the testing sessions (p. 295). In trying to account for the results of their study, the authors hypothesize that factors other than biological could account for the gender differences. Biological factors include age, height, weight, and body fatness (p. 294). A factor that could explain these differences is experience. Indeed, the authors note that, in the case of overhand throwing, girls do not have the same amount of experience as boys, and that boys have more memories of practicing overhand throwing (p. 295). In trying to eliminate biological factors from the results of their study, Raudsepp and Pausuke standardized the age factor, as they chose only 8-year olds for their study. They also measured the height, weight, and BMI of their subjects, finding that there were no significant sex differences in height and BMI. However, the boys were heavier than the girls (p. 297). In their choice of subjects, the researchers have chosen groups that differ only in the biological factor of weight. This is a significant point for their study, however, there are other biological factors that could have been considered and that possibly might account for some of the differences the authors observed. For instance, could joint length (in proportion to height) account for the difference in stride lengths in the running kinematics test? Also, if the boys and girls are similar in height and BMI, what aspects of the body composition of boys accounts for their heavier weight? An intriguing aspect of this study is that the researchers gave the children classes before the testing sessions. In these classes, children were taught the proper techniques of running and throwing (p. 295). As these classes likely impacted the children’s performance in the tests, additional information should have been provided to the reader. Who taught these classes? Were the instructors male or female? Were the children separated by gender in the classes, or were boys and girls taught together? An additional component that could make an ideal subject for future investigation would be to test the children both before and after the training sessions. In this way, the elements of experience and technique could be weighed against performance, particularly in the task of overhand throwing. In summary, this study largely confirmed findings from previous studies. The authors, in their attempts to standardize biological factors, bring up important questions to consider in future studies. In the area of biological factors: What accounts for the boys’ heavier weight? Does limb length account for differences in stride length? Is there a difference in body composition or limb length that accounts for girls’ increased flexibility and balance? In respect to environmental factors: How did the technique classes affect the children’s performance?

Working Across Boundaries: Advantages and Disadvantages

Working Across Boundaries: Advantages and Disadvantages This paper examines the perspective of working across boundaries from the lens of Hunan Resource Management. The paper is split into four main parts. The Introduction which provides the background to working across boundaries as it applies in HRM today. A definition section that examines the different aspects of working across boundaries i.e. social, physical, knowledge and mental. Further examination of some theoretical perspectives including the work of Heracleous. The reason that modern organisations need to work across boundaries together with consideration of strategy and leveraging capabilities. A section that looks at the advantages and disadvantages of working across boundaries with a focus on the public sector including healthcare organisations and local authorities. The conclusions summarise the key points. DEFINING WORKING ACROSS BOUNDARIES During the last decade, the concept of working across boundaries has become a popular concept. The basic premise is that individuals and organisation need to traverse boundaries if they are to achieve their goals. Essentially earlier concepts of fixed organisational demarcation lines no longer apply in modern day business concepts. Within the organisational framework the concept of boundaries can become a reasonably complex issue. There still remains an active debate as to whether the definitions of boundaries are realistic, objective or imagined. The concept has become more complex with the use of outsourcing and Public/Private partnerships in terms of lines of demarcation and authority. (Bishop, 2003) The concept of boundaries within organisations takes on different shapes and forms. Much of this has to do with social and knowledge boundaries. The explosion in technological and communication advances has simplified the concept of working across boundaries. Despite the fact that organizations still are challenged to collaborate and share information, nevertheless individuals seem much more liberated in this regard with advancement in social media. Russ Linden is one author who has investigated this, with particular focus on Public sector organisations. (Linden, 2003). The old fashioned concept of organizational design was the creation of silos or departments where functions, roles and responsibilities would be clearly defined within the context of a hierarchical matrix. For example Sales, Finance, Production would each be self-contained units within the organisation and clearly defined lines of demarcation within the business. The Heads of these Departments would be Senior Managers and expected to collaborate with one another but not trespass into the other domains. The holistic business strategy relied upon each unit to fulfil its role within the overall strategic plan. As organisations involved in size and complexity this model posed serious shortcomings and new thought processes were required. This required improved leadership thinking and more collaboration across boundaries. (Stevens, 2006). Working across boundaries remains an important part of Public Sector relationships and impose significant challenges to business operations but they create distinctive value sets and improved goals in the business relationships (Sullivan, 2007) Concepts of working across boundaries In management terms boundaries are often classified as lines of demarcation that often impose constraints. Those items that determine managerial effectiveness. For example: how a business works within the confines of a specific environment; the concept of specific leadership styles and the influence on organizational behaviour. It was Heracleous  [1]  who pointed out in 2004 that both organisations and the environments they function in are inter-related. They create structures and social orders that assist in the definition of the business and its purpose. (Heracleous, 2008) Understanding social boundaries This essentially relates to the relationships that are formed between groups of individuals within an organization. Heracleous maintained that boundaries have remained central to the thinking of social scientists in the establishment of social boundaries between groups and individuals. Particular reference made to that of transactions costs and how modern technology like sophisticated communications and the internet have had a profound impact here. It has directed whether the boundaries have either diminished or enlarged and the effect on production costs has influenced important decisions like that of outsourcing or internalisation of specific tasks. (Heracleous, 2004). Understanding social change can be studied by the adoption of Lewins Forecefield Analysis. There are numerous models that you can adopt to examine the impact of Change to the Organization. One common method approach is that of Lewins Forecefield Analysis. Fig 1 provides an example of the model. Figure Force field Analysis exampleThis enables you to examine both the driving and restraining forces that emerge as a result of the proposed changes. The model is particularly good for identifying forces that are considered to be polarized i.e. a change in one condition creates an equal and opposite effect in the other. The model was designed by Lewin to assist the Process Analyst to guide people through the unfreeze, move and refreeze stages of business process analysis. It is also an excellent means of demonstrating the dynamics that are in play. So by completion of the Force field Model you have acquired the data in order to complete Lewins Three Step Model. In the Unfreeze you examine the status quo and those driving forces for change. You can decrease the resisting forces against change. The move element involves taking actions and moving people. The freeze means make the changes permanent and establish new ways of doing things. Introduce concept of rewards for achieving the d esired outcomes. Understanding knowledge boundaries The sharing of knowledge has both an internal and external boundary. For example in the internal model it is desirous for information to be shared between the Sales and Marketing departments. This empowers both department to do a better job. Externally, there is the sharing and collaboration of knowledge and information between allies. For example a UK based company and its overseas subsidiary. In order for an organization to be successful it must manage its four pillars of knowledge. These being Leadership, Organization, Technology and Learning. Information Technology (Pillar 3) has achieved an amazing impact in the promotion and dissemination of knowledge in the business environment. Unfortunately Technology has had a greater influence on guiding the strategic planning of organizations, as opposed to the other way round. One example being that of Enterprise Planning Systems like SAP and J.D. Edwards One World system. Organizations have re-engineered their knowledge base and business processes in order to meet the integrated demands of the software application. (Bixler, 2002) Knowledge Managers need to understand that despite the many advantages Information Technology (IT) has to offer the workplace it is not a magic utopian panacea. Equally any Information Technology application that undervalues Knowledge Management will equally fail in the business place. (Mohammed). If Knowledge Management is to be considered effective with IT in business it must be treated as its equal partner. Knowledge Managers have criticised IT as being lacking in areas like tacit knowledge. Hence there is a need to incorporate items of behavioural consideration and cognitive function. (Bixler, 2002) There is an increasing demand and challenge being placed upon the CIOs of business organizations and as such Managers need to become more vocal about their expectations and use the four pillars as a framework in order to further improve the integration of knowledge in the organization. Understanding physical boundaries The concepts of boundaries are important because it is these that represent challenges which organisations must overcome. Although organisations are essentially construed as open systems and these providing a continued interface with their environment. Many academics still believe that it is management that defines the physical boundaries and how you differentiate between internal and external items. (Schnieder, 1987). In reality it is difficult for management to define these boundaries as organisations have multiple stakeholders; such only by the integration of the combined needs can you truly obtain an understanding of the organisational identity. AS such those members of the organisation are of a precarious nature and there are many different ways in which they may be depicted as being inside or outside of the organisational composition. (Lane, 2000). Understanding Mental boundaries Mental boundaries essentially relate to individual perception of what is considered to be internal or external to the organisation. This being what is considered to be acceptable and that which goes beyond this to the realm of external control. It is this form of cognitive schema that helps individuals to create and understand the different social boundaries within an organisation. These differentiations often create perceptions of attitudes related to us and them and the formation of symbolic boundaries that enable distinctions to be drawn. (Heracleous, 2004). The need to work across boundaries Essentially the need to work across boundaries relates to that of collaboration with other entities in order to help the development and growth of the organisation. This may range from that of strategic business alliances, creation of partnership arrangements, developing business networks and other forms of collaboration and communication in order to benefit the business. Further, the concept of business transformation and organisational change can promote the need to work across boundaries. Hence regardless of the barriers created, being real or imaginary, we are almost compelled to work across them. Advantages and Disadvantages of working across boundaries Advantages of working across boundaries There are numerous advantages to working across boundaries, particularly within the Public Sector environment. Briefly, these may be enumerated as follows: Increase in working collaboration Integration of partnerships with the Private Sector Reduction of costs and process improvements Expanding networks and building knowledge Response to complex public policies Leveraging strategy and operational capabilities Aligning organisations and cultures Improvement of leadership capabilities balancing risk and reward (Blackman, 2010). Increase in working collaboration Historically the concept of collaborative working was rarely recognised as having any strategic importance. Silos were created in both Public and Private sector organisations and many of these departments functioned self-autonomously. In modern day context this has all changed and it is recognised that collaborative working both inter and intra the organization has significant benefits. In particular the organisation is better equipped for: Dealing with business transformation and change Ability to provide better service levels and customer support Optimization of resources and cost reduction strategies Ability to innovate and create by improved knowledge acquisition Easier to transition to new change requirements Increased flexibility and ability to share successes and failures The concept of collaboration is an enabling function that allows you to bring people together with different views and opinions. This concept of diversity enriches the decision making process and improve the dynamics in business working relationships. This has been successfully introduced in the Health Sector in Wales. Here different local authorities were required to formulate med-long term strategic plans. Direct collaboration between the authorities enabled the sharing of knowledge and ideas which facilitated rationalization and a more improved overarching holistic result. (Sullivan, 2007). Another example of collaboration is the ability to bring key stakeholders together in a collaborative environment. This has been effective in both local and central government projects. Bringing the stakeholders together creates greater synergy and improved policy implementation with the organisational setting. Collaboration has extended into areas of joint policy making, as opposed to just sharing information. Geoff Delamare from Surrey County Council states there are some distinct learning points from collaborative working i.e. Creating the level of trust between partners, ensuring transparency in communications and sharing knowledge; admitting mistakes, creating a collaborative environment and not imposing a ruling regime. (McCann, 2012). Integration of partnerships with the private sector Partnership approaches have increased in popularity over the last decade. In the public sector they have obtained wide political support. This has been seen as a means of making process improvements whilst optimizing cost expenditures in order to provide improved value for money. The UK Audit Commission is an example of where they have crossed boundaries to embrace working relationships with counterparts in the European Union (EU). This has been effective in collaboration to help improve inter-governmental policy implementation. (McQuaid, 2000). Reduction of costs and process improvements In these difficult financial times both Central Government public sector bodies and local authorities have been faced with managing tight budgetary programmes and reducing costs. The latter meaning resource and cost optimization in order to show the best returns on investment for monies expended. This has focused attention on streamlining processes in order to create improved efficiencies and eliminate redundancies. In addition, concepts of outsourcing to reduce resource costs and capital expenditure. Local Authorities in the UK have been very active in this area. Barnet Council is implementing an outsourcing plan in order to save  £120m . Others like Cornwall Council have been examining strategic partnerships to outsource both front and back office functions. IT departments remain particularly vulnerable because they are capital intensive and expensive to both operate and maintain. (Terry, 2013). Expanding networks and building knowledge In order for an organization to be successful it must manage its four pillars of knowledge. These being Leadership, Organization, Technology and Learning. Information Technology (Pillar 3) has achieved an amazing impact in the promotion and dissemination of knowledge in the business environment. Unfortunately Technology has had a greater influence on guiding the strategic planning of organizations, as opposed to the other way round. One example being that of Enterprise Planning Systems like SAP and J.D. Edwards One World system. Organizations have re-engineered their knowledge base and business processes in order to meet the integrated demands of the software application. Knowledge Managers need to understand that despite the many advantages Information Technology (IT) has to offer the workplace it is not a magic utopian panacea. Equally any Information Technology application that undervalues Knowledge Management will equally fail in the business place. If Knowledge Management is to be considered effective with IT in business it must be treated as its equal partner. Disadvantages of working across boundaries The main disadvantages of working across boundaries are enumerated as follows: Complexity and Commonality People, Culture and Leadership Power and Politics Performance Accountability and Budgets Complexity and commonality The success to working across boundaries is where sufficient empathy exists to recognise shared goals and values in order to predicate a desired outcome. Where there is a lack of sufficient commonality this can be a serious barrier towards attaining a successful outcome. The importance of shared or common goals is therefore of paramount importance in any collaborative venture. Trying to force collaboration in the wrong environmental setting will most likely incur resistance and ultimately force of costs and resource effort providing little return on investment. One particular example in the Public sector relates to the large failure of IT projects that have often lacked sufficient commonality. In 2003 in the UK a poll stated that only one third of all IT projects were successful. Nearly 70% of all projects being severely challenged or failing in their entirety. (Post Report 200, 2003). People culture and leadership The people issue is extremely important when working across boundaries as it requires a structured but flexible work group that are able to collaborate over both hard and soft structure. In the public sector the staff need to develop cross-boundary skills in order to facilitate inter agency co-operation. These however can be highly influenced by both policy and political agenda. It has been argued that within the public sector the influence of Human Resource Management (HRM) groups have created significant barriers to cross-party working relationships. Lack of good leadership skills in the public sector provided the inability for many senior leaders to work across boundaries and manage complex business transformation programmes. This prevented optimum leveraging of resources between different organisations. Good leaders are important enablers as they are important for leveraging resources, motivating people and ensuring that the work gets done. As such poor leadership constitutes a serious barrier in order to enable working across boundaries. This results in what has often been referred to as silo management style, the inability to progress beyond your own defined domain. Power and Politics The concept of working across boundaries may have a serious influence on the reshaping of power and politics within an organisation. This can be particularly potent where an area is perceived to be under threat. In this sense both politics and power are intertwined and political endorsements have the ability to create tremendous barriers. Ministers set the signals for civil servants to work across boundaries but this is often towards the attainment of specific political agendas. These can be very fickle and subject to change, hence the civil service has to be articulate in how this is both managed and interpreted. Performance in accountability and budgets Improved performance targets have been very popular in recent years. This has meant working across boundaries to optimise business processes and resource effort. Failure in the reconfiguration of performance systems can create significant barriers and a great deal of disruption in provision of remedial action. Budget attainment has equally been criticised in terms of holding Managers responsible for achieving budget figures, despite the fact that cross border relationships have provided them with only limited control and influence over the finances. (Parton, 1998). CONCLUSION The concept of working across boundaries is not a new concept but one that has been with us for many decades. Technology has created more enablers in terms of making this more operationally efficient and the ability to share information and knowledge. The reality of globalisation, struggling financial markets, the need for cost cutting and austerity measures have increased the need for more collaborative working. The use of sharing information in a collaborative environment often results in better outcomes and an improved managed risk portfolio. Leadership skills have become of paramount importance and in particular the skills required to motivate and influence others in a collaborative teamwork environment. Local authorities have been particularly successful in working with private sector relationships in order to enhance service provision, increased efficiencies and implementation of cost reduction programmes.