Community Nursing Hat 1 Essay

   I chose as my community El Dorado County in the foothills of Northern California. I live in this community. We are a very healthy and active community with a large retirement group. I will go through the four assessments next. The Population Economic Status Assessment shows our population to be around 181,000. We are made up of 80% white Christian, with the next largest ethnic group being about 15% Mexican. The average household income is around $70,000 with 7.9% of people being at or below the poverty level. The Mexican population makes up the biggest percentage of the poor. El Dorado County’s median household income has been higher than the state average since 2000, indicating that its residents have more spending power than the average Californian (El Dorado Co). The unemployment rate is 11.8%. El Dorado County’s unemployment rate has been consistently lower than the California average since 1990. At any given time, there are 600+ homeless people in this community. Around 9000 people receive food stamps & another 3000 receive cash aid. On an average, we have much fewer people on public assistance than the national average. According to the information I gathered in the Cultural Assessment Tool, the population in this community has slightly more females than males which is very typical in these rural areas. There are 80% white people living here with about a 15% Mexican population (El Dorado Co). 27% of the populous are affiliated with a church, mostly Catholic Christian, compared to the 50% in the USA (Religions). About 85% of the people are covered by health insurance, which is very high compared to the rest of California. Cancer is the leading cause of death, with heart disease being second. The birth rate is 10.1 per 1000. County birth rates are consistently below average compared to the state, which is attributed to the higher senior population of the county (El Dorado Co). There is a high prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse in this community, related to poor or ineffective coping skills in the populous. There is a  real powerful stigma against the homeless community here, which really could benefit from some community teaching and outreach. The Neighborhood Community Safety Assessment shows that the air and water quality is very good in this community. Carbon monoxide levels are below the US average. They do usually have a few bad air days a year due to fires. There is some residual mercury left over from the mining days, but in low levels (El Dorado Co). During the winter snow, flooding and the cold pose health hazards. During the summer, fires are a hazard to public safety. However, there is excellent fire and police response here in this community. Many rivers and lakes in this community pose a risk for drowning; however, there are very few documented drowning’s here per year. There is quite a bit of poison oak & ivy here, and grass and hay fever irritants. Last, I will discuss the Disaster Assessment & Planning in this community. Through my research, I found that this community does follow federal guidelines for disaster management (OES). There is a County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan that was adopted in 2007 (City of Placerville). This plan has four parts that cover administrative, an emergency operations center plan, a recovery plan, & plans specific to a type of emergency (terrorism, multi-casualty incidents, hazard mitigation plan, etc.). This plan meets needs for rescue, medical care, food, shelter, clothing, temporary housing, and employment should an emergency arise. This community also uses the CDC’s Public Health Emergency Response Guide for emergency preparedness & response. I found all this information on line, but it took considerable research and was not easy. In my research, I found that most residents in this community are not aware of any disaster preparedness plan, nor do they know where to find one. There needs to some community wide teaching on disaster preparedness, an d where to find information regarding this. The following is my community genogram and diagnosis. Community Diagnosis Within the parameters assessed above, El Dorado County California is a healthy community. The areas that need improvements are discovering a way to help people respond in healthy ways to painful life events other than drugs & alcohol, to create & implement a plan to help the homeless community, to educate the public regarding the causes and preventative  measures for Cancer & Coronary Artery Disease, and to educate the public regarding emergency & disaster preparedness through community outreach programs. Community Diagnosis Within the parameters assessed above, El Dorado County California is a healthy community. The areas that need improvements are discovering a way to help people respond in healthy ways to painful life events other than drugs & alcohol, to create & implement a plan to help the homeless community, to educate the public regarding the causes and preventative measures for Cancer & Coronary Artery Disease, and to educate the public regarding emergency & disaster preparedness through community outreach programs. El Dorado County, California hhhh El Dorado County, California hhhh Population Economic Status Located in Northern California Population 181,058 Mostly white Next largest ethnic group Mexican Median household income 70,000 7.9% households at or below poverty level 11.8% unemployment rate 600+ homeless 9,000 receive food stamps 3,000 families receive cash aid Population Economic Status Located in Northern California Population 181,058 Mostly white Next largest ethnic group Mexican Median household income 70,000 7.9% households at or below poverty level 11.8% unemployment rate 600+ homeless 9,000 receive food stamps 3,000 families receive cash aid Cultural Assessment Slightly more females than males Mostly white Christians Subcultures small Mexican & Asian Many know how to achieve good health-60% put forth effort 85% have health coverage Most know how & where to obtain medical care High prevalence of alcohol & drug abuse due to a variety of stressors Stigmas of homelessness Vast variety of outdoor recreational activities Cultural Assessment Slightly more females than males Mostly white Christians Subcultures small Mexican & Asian Many know how to achieve good health-60% put forth effort 85% have health coverage Most know how & where to obtain medical care High prevalence of alcohol & drug abuse due to a variety of stressors Stigmas of homelessness Vast variety of outdoor recreational activities Neighborhood/ Community Safety Health dept very involved in providing health services, education & information Very good air quality Very good water quality Potential for wildlife disease Vast amounts of rivers & lakes potential for drowning Severe weather events potential Potential for fires due to vast forestry Excellent fire & police response Domestic violence calls 10.5 per 1000 Neighborhood/ Community Safety Health dept very involved in providing health services, education & information Very good air quality Very good water quality Potential for wildlife disease Vast amounts of rivers & lakes potential for drowning Severe weather events potential Potential for fires due to vast forestry Excellent fire & police response Domestic violence calls 10.5 per 1000 Disaster Assessment/Planning El Dorado County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan California Emergency Management Agency & Federal Emergency Management Agency preparedness plan Following federal guidelines Rescue, medical care, food, shelter, clothing Temporary housing, food stamps, employment Public Health Emergency Response Guide by CDC for emergency preparedness and response Most residents unaware of any plan Disaster plan not readily available or easily found Disaster Assessment/Planning El Dorado County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan California Emergency Management Agency & Federal Emergency Management Agency preparedness plan Following federal guidelines Rescue, medical care, food, shelter, clothing Temporary housing, food stamps, employment Public Health Emergency Response Guide by CDC for emergency preparedness and response Most residents unaware of any plan Disaster plan not readily available or easily found The community genogram shows a relatively healthy mostly white community. As a whole, the people here make a good living, with unemployment below the national average. A small percentage receives food stamps and public cash benefits, also below the national average. Most people have health coverage, and about 60% of the population is proactive with their health. The leading causes of death are cancer and then cardiac disease occurring in the high 80’s of age, due to the large retirement population. The public health department is very involved in providing health services here (CDHP). The air and water quality is good here, with pollution below the national average. There is some potential for bad weather and fires, however, our fire and police response are excellent here. There is a good disaster preparedness plan, however, it is difficult to find, and few know about it. There is a high incidence of alcohol and drug use here, with poor and inadequate coping skills to handle d ifficult life events. The homeless population is really looked down upon here. Within the parameters assessed above, El Dorado County is a healthy community. The areas that need improvement are discovering a way to help people respond in healthy ways to painful life events other than drugs & alcohol, to create & implement a plan to help the homeless community, to educate the public regarding the causes and preventative measures for Cancer & Coronary Artery Disease, and to educate the public regarding emergency & disaster preparedness through community outreach programs. Bibliography CDHP. Retrieved from http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/Pages/HealthyCommunityIndicators.aspx City of Placerville. Retrieved from http://www.cityofplacerville.org/ El Dorado County Economic and Demographic Profile. Retrieved from http://www.eldoradocounty.org/ Office of Emergency Services (OES). Retrieved from http://www.edcgov.us/Government/Sheriff/Divisions/Support/Office_of_Emergency_Services_

Use of Scientific Management in the 21st Century

Use of Scientific Management in the 21st Century Roberta Larkins Jones International University April 14, 2010 Abstract The 19th and 20th Century gives the foundation of the shift in management modeling. Frederick Taylor, Henry Gantt, and Lillian Gilbreth gave great insight into the need for a paradigm shift in business. The elements of this shift form the basis of the four principles of Scientific Management. The principles of Scientific Management and their use in the 21st Century are the elements of this paper. Use of Scientific Management in the 21st Century The management of an organization that has a structural system which clearly defines the functions of the departments, groups, and individuals can be defined by the term Scientific Management originated by Frederick Taylor. (Nelson, 2003, p. 1) The Encyclopedia for Business (n. d. ) defines Scientific Management as â€Å"methods aimed at determining the best way for a job to be done. (n. d. , pg 6). While the initial use of Scientific Management in dealing with issues of efficiency and productivity is rooted in the history of management theory during the 19th Century and early in the 20th Century, the same organizational needs are evident in business today and the usage of the fundamentals of Scientific Management can be used to effectively increase both efficiency and productivity in a 21st Century organization. The Pioneers Frederick Taylor, known as ‘the most in? ential business guru of the 20th century’ (154), began his journey into business in an apprenticeship to a patternmaker for a pump manufacturing company in Philadelphia. (Wren, 2004, 121) It is here Taylor has the opportunity to see firsthand what the employees are experiencing and make note of the elements of discourse. Wren describes the conditions as â€Å"worker restriction of output, poor management, and lack of harmony between labor and management† (2004, p. 122). As Taylor continued to adva nce in his career, he stood witness to instances of these same conditions in the employees at Midvale Steel Company. It is during this time in his career along with his desire to change those working conditions that he began the work in Scientific Management that allows him to make his mark in managerial history. Henry Gantt, also a mechanical engineer, worked with Taylor for many years and both were partners in the development the concept of scientific management, although Taylor is more widely recognized for the model. Gant’s influence provided fuel for a better understanding of human nature in the workforce by improving employee representation plans , improving the practices of human-resources, and cooperation by labor-management,. Wren, 2004, p. 165) The human side of management is also the focus of works by Lillian Gilbreth, who is often called the first lady of management. (Pioneers of Management, n. d. , p7). Together they were the driving force in the use of Scientific Management and the creation of human resource principles within an organization. The Fundamentals Taylor viewed busi ness as â€Å"a system of human cooperation that will be successful only if all concerned work toward a common goal† (Wren, 2004, p. 125). The four principles of Scientific Management address the initial concerns that Taylor witnessed. Hodgetts and Greenwood (1995) share the four fundamentals as (1) Develop a science for each element of the person’s work, thus replacing the old rule of thumb, (2) Scientifically select, and then train, teach, and develop the worker, (3) Heartily cooperate with the personnel so as to insure that all of the work is done in accordance with the principles of the science that it has been developed, and (4) Management should take over all the work for which it is best fitted than the workers, and allow the latter to handle the rest. (1995, p. 18-221) These fundamentals can also transfer into the resolution of the original conditions by increasing worker productivity, effective management, and creating a harmonious relationship between management and worker. Increasing Worker Productivity Embedded into principles one and two, are considerations for sound human-resource management today. Taylor anticipated the concept of matching the abilities of a worker to an assigned job. (Wren, 2 004, p. 129) Instead of developing their own approach to a job through experience, the employee will learn to do it the right way. Hodgetts & Greenwood, 1995, p. 218) plus trained in newer techniques which will allow the employee to be more productive in their output. Taylor’s belief in productivity was grounded in the idea â€Å"the real potential for increased output was not ‘working harder’ but ‘working smarter. ’† (Wren, 2009, p. 128). Hodgetts and Greenwood (1995) describe the ability to increase productivity â€Å"by training, teaching, and developing their personnel, this quality-driven organization was able to achieve substantial increases in efficiency and cost savings. † (1995, p. 220). Effective training assesses the training need within an organization, trains the employee with advanced or more efficient tools and techniques, then allows the employee to return to the organization and utilize their new skills thereby increasing the productivity of the employee. Effective Management The third principle in scientific management is presented by the utilization of effective management in an organization. According to Taylor, the principle object of management is to secure the maximum level or prosperity for both employer and each employee. (Wren, 2009, p. 48). Whether this is done by 21st Century talent management programs including bonuses and promotions, or 19th Century reward and recognition system, the inclusion of something that demonstrates to the employee that he or she is valued is essential. Harmonious Relationship The fourth principle of scientific management is to enforce the theory of workers and management coming together in order to run a successful organ ization. Part of this effort is in allowing the workers to become part of the solutions needed achieve higher levels of efficiency and productivity. Darmody (2007) shares that management now realizes that when workers are given the opportunity to suggest ideas, they will work harder in the implementation of and assurance in the success of them. (2007, p. 23). Taylor’s view of this is continuous improvement effort. Conclusion The four principles of scientific management were important in the 19th century and continue to be important in the 21st Century in business. An organization that has a goal to remain successful and competitive must incorporate all four components into the strategic plan. As the mindset of management shifts to deal with the internal and external forces of business in moving forward, a look back at the vision of Taylor, Gantt, and Gilbreth will assist the organization to succeed. References Darmody, P. (2007). Henry L. Gantt and Frederick Taylor: The Pioneers of Scientific Management. AACE International Transactions, 15. 1-15. 3. Retrieved from Business Source Premier Database. Hodgetts, R. , & Greenwood, R. (1995). Frederick Taylor: Alive and Well and Ready for the 21st Century. Academy of Management Best Papers Proceedings, 218-222. Retrieved from Business Source Premier Database. Nelson, D. , (2003, Jan) Scientific Management, Dictionary of American History, Retrieved from http://www. highbeam. com/doc/1G2-3401803768. html Pioneers of Management. (n. d. ). In Encyclopedia of Business (2nd ed. ). Retrieved from http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Or-Pr/Pioneers-of-management. html Wren, D. , (2009) the evolution of management thought (6th Ed). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons

Research Technique Essay

Suppose your sociology instructor has asked you to do a study of homelessness. Which research technique (survey, observation, experiment, existing sources) would you find the most useful? How would you use that technique to complete your assignment? If my sociology instructor has asked me to do a study of homelessness, I will choose the observation research technique because I think this method is the most useful to me. In definition, observation means collecting information through direct participation and/or by watching a group or community engaged, which means, this is a technique which researchers observe carefully the behaviors of people involved in their hypothesis. Although there are various types of observational research techniques (naturalistic observation, participant observation†¦), each of them has both strengths and weaknesses. Personally, I believe participant observation is the most suitable method for the study of homelessness. Firstly, this technique allows me to gain information in my own point of view as I’m the observer and participant as well. Secondly, by using this method, the subject behaviors (homeless people) remain natural, therefore, giving the results high validity and reliability. Thirdly, it’s flexible as I can myself test the hypotheses and be able to redefine possible personal conceptions. Fourthly, by directing involving the research, my results will contain highly-detailed, high-quality information about the homelessness’s behaviors. However, this technique also has some disadvantage. First, it’s likely for me to have a close relationship with others which may influence the results. Second, it’s quite difficult for me to be accepted in the group (maybe I’m too different from them). Third, this technique requires a great deal of skill and commitment from the researchers. I must have the ability to fit-in with the people being observed and the ability to communicate naturally to them without letting them know my purposes. Finally, I have to make sure that I have enough money, time, resources, skills and support to go through this research. More details about my study. After having finished 3 important steps (defining the problem, reviewing the literature, formulating the hypothesis), I’ll continue the fourth step: collecting and analyzing data by using the observation technique (participant observation). I’ll join the homeless communities, which usually gather to sleep in the parks, under the bridges or in the verandas of the private or public houses†¦It’d be easier for me to participate if I can show them for sure that I’m a real homeless person (little money, no mobile phone, have acceptable reason to become homeless, dirty clothes†¦). The length of my stays are going to be about 6 months to 1 year as this time is long enough for me to have a generally view about this problem (however, it mainly depend on the time which the instructor allows me to so that I can limit/expand the areas researched). During the time I’m homeless, I’ll try to gain the acceptance in the group studied in order to collect the information needed without raising close relations or letting them know who I am, which will affect the conclusion of my study. Then, I’ll listen to their stories about the reason why they become homeless (of course I must have a reason for myself), observe their feeling, their behaving in life as well as their attitudes about their present conditions. Besides, I also have to try fulfill my study by finding the answers for these following questions: 1. How did they become homeless? (different people will have different answers) 2. Do they feel like the government is helping them to reduce homelessness? 3. How has being homeless affected them? (difficulties in all aspects) 4. What are the main causes of people becoming homeless? 5. What should the government do to help the homeless people? 6. The link between being homeless and having social diseases (HIV, syphilis†¦) 7. Where do the homelessness rates have the highest/lowest percentage? What are the differences in these areas? These 5 questions are the basic information that I have to find the answers by asking directly through normal conversations, by observing, by listening†¦ Besides, I think I can conclude some other useful results so as to have a general overview to support for my study thank to the time I’m being homeless. My conclusion will include these data: 1. Trends in homelessness recently. 2. Characteristics of persons experiencing homelessness 3. Causes of homelessness 4. Effect of homelessness. 5. Homeless policy initiatives 6. How different places have different rate of homelessness. Reasons? Solutions (If I can) 7. Outlook for the future (solutions) Finally, I’ll finish the final step: developing the conclusion base on the data I have to support or redefine the hypothesis.

Countries Analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Countries Analysis - Assignment Example SOUTH AFRICA LABOUR ISSUES Labor force in South Africa has increased since the days of Apartheid. During Apartheid, most of the Blacks were working in the informal sector and mostly provided unskilled labor. In 1994 and 1995, officials revised employment statistics to join into national accounts employment in the former black homelands which were home to almost one-half of the black South African population subject to the revisions, in mid 1995, the government estimated the national work force to 14.3 million people.1 Section 23 of the Constitution of South Africa2 provides for labor relations that everyone has the right to fair labor practices, right to join a trade union and the right to engage in collective bargaining. In 1997, the country3 adopted a new constitution which set out the regulations and basic conditions of employment and the labor laws were to comply with the Republic. The Act applies to all employees save for the members of the National Defense Force, the National I ntelligence Agency, the Secret Service and unpaid volunteers. Section 7 of the Act gives the proviso for regulation of working times. It goes ahead to provide for the allowed rest period to include a rest period of at least 12 hours between ending and recommencing works daily. WAGES An employee must provide written particulars of employment before commencing employment which include place of work; designation of job; the rate payable for overtime and the employee wages. An employer has a duty to pay an employee remuneration that is paid in form of money, the payment has to be calculated by reference to the several hours the employee works, that is 45 hours a week, or 9 hours a day. Notice of termination has to be given to the employee some months or days before an employee is dismissed, this is provided for in the Act. The state enacted Labor Relations Acti which has undergone numerous amendments to change the law governing labor relations and, to give effect to section 27 of the Co nstitution. The Act regulates the rights of the organization; it regulates the rights of the trade unions; it promotes and facilitates collective bargaining at the workplace and at the sector level. The Labor Act also provides for the legal effect of collective agreements, Disputes about collective agreements, Agency shop agreements, Closed shop agreements, Establishment of bargaining councils, Powers and functions of bargaining council, Registration of bargaining councils and the Constitution of bargaining council. LABOR AND POLITICS South African Industrial development had relied on an abundance of low-wage labor for centuries in order to ensure profits,4 but as time went by, economic and social problems associated with implementing apartheid emerged. The development of new technologies during the 1960s and 1970s made most industries to increase their capital stock so that they could invest in machinery and employ a few skilled technicians rather than adopt a labor intensive metho d that would need training and managing a large work force. The trend towards capital-intensive operations led to a lower labor costs and increased productivity. As a result, there was an increased rate of unemployment and poverty which fueled resentment and this made the government to raise the costs of preserving apartheid. Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) was establishment in 1985 by 1990ii more than

Corporate finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 2

Corporate finance - Essay Example Last, the third objective is to maintain a dividend payout ratio of 40%. The objective is suitable because it helps prevent agency problems and respond to the investors’ preference to certain earnings (dividends). The cash flow analysis indicates a strong financial position of the company. In addition, the financial plan takes into consideration the shareholders’ interest of wealth maximizing through payment of high dividends. Food for life, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom, operates locally. The company was established 25 years ago and since its establishment, it has been providing services to various customers such as schools, colleges, hospitals, businesses and retirement homes. The company faces strong competition from only one company, the Organic Foods. Its rival company is a much larger and has expanded into various international markets. The establishment of Food-For-Life was made by two young women who currently own 75% of shares, whereas, the other 25% of shares are owned by a venture capital firm. The end of the financial year 2014 is on the horizon and the customary board meeting is expected any time. Among the most critical issues to be discussed during the board meeting are the company’s objectives. The following are the three objectives to be reviewed during the meeting: first, the company wishes to maintain the company’s profit margin of around 24%. Second, the company seeks to uphold the current strong financial position. Last, in order to satisfy the interest of the shareholders, the company is planning to maintain the current dividend payout ratio of 40%. In addition, the company anticipates an increase in the sales levels to  £ 270 million in 2015,  £ 310 million in 2016 and  £ 350 million in 2017. However, the sales growth rate is expected to be zero for the subsequent years. Based on the company’s financial objectives and other

Soda tax in the US Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Soda tax in the US - Essay Example Statistics show that more than one third or 35.7% of adults in the US are obese and suffer from obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and coronary diseases. Obesity prevalence varies across different states whereby, in 2002, all states had a prevalence of more than 20% with the prevalence ranging from 34.7% in Louisiana to 20.5% in Colorado. Furthermore, the federal’s annual medical expense of obesity as of 2008 was $ 147 billion dollars (CDC, 2013). Prompted by the rise in obesity in the country, different researchers have hypothesizes different causes and suggested solutions aimed at mitigating the harmful social and economic effects of obesity. The soda tax is one such suggestion; however, not all agree on the possible benefits likely to result from the taxation of soft drinks. Whether or not adopting the soda tax in the US proves sufficient in reducing the obesity rate in the country remains a controversial issue for those for and against the tax policy. Proponents for the tax base their argument on credible research findings, which indicate that taxing soft drinks reduces high caloric intake minimizing an individual’s probability of developing obesity. First introduced as an abstract idea by the Director of Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity (RCFPO) Kelly D. Brownell in 1994, the soda tax aimed to improve public health while simultaneously raise revenue in the US economy. Later studies done in Yale University by the RCFPO in 2011 indicated that a penny-per-ounce levy on soft drinks would function to reduce consumption by 13%, which resulted in the elimination of 8,000 calories from a regular, American’s diet annually.... inancial implication of obesity as a reason for taxing soft drinks, which many researchers have hypothesized as one of the leading causes of obesity in the US. Revenue generated from taxing soft drinks proves beneficial for the federal and state governments whereby, governmental officials can use the funds to offset financial deficits in the budget. A survey done by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services in 2012 indicated that taxing soft drinks would generate revenue of $ 14.9 billion dollars within the first fiscal year alone (Fletcher et al, 2010). Conversely, those against the tax policy sight poor lifestyle habits such as living a sedentary life and poor nutrition (high cholesterol diet) as major causes of obesity, which if not addressed would render taxing soft drinks inefficient in minimizing the obesity rate within the country. Research done by Fletcher and colleagues in 2009 aimed at examining the impact of fluctuating soda tax in different states on body mass index (BMI) revealed that soft drinks consumption accounted for 7% of total energy intake. They concluded that if taxed at the average taxation rate of tobacco (58%) the mean BMI of the US population would only decrease by 0.16 points reducing obesity in the population by 0.7% (Fletcher et al, 2010). This showed that soft drink taxes’ influence on BMI is minimal and does little to decrease obesity in the population. Furthermore, those against this policy are of the opinion that taxation of soft drinks does not limit their accessibility because many are willing to spend more money for their preferred luxury items such as soft drinks. In conclusion, it is apparent that both the public and the government stand to benefit from the soda tax. Taxing soft drinks generates revenue for the government,

Elevating Brand Values Through Corporate Social Responsibility in Essay

Elevating Brand Values Through Corporate Social Responsibility in China A Study on Sporting Goods Companies - Essay Example On the other hand, advocators of CSR say that companies exhibiting social responsibilities can gain the trust of customers thereby increasing sales. In China, the CSR activities are conducted more for serving the interests of the government than the consumers and therefore companies mostly focus on ethical issues that are initiated by the government. This paper is based on a survey conducted on 200 Chinese consumers and also representatives from Nike and Adidas to assess their perception on CSR activities of their companies. The survey result showed that although majority of people are aware of CSR activities, almost 65 percent of the respondents’ purchase decisions are not affected by a company’s CSR activities. In contrast, the company respondents generally felt that although CSR activities are necessary for positive responses from customers, only 22 percent of them felt that CSR activities are responsible for their companies’ success. Corporate social responsibility is one of the main aspects that almost all the organizations in the world now focusing at. In its earlier stage, the performance of any organization was always measured by its overall business volume, its awareness among the people across the globe and by its innovativeness. But in modern age, along with the business performance, corporate social responsibility also plays an important role in creating value for the organization in the society. Moreover, different organizations across the globe now use CSR strategies as one of their branding and promotional activities to reach out to more consumers across the globe. The Cone Communications/Echo Global CSR Study organized by The Cone Communications, 2013, carried out a clear fact about the test to enterprises in present world’s continuously challenging and ever changing market place, and that is: the challenge of creating a â€Å"real and meaningful impact†. In modern world the question is not about engaging in Corporate

William F. Baker Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

William F. Baker - Essay Example This is because both of his late grandfathers were also engineers though their fame did not equal that of Baker as a skyscraper designer. In his early schooling, Baker used to excel in Maths, Physics and History though before his graduation he had no idea of what he wanted to study while in University (Baker, 2010). Baker’s strong desire to pursue engineering as a career started after undergoing aptitude test confirmation where he proceeded to the University of Missouri and graduated in 1975 (Baker, 2010). Equipped with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering, Baker worked for various oil companies in 1970s though he decided to quit within a very short time to pursue Masters Degre (Wallace, 2011). To his peers, Baker seemed to have made a wrong decision but in he knew better than they did (Wallace, 2011). This is by going back to school to study Masters in Structural Engineering at the University of Illinois (Wallace, 2011). Baker’s Masters Degree was extremely deman ding due to the course’s many subjects supposed to equip him with right knowledge concerning how to tackle varied tasks that characterized his field of specialization. After graduating, Baker joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLP (SOM) firm whose staff comprised of talented experts from his former school (Baker, 2010). Here he worked under the supervision of Fazlur Khan who also mentored him on how to design and evaluate tallest buildings besides other structures. Consequently, this was revelation to the young Baker who by then he hardly knew that experience acted as a preparation for great, complex and fascinating projects in future, for instance, Burj Dubai Tower (Baker, Pawlikowski & Young, 2009). Throughout his career, Baker has always collaborated with other numerous and different experts like architects while undertaking extremely involving design projects (Baker, Pawlikowski & Young, 2009). 2. Problem / Issue identification Baker was a structural engineer, but most of his works required architects’ intervention, especially when he was drawing certain figures that entailed refined details. The two fields’ core role encompasses producing effective structural designs that will support and ensure safety to all people. This is by ensuring the load of every designed structure can adequately withstand varied inevitable natural forces, for instance, wind and gravity (Baker, 2010). This study seeks to relay Baker’s experience, expertise and career achievements that have prompted him to the most renowned structural engineer in the world (Baker, Pawlikowski & Young, 2009). Literature Review Mainly, Baker’s major role in every designing project encompasses coming up with a strong and effective plan that will not only meet client’s aesthetic value, but also ensure evenly distribution of the entire structure’s weight. The designing of the entire structure that will be free from adverse effects resulting from gravity a nd wind is the task that cannot be complete without the intervention of architects. This is evident in the recent completed Burj Dubai Tower which, according to Baker and his team, comprises one of the current famed breakthroughs. According to Baker, for a skyscraper to meet client’s specifications, it ought to fulfill key inevitable engineering principles. These are insignificant for the client, but experts must employ them while erecting the required structure as per the stated specifications. For instance, Burj’s design had to be efficient, considerable wide base to support the expected load but narrow enough such that the building is economically viable (Baker, 2010). Therefore, the building despite designed to meet all the client’

Chrysler&Fiat Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Chrysler&Fiat - Essay Example â€Å"The marriage was based on ego the egos of the two men at the top of the companies at the time who got rich on the deal not compatibility† (Krebs, 2013). Cultural differences made things even worse. This fact limited communication between Daimler and Chrysler. However, when two car companies merge they should have strong relationship and similar cultures. Both sides should understand each country’s traditions before they implement new concepts to their new styles of their cars. A year later, Chrysler decided to move on with Fiat Italian automakers. This time the company should build a solid rock foundation before they further unite. In my perspective if they don’t want to repeat the same costly failures, Chrysler should reflect about there past mistakes that negatively impact their business. They should engage in deep understanding and embrace equalities. Therefore, in order accomplish their goals the company should start to apply business strategies in effe ctive ways to promote a better level. It is important not to forget the cultural differences that created concerns. After the analysis above about the issues at Chrysler, I came out with effective business strategies that may resolve Chrysler’s problems. ... re to improve Chrysler & Fiat relationships through better communication, apply the Hofstede’s theory in business, and follow the current regulation. In my opinion before companies go public they need to have strong structures to support their plans. In business communication is one of the most important things. The initial steps that the CEO of Chrysler should take are to understand Fiat’s background. The firms need to promote open-minded for each other. Furthermore, these two companies should share their visions and missions so they will implement a new hierarchy system that is going to satisfy both companies’ needs. â€Å"This companies merges can harm communications within the companies, especially if the companies adopt distance working and mobile sales and service teams† (MacKechnie, 2013). Chrysler & Fiat need effort and time to fulfill this goal. Both sides should embrace flexibility and equalities because I believe that these will solve the mergin g issues that would cause conflicts at the initial stage. After they overcome the internal structure goals they could minimize bigger conflicts in the future. This first step is the simplest business strategy, but it is the most important aspect of business. It is better for them to consider this step rather than decide to quickly go out to find the profit as soon as possible. It is going to raise unexpected circumstances that would negatively impact the alliance between Chrysler & Fiat. Thus, in order to achieve short term and long term benefit this step is the one that needs serious consideration. I believe that they will have better understanding in the future when they need to overcome the company’s problems. In addition, by understanding both sides’ views, they will focus to pursue one objective that

Article response about a movie Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Article response about a movie - Essay Example The star in the film was the robot that was an unknown and thus did not command star power. This was done to prevent the star from distracting the viewers from the original story. In the article been discussed, the author puts forward a theory that the film, Metropolis represents the US and German relationship. The author proposes that the film is both inspired by the movie and also aims to show the exploitation of the masses at the hands of American film culture. The movie’s two father figures are represented likened to Germany and America. One representing the genius who made all technological advancement possible but he set back by his traditional views. The other is one that holds a superior position for his way of commanding and accepting the technology at his disposal. The article discusses how the film is inspired by American films created during the same era. It depends on technology and high budget much like that of American contemporary films of that era. However, one recurrent element in American films was also star power and sexuality. Here the film challenges these notions of American films but casting a robot in the role of the star. This is meant to prevent the star from distracting from the plot of the movie. Also the movie brings down love to mere sexuality by casting the female in the role of a robot. The robot is programmed to follow the commands of the master. 20. Most Interesting Passage (single quotation of 100-300 words, plus page citation—or series of up to three shorter quotations, same aggregate word-count, plus page citation) plus a brief comment as to why this passage(s) is interesting to you: ‘The star is its mechanism of identficiation, its means of consoling the masses, of feeding the appetite for consolation and its own appetitie for industrial efficiency and profit. Thus the American entertainment industry’s most insidious and dangerous application of technology is captured in an

OpenChannel Flow Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

OpenChannel Flow - Lab Report Example A minimum specific energy indicates a steady flow with parallel streamlines especially in channels characterized with very small slopes. Hydraulic jump, a phenomenon that depends on initial fluid velocity, occurs when the transition velocity increases abruptly. As a result, the transition front breaks and curls back upon itself in conjunction with violent turbulence and eddy currents. The introduction of a weir along the channel of fluid flow results to an increase in the fluid level. An increased fluid head or level is determined by measuring the upstream of the hydraulic structure. According to ToolBox (2014), the rate of fluid flow over the weir relates with the level of the weir. To determine the discharge constant for the weir, individuals should conduct some fluid analysis and calibration tests. In most cases, the discharge coefficient remains constant for a given set of head ranges. A specific energy diagram determines the possible heights and depths of weirs. A low level that supports critical flow results to a decrease in the fluid level without affecting the upstream (Kay, 2015). After achieving the critical flow, an increase in the weir level leads directly affects the upstream fluid level. Typically, a subcritical flow produces a low vitality state while a supercritical state creates a faster and shallow flow. During a supercritical condition, waves produced by downstream eddies cannot travel upstream. On the other hand, subcritical conditions initiate upstream travel of waves produced at the downstream due to the slower flow of fluids. The diagram below demonstrates the water profile along the flow channel with various regions where subcritical and supercritical flows

Ideal Renaissance Man Essay Example for Free

Ideal Renaissance Man Essay An ideal renaissance man or woman in the fourteenth and fifteenth century, a time when people aspired to be skilled in numerous areas and humanistic education was customary, meant you would have to stand out from the rest. Pico della Mirandola theories in Oration on the Dignity of Man sum up the ideal Renaissance man. He proclaimed that individuals face no limits to their development except those that are self-imposed (Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia). In theory only one can hinder their own success. The ideal renaissance man had a broad base in knowledge or was highly skilled in the arts, music or literature. Some lived up to being ideal just because they were bold or unique. The ideal renaissance man was respected by his peers and his knowledge and abilities were often required by the patrons of this era. Ingeniously, some individuals happened to be masters of art, engineering, and even anatomy all at the same time. Mostly men, renaissance contributors did not normally encourage women to participate during this time. Women were encouraged to fit the profile of wives and mothers and their political rights at this point were still kind of limited. Nevertheless, there were many that fit the description of an ideal renaissance women. One unique women of this time was Laura Cereta. A writer who struggled with heavy criticism from her cohorts because of her scholarly pursuits. In response to both the men and women who were judgmental of her, Laura wrote two letters â€Å"that were penned to answer both critics: a defense of learning aimed at male humanists and a defense of her vocation directed toward her female critics† (Cunningham 289). Laura’s heated verbiage in these letters won her great recognition and respect. In describing an ideal renaissance man Leonardo Davinchi owned up to that title for his many achievements. He donated to us many chemical theories, the air balloon, the telescope, and trigonometry. He was a plethora of knowledge. He was also recognized for his many works of art known all around the world today, The Mona Lisa and The Last Supper for example. He was diverse in his thinking and saw many of his ideas through. He was a living example and true to Leon Alberti’s (1404–72) quote: that â€Å"men can do all things if they will. † The Renaissance is understood as a historical era of cultural movements. Its contributors are termed â€Å"Ideal Renaissance Men and Women† for making it possible. Even so, they continued to pursue more knowledge and abilities. For this, they were ideal renaissance people of their time.

Multitouch Gesture Generation and Recognition Techniques

Multitouch Gesture Generation and Recognition Techniques Abstract: A huge number of users are using smart phones to communicate with each other. A smart phone user is exposed to various threats when they use their phone for communication. These threats can disorganization the operation of the smart phone, and transmit or modify user data rather than original [1]. So applications must guarantee privacy and integrity of the information. Single touch mobile security is unable to give efficient performance for confidential data. Hence we are moving towards multitouch mobile security for high security. In computing, multi-touch is authentication technology that enables a surface to recognize the presence of more than one touch points of contact with the touch screen [2]. By using multiple touch points to authenticate user for access confidential data in mobile phones. we are presenting our study about biometric gestures to authenticate user through multitouch finger points for more security [1]. Keywords: Multitouch, biometric gesture, authentication, security, smart phone Finger-tracking, Android Operating system. Introduction Todays IT admins face the troublesome task of managing the unnumberable amounts of mobile devices that connect with enterprise networks a day for communication through network. Securing mobile devices has become increasingly important now days as the numbers of the devices in operation and the uses to which they are put have expanded in world wide. The problem is compounded within the enterprise as the ongoing trend toward IT users or organizations is resulting in more and many more employee-owned devices connecting to the corporate internet. Authentication is a nothing but process in which the credentials provided are compared to those on file in a database of valid users information on a operating system. If the credentials match, the process is completed and the user is granted authorization for access to the system. The permissions and folders came back outline each the surroundings the user sees and also the method he will move with it, as well as the amount of access and differ ent rights comparable to the number of allotted cupboard space and different services [1]. The generally a computer authentication process is to use alphanumerical usernames or text based and passwords. This method has been shown to have some  disadvantages. For example, users tend to pick passwords that can be easily guessed and recognized by other hard to remember. To device this problem, some researchers have  developed authentication techniques that use multitouch biometric gesture as passwords for authentication. Multi-touch, in a computing environment, is an interface technology that enables input gestures on multiple points on the surface of a device. Although most generally used with touch screen devices on handheld devices, such as smart phones and tablets, and other multi-touch has been used for other surfaces as well, including touch pads and whiteboards, tables and walls [2]. In other words, multi-touch refers to the capability of a touch screen (or a touchpad) to recognize two or more points of contact on the surface simultaneously. The constant following of the multiple points permits the portable interface to acknowledge gestures, that modify advanced practicality similar to pinch-to-zoom, pinch. wherever gesture recognition is much of deciphering human gestures via mathematical algorithms. Gestures will originate from any bodily motion however normally originate from the face or hand and alternative human biometric gestures but the identification and recognition of posture, and human behaviours is additionally the topic of gesture recognition techniques. We used Equal Error Rate (EER) to measure accuracy. This is the rate at which False Acceptance Rate (FAR) and False Rejection Rate (FRR). To find out whether using multiple gestures would improve the systems performance, we combined scores of 2 different gestures from the same user in the same order and evaluated the EER of the combined gestures as: FAR= FRR= Developing a Gesture Authentication Technique Biometric systems are an effective way to authenticate valid users generally based on the something they are property [2] in mobile authentication. The goal of biometric identification is that the automatic verification of identity of a living person by proving over some distinctive gestures that solely he possesses in authentication method. Figure1: Multitouch behavior The biometric authentication system has two phases: enrollment phase and authentication phase. If new user must first record his secret hand signs at the first enrollment phase to the system. The process is performing the hand signs at the users discreet choice with sufficient space for hand movement during registration phase. Gesture Taxonomy [1] 1. Parallel: All fingertips are moving in the same direction during the gesture. For example, a bush swipe, during which all 5 fingers move from left to right the screen. 2. Closed: If all fingertips are moving inward toward the center of the hand. For example, a pinch gesture. 3. Opened: All fingertips are moving outward from the center of the hand. For example, a reverse pinch gesture. 4. Circular: All fingertips are rotating around the center of  the hand. For example, a clockwise or counterclockwise  rotation [1]. Figure1: Single touch Matching Touch Sequences to Specific Fingers: Hidden Markov Models [3] Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) are statistical models and simplest versions of dynamic Bayesian Networks, where the system being modelled is a Markov process with an unobserved state. It is a collection of finite states connected by transitions, much like Bayesian Networks. Each state has two probabilities: a transition probability, and an output probability distribution. Parameters of the model are determined by training data [4][5]. Figure2: Hidden Markov Models hidden states, as well as N dimensional observable symbols. Figure3: Multitouch Movement The conventional HMM is expressed as the following [4]. HMM is the mathematical tool to model signals, objects à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ that have the temporal structure and follow the Markov process. HMM can be described compactly as ÃŽÂ » = (A, B, à Ã¢â€š ¬) (Figure 4b) where, Figure 4: Conventional Hidden Markov Model A = {aij}: the state transition matrix aij=P[qt+1=sj|qt=si], 1à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ià ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤Naij=P[qt+1=sj|qt=si], 1à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ià ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤N B = {bj (k)}: the observation symbol probability distribution bj(k)=P[Ot=vk|qt=sj], 1à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤jà ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤N, 1à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤kà ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤Mbj(k)=P[Ot=vk|qt=sj], 1à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤jà ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤N,1à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤kà ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤M à Ã¢â€š ¬ = {à Ã¢â€š ¬i}: the initial state distribution à Ã¢â€š ¬i=P[q1=si]à Ã¢â€š ¬i=P[q1=si] Set of states: S = {s1s2, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, sN} State at time t: qt Set of symbols: V = {v1, v2, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, vM} Given the observation sequence OT1=O1O2OTO1T=O1O2OT and a model ÃŽÂ » = (A,B,à Ã¢â€š ¬), how do we efficiently compute P(O | ÃŽÂ »), i.e., the probability of the observation sequence given the model. Now let us consider following two states: Training: based on the input data sequences {O}, we calculate and adjust ÃŽÂ »=ÃŽÂ »ÃƒÅ'„ ÃŽÂ »=ÃŽÂ »ÃƒÅ'„ to maximize likelihood P(O | ÃŽÂ ») Recognizing: based on ÃŽÂ »ÃƒÅ'„ =(AÃÅ'„ ,BÃÅ'„ ,à Ã¢â€š ¬ÃƒÅ'„ )ÃŽÂ »ÃƒÅ'„=(AÃÅ'„,BÃÅ'„,à Ã¢â€š ¬ÃƒÅ'„) for each class, we can then assign the class in which the likelihood P(O | ÃŽÂ ») is maximized. The observation symbol probability distribution P[Ot = vk | qt = sj] can be discrete symbols or continuous variables. If the observations are different symbols. B(i,k)=P(Ot=k|qt=si) B(i,k)=P(Ot=k|qt=si) If the observations are vectors in RL, it is common to represent P[Ot | qt] as a Gaussian: P[Ot=y|qt=si]=N(y;ÃŽÂ ¼i,ÃŽÂ £i) P[Ot=y|qt=si]=ÃŽÂ (y;ÃŽÂ ¼i,ÃŽÂ £i) N(y;ÃŽÂ ¼,ÃŽÂ £)=1(2à Ã¢â€š ¬)L/2|ÃŽÂ £|1/2exp[à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢12(yà ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ÃƒÅ½Ã‚ ¼)TÃŽÂ £Ãƒ ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢1(yà ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ÃƒÅ½Ã‚ ¼)] ÃŽÂ (y;ÃŽÂ ¼,ÃŽÂ £)=1(2à Ã¢â€š ¬)L/2|ÃŽÂ £|1/2exp[à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢12(yà ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ÃƒÅ½Ã‚ ¼)TÃŽÂ £Ãƒ ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢1(yà ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ÃƒÅ½Ã‚ ¼)] A more flexible representation is a mixture of M Gaussians: P[Ot=y|qt=si]=à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬Ëœm=1MP(Mt=m|qt=si)ÃÆ'-ÃÆ'-N(y;ÃŽÂ ¼m,i,ÃŽÂ £m,i) P[Ot=y|qt=si]=à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬Ëœm=1MP(Mt=m|qt=si)ÃÆ'-ÃÆ'-ÃŽÂ (y;ÃŽÂ ¼m,i,ÃŽÂ £m,i) where Mt is a hidden variable that specifies which mixture component to use and P(Mt=m|qt=si) =C(i,m) is the conditional prior weight of each mixture component. In our approach, we both implement continuous and discrete output variable distribution for 1st and 2nd HMM stages respectively [3][6]. Dynamic Time Warping Dynamic Time Warping (DTW), introduced by Sakoe and Chiba in 1978, is an algorithm that compares two different sequences that may possibly vary in time. For example, if two video clips of different people walking a particular path were compared, the DTW algorithm would detect the similarities in the walking pattern, despite walking speed differences, accelerations or decelerations. [3][7] Figure 4: Dynamic time warping The algorithm begins with a set of template streams, describing each gesture available in the system database. This results in high computation time, and hence, limitations in recognition speed. Additionally, the storing of many templates for each gesture results in costly space usage on a resource-constrained device. Consider a training set of N sequences fS1; S2; : : : ; SNg, where each Sg represents sample of the same gesture class. Then, each sequence Sg composed by a set of feature vectors at each time t, Sg = fsg1; : : : ; sgLgg for a certain gesture category, where Lg is the length in frames of sequence Sg. Let us assume that sequences are ordered according to their length, so that Lgt1 _ Lg _ Lg+1; 8g 2 [2; ::;N ], the median length sequence is _ S = SdN2 e. This sequence _ S is used as a reference and the rest of sequences are aligned with it using the classical Dynamic Time Warping with Euclidean distance [4], in order to avoid the temporal deformations of various samples from an equivalent gesture class. Therefore, once the alignment method, all sequences have lengthLdN2 e. We define the set of warped sequences as ~ S = f ~ S1; ~ S2; : : : ; ~ SNg. Consider a training set of N sequences fS1; S2; : : : ; SNg, where each Sg represents a sample of the same gesture class. Then, each sequence Sg composed by a set of feature vectors at each time t, Sg = fsg1; : : : ; sgLgg for a certain gesture category, where Lg is the length in frames of sequence Sg. Let us consider that sequences are ordered according to their length, so that Lgt1 _ Lg _ Lg+1; 8g 2 [2; ::;N1], the median length sequence is _ S =SdN2 e[4]. This sequence _ S is used as a reference, and the remaining of sequences are assigned with it using the classical Dynamic Time Warping with Euclidean distance [3], in order to remove the temporal deformations of different samples from the same gesture category. Hence, after the alignment process, all sequences have lengthLdN2 e. We define the set of warped sequences as ~ S = f ~ S1; ~ S2; : : : ; ~ SNg [3]. Input: A gesture C={c1,..cn} with corresponding GMM model ÃŽÂ »={ÃŽÂ »1,..ÃŽÂ »m}, its similarly threshold value  µ, and the testing seprate Q={q1,..qn}, Cost Matrix M is defined,where N(x), x =(i,t) is the set of three upper-left location of x in M. Output:Working path of the dected gesture, if any. //Initialization for i=1:m do for j=1:à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¾ do M(i,j)=v end end for j=1:v do M(0,j)=0 end for t=0:v do for i=1:m do x=(i,j) M(x)=D(qi,ÃŽÂ »i)+minà ¡Ã‚ µÃ‚ ªÃƒ ªÃ… ¾Ã…’à Ã‚ µ N(à ¡Ã‚ µÃ‚ ª)M(à ¡Ã‚ µÃ‚ ªÃƒ ªÃ… ¾Ã…’) End end if m(m,t) W={argminà ¡Ã‚ µÃ‚ ªÃƒ ªÃ… ¾Ã…’ à Ã‚ µ N(à ¡Ã‚ µÃ‚ ª)M(à ¡Ã‚ µÃ‚ ªÃƒ ªÃ… ¾Ã…’)} Return End end [4] Artificial Neural Networks Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are networks of weighted, directed graphs where the nodes are artificial neurons, and the directed edges are connections between them. The most common ANN structure is the feed forward Multi-Layer Perceptron. Feed forward means that the signals only travels one way through the net [4][8]. For input pattern p, the i-th input layer node holds xp,i. Net input to j-th node in hidden layer: Now Output of j-th node in hidden layer: Then Net input to k-th node in output layer: Finally Output of k-th node in output layer: Network error for p: Neurons are arranged in layer wise, with the outputs of each neuron in the same layer being connected to the inputs of the neurons in that layer . Finally, the output layer neurons are assigned a value. Each output layer neuron show the particular class of gesture, and the record is assigned to however classs neuron has the highest value During training, the gesture class for each neuron in the output layer is known, and the nodes can be assigned the correct value. Critical Analysis A critical analysis based on the results achieved by is shown in this section. ANNs, HMMs, and DTW algorithms were implemented on a mobile phone, and measured in performance according to recognition speed, accuracy and time needed to train [3]. Since Bayesian Networks are a super class of HMMs which have been tweaked towards gesture classification, they are not considered. Thus according to recognition, accuracy and training time we can say that DTW gives better performance as compare to HMM and ANN. These results are summarized below: Table 1: Comparison between different algorithms [3] No. Algorithm Recognition Speed Accuracy Training Time 1 HMMs 10.5ms 95.25% Long 2 ANNs 23ms 90% Medium 3 DTW 8ms 95.25% No Training Finger Tracking: Firstly we need adjust finger tracking parameters, thats why we need to activate the calibration in the tab in on-screen display [5][9]. a. Projection Signatures: Projection signatures are performed directly on the resulting threshold binary image of the hand [5]. The core process of this algorithm is consists of adding the binary pixels row by row along a diagonal (the vertical in this case). Previous knowledge of the hand angle is therefore required. A low-pass filter is applied on the signature (row sums) in order to reduce low frequency variations that create many local maxima and cause the problem of multiple positives (more than one detection per fingertip). The five maxima thereby obtained correspond to the position of the five fingers. b. Geometric Properties: The second algorithm is based on the geometric properties and, as shown on line 3 of figure 5, uses a contour image of the hand on which a reference point is set. This point can be determined either by finding the centre of mass of the contour (barycenter or centroid) or by fixing a point on the wrist [6]. Figure 5: Hand Movement Euclidean distances from that point to every contour point are then computed, with the five resulting maxima assumed to correspond to the finger ends [5]. The minima can be used to determine the intersections between fingers (finger valleys). The geometric algorithm also required filtering in order to reduce the problem of multiple positives. c. Circular Hough Transform: The circular Hough transform is applied on the contour image of the hand but could as well be performed on an edge image with complex background if no elements of the image exhibit the circular shape of the fingertip radius. This can be done efficiently for finger ends by eliminating points that are found outside the contour image. The inconvenient is that the set of discard points contains a mix of finger valleys and false positive that cannot be sorted easily [5]. d. Color Markers: While the three previous algorithms rely only on the hand characteristics to find and track the fingers, the marker algorithm tracks color markers attached to the main joints of the fingers. Each color is tracked individually using colour segmentation and filtering [5]. This permits the identification of the different hand segments. The marker colors should therefore be easy to track and should not affect the threshold, edge or contour image of the hand. Respecting these constraints makes it possible to apply all algorithms to the same video images and therefore to compare each algorithm degree of accuracy and precision with respect to the markers [5]. Comparisons: Properties Projection Signature Geometric Properties Circular Hough Transform Color Makers Locates fingers Good Good Good Good Locates fingertips Poor Normal Normal Good Locates finger ends and valleys Poor Good Good Good Work with complex background Poor Good Normal Good Precision Good Good Good Good Accuracy Poor Good Good Good Table 2: Comparison between different techniques [5] All the presented algorithms have succeeded, in various degrees, in detecting each finger. The projection signatures algorithm can only roughly identify a finger, but the circular Hough transform and geometric properties algorithms can find both finger intersections and finger end points, it is important to note that in the case where finger are folded, the end points dont correspond to the fingertips [5]. Conclusion: We have plot three prominent strategies that comprehensively characterize the signal acknowledgment that should be possible on advanced mobile phones Artificial Neural Networks, Dynamic Time Warping and Hidden Markov Models were optimized, and tested on resource constrained devices (in this instance, cellular phones), and compared against each other in terms of accuracy, and computational performance. ANNs proved to have the slowest computation performance due to the large size of the neural network. HMMs performed better, but the DTW algorithm proved to be the fastest, with comparable recognition accuracy. DTWs also did not require training, as is the case with HMMs and ANNs. References [1] Kalyani Devidas: Deshmane Android Software based Multi-touch Gestures Recognition for Secure Biometric Modality [2] Memon, K. Isbister, N. Sae-Bae, N. and K. Ahmed, Multitouch gesture based authentication, IEEE Trans. Inf. Forensics Security, vol. 9, no. 4, pp. 568-582, Apr. 2014 [3] Methods for Multi-touch Gesture Recognition:Daniel Wood [4] http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.5772/50204 [5] Finger Tracking Methods Using EyesWeb Anne-Marie Burns1 and Barbara Mazzarino2 [6]https://www.cse.buffalo.edu/~jcorso/t/CSE555/files/lecture_hmm.pdf [7]DWT: Probability-based Dynamic Time Warping and Bag-of-Visual -and-Depth-Words for Human Gesture Recognition [8]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_neural_network [9]http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/gesture-recognition Prof. Ramdas Pandurang Bagawade, Miss Pournima Akash Chavan, BE Computer Pursuing degree in PESs College of Engineering Phaltan. Miss Kajal Kantilal Jadhav, BE Computer Pursuing degree in PESs College of Engineering Phaltan

Analysis of the market position of Ikea

Analysis of the market position of Ikea Introduction Every industry tries to use an unparalleled, efficient, and effective business strategy that will allow them to remain at a progressive position in the competitive market, especially in the global market. With respect to this, the aim of this report is to present a position analysis for the furniture company IKEA. The position analysis will apply a pestle analysis, capabilities analysis, resource based view analysis, swot analysis and porters five forces along with IKEAs strategic issues and solutions to these issues. Company Overview IKEA was established in Sweden over 50 years ago back in 1943. Its founder Ingvar Kamprad still plays an important role in the company affairs today. IKEA is certainly one of the top furniture retailers in the world. Its core aspects are affordably, functionality and quality. Since their commencement, IKEA has persistently developed as a company throughout the years and are currently seen as a distinguished successful worldwide business entity in the furniture industry today. In 2010, IKEA opened 12 new stores in 7 countries which presently give them an overall record of 318 stores in over 38 countries. IKEA has certainly met their strategic goals by executing diverse strategic marketing tools that has made them the success that they are. Methodology IKEAs SWOT Analysis In this report, the analysis of the present situation of IKEA will be carried out by using different marketing tools.  With this, IKEA will be examined via the use of SWOT Analysis. The basis of external and internal analysis is to construe factors that can affect the said business to situate itself to take advantage of opportunities, and manage threats discovered via an analysis of external environments. Particularly, it also aids in spotting present weaknesses and strengths that may affect the organizations capabilities. Strengths (Internal factors) A strong worldwide brand that attracts key consumer groups. A Clear Vision to create a better everyday life for many people A strong concept. IKEA offers a wide range of well-designed products at a price, everyone can afford. Good product image. IKEA has an ideal balance between function, quality, design and price Weaknesses (Internal factors) Large global business. This makes quality control difficult to control and it signifies a weak link in the chain of supply. The necessity of low cost products. Although products are at a low price, consumers still need to feel that they are getting value for their money. Cultural differences. diversified markets Japan, China and the USA Restricted manufacturing  capabilities. IKEA relies on subcontracted manufacturers. Opportunities (External factors) An increased demand for low cost merchandise. Due to trends in the present financial state of the global economy, consumers opt for less expensive goods rather than shopping at expensive stores. The rapidly emergent Asian countries with wealthy middle-class population represent opportunities to enter and market the concept of affordable modern furniture to fit a particular lifestyle. Opportunity to enhance levels of customer service through E- Commerce as the added business capability. Threats (External factors) Social trends decelerate amount of first time buyers coming into the housing market. Market forces more competitors entering the low price household and furnishings markets. Imitated Concept -Within growing competitive retail markets mainstream retailers are beginning to mirror the model Economic factors the global financial crisis reduced disposable income and customer spending. We can see this from the table below. IKEAs turnover was the same in 2009 as it was in 2008. Source: www.ikea.com (2010) Porters Five Forces Market Entry Seeing that IKEA has such a unique concept and brand name it will be difficult to copy the IKEA way. However, another furniture company can enter the furniture industry with a low- cost strategy inclusive of home delivery, opposing to IKEA non-home delivery method. IKEAs stores are not very much located in small towns with small outlets so this is an opportunity for new competitors to enter small towns with another low cost strategy with smaller outlets. This may attract a new sector of consumers. Supplier Power According to IKEAs welcome inside yearly summary , IKEA had 1,074 suppliers in 55 countries in 2010 Most of the suppliers operate in the IKEA group and compete with other suppliers, and they have a modest bargaining power. Because of low pricing, IKEAs profit margin also affects the prices in raw materials than by prices in labour. The bargaining power of a supplier could be a threat for the profit of the company, and both IKEA is very much aware of it.   In light of this IKEA endeavours to maintain good relationships with its suppliers, in this IKEA ensure that the IKEA group benefits in the said contract while suppliers benefit from the mutual agreement. Competitive Rivalry IKEA is comfortable with its competitive position, and also trying to maintain its competitive edge among rivals. IKEA operates in a extremely competitive industry, characterized by other low priced furniture producers such as Galiform of England and retailers such as Wal-Mart of the United States. Internally, the group has seen differences of opinion regarding product offerings and positioning. Because of powerful global competition, IKEA has intelligently attempted to compete by entering the markets which typically pose the largest competition, such as China and Japan. power of the buyers Americans-the primary consumer base for IKEAs debut in the American Market. The most likely IKEA shopper are those sort of people who travel abroad, like taking risks, enjoy fine food and wine, have a frequent flier plan, and are early adopters of trendy consumer technologies such as Discmans, laptops, and cell phones (Lyne, 2009). IKEAs management ensures that their customers will be satisfied in all ways with the quality of service that they supply. Particularly, the company has focused their marketing approach on the demands and needs of the buyer for household furniture as well as food service sources that satisfies them, and heavily positioned their products in this segment. Threats of substitutes There is no particular furniture substitute however IKEA has to keep up with the latest trends and advances so that their quality furniture does not go out of style and become irrelevant. Wal-mart, Target, Office Depot and other low-cost suppliers are indirect competitors in the fact they do offer low-priced furniture that consumers pull together themselves. Conversely, these indirect substitutes vary in detail because these are general retailers instead of being a specific retailer as IKEA is a retailer of household furniture. PESTEL Analysis Political As part of the national or global trends and changes, IKEA is just one example of firms that are successful in both domestic and international business . The Swedish furniture retailer has found the Scandinavian style of furniture that was combined with do-it-youself flat packaging became popular and set a global cult brand . Economic The Company, due to the economic changes and trends are adopting different kind of strategies that will take an appeal on their customers and aiming to own the customer loyalty . Economically, IKEA is low cost. This is a big piece of breaking into the American market. IKEA had to focus and advertising campaign directed specifically to thwart Americans unwillingness to part with their styling of furniture. Social The IKEA contributed much in the society as they provide opportunities in people and the employees are entitled in different benefits such as insurance and pensions ( 2005). Moreover, the company promises to provide more high quality furniture that sticks to their original concept stylish furniture at low prices. Technological IKEA uses superior technology and systems to encourage shorter waiting times, accurate scheduling, tracking and trading patterns, and staffing. The system made the IKEA in a position to ensure the right number of staff in a right place and in a right time to match the unique trading pattern s at each stores of IKEA. The company view in optimizing everything from the supply chain is also optimizing and managing the workforce to create an efficient store environment and keep customers happy . Environmental Concerning the environmental factors such as the air, noise, and water, inspections are put in place to ensure the company provides remedial actions within a stipulated time. The environmental inspection consists of legal documents and environmental authorities as the business operations are continuing. Legal The legal compliance of IKEA is sternly implemented with pertinent laws and regulations that affect to the environment, social and working conditions. The company also scheduled the most demanding requirements to be specific in maintaining the list of laws and regulations and with the procedures. Analyzing IKEAs Capability Based on the given synopsis of the IKEA Company it is recognized that IKEA exerts a strategic approach in order to maintain their competitive edge in the furniture industry. The management of the company is able to identify the priorities of the business and make decisions in line with the strategic direction, by placing considerations of the business and its stakeholders. IKEA is competent as it focuses on the significance of both internal and external customers to guarantee that these customers remain satisfied and loyal.   The company also ensures that they motivate, coach, guide, and support their staff to realise the mission of the IKEA. Additionally, IKEAs capability to identify its suppliers is another factor that maintains the companys competitive advantage. The ability of management to differentiate and diversify their business strategy to dominate the global market can also be considered as major capabilities of IKEA Resource Based View Analysis IKEA selects the most feasible position when it comes to delivery of items. Their warehouse is smartly located with different sectors to have greater control of activities. This strategy analyses the deployment of resources, processing time and queue times for various actions. IKEAs staff is rotated in order to complete customers orders from each picking area. Resources are simulated at higher levels and are applied and detailed in applicable working schedules. Stakeholders Analysis Other than what is already known about IKEA, it is observed that besides the management of the business, IKEAs customers play an important role in the accomplishment of the organizational goals. The management skills and capabilities of the pioneers of the company have propelled IKEA into being a powerful entity in the furniture industry today. Furthermore, the loyalty of its customers has also greatly assisted IKEA in maintaining its competitive edge. Customers and workforce entities go hand in hand, as IKEAs employees are the ones who work effortlessly ensuring that the company satisfies the demands of its customers. Therefore, when customers are satisfied, as they get value for their money with IKEA, they will remain loyal and hence build IKEAs value chain. The suppliers and stakeholder s can be considered an additional factor that made IKEA the success they are at present. IKEAs Strategic Issues and Challenges Competition The IKEAs furniture competitors offers different styles and functionality. Conrin targets a new low cost in terms of furniture line; Cratel Barrel offers a furniture in a box which is subject in higher prices; Ethan Allen aimed at a more upscale market; Wal-Mart is equipped in a big box furniture that is categorized under the general store must-have-items, but dont have much of a style. IKEA is the most successful in delivering the complete package for the customers that reflects on weak rivalries.   Natural Resources IKEA is the biggest furnishing company world wide, so it needs al lot of wood. This implicates, that there are confrontations with nature protecting organisations. The IKEA Concept The IKEA concept is easy to take up. Companies like Bush Industries in the USA have taken over the concept of cheap furniture, but they adopted their products to the American habits. Reaching Limited Customers The fundamental problem which IKEA is currently facing is that they are only reaching a limited amount of customers due to their few store locations. Event that founder retires or dies Major challenge to keep the core values alive especially when the company becomes larger and more diverse and the founder retires from the business. Catalogue Distribution IKEA want to increase the return on investment for the catalogue distribution, which is a substantial investment, and remain ahead of the competition in terms of business strategy Solutions to IKEAs constraints Catalouge IKEA needs to make sure than they distribute their catalogues who can be potential IKEA customers in terms of where they are located and ther demographic attributes. IKEA can also sell its catalogue at a low price to help generate some revenue as its catalogue is its biggest marketing mechanism. Low price The company must ensure that it is always known for having the lowest prices on the market in the future. Communication plays an important role here. IKEA must main its low cost leadership by using the low cost leadership strategy. Market forces IKEA is large enough to enjoy economies of scale. This lowers average costs in the end through, for instance, better use of technology or outsoucing specialized managers. Economies of scale also gives a business a competitive edge if cost savings are then passed on to customers in the form of lower prices. This puts up high barriers to entry for smaller companies entering the market. Communications. IKEA needs to maintain communication with its consumers and other stakeholders about its environmental actions. Store Locations. IKEA needs to strategically place its outlets where it has never been before. IKEA usually has large outlets in large cities. However, a tactical approach will be to launch smaller outlets in smaller towns. This will attract a new sector of customers hence increasing IKEAs profitably in the furniture industry. A new organizational structure will be necessary because of moving the organization from a global perspective towards a transnational perspective. Where the global organization is designed as to increase production efficiencies using global economies of scale and scope concepts, the transnational organization combines efficiency, local responsiveness and organizational learning. In order to assist the transition process towards such an organization, the IKEA group has to drastically transform its approach on the function of its subsidiaries. At present, IKEAs subsidiaries are barely no more than expansions of the business head office in Sweden. The responsibility of the subsidiaries is not to sway parent company strategies, but moderately follow instructions from home country Sweden. High localization pressures emerging due to demographic and cultural differences will compel subsidiaries to take strategic initiatives to act in response to local market requirements. The new organization would be easier to follow and pass on more accountability to subsidiaries. The centralized research and development department would have form strategic in-house networks with these subsidiaries and, in a mutual approach, develop products that are adopted to match country level requirements. Strategic corporate direction has to be maintained, since there is a need to safeguard its market niche. The changes projected in the organizational structure will have promising impacts on the company culture, which is currently founded on the IKEA concept or the IKEA way. A reduced amount of management from Sweden will trigger the incursion of new principles, values, and measures into the IKEA way. This will boost the intricacy of the operational culture, but will improve decision-making based on a spot on international dimension. CONCLUSION To conclude, with this position analysis, appropriate evaluation has been considered using different marketing tools, which lead to the determination of the present position of the IKEA Company.   This analysis has revealed which parts of the IKEA business entity that requires development and altering in order to maintain the competitive edge. The IKEA strategy is unique but it works, as IKEA is a leader in the global market. IKEA places its focus on further profit creation and growth and development. It can be said that based on the given case, IKEA strategy is something which is different but effective to achieve their goal of dominating the global market. Giving value to their stakeholders is one of the vital approaches that the company had used. In addition, their ability to innovate and diversify their products has also been identified as part of the strategy of IKEA. In addition, because of the competitive situation of the company, there is a strong barrier to entry for a new household furniture as well as food market that would compete with IKEA.   As the company is competing in both local and large-scale market environment, IKEAs feasibility is to achieve more customers from altered areas of the world and to provide each customers quality and resourceful household furniture products and will satisfy their needs while enjoying reasonable and reasonable prices.   The company is looking forward to give the customers more from what they are expecting via technological innovations.  In addition, the strategy of the company also includes their ability to adapt to the changing needs and demands of their target market even in different parts of the world. IKEA is in a favourable position to carryon operations in the years ahead. Bibliography De Wit, Bob and Meyer, Ron (2005) Strategy Synthesis. Second edition. London: Thomson Learning. Print ISBN 1 86152 965 1. Johnson, Gerry; Scholes, Kevan; and Whittington, Richard (2005) Exploring Corporate Strategy. 7th edition. Harlow, Essex: Pearson Education. Print ISBN 0 273 68734 4. Available through Voyager (UH LIS main catalogue) as an electronic resource. Mintzberg, Henry; Ahlstrand, Bruce; and Lampel, Joseph (1998) Strategy Safari: The Complete Guide Through the Wilds of Strategic Management. Harlow, Essex: Pearson Education. Print ISBN 0 273 65636 8. Porter, Michael E (1979) How Competitive Forces Shape Strategy. Harvard Business Review, March/ April, Volume 57, Issue 2. Available through UH LIS electronic journals (Business Source Complete). IKEA Sustainability Report for Fiscal Year 2009 and Fiscal Year 2010. Welcome Inside

The Most Influential Woman of the Past Millenium: Elizabeth Cady Stanto

The Most Influential Woman of the Past Millenium: Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Mary Wollstonecraft, and Rosa Parks Elizabeth Cady Stanton If there had never been born an Elizabeth Cady Stanton, women may have never seen the rights and privileges granted to us in the Nineteenth Amendment. She was the leading fighter and driving force for women's rights; she dedicated her whole life to the struggle for equality. Elizabeth had learned from her father at an early age how to debate and win court cases, and she had also experienced the discriminations against women first hand. These two qualities lead to the most influential and motivating speeches against inequality when she was older. Elizabeth vowed to herself that she would "change how women were viewed in society" (Hildgard 2); and that, she did! Due to her strong belief in equality, she had the word "obey" removed from her wedding vow before she would marry Henry Brewster Stanton, an abolitionist, who "loved her haughty nature and strong will" (Raven 85). While partaking in their honeymoon, they attended the World's First Anti-slavery Convention in London, Stanton and Lucretia Mott were failed to be noticed as "legitimate delegates"(Read 417). The convention's sexual barrier humiliated and angered Stanton; she promised to start a women's convention to battle the issue of equality. A cause that she faught against for most of her lifetime. Eight years later, Stanton, along with four other women, held the first women's convention at Seneca Falls. Here hundreds of women met to discuss the fact that they had been denied their natural rights and religious freedom. The women used the Declaration of Independence to write the Declaration of Sentiments, which included the women's bil... ...king Press, 1972. "Hildgard." Distinguished Women, Fields of Activtity. Distinguished Women. 28 January 2000 . James, Edward T., et al ed. Notable Women. Volume I. Cambridge, Massachusetts: The Belknap Press. Martin, Linda, et al., eds. 1000 Makers of the Millenium. New York: DK Publishing, 1999. Raven, Susan, and Alison Weir. Women of Achievement. New York: Harmony Books, 1981. Read, Phyllis J., and Bernard L. Witlieb. The Book of Women's Firsts. New York: Random House, 1992. Saari, Peggy, ed. Prominent Women of the 20th Century. Volume 4. New York: International Thompson Publishing Company, 1996. Schlesinger, Arthur M. Jr. Eleanor of Acquitaine. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. "The National Women's Hall of Fame." Internet. 19 January 2000 .

Inclusive Education Essay example -- Special Education Essays

Currently, there are many obstacles that face special education. Although we live in a democratic nation, many people are unaware that every human being is to be treated equally in an educational institution. Is society conscious of the fact that students with special needs are able to be included in regular education classrooms, whether they be mentally or physically disabled? What actions should people take as legislator, citizen, parent, teacher or student? Typically, the primary responsibility of general education teachers is to use their skills to instruct students in curricula dictated by the school system. Typically the primary responsibility of special education teachers is to provide instruction by adapting and developing materials to match the learning styles, strengths, and special needs of each of their students. Contrary to these opposite methods, the act of placing special education students in regular education classrooms is called inclusion. It is central to contemporary special education and is a program affecting education today. Inclusion aims to encourage schools to reconsider their structure, teaching approaches, pupil grouping, and use of support so that the school responds to the needs of all pupils. (Farrel, p. 39) I am presently studying to become a secondary education/English teacher and it is my task as a future educator to educate the public of inclusion and its affects on all students. Because inclusive education is quickly becoming important in schools today, this paper will discuss and inform readers of the legal history of inclusion, inclusive schools (with a closer look at the IDEA law), and the major debate over this current issue. The call for inclusive education is the outc... ... Michael Farrell. McAfee, James K., Ph.D (2000). Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education. PA: Pennsylvania Department of Education Ripley, Susan (1997, July). Collaboration between General and Special Education Teachers. ERIC Digest. Retrieved March 23, 2003 from, ERIC Clearinghouse on Teaching and Teacher Education Washington DC. Web site: http://wwww.ericfacility.net/ericdigests/ed409317.html Stainback, William & Stainback, Susan (1992). Controversial Issues Confronting Special Education. Massachusetts: Allyn and Bacon U.S. Department of Education (2003, March). IDEA 97’. Retrieved March 23, 2003 from,The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) Web site: http://www.ed.gov/offices/OSERS/ Winzer, Margaret A., & Mazurek, Kas (2000). Special Education in the 21st Century. Washington, CD: Gallaudet University Press

Education Amendment Essay -- Education

Over the years, the federal government has steadily been increasing its control of public education in the United States. The most notable developments of the last decade include the No Child Left Behind Act off 2001 and the ED Recovery Act, part of President Obama’s comprehensive recovery plan. As of September 30, 2010, $97.4 billion dollars was allocated under the ED Recovery Act (Department of Education). With the significant increase in federal interference, the American public should expect positive results. Instead, schools are faced with the same problems they had before the increase in federal interest and, in addition, even more problems arise. Federal involvement in education wastes billions of dollars every year while creating an education system that exists to promote politics, not education. It is time for the federal government to permanently cease its involvement in education. The federal government has been pouring money into the education system for decades. With the additional support the states have been receiving, student achievement and opportunities should be increasing. Instead, school districts are cutting all but the basic programs and achievement remains stagnant. Federal spending per student has tripled since 1970, even when adjusted for inflation (Coulson), but test scores haven’t changed (McCluskey). The only change that was more than 1% was in science, and those scores indicated a drop in scores, not the expected increase (Coulson). Federal money is going down the drain, and the states seem content to keep it that way because it lifts the burden of improving their own schools. This waste of money should not continue. The fundamental premise behind federal control of education is that every child... ...tion. Now it is weak, but it can again be the best in the world. The federal government must cease to involve itself in the field of education. Only then will American students begin to receive the education they deserve. Works Cited Coulson, Andrew J. â€Å"Has Federal Involvement Improved America’s Schools?†. Cato Institute, 2009. Web. 30 November 2010. Department of Education. â€Å"Recovery Act Highlights†. U.S. Department of Education, no date. Web. 30 November 2010. McCluskey, Neal. â€Å"No Federal Failure Left Behind†. Cato Institute, 2004. Web. 30 November 2010. McCluskey, Neal. â€Å"Why We Fight: How Public Schools Cause Social Conflict†. Policy Analysis No. 587. Cato Institute, 2007. Web. 30 November 2010. Romanowski, Michael H. â€Å"What You Don’t Know Can’t Hurt You: Textbook Omissions and 9/11†. The Clearing House; 82:6 (August 2009). Web. 30 November 2010.

Governor General in Canada

Overview My research paper will discuss the proposal of institutional reform concerning the function of Governor General. Canada is a constitutional monarchy and the role of the Governor General is to represent Canada as a whole in replace of the Crown or the Queen. Since Canada has no longer any real ties with the British Sovereignty in terms of government rules many would argue if the role of the Governor General has any significance to being an important political actor in Canada’s Constitution.To begin this paper, I will discuss a brief overview on what the role of a Governor General is, their formal powers and executive powers, dignified and efficient. My research paper will then emphasize on an institutional reform in regards to the function of the Governor General, it will discuss why Canada does not need a representation of the Crown any longer since the Governor General’s actions are mainly symbolic, therefore meaning that the new reform would have no Governor General appointed royally but instead an elected officer.The next argument in the development of the research will discuss the arguments against this institutional reform and why the Governor General’s role is still significant in Canada and why this political actor should still be a part of the Canadian Constitution, since in fact it is part of Canadian history and politics. And then lastly on the development is what my personal opinion is on the matter of having an institution reform or not and then finally finishing off with the conclusion of my paper. Bibliography 1. Desserud, Donald (2006). The Confidence Convention under the Canadian Parliamentary System.Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Study of Parliament Group. This article discusses one of the efficient powers of the governor general, dissolving of parliament. The governor general takes advice from the prime minister, when the prime minister might be in a situation where the House of Commons throws a non-confidence vote, an d through some motivation behind it the prime minister would then ask permission of the Governor General, who has the power to dissolve parliament, especially when there is a minority government and this book will discuss a few examples of it.This source is useful because it can help us understand why the Governor General’s role shares relevance. 2. Hicks, B. (2009). Guiding the Governor General's Prerogatives: Constitutional Convention Versus an Apolitical Decision Rule. Constitutional Forum, 18(2), 55-67. This article talks about the conventional powers the Governor General has and how it has always been around and a part of Canadian politics.Some scholars disagree with these constitutional conventions and how it should be more democratic, such as an elected official who understands more about the politics of Canada and not just representing the country. This article can be favourable to the argument of having an institutional reform. 3. Hicks, B. M. (2010). The Crown's â⠂¬Å"Democratic† Reserve Powers. Journal Of Canadian Studies, 44(2), 5-31. This journal is about Canada’s responsible government and how the powers of the Governor General can be somewhat misused because of Parliament keeping limits on some powers.Since Canada has been free from British Sovereignty, the Governor General holds more importance in guiding the prime minister but then again since the Governor General’s powers are more dignified rather than efficient, he or she is advised by the prime minister and sometimes these decisions go in favour for the prime minister and this may not always be fair. This journal can go in favour of the argument to have an institutional reform, because the powers of the Governor General may only be helping out the prime minister and may not be so democratic. 4. Messamore, B. J. (2005). The line over which he must not pass': Defining the Office of Governor General, 1878. Canadian Historical Review, 86(3), 453-483. This press revie w goes back all the way to the 19th century, when the formation of the Canadian Constitution first began; it talks about the British Sovereignty’s representation that which is the Governor General. This reference can be helpful to this research paper because it gives the history of the Governor General and how this role of a political actor first started which can be relevant in the introduction of the paper and can give an overview of this significant actor. . Smith, David (1995). The Invisible Crown: The First Principle of Canadian Government. Toronto, Ontario: University of Toronto Press. This book discusses how the Crown, the Governor General, has contributed a great amount to Canada and its parliamentary government. This book talks about the significance of the Governor General and how its functions have changed Canadian politics for the better in terms of social, geographic and economic conditions. This reference will be useful towards the research paper when he argumen t is opposed to an institutional reform. 6. W. , D. D. (2009). Jean, Michaelle. Current Biography, 70(6), 36-42. This biography is about Michaelle Jean, Canada’s current Governor General. This reference can be useful for the research paper because it can give a certain insight on the life of a Governor General, their accomplishments and what gives them the factor of becoming a Governor General which is a pretty important role in Canada’s Constitution.This biography can favour the argument of not having an institutional reform because it can give a better understanding that not just anyone can become Governor General and that they can represent and shape Canada as a country for the better. 7. Wheeldon, J. (2011). Actors, Targets, and Guardians: Using Routine Activities Theory to Explore the 2008 Decision to Prorogue Parliament In Canada. Canadian Journal of Sociology, 36(1), 59-93.This article discusses the 2008 prorogation request by Stephen Harper to Michaelle Jean wh ich was highly criticized by many who thought she should have not accepted the request. This article holds significance because it can show how the Governor General’s role may not be as significant because their role may not be helpful to the government an may be more in favour to the prime minister but not towards the good of the Canadian parliament and therefore to the good of the Canadian citizens. Function of Governor General: The Idea of an Institutional Reform Priya Patel 6587402