Kauflauf GmbH Essay

Business model: Kauflauf GmbH was founded in 2002. First European organisation to offer _’ software as a service’_ The product portfolio included Customer Relationship Management and ERP software for – Auto Parts, Computer/ Office Supplies and Medical Devices companies Product owners worked with design team, sales force to prioritize new features and anticipate customer demands Their competitive advantage was derived from their successful field consultants who provided consulting and support to customers Kauflauf had three divisions: Development and Support services, Marketing Sales They had a strong competitive advantage due to _hands on consulting_ provided by field consultants backed up by the development group. As opposed to competitors who targeted larger firms, Kauflauf targeted middle market (revenues from â‚ ¬100 million to â‚ ¬1 billion) and top-tier smaller customers. _CLIENT EDUCATION, HAND HOLDING AND CUSTOMIZATION_ were the main areas of focus for the sales force, in order to obtain customer loyalty. The culture of the company was _YOUTH ORIENTED AND ANTI-HIERARCHICAL_ . It was characterized by small company friendliness and deep pride in superior software engineering. JESS WESTERLEY An American woman who had lived with her family in Germany as a child, Jess had developed a love for the country and was fluent in the language. She has been hired as Assistant Product Owner (CRM product) for computer and office supply wholesalers and retailers. CREDENTIALS: Jess came with a proven track record. She had earlier worked with a rapidly growing CRM software service provider in the United States, where she demonstrated great success in growing market share. Has high degree of analytical capabilities and keen grasp of market evolution. Is deeply interested in computers, management and international business. Able to speak German and form informal relationships with her colleagues. RESPONSIBILITIES: To understand the market and customers. To establish product development priorities to serve both existing and future customer needs. To increase sales volume and enable greater penetration in the global CRM subscription software market JESS WESTERLY’S PROPOSED CHANGE Even if the external environment was not changing, the competitive landscape was stable and Kauflauf was doing well in terms of business and revenues, the company still required to bring about a change. The internal environment  was changing and demanded for Kauflauf to shake itself up in regard to its strategy, processes and structure. With its single minded focus to operate in the middle size market segment, the firm was operating in silos. There was a persistent failure to spot new development and opportunities in the market. Thus, to trigger off innovation, increase sales revenue and build more agility in the company, Jess Westerly proposed a change in the sales call patterns at Kauflauf GmbH, with the field consultants redirecting atleast 30% of their time and focus towards larger, more established potential purchasers of CRM software services in the computer and office supply business. Based on Jess westerly’s own quantitative analysis and simulations, she had identified that: Only 35 % of the consultant’s time went to customers who produced 85% of the revenues, while the remaining time was spent with smaller, less profitable accounts By reducing the time spent with customers with annual sales volume less than â‚ ¬ 250,000 (Class 5 and 6 clients) by 20%, and instead focusing on bigger prospective clients , Kauflauf could increase revenues by 30% Field Consultants spending time on closing sales for companies with less than â‚ ¬100,000 in annual sales volume only yields suboptimal returns Kauflauf’s recent success in getting business from Dart, one of world’s largest suppliers of computer parts through persistent call efforts also supported her proposal Thus, the company was losing significant sales growth opportunities by strictly focusing on smaller accounts and neglecting large prospective companies. WHY IT FAILED – THE RESISTANCE TO CHANGE 1. An organization-level change requires the change agent to clearly communicate the vision ahead to those being most impacted by the change. Jess Westerley did not speak to RSDs and consultants before sending out the memo to implement the changes. 2. Change requires the agent to form a core group of people who buy into his/her idea and begin the change process. Jess did not explain why there was a need for change, even though there were no changes in the company’s external environment. Internally, it seemed that all was well too. Hence, the field consultants felt that she was intruding into their work schedule. To them, it appeared that she was interfering with their work-patterns though she had no idea of how things actually worked. 3. Jess did not understand the challenges faced by consultants at different levels of experience – She did not seek the consultants’ opinion which could have contributed to the change. The issues that came to light when Jess sent out the memo were : Consultants felt that this proposal was not for their market They did not wish to work for a firm that served larger accounts They doubted whether such a change would be good for the firms competitive advantage They doubted Jess’ understanding of different markets They had concerns about Kauflauf’s development capacity to support class 1 and 2 sales 4. She did not get approvals from the higher management and RSDs before approaching the Field consultants. An approval from them might have made  them think of the change more seriously. However, the entire change process that she suggested was completely based only on her analysis and simulations, and it did not have the backing of the higher-ups. 5. Large clients did not allow consultants to have access to top management and hence closing a sale was tougher and less probable. However, this was the one point which gave maximum motivation to the consultants. Since closing a successful sale required a lot more effort with larger clients, the consultants were left disappointed at times when all their efforts did not bear fruit. Hence they were up in arms against the idea of changing their call patterns towards larger clients.

Position Paper (Education) on Philosophy Essay

The word education is defined as the act or process of imparting or acquiring general knowledge, developing the powers of reasoning and judgment, and generally of preparing oneself or others intellectually for mature life, it is also an art of teaching; pedagogics. Education signify the activity, process, or enterprise of educating or being educated and sometimes to signify the discipline or field of study taught in different schools of education that concerns itself with this activity, process and training. Education has many roots, and since the beginning of man, it has been started and knowledge developed and had been passed from one generation to another. Every generation, it is somehow passed on its stock of values, traditions, methods and skill. The passing on of culture is also known as enculturation and the learning of social values and behaviors is socialization. The history of the curricula of such education reflects history itself, the history of knowledge, beliefs, skills and cultures of man. It is somehow complex because it started with survival and then man paints his own ideas as he travels in life and explore what could be done. He then finds himself being curious and begins finding answers to his questions. One example are the findings of archaeologist who studied the past and came to know different kinds of human activities and cultures, in the caves, based on artifacts, they come to know that people start to draw, write symbols which later was translated and was believed that somehow, man came to learn by himself and knowledge is passed on, their practices somehow gave contribution in our life today, in reading, writing, speaking which is related to education. In pre-literate societies, education was carried out orally and through observation. The young first learned informally from their parents, extended family and grandparents as simple as first steps in reading and writing. At later stages they received instruction of a more structured and formal nature, like the school, imparted by people not necessarily related, in the context of initiation, religion or ritual. There are many forms of education, and it has only one goal: to develop knowledge. Let’s take Philosophical education; it is the process of education or the philosophy of the discipline of education. It is part of the discipline in the sense of being concerned with the articulation, desideratum, arrangement, or results of the process of educating or being educated; or it may be metadisciplinary in the sense of being concerned with the concepts of the discipline, it also aims to investigate the educational significance of philosophy. It all started with the birth of philosophy, in the place of Greece and was spread worldwide. All cultures in all forms; prehistoric, medieval, or modern; Eastern, Western, religious or secular have their own unique schools of philosophy, arrived through both inheritance and through independent discovery. Such theories have flourished from different premises and approaches, examples of which include rationalism (any view appealing to reason as a source of knowledge or justification), empiricism (theory of knowledge that asserts that knowledge comes only or primarily from sensory experience.) and even through leaps of faith, hope and inheritance. There may be different kinds of philosophical school, but the goal is to understand the development of philosophical ideas through time. Philosophy of education as such does not describe, compare, or explain any enterprises to systems of education, past or present; except it is concerned with the tracing of its own history, it leaves such delving to the history and sociology of education. Analytical philosophy of education is the logical positivist principle that there are no any specifically philosophical truths and that the basis of philosophy is the logical resolution of thoughts. This may be contrasted with the traditional foundationalism, which considers philosophy as a special, elite science that investigates the fundamental reasons and principles of everything. As an outcome, many analytic philosophers have considered their exploration as continuous with, or subordinate to, those of the natural sciences. It is meta to the discipline of education–to all the inquiries and thinking about education. It comprehends of its task as that of analysis: the definition of educational concepts like teaching, indoctri nation, trait, and ability, and including the concept of education itself. * BODY Philosophical education was traditionally developed by philosophers for example, Aristotle, Augustine, and John Locke Jean Jacques Rousseau, as part of their philosophical systems, in the context of their ethical theories. * Plato Plato’s allegory of the cave in his most important work, the Republic wherein he conceives the following vision: prisoners are chained in such a way that they face the dark and back part of the cave. They have been there for a long time and are like doomed and had nothing to do and has no perception in life. They can see nothing but themselves. They see only shadows of some certain stuff cast by a fire that burnt in a ledge above and behind them which they had no care about, between the fire and the prisoners is a wall line path alon g which people walk carrying vases alongside, they hear echoes of voices. Socrates then supposes that a prisoner is freed and permitted to stand up and explore the cave. Now, he is forced up the â€Å"steep and rugged ascent† (Plato’s allegory of education) and brought outside the sunlit exterior world. But the light blinds him. He must first look at the shadows of the trees, then at the mountains. Finally, he is able to see the sun itself. We are like the prisoners in the cave, still in the darkness not educated and are not yet philosophers. It’s like the cave is our confined world and we are still on our own selves and not merely had explored the outside bright world for our development, and inside the cave we see shadows, hear voices like there is a chaos going on we only implement fear, fear of exploring our own world and its vast approach to us. We are like prisoners in our own life which has no particular benefit to us, we can never attain real knowledge if we do not explore. The journey out the cave is said to be the philosophical education and the prisoner who was unchained is the kind of person who ought to be educated because he explored and find out what is behind the light, he has attained warmth and truth. Through this, one can conclude that most of the human beings would rather live a comfortable, happy and familiar life, than a life full of obstacles and pain, which would ultimately lead them to the â€Å"larger truths of life†. Man is contended with the â€Å"consensus reality†, i.e. the reality agreed by all, even if it is as imaginary and as unreal as the shadows on the walls of the cave man is also contended that they have the security of a family, of a society, of religion around them. However, according to Plato, there will come one questioner, one philosopher, from time to time, who will critically look at himself and the world around him, who will wonder why things are the way they are and then will make his own decisions regarding how things should be and that is being open-minded and being curious. * Jean Jacques Rousseau Jean Jacques Rousseau’s view on education differ to those with Plato, The focus of Émile is upon the individual tuition of a boy/young man in line with the principles of ‘natural education’. This focus tends to be what is taken up by later commentators, yet Rousseau’s concern with the in dividual is balanced in some of his other writing with the need for public or national education. Rousseau believed it was possible to preserve the original nature of the child by careful control of his education and environment based on an analysis of the different physical and psychological stages through which he passed from birth to maturity. He also believed we can make good citizens out of training. From the first moment of life, men ought to begin learning to deserve to live; he finds himself reasons why he is living. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1762) Émile (1911 edn.), London: Dent, pp.6. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1762) Émile (1911 edn.), London: Dent, pp.6. Now each of these factors in education is wholly beyond our control, things are only partly in our power; the education of men is the only one controlled by us; and even here our power is largely illusory, for who can hope to direct every word and deed of all with whom the child has to do. Viewed as an art, the success of education is almost impossible since the essential conditions of success are beyond our control. Our efforts may bring us within sight of the goal, but fortune must favor us if we are to reach it. What is this goal? As we have just shown, it is the goal of nature. Since all three modes of education must work together, the two that we can control must follow the lead of that which is beyond our control. * CONCLUSION Education is really vast. I can say that I agree with both philosophers, all of us should be educated for education is the grounds for gaining knowledge and wisdom. It is an important tool that can be used for the success of your future. The more you are educated while you are young, the better chance you’ll have at gaining a successful career. Being educated is being well-informed. Once you have made the decision to attain an education, certain virtues must be possessed. You must be motivated by something, whether it is money, power, or just the desire to learn. It is motivation that drives you to learn new things and to expand your horizons. You must prepare for an education. For everything that you want to know, there is something else you need to know first. It’s like before you can be proficient on a piano you must know music, and before you can be proficient on a computer you must learn to use a keyboard and a mouse before you can dance you should have training grounds. Education is the key to success. * BIBLIOGRAPHY * Phaedo, 82c; and The Republic, book VII, 518d, both in Plato, Complete Works, ed. JohnM.Cooper * Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1762) Émile (1911 edn.), London: Dent, pp.6.

Nursing and Reflective Practice Essay

â€Å"Reflection is not just a thoughtful practice, but a learning experience†. (Jarvis 1992) This is a reflection on an incident that occurred during a shift on the labour ward. I have chosen Gibbs model of reflection (1988) to guide my reflective process. (Gibbs 1998) (Appendix I). Gibbs model (1998) goes through six important points to aid the reflective process, including description of incident, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion and finally action plan. The advantage of Gibbs’s six-stage model is that it allows you to learn from experiences and make changes for your future practice. Description The incident involves the administration of a wrong opiate drug to a postnatal patient. The incident occurred whilst checking and administering a controlled drug. The drug error was discovered by the co-ordinator at the end of the day shift. During the daily checking of the controlled drugs, the co-ordinator and another midwife, found a discrepancy with the number of Diamorphine 10mg and Morphine 10mg ampoules, there being one too many Morphine 10mg ampoules and one too few of the Diamorphine 10mg ampoules. Myself, as the midwife checking the drug, along with the midwife who administered the Diamorphine to her patient, were the only midwives to have administered a controlled drug on the shift. The drugs were correct on the previous daily check. Feelings On being informed of the error my initial feelings were of disbelief and horror. I was confused; two midwives had checked the drug and neither of us noted the mistake. I felt very upset and embarrassed that I had made this mistake, since qualifying as a midwife I have never made such an error. When the error was highlighted I instantly remembered checking Diamorphine and mixing the drug with 2mls of water for injections, I remembered talking to the other midwife concerned about personal affairs. I felt ashamed that I had allowed myself be distracted during such an important task. I was very angry that I had allowed myself to become complacent about drug administration. The Code States that midwives shall, â€Å"provide a high standard of practice and care at all times†, (NMC 2008), I felt that I had not only failed the patient but the profession too. I started to worry about the potential effects to the patient concerned. The Standards for Medicine Management, (NMC 2010), states â€Å" as a registrant, if you make an error you must take any action to prevent any potential harm to the patient†. The patient had suffered no real harm as a result of the dug error and she was recovering well post-operatively. Evaluation The main advantage regarding this incident is that the patient concerned came to no serious harm. Personally, I feel that I have learnt from the experience, thus enhancing my clinical practice. Gladstone (1995) agrees that planning problem solving strategies and accepting responsibility is found to lead to positive changes. This incident has highlighted the need for vigilance at all times. I have changed my practice to avoid drug errors occurring in the future, I am aware not to be complacent with drug administration. I will never let this or any other incident occur due to lack of concentration again in my practice. Analysis Drug administration is one of the highest risk areas of nursing practice and a matter of considerable concern for both managers and practitioners (Gladstone 1995). Consequently, detailed and comprehensive procedures and standards exist, thus ensuring safe, legal and effective practice, for example of the Medicines Act (1968) and NMC’s Guidelines for the Administration of Medicines (2007). The Consumer Protection Act 1987 and Medicines Act 1968 require that to administer medication, the practitioner has to ensure that the right medication is given, to the right patient, at the right time, in the right form of the drug, at the right dose and right route. Nursing & Midwifery Council’s Code of Professional Conduct (2004) emphasises the administration of medication is an area of concern for public safety, and generally follow the principles laid down by law. The NMC also publish the appropriate guidelines for nurses on the administration of medicines (NMC 2004). The Standards for Medicine Management (NMC 2010) states that I am â€Å"accountable for your actions and omissions†. This incident has highlighted the need for vigilance at all times. Rule 7 of the Midwives Rules and Standards (NMC2004), states that â€Å"A practising midwife shall only supply and administer those medicines, including analgesics, in respect of which she has received appropriate training as to us, dosage and method of administration†. Although the local policy and procedures were followed, it seems that unintentionally the incorrect drug was administered. As a registered midwife I am up to date with all training, I have never before in my practice made a drug error. Research studies demonstrate that many drug errors within clinical practice occur as a result of distractions on the ward, illegible writing or because nurses failed to check the patient’s name-band (Gladstone 1996). The incident discussed demonstrates how easily practitioners can become distracted when checking and administrating drugs. With regard to reporting drug errors, (Webster and Anderson 2002) found that several areas of concern emerged, including nurses’ confusion regarding the definition of drug errors and the appropriate actions to take when they occurred. Nurses also reported their fear of disciplinary action and the loss of their clinical confidence. The Guidelines for the Administration of Medicine by the Nursing and Midwifery Council advises that an open culture exists in order to encourage the immediate reporting of errors or incidents in the administration of medicines. It also advises that nurses who have been made the subject of local disciplinary action, has discouraged the reporting of incidents which is detrimental to patients. Furthermore, all errors and incidents have a thorough investigation at local level, taking into account the full context of the circumstances, which requires sensitivity (NMC 2004). To learn from our mistakes, Williams (1996) believes we first need to acknowledge that we have made them. As mistakes in a professional capacity do happen, these mistakes need to be used as a learning experience to reflect upon and to therefore avoid them from happening again. Conclusion As discussed previously, the administration of medicines is a vital part of the midwives role. Drug error is costly in terms of increased hospital stay, resources consumed and patient harm (Webster and Anderson 2002). A study by Kapborg (1999) showed that the most common errors among nurses were administration of the wrong drug and levels of drugs administered exceeding the prescribed ones. Action Plan From my experiences of the incident, I have learnt a valuable lesson. I no longer allow myself to be distracted from other members of staff, patients or relatives when I am in the process of administering medication. During this time I only have discussions with the patient to whom which I am given them their medication. I realise the seriousness of my error and I have since read literature to educate myself, the important of not repeating the same mistake again. My reflective practice has encompassed critical analysis of my self-awareness. Through this process, I have been able to learn from my mistake. The drug error incident has been a learning curve and I now feel that I have improved my practice and became a better midwife, thus improving patient care. REFERENCE LIST Alderman, C. (1999). The drug error nightmare. Nursing Standard. Vol.11(25) pp.24-25. Atkins S., Murphy K. (1993). Reflection: a review of the literature. Journal of Advanced Nursing. Vol.18. pp.1188-1192. Armitage, G. and Knapman, H. (2003). Adverse events in drug administration. Journal of Nurse Management. Vol.11(2). pp.130-140. Benner, P. (1982). From novice to expert. American Journal of Nursing. Vol.82. pp. 402-407. Boud, D., Keogh, R. and Walker, D. (1985). Reflection: Turning Experience into Learning. London: Kegan Press. Clarke, M. (1994). Action and reflection: practice and theory in nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing. Vol.11. pp.3-11. Department of Health. (2004). Building a Safer NHS for Patients: Improving Medication Safety. London: Department of Health. Dzik-Jurasz, D. (2001). A development programme for nurses. Nursing Times. Vol. 97. pp. 14. Gibbs, G. (1988). Learning by doing: A guide to teaching and learning methods. Further Education Unit, Oxford: Oxford Polytechnic. Goff, A. (1995). Reflective practice – what is it? A Literature review. British Journal of Nursing. Vol. 11. pp.24-29. Gladstone, J. (1995). Drug administration errors: a study into factors underlying the occurrence and reporting of drug errors in a district general hospital. Journal of Advanced Nursing. Vol. 22. pp. 628-37. Gladstone, J. (1996). Discipline fears mean drug errors are going unreported. Nursing Standard. Vol.10(2) pp. 4-10. Griffith, R. (2003). Administration of medicines part 1: the law and nursing. Nursing Standard. Vol.18(2) pp.47-54. Hainsworth, T. (2004). Improving medication safety. Nursing Times. Vol.100. p.7. Hibberd, J.M. and Norris, J. (1992). Striving for safety; experiences of nurses in a hospi tal under siege. Journal of Advanced Nursing. Vol.17. pp.487-495. James, C. and Clarke, B. (1994). Reflection practice and nursing: issues and implications for nurses today. Nurse Education Today. Vol 14. pp.82-90. Jarvis, P. (1992). Reflective practice and nursing. Nurse Education Today. Vol.12. pp174.181. Jasper, M. (2003). Beginning reflective practice: foundation in nursing and health care. Nelson Thornes: Cheltenham. Johns, C. (1995). Framing learning through reflection within Carper’s fundamental ways of knowing in nursing. Journal of Advanced Nursing Vol. 22 pp. 226-234. Kapborg, I. (1999) The nurse’s role in drug handling within municipal health and medical care. Journal of Advanced Nursing. Vol.30 p.950. Mayne, W., Jooton, D., Young, B., Marland, G., Harris, M., Lyttle, C.P. (2004) Enabling students to develop confidence in basic clinical skills. Nursing Times. Vol. 100(24) pp. 36-39. McNulty, L. (1999). Time to learn lessons from drug errors. Nursing Standard . Vol. 13(16) pp. 6-12. Newell, R. (1992). Anxiety, accuracy and reflection: the limits of professional development. Journal of Advanced Nursing. Vol.17. pp. 1326-1333 Newell, R. (1994). Reflective practice: an art and science. Nurse Education Today. Vol. 14 pp. 79-81. Nursing and Midwifery Council. (2004). Code of Professional Conduct. London: NMC. Nursing and Midwifery Council. (2004). Guidelines for the administration of medicines. London: NMC. Oborne, C.A., Burgess, V., Cavell, G., Colwill, S., Williams, R. (2002). Annonymous reporting of drug-related errors: application of a modified secondary care model in a community pharmacy setting. The Pharmaceutical Journal. Vol.268. pp. 101-103. O’Shea, E. (1999). Factors contributing to medical errors – a literature review. Journal of Clinical Nursing. Vol.8 p.496. Royal College of Nursing. (2006). Majority of drug errors made by nurses. Nursing Standard. Vol.20(30) p.10. Shephard, M. (2002). Medicines. Nursing Times. Vol. 98(16). pp.45-48. Smith, A. (2005). Reflective practice: a meaningful task for students. Nursing Standard. Vol.19(26) pp.33-37. Sprengel, A. (2004). Reducing Student Anxiety by Using Clinical Peer Mentoring With Beginning Nursing Students. Nurse Education Today. Vol.29(6) pp.246-250. Webster, C. S. and Anderson, D. J. (2002). A practical guide to the implementation of an effective incident reporting scheme to reduce medication error on the hospital ward. International Journal of Nursing Practice. Vol.8 p.176. White, C. (2000). Dummy run. Nursing Times Vol. 96(13) pp. 28-30. Wilkinson, J. (1996). Definiti on of reflective practice. (17th Edition). Edinburgh, Churchill Livingstone.

Making Financial Decision Based on Financial Information Assignment

Making Financial Decision Based on Financial Information - Assignment Example British Airways Plc and Iberia had merged to form a new leading airline group named International Airlines Group (IAG). IAG is formed, and its shares were listed on London Stock Exchange, on 24 January, 2011. As a result of the merger  with Iberia, British airline’s revenue has increased up 17 percent (to ?9,990 million), and the operating profit increased to ?518 million in 2011 (12 months to 31 December) when compared to the profit of 2010 i.e. ?342 million. Profit before tax in 2011 was ?679 million and in 2010 they had a loss of ?32 million. Fuel costs went up to ?3 billion in 2011. 2011 saw noteworthy hikes in the prices of fuel in opposition to the background of slow recovery of global economy.   British Airways was not resistant to outside factors distressing the aviation industry, but the IA Group which spent a great deal of 2011 in delivering powerful operational and financial performance, was able to establish firm foundations for a brilliant future.  The hike in the operating profit was delivered, regardless of fuel costs in the period, beyond ?3 billion, and up to 34 per cent annually. On the contrary, the cost of non-fuel units went down by 4.2 percent. The operating outcome for 2011(31 December) included charges of restructuring amounts ?12 million and they were chiefly concerned with its divisions. The restructuring charges of ?6 million in 2010 are chiefly relating to the costs of lease exit. The taxation charge for 31 Dec, 2011 was is ?7 million; and in nine months which ended on 31 December 2010 the credit was about ?13 million. Diminutions in corporation tax rate in the UK were substantively passed in 2011. The major rate of corporation tax was condensed to 26 from 28 percent with effect from 1st April 2011, and to twenty five per cent from 1 April 2012. â€Å"Net debt comprises the current and non-current portions of long-term borrowings, less cash and cash equivalents, and other current interest-bearing deposits† (Annual Report and Accounts 31 December 2011 n.d). The position of cash remains powerful with the cash and the cash equivalents to ?1,829 million.   Decisions: The current ratio of British Airways, according to the budget analysis for 2011 is 0.75 (Current Assets/ Current liability, 2774/3683). This means that the company has faces some difficulty in the repayment of its bill on timely basis. â€Å"Current ratio is a financial ratio that measures whether or not a company has enough resources to pay its debt over the next business cycle (usually 12 months) by comparing the firm's current assets to its current liabilities† (Current radio Interpretation 2009). Even though there is hike in the price of oil, British Airways preserves a strong focus on controllable costs, by functioning strongly with the suppliers. On the whole, the operational performance of British Airways is much stronger. It flights are punctual, and passenger are aware of it. 2. Explain the calculation of unit cost s and make pricing decisions using relevant information The unit cost is the cost per standard unit supplied, which can be a single sample of a specified number. When purchasing above a single unit, the total cost will rise with the number of units, other than it is general for the unit cost to reduce as quantity is increased. This discount in long run unit costs which occur from an increase in

Structure and Transition of Paragraphs and Sentence Construction Essay

Structure and Transition of Paragraphs and Sentence Construction - Essay Example Paragraphs could be made a little more cohesive and interwoven, at times your paragraph comprises of just a quote that can be avoided. Do try to add your own reflection/judgment on the quotes, which are great if aptly used. Your paragraph transitions are pretty ok but you need to put in your judgment for every episode so that your thesis will appear cohesive and well stretched out rather than expanded just for the heck of it. Probably you must have read/discussed some other works in class on similar lines do remember to draw comparisons as that will display a far greater understanding on your part. Your conclusion seems to be pretty much the same as you had started with, so probably your conclusion should contain a sort of wrap up of the thesis. You may stress the fact that men were absolutely vulnerable and did not learn from past mistakes. Bring out the weakness in their characters, you can show the strength of a woman’s character here, you may refer to Plutarch. Your senten ce structure is fine, you have basically used simple sentences which convey the meaning clearly you need to be a little careful with your vocabulary though for E.G. â€Å"ejected† is used more thrusting something out in this case â€Å"expelled† is more appropriate. You need to be a little careful with your grammar, I think more with the use of prepositions. While writing a thesis in Literature you actually need to include a lot of your own judgment rather than just incidents from the book. This will help you in expanding your answer to the desired level.

The Conflict in Ukraine (2014-ongoing) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Conflict in Ukraine (2014-ongoing) - Essay Example The Conflict in Ukraine (2014-ongoing) is the greatest example of where the rule of the people cannot be respected by the running government. The government instead goes to the point compelling the people with the leadership they rejected (Lauren, Viola& Kathleen, 2015). Ukraine came back to full-scale war or conflict is very saddening. The fight begun in the 2014 April and has since raged numerous months to the eventual stage when the separatists and the Ukrainian government came to a ceasefire. The ceasefire has been used to prepare and reigniting of the fight mainly entailed capturing of the Donetsk airport that is a strategic symbol and asset from the government forces. The government troops have pulled out of the town that is the key transport hub as a new truce was established on 12 February in attempts to stage mediation process. The war has placed a cost of close to 5600 lives. The violence has placed up debilitating effects to the country as many civilians have been killed by rockets on the rebel side in the cities like Luhansk and Donetsk. Approximately thirty people were killed in the Maripaul, which is a port city under artillery attack. Rebels have since then besieged main roads and rail hub in areas of Debaltseve, which is the region i n which most Ukrainian military troops have their base. The Ukranian problem is equally shared in various other parts of the globe where poor electoral and leadership have resulted in rebels and mass killings. In the past few months thousands of Bangladesh workers died in one of the greatest workplace safety tragedy in ever recorded in memorable history. Nigeria, Iran, Russia and many other countries close to 80 countries have created a discriminatory environment for the LGBT persons. This case has been created by the design of policies and laws that deny the LGBT their human rights and respect to human dignity. The condition has created a

Business law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Business law - Essay Example Subsequently, the counter-offer by Stein was rejected by Doe. Later, Stein sent an acceptance letter to Doe agreeing with the terms mentioned in the offer initially made by Doe. However, within the gap, Doe had already accepted the offer of MARK Drugs to work as a research director in the company, which spares various reasons to disregard the contract as valid. According to the law of contract, acceptance and offer are quite essential to be made in a transparent manner, where the intention of both the parties, i.e. the offeror and the offeree must be informed as legitimate and viable. In accordance with the scenario, it can be observed that Doe (as the offeror) and Stein (as the offeree) have informed their offer as well as acceptance/non-acceptance through postal medium to create a legal relationship. As per the contract law, parties involved in agreements are required to be legally associated in order to execute duties legally, after a confirmed acceptance has been made voluntarily by the offeree1. However, in this case, Stein made no confirm acceptance of the offer made by Dr. Doe, which makes the contract void, as it does not support any legal obligation to exist between the two parties. In simple words, there was no acceptance made to the offer, which makes the contract void. ... The feedback provided by the president of the company implies that the offer was accepted and it is valid. But, the president of the company made a counter-offer stating that the company will recruit Dr. Doe for the position of vice president with a salary of $300,000 per annum, which certainly cannot be regarded as an acceptance by law. Correspondingly, rejection of the original offer, as prescribed by Doe, was presented with a counter-offer, which signifies that the first original offer has become void and cannot be accepted in future. In a similar case of Hyde v Wrench [1840] 3 Beav 334, it was identified that Wrench made an offer to sell to Hyde a piece of land for a price of ?1,000. Hyde made a counter offer of ?950, which was later rejected. Subsequently, Hyde accepted the original offer but it was rejected. Consequently, the (proposed) contract amid Wrench and Hyde was identified to be invalid2. Hence, in the case of Dr. Doe and Stein, the offer can be identified as a mere inv itation without any legal consideration and obligation. Apparently, there was no legal binding between the parties for the service-term and appointment of Doe in the company, which can further be argued with reference to the case of Gibson v Manchester City Council [1979] 1 All ER 972. In this case, a letter was provided to Mr. Gibson by the Manchester City Council to sell the house at a rate of $2,180. During the period, there was certain change in the policy of the Council and Mr. Gibson was refused with the proposal to purchase the house. It was later determined that the letter from the Council was a mere invitation, which signified that there was no contract between the parties3. In this case, however, an acceptance was made by Stein

Case report (The subject of Strategic integration, Marketing) Essay

Case report (The subject of Strategic integration, Marketing) - Essay Example Followed by this review, the company’s initiatives to achieve organic growth in mature markets are also discussed and explained in detail. Nestle’s strategies to achieve this was supported by launching operational efficiency programs worldwide. Including these programs, Nestle’s most important milestone is GLOBE, a program which aims to integrate the widespread manufacturing, accounting and operational activities of business units worldwide is explained along with its applications on the company’s overall objective to achieve internal growth though companywide synergies and integrations. Nestle’s strategic marketing decisions of bringing products under a few strategic brands are also discussed in detail and its implications on the company’s expenditures and strategic long-term objectives are also explained. Besides this, all the challenges which were faced by Nestle in pursuing its strife for achieving internal growth are also discussed in de tail. How Nestle tackled them with its unique approach, are also discussed. Along with the challenges, how Nestle plans to survive in mature markets by incorporating innovation in a sustainable manner in its product and brand portfolio for long-term sustainability is also illuminated in detail. 2. Introduction When Brabeck took over in 1997 from his predecessor Maucher, Nestle had its presence in almost 19 food categories, predominantly in food, pet food, milk, coffee, confectionary, clinical nutrition etc. However, despite such massive growth initiatives taken by Maucher, Nestle lagged behind in some categories and it can be owing to bad investments which were made during Maucher’s period in office. Brabech’s focus on organic growth directed the company towards discontinuing allocation of resources towards unprofitable channels. (Maucher, 1994). Being one of the leading global food companies, Nestle has established its strategic brands in various segments throughout t he world as one of its effective initiatives to boost internal growth, also known as organic growth. Nestle’s CEO Helmet Maucher from 1982 till 1997 had led the corporation from being just a European based company with strong footing as a manufacturer of milk and coffee to being a comprehensive and diversified global corporation dealing in a wide range of food products. Maucher’s main strategy for growth was to rely heavily on external sources and inorganic growth channels. Conglomerate mergers and takeovers were the major focus of Nestle’s growth strategy during Maucher’s tenure as CEO of the company. This did steer the company towards being the global leader in the food and beverage industry however, this was being done at the expense of not saving money through those channels which otherwise could have done so by not investing in unprofitable mergers and acquisitions. Brabeck however, did realize this fact and was determined to steer Nestle towards a m ore internalized approach to growth, with which he believed that the company will save a lot more capital and the resources could then be channelized into more profitable ventures. Brabeck took some important steps to promote organic growth by launching various programs and campaigns followed by setting up of special Business Units with various objectives (Maucher, 1994, Bell et al, 2009). 3. Organic Growth Programs In order to make Nestle’s operational activity more efficient, Brabech had to make some

Emergency Communication - Public Information Officer Position Assignment

Emergency Communication - Public Information Officer Position - Assignment Example The subordinates should be well informed. There is a need for one to know oneself and seek improvement. Critical thinker: The PIO under his mandate should be able to plan, develop, organize and provide direction for a comprehensive policy on information. He should consult the incident commander in order to educate the rest of the staff and the media about the programs of the department, events, projects, plans and implements (Laft, 2011, p.90). He should evaluate public information and community outreach; should ensure the division meets the applicable laws and regulations; should provide highly responsible, operational assistance and complex administration. He/she fosters good working relationships with the other agencies and serves as the spokesperson of the department. This is because he/she responds to the requests of information from the public. Social and tact: The work may require one being tactful because it entails frequent public contact. He may also have independent judgment. Sometimes it may require one to have a wider knowledge of the department policies that relate to specific areas. Through interaction, he/she should be in a position to research, develop and implement program plans. One should receive inquiries and providing information to the public concerning a wide range of topics (Smoke, 2009, p.65). They include developing and sending out the press releases; this requires discretion and tactfulness in communication with the mass media. Readiness: Arriving properly and well equipped at the incident location and within the acceptable time limits is of utmost importance. He/she should check in according the guidelines set by the agency. The officer should determine the immediate staffing and the resources needed. Assessing the incident, its complexity and media interest is needed. He/she must gather additional supplies to support the efforts if need be. One more point here is

Polar ice and climate change Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Polar ice and climate change - Research Paper Example This is especially so with the ever increasing rate of melting attributed to the environmental degradation. For years, scientists have had their eyes set on the world’s ice shields hoping to monitor changes with the advancements in technological systems. Global temperatures indicated a downward trend in the period from 1940 to 1970, but increased gradually in 1980s. This phenomenon can be attributed to the increase of the amount of sunlight that hits the snow and ice in these regions. As such, various reports have illustrated an accelerated rate of melting raising the sea levels at an alarming state. For instance, a survey done every September to ascertain the area covered by sea ice demonstrates an average decrease at a rate of 8.6% between the years of 1979 and 2007 (Thompson and Kuo, 2012).However, there was a significant loss of sea-ice placed at 24% in the 2007 alone. Various scientists have voiced concerns based on these and current findings that corroborate the eminent danger of melting ice caps and rising sea levels. Extrapolations of existing data suggest that thermal expansion and ice sheet changes will dominate the processes affecting the sea level (Ward, 2003). Similarly, areas that are marginally glaciated are most likely to be ice-free, which will eventually lead to the disappearance of the Polar Regions. ... This is because these gases increase temperature of the atmosphere near the earth and its troposphere; resulting in corresponding changes in climatic conditions. Fundamentally, the dangers associated with global warming are erratic changes in the weather, which are experienced in extremity, causing persistent natural disasters and extinction of species. In essence, the continual warming trend has been broken down to climatic change, which refers to the measurable effects of global warming. These measurable effects refer to shifts in major aspects of the climate that is, rainfall, temperature, snow, and wind patterns. With this differentiation, global warming is identified as a long-term reference of the effects of these shifts in climatic conditions. Notably also, ocean currents are included as an aspect that facilitates the continual warming trend. Currently, environmental degradation is an issue that requires immediate action because of the escalating rate at which it has been occu rring, making it hard for the ecosystem to convalesce. Pollution is considered as the major cause of ozone layer depletion owing to the release of chlorofluorocarbons that rise into the troposphere causing its depletion (Fahey and Hegglin, 2010). Industrial processes and automobiles are responsible for the release and as such, governments have been asked to tax the companies for the emissions. In addition, the destruction of tropical rainforests by logging industries has resulted in destruction of natural habitats of plants and animals, which increases the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. The destruction of habitats interferes with photosynthetic organisms that are responsible for carbon-fixing cycle, which seeks to relieve the greenhouse effect. In

Kate Winslet Essay Example for Free

Kate Winslet Essay These past few years of highschool have had its ups and downs, but overall its been amazing. Id like to thank my friends and family for always believing in me. Congratulations to the grads of 2013, see you all in 10 years! A discriminating reader may take pleasure in reading The Destructors, over an immature reader. A discriminating reader is a reader that takes deep pleasure in fiction that deals with life significantly, expects characters, plot and themes that are complex or realistic and that may challenge his or her beliefs and view of reality. This means that a discriminative reader would enjoy reading interpretive literature, like The Destructors. The Destructors will appeal to a discriminating reader because it deals with life problems and events that have happened, a deeper meaning and the theme and the story challenges beliefs and views of reality. The Destructors demonstrates life problems and events that have happened in history, this intrigues a discriminative reader into wanting to read the book or story. The story shows life problems, where there are gangs that are wanting to make trouble and let loose; just have freedoms and not let others or themselves have special treatment. An examples of this is when Old Misery offers then gang three packages of smarties and the its stood there puzzled and perturbed by this action and tried to explain it away. Bet someone dropped them and he picked em up,. They tried to think of all different reasons why Mr. Thomas would do this and they figured it was a bribe. This would make a discriminative reader keep reading, as the story is also set time is during the London blitz were bombs destroyed hundreds of house and places. Not only does a discriminative reader become interested by life problems and historical events, but also by the theme and deeper meaning. A discriminative reader, unlike an immature reader, can figure out the deeper meaning or theme of a story easily and doing this keeps them interested. The these is not usually easily present in a story that a discriminative reader would read because they would want to stay interested and try to figure it out as they read it by themselves. The theme of The Destructors is not innocence because the war has taken that away from them and replaced it with something the reader can make up and believe. The reader, being discriminative, expects the theme to be complex and realistic, and as the story continues the boys, Blackie and T. , have a conversation about the one thing T. wants to destroy. Well burn them [the notes/money], one by one and taking it in turns they held a note upwards and lit the top corner, so that the flame burnt slowly towards their fingers. The grey ask floated above them and fell on their heads like age. This makes the readers think the theyre not to be innocence anymore by selfishness and rebelliousness, also the war has aged them by not giving them a childhood. From what has been said, a discriminating reader is able to figure out a deeper meaning by analyzing and expecting or guessing what the theme and meaning of the story is to be. Through doing so, they may challenge their beliefs and view of reality. As a discriminative reader reads a story, along the way they challenge their own beliefs as well as the authors belief. Whole doing this, they could perceive reality differently or challenge how or why reality was done this way. In particular, the discriminative reader may read, Of course I dont hate him [Old Misery], I said. Thered be no fun if I hated him. The last burning note illuminate his brooding face. All this hate and love, he said, its soft, its hooey. Theres only things, Blackie, he looked round the room crowded with unfamiliar shadows of half things, broken things, [and] former things. A reader may see this and think do I really need this or that and challenge what they believe in and if something is right or wrong, better or worse. Overall, the discriminative reader loos at a story and challenges why they believe or dont believe this and how come reality is this way. Discriminating readers can use many ways to look at a story and analyze it; they may take pleasure in to why the story deals with life problems and events in history, also the theme and or deeper meaning, as well as challenging beliefs and reality. The Destructors demonstrates all of these and that is why this story could be appealing to a discriminative reader.

Discrimination and Single Equality Scheme Essay Example for Free

Discrimination and Single Equality Scheme Essay Ann Gravells states the importance of keeping uptodate with legislation and codes of practise in Preparing to Teach in the LifeLong Learning Sector. According to Gravells it is important to do so â€Å"to ensure you are remaining current with your knowledge and practise, and any changes or updates that have taken place.† I comply with various generic legislation and codes of practise which relate to my role as a teacher and some that are specific to the subjects I teach i. e. assessor and verifier awards, management, helath socialcare (adults and children) and some specific to my organisation. As a teacher I need to be aware of and comply with the following: †¢ Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. †¢ shall be the duty of every employee while at work— †¢ (a)to take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and of other persons who may be affected by his acts or omissions at work; and †¢ (b)as regards any duty or requirement imposed on his employer or any other person by or under any of the relevant statutory provisions, to co-operate with him so far as is necessary to enable that duty or requirement to be performed or complied with †¢ Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000. †¢ Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and 2005 (DDA). †¢ Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 (designed to bring education within the remit of the DDA through the addition of Part 4 DDA 1995). †¢ Equality Act 2010. the Act is to consolidate the complicated and numerous array of Acts and Regulations, which formed the basis of anti-discrimination law in Great Britain. This was, primarily, the Equal Pay Act 1970, the Sex Discrimination Act 1975, the Race Relations Act 1976, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and three major statutory instruments protecting discrimination in employment on grounds of religion or belief, sexual orientation and ageIt requires equal treatment in access to employment as well as private and public services, regardless of the protected characteristics of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. In the case of gender, there are special protections for pregnant women. In the case of disability, employers an d service providers are under a duty to make reasonable adjustments to their workplaces to overcome barriers experienced by disabled people. †¢ Data Protection Act 1998. †¢ Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (The Copyright and Related Rights Regulations 2003). †¢ IfL Code of Practice for Teachers (2008) covers the activities of teachers in Lifelong learning sector. Gravells, a the code is based on seven behaviours, namely: professional integrity, respect, reasonable care, professiponal practise, criminal defense disclosure, responsibility during institute investigations, responsibility. †¢ Safer practice, safer learning (2007) – responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults in the learning and skills sector – published by NIACE and DES. The LSC Single Equality Scheme 2007-10: Our Strategy for Equality and Diversity (LSC, 2007) identifies their strategy for ensuring legal requirements are met and is relevant to all organisations funded by the LSC (Learning and Skills Council), link http://readingroom.lsc.gov.uk/lsc/National/nat-singleequalityscheme-30apr07.pdf [pic] Although mainly relevant for teachers working with learners under 19 or vulnerable adults under 25 years of age, you should also look at: †¢ Protection of Children Act 1999. †¢ Every Child Matters Every Child Matters (ECM) is a UK government initiative for England and Wales, that was launched in 2003, at least partly in response to the death of Victoria Climbià © Its main aims are for every child, whatever their background or circumstances, to have the support they need to: †¢ Be healthy †¢ Stay safe †¢ Enjoy and achieve †¢ Make a positive contribution †¢ Achieve economic well-being Biblography: Gravells, Ann: Preparing tpo Teach in the Life Long Learning Sector : fourth Edition. †¢ Safer practice, safer learning (2007) Responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults in the learning and skills sector, NIACE and DES. †¢ LSC (2007) Single Equality Scheme: Our Strategy for Equality and Diversity Online: http://readingroom.lsc.gov.uk/lsc/National/nat-singleequalityscheme-30apr07.pdf [pic] http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/37/section/7 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equality_Act_2010 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Every_Child_Matters

Does Money Equal Power In American Politics Politics Essay

Does Money Equal Power In American Politics Politics Essay This essay argues that money does equal power in American politics and that campaign reform is still required in American society as this remains an ongoing problem. In order to show the impact of money in the American campaigning system I believe this essay should begin with a statement of the recent facts and figures in relation to the cost of campaigning in America. The 2012 campaign by Obama and Romney for the presidential race resulted in spending of over $6 billion reported which  includes money spent by the campaigns of both candidates, outside groups such as PACs, and independent organizations such as businesses  [1]  . In the evaluating of money and democracy in the presidential campaigns we must also look at public spending as this was supposed to be the answer in reforming the presidential campaigning. Campaign finance is not just a problem in the presidential campaigns, In 2010 $1.5 million was the average spent by house incumbents and $11.2 million was the average spent by senate incumbents, these numbers which we will compare with those of challengers to see if there is any inequality  [2]  . These figures alone show the e ye watering large amounts of money spent today by those in politics. There are many aspects that need to be looked at to determine if money affects he democracy of America. However this is not a recent problem in America, money in elections has been a problem for many decades and finally an introduction of a Act in 1971 was supposed to put this problem to bed. The Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) of 1971 was created to restore peoples confidence in the campaigning system as many people felt large contributors had the biggest voice in political campaigns. This required funding to be made public. The Watergate scandal revealed during President Nixons campaign proved the corruption that was within the political system even with reforms in place as those who contributed large amounts were given positions as ambassadors in Nixons re-election committees, money equalling power  [3]  . This resulted in amendments being made to the original FECA such as the creation of the Federal Election Committee (FEC) who would ensure laws such as declarations of contributions where adhered to and brought public funding into the picture to try to stop the influence of large contributors. However, even when efforts are made to make campaign finance transparent to the public, there are still those who challenge this. In 1976 in the case of Buckley v Valeo, the reforms legislated by the FECA were brought to the courts. This case argued that the provisions made in the Act were unconstitutional. Here it was argued that money in politics was not corruption but instead it was a form of speech, therefore was protected by the first amendment of the Constitution of America and was a right of all Americans. It was decided that monetary contributions were an expression of ones support for a candidate which was a democratic right  [4]  . This association of money equals speech has been the hindrance of any reform after that and still poses problems in reform. Justice John Paul Stevens in 2000 presented a forceful opinion that money is property and not speech, surely money couldnt equal speech when money is not evenly distributed, this would prove that those with the biggest wallet had the biggest voices. The need for further reform after an extremely large redirecting of contributions in the form of sof t money led to further reform of the campaign system in the 2002 Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA)  [5]  which targeted the booming problem of soft money during campaigns. This problem was as a result of the allowance of the FECA of organisations giving money indirectly to candidates; this money was not recorded by the FEC and had an unlimited budget. This was abolished by BCRA to further attempt to bring fairness to all candidates and to try, once again, ensure money did not equal power in America. Campaign reform in America tries to take the impact of money away from the impact of politics. But interest groups and the subsequent PACs have still left a question mark on the influence of money on the campaigns. Louise Overacker in 1932 expressed her concerns that financing of elections in a democracy is a major problem and raised the question of if democracies do not inevitably become government ruled by small groups  [6]  . This brings us into the discussion of interest groups and PACS and their impact on American Democracy. PACs are organisations created through the FECA to allow these organisations to raise and distribute money to campaigns, allowing more money to be directed at candidates. Many interest groups and large organisations create PACs  [7]  . Interest groups are known to have aims in politics in America, firstly to elect friends and defeat enemies and secondly to increase the number of people in political positions that share their views. Business interest groups on the other hand will more than likely use the friendly incumbent rule of backing the incumbent that is certain to be re elected and generally shares their views rather than a challenger who may be more supp ortive of their interests but is not guaranteed to succeed in their campaign  [8]  . Why is this? Why not support the candidate who is more supportive of your cause and stand by them? This raises the suspicion of interest groups being more concerned with gaining the access of those in power. If interest groups are raising large quantities of funding for these candidates surely they are receiving something in return, otherwise why continue to pump money into a wasted cause?  [9]  It is known that many people involved PACs are those that are well educated and part of the upper class society which raises the question of is there an unbalance in the representation of society in America? As political scientist E.E Schattschneider said the flaw in the pluralist heaven is that the heavenly chorus sings with a strong upper-class accent  [10]  . If so this puts further questions on the American branding of democracy. However those who are against this view that interest groups and individual contributions thwart democracy argue that it does the opposite. They, on the other hand, argue that interest groups are a direct result of a democratic state. They argue that interest groups and PACs increase peoples awareness and interest in politics and therefore improve democracy in expanding peoples knowledge in political matters, an aspect recognised by James Madison  [11]  . Therefore in theory this activity contributes to democracy in America. But interest groups and PACs as discussed above look after and promote their own interests, they can do this by emphasising the negatives of another candidate through negative campaigning  [12]  or issue advocacy or by promoting the positive aspects of the candidate they are supporting. Therefore are they really serving the needs of the country or the needs of themselves? I feel they are only looking after their own interests to try to increase those in s upport of the candidate that will best serve them in the event that they win their election. Interest groups and PACs are unlikely to use their funding to compare the candidates in a fair and democratic way in the aim of giving the public a fair and even view of each candidate. Their aim of promoting their interests will lead to thwarted pictures of candidates. The fact is that organisations that make contributions, especially those with significant financial resources, want to ensure they make a Return on Investment, thats what these contributions are from many PACs and interest groups, they are investments not donations. As said on Capitol Hill my vote is not for sale but is available for rent.  [13]   Public funding was created by the FECA to try to take the issue of money out of campaigns and to prevent corruption of wealthy individuals in politics. However those who took public funding had to abide by a budget given to them. The option of partial funding in presidential primaries was rejected by many as they began to use the system to benefit themselves. In 2000 George Bush decided to reject partial funding in the primaries  [14]  . This was with the aim of using this time of to raise as much money as he could so that he could easily out race the other opponents in his raising of funds; therefore he was able to create more awareness of his campaign in the primaries over the opponents who were under strict instruction to stick to their public budgets. Bush easily received the nomination he needed but then used public funding in the general election as he has the awareness of his campaign already generated. This shows that even the candidates themselves are thwarting the syste m to improve their own campaigns without regard for other candidates chances of receiving recognition or a fair campaign. The ease of which Bush succeed proved that the money he received equalled power in his race for nomination despite the public funding being in place. More worryingly this year neither Obama nor Romney accepted public funding. Why? Because more money can be gathered from independent sources. A frightening thought considering how much they raised. Is the ideology of a public funding system becoming extinct?  [15]  if so it is direct proof that money equals power. Why is public funding being abandoned by candidates for the White House? Mainly it is due to the growth of Super PACs and dark money  [16]  . Super PACs seem to be replacing the previous spurt of 527 committees who raised money to influence the outcome of elections by raising unlimited amounts of money. Once this money was not used in conjunction with the candidates campaign and did not openly call for the defeat or election of a particular candidate it was completely legal. However now Super PACs can collect money from both individuals and corporations, they also cannot give money directly to the candidate but can use the money raised independently to help ensure the election of there preferred candidate. In the 2012 election the estimated money raised from outside groups was $970 million, this increase is being linked to the increase in Super PACs. $123 million is the estimated amount spent by dark money.  [17]  Dark money was a phrase adopted by the Mother Jones Magazine  [18]  which referred to the secret donations given to candidates by individuals and organisations. These donations occur in all political campaigns but seem to be most a part of the republican party fundraising. If people or businesses are able to donate large quantities of money to candidates without them being made public we again have to ask how this affects democracy in America. Money donated to campaigns that are not made public means that we are unable to see if there is a correlation between the money those secret donors have given and the decisions of the lawmakers. However the question on money in politics applies to all elections including those in the house and senate between incumbents and challengers. As mentioned in the introduction the power difference between incumbents and challengers in the house and senate where public funding isnt in place is extremely large. This difference boils down to money. Incumbents have the benefit of being well known and established and therefore do not need to spend vast amounts on creating public awareness. They also have loyal contributors already established to their campaign. Challengers on the other hand struggle to raise the money needed to create awareness of their campaign. Often the incumbents merely raise large quantities of money to discourage competition from new challengers. Is it a democracy where people are not made aware of new challengers due to the large spending of incumbents? When new challengers do not even get a chance due to the impact on money? It is known that people vote for those they recognise and reject those they have a lack of information on. Between 1984-2004 57% of challengers spent less than $100,000 on their camp aigns and all of them lost  [19]  . Money equals power. I have discussed many things within the American campaign system that make me question the branding of America as a Democracy due to the corruption caused by money. But does money actually get those who contribute a foot in the door? Political scientist say that the contributions of PACs does not have a major impact on legislators decisions, this is because although there is a direct correlation between donations and votes, there is no proven relationship between donations and lawmakers decisions  [20]  . However this will always be hard to prove as you cannot match contributions on a quid pro quo basis. It may have been found that money doesnt buy votes in congress but it is proven that contributors do get the loyalty of those in congress. It is known that contributions do achieve access  [21]  such as meetings with the candidates they have supported. Since most organisations will support those who are already in support of their views the do not need to persuade the candida te on their interests, therefore many of the PACs interests may be try to be mobilised through congressional committees. An example of money buying access can be seen in the Bush administration. Bush rewarded those who donated money to his Pioneer bundling system, most of whom were wealthy energy company official, business executives and lobbyists, with individual meeting and receptions, later Bush appointed 19 of the members as ambassadors worldwide  [22]  Would the lack of large donations have the same impact? We also saw that in the reign of Nixon those who donated large amounts became part of his re election committees, would this have been the case without the large donations? And would the contributors continue to donate without anything in return? It is unlikely. The New York Times gave the statistics that since Obamas election in 2008 to now, those who donated $30,000 or less, about 20% of these visited the White House, were those who donated over $100,000 where about 75 % more likely to visit the President.  [23]  Statistics that dont prove anything other than money equals power and access. Although reform was again attempted again through BCRA in 2002, there still seems to be problems within the campaign finance system. There are many suggested ways in which reform can be achieved. One is the idea of imposing ceilings on the amount spent in campaigns, but this may affect the competitive aspect of the campaigns. This also wouldnt help the challengers who already struggle to make themselves known to voters, therefore the well known incumbents would benefit leading to further questions of money impacting democracy. Another possible solution is to ban PACs and stopping large donations and let candidates rely on small donations to fund their campaigns but this is unlikely to raise enough funds.  [24]  The idea of public funding seemed to be the perfect solution as it took the importance of large donators out of the picture and put limits in place by candidates. If this was put in place for all elections in the house, congress as well as the presidential elections, this would reduce the amount spent on elections. However, the budgets of these public funds need to be increased to encourage candidates to be a part of this system. It may also attract candidates who dont want to waste too much time in their campaign raising money if the budget is right  [25]  . The problem with this is that this idea has been branded welfare for politicians an idea disliked by the American society.  [26]  The judgment by the courts that money equals speech also needs to be revisited. With this opinion being circulated it is only benefitting those with money. In order to pursue interests through politics, money and access is needed, but these are things not equally distributed, this makes you wonder how is this a democracy if it is allowing the people with these abilities to use them to push their ideas?  [27]   In conclusion, the problem is that many of the ideas for reform have as many positives as negatives, there seems to be no direct way to solve the problem of corruption within the political system and to prevent money from equalling power. In the last reform there was a corset affect that what was squeezed in one place merely popped out in another  [28]  in the increasing of 527 committees and the creation of Super PACs. It is viewed that this will be the case in any reform as John McCainn stated I promise you that in 20 or 30 years from nowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a group of others will be standing here saying weve got to clean up the system again, because therell be smart people that figure out loopholes in the system. I doubt he foresaw the speed at which these loopholes would be found. The fact of the matter is that money will always be the fuelling of politics in America and therefore until some way is found to take money out of politics money will equal power. As this essay title say s America has the best democracy money can buy. Bibiography Book sources: Jon R Bond and Kevin B Smith, The promise and performance of American Democracy. Thomson/Wadsworth 2009 Lowi, Shepsle, Ginsberg. American Government power and purpose. 7th ed. New York:Norton 2002 Tonnahill, Neal R, American government: policy and politics, 11th ed, Pearson study edition 2012 Robert Singh, American government and politics: A concise introduction. Sage 2003. McKay, Haughton and Wroe. Controversies in American Politics and Society. Oxford UK, Malden,Mass:Blackwell 2002 Robert Singh, Governing America: The politics of a divided democracy. Oxford University Press 2003. Samuel Kernell and Gary C Jacobson. The logic of American politics. Cq Press 2006, 3rd edition Bardes, Shmidt and Shelley, American government and politics today. 2004-2005 ed, London: Wasworth 2003 Internet sources: The Atlantic Wire last accessed on 19/12/12 The New York Times: last accessed 20/12/2012 The New York Times http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/15/us/politics/white-house-doors-open-for-big-donors.html?pagewanted=all last accessed 20/12/12

Pizza Hut Case :: essays research papers

Pizza Hut Case Question 6: Pizza Hut case: Is either franchisor or franchisee liable for sexual harassment? If so, what type of sexual harassment occurred? Please fully explain your answer. In this case, the franchisee is liable for the hostile work environment sexual harassment type. However, the franchisor should not be held liable unless it can be proven that it has central control over the day-to-day employment decisions of the subsidiary. I will assume that the franchisee is independently owned and the franchisor has no control over its labor relations and no control over it financial. In cases such as this, a critical component in determining liability is which entity made the employment decision of the person making the claim. Factors that are considered in determining the existence of an illegal hostile work environment include: the conduct’s frequency, the conduct’s severity, any physical threat or humiliation (as opposed to merely offensive remarks), and the conduct’s unreasonable interference with the employee’s work performance. Situations that can be considered as hostile work environment sexual harassment is where the employee’s work environment is made intimidating, hostile, or offensive due to unwelcome sexual conduct and that conduct unreasonably interferes with the employee’s work performance. This case states that the waitress was harassed by the two male customers prior to the November 6th event and informed her manager that she did not like waiting on them, but did not explain why. Although she did not volunteer her reason why she did not want to wait on the customers, a responsible manager would have questioned the waitress to find out her reason. A responsible manager would also have assigned someone else to wait on the customers and/or request that the customers leave the premises. The physical nature of the conduct in this case, although limited to one incident, was severe enough to create an illegal hostile work environment. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued regulations that state employers are responsible for the harassing conduct of non-employees and have a responsibility to prevent and take action when they know or should have known about the harassment. In this case, the waitress informed her manager that one of the customers had pulled her hair and requested that the manager find someone else to serve them. The manager denied her request and instructed her wait on them and stated â€Å"You were hired to be a waitress†.

The Ghost of King Hamlet Essay -- GCSE English Literature Coursework

The Ghost of King Hamlet      Ã‚   Many Shakespeare plays contain ghosts, perhaps most notably and most disturbingly in Macbeth and Hamlet. The ghost in Hamlet is the apparition of prince Hamlet's father, the dead King Hamlet.   However, up until the time when the ghost first appears to Hamlet, interrupting his speech and thoughts, it appears Hamlet is unaware that his father was murdered.   As the ghost intones, "I am thy father's spirit, / Doomed for a certain term to walk the night, / And for the day confined to fast in fires, / Till the foul crimes done in my days of nature / Are burnt and purged away" (Shakespeare I.v.9-13).   While more people in Shakespeare's audience were inclined to believe in the supernatural and fantastic, it is likely the appearance of the slain King still has quite an impact on modern audiences.   This is because the ghost of King Hamlet tells his son he was murdered and his murder must be avenged for him to rest in peace. We see that the ghost is a driving force for Hamlet on his way to conscious maturity.   There is something rotten in the State of Denmark but the something rotten exists in all places and in all people.   Anyone with intellect and a conscience would not tolerate it, as Hamlet does not by willfully going into a battle at the end of the play wherein he knows he will be killed.   Further, the ghost is just one more thing Hamlet must escape on the way to his mature self.   As Harold Bloom, noted Shakespearian critic, notes about this sea-change in Hamlet's character and its relation to the ghost, "In Act V, Hamlet is barely still in the play; like Whitman's 'real me' or 'me myself' the final Hamlet is both in and out of the game while watching and wondering at it.   We feel that if the Ghos... ... "Why, what should be the fear? / I do not set my life in a pin's fee; / And for my soul, what can it do to that, / Being a thing immortal as itself? / It waves me forth again: I'll follow it" (Shakespeare I.iv.151-55).   Hamlet will indeed follow the Ghost and it will cost him his life, but he retains his soul because he is of the constitution that cannot tolerate something "rotten" in Denmark or mankind.   Thus, we see that the Ghost creates a tremendous impact on audiences because of its great emotional significance in the play and in setting off the wheels of motion that seal Hamlet's tragic fate.    WORKS   CITED Anonymous.   The Ghost of Hamlet's Father.   Available: Bloom, H.   Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human.   New York; Riverhead Books, 1998. Shakespeare, W.   The Complete Works of William Shakespeare.   New York, Oxford Univ. Press, 1978. The Ghost of King Hamlet Essay -- GCSE English Literature Coursework The Ghost of King Hamlet      Ã‚   Many Shakespeare plays contain ghosts, perhaps most notably and most disturbingly in Macbeth and Hamlet. The ghost in Hamlet is the apparition of prince Hamlet's father, the dead King Hamlet.   However, up until the time when the ghost first appears to Hamlet, interrupting his speech and thoughts, it appears Hamlet is unaware that his father was murdered.   As the ghost intones, "I am thy father's spirit, / Doomed for a certain term to walk the night, / And for the day confined to fast in fires, / Till the foul crimes done in my days of nature / Are burnt and purged away" (Shakespeare I.v.9-13).   While more people in Shakespeare's audience were inclined to believe in the supernatural and fantastic, it is likely the appearance of the slain King still has quite an impact on modern audiences.   This is because the ghost of King Hamlet tells his son he was murdered and his murder must be avenged for him to rest in peace. We see that the ghost is a driving force for Hamlet on his way to conscious maturity.   There is something rotten in the State of Denmark but the something rotten exists in all places and in all people.   Anyone with intellect and a conscience would not tolerate it, as Hamlet does not by willfully going into a battle at the end of the play wherein he knows he will be killed.   Further, the ghost is just one more thing Hamlet must escape on the way to his mature self.   As Harold Bloom, noted Shakespearian critic, notes about this sea-change in Hamlet's character and its relation to the ghost, "In Act V, Hamlet is barely still in the play; like Whitman's 'real me' or 'me myself' the final Hamlet is both in and out of the game while watching and wondering at it.   We feel that if the Ghos... ... "Why, what should be the fear? / I do not set my life in a pin's fee; / And for my soul, what can it do to that, / Being a thing immortal as itself? / It waves me forth again: I'll follow it" (Shakespeare I.iv.151-55).   Hamlet will indeed follow the Ghost and it will cost him his life, but he retains his soul because he is of the constitution that cannot tolerate something "rotten" in Denmark or mankind.   Thus, we see that the Ghost creates a tremendous impact on audiences because of its great emotional significance in the play and in setting off the wheels of motion that seal Hamlet's tragic fate.    WORKS   CITED Anonymous.   The Ghost of Hamlet's Father.   Available: Bloom, H.   Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human.   New York; Riverhead Books, 1998. Shakespeare, W.   The Complete Works of William Shakespeare.   New York, Oxford Univ. Press, 1978.

A New Life Essay -- Creative Writing Essays

"So then Tom," his mother wept, "don't worry. I'll see you again." Tom was shocked, he'd never seen his mother cry before. Even when Dad left to help in the army, she had been very strong. "But-but Mum," he bit his lip, holding back his tears, "I don't want to go." "I know, don't worry," then she started to cry more heavily while singing "We'll meet again" to him, his favourite song. Suddenly, a whistle rang loudly through his head, so Tom reluctantly stepped on to the train, his name tag round his neck and watched while his mother grew further and further away until she was no longer visible through his tears. Tom calmed himself down and tried as hard as he could to find the positive points to this situation. Well, at least he was safe from being blown to smithereens. That was all he could think of. He wasn't even going to start with the negative points. "Hello there, "a small boy who looked about eight had just come into the compartment, "I can't wait, this will be great. Such a brilliant holiday, Dad said it will be fun. I don't know why he hasn't come with me, though." Tom hadn't the heart to tell him that he'd probably never see his father again. "My name's William, what's yours?" The little boy said. "Tom, nice to meet you William," he felt terrible, "so, do you know where we're going?" "No, but it will be good," said William excitedly. The door to the compartment slid open and a girl Tom's age came in. She was pale and looked very ill. She sat down and started mumbling to herself, tears rolling down her cheeks. "Why are you crying, "William laughed, "this is terribly exciting. Holiday!... ...acked. He got down off the tractor and let his hand fall on Tom's shoulder. "You're a genius lad," Mr Grundle's face broke into a smile, "oh lad. Thank you so, so much. Come on, let's get inside and back to bed." The next day, Tom woke up, got change and bounced down the stairs with a large spring in his step. "Tom," Mrs Grundle said carefully, "now, because of your parents, er, well, we've been asked to take care of you, would that be okay with you? We would be happy to take you in." "Of course Joan," Tom was actually pleased to be asked to stay. "You realise that you will have to stay for a long time, don't you?" asked Mr Grundle, "as I get older, I'll need more help on the farm, is that clear, Tom?" "That would be great," Tom knew he would be fine, Mr Grundle had just called him by his real name.

Accounts: Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Assets Essay

Executive summary This report has been made to evaluate the financial performance of the Mountainarious sporting company for the owner to connect a meeting with the bank for future sanctioning loan. This report offers an assessment and investigation of the present and future profitability’ liquidity and financial stability of ltd. Procedures of study comprise trend of vertical and horizontal analysis as well as ratios such as debt, current and quick ratios. Remaining calculations includes rates of return on shareholders’ equity, total assets and earnings per share to name a few .All calculations have been shown in the appendices. Results of data analysed explains that the ratios are below industry averages .In particular, comparative performance is poor in the areas of profit margins, liquidity credit control and inventory management. This report finds the prospects of the company in its current position are not positive .The major areas of weakness require further investigation and chan ges by the management. See more: Experiment on polytropic process Essay INTRODUCTION Mountanarious Sporting Co. a well-reputed store owned by a sole-owner Steve Donne that has been a high-end specialty seller of branded, exclusive sporting goods and merchandise for the past 11 years. Steven Donnie had always been a fanatic in the field of sports. Donnie as an owner is well-versed in customer-service and product knowledge, expertise in setting his store according to the latest needs and had a great personality. The MSC has always been a popular store at Barron, Ontario and also with the local  sports community and organizations, local gyms coaches and running clubs by promoting the merchandise available in the store by Donnie. With the emergence of new stores like big-box retailers, specialty/boutique and online services the competition increased and hence soft goods were introduced to maintain profitability in the business. Customers frequented the store therefore, Donnie is keen for an expansion of the existing store which will be an exclusive merchandising for both sporting equipment and soft goods. Donnie wants to terminate the leased portion of the store to create a new store with a separate staff, headed by Donnie’s wife Allison who previously worked as part-time at his store and also possess some retail experience in hardware and flower shop. Body of Report â€Å" Financial Statement Analysis is an information processing system designed to provide data for decision making models, such as the portfolio selection model, bank lending decision models, and corporate financial management models.† (Dr. Jawaharlal,2009,p.536) Financial statement analysis or information are not used in a vacuum; there are the part of vast array of information available to investors , creditors, managers and others to assess the past performance, current position, growth prospects and also used by financial institutions or banks to make a sound loan or credit decision.( Trotman & Gibbins,2005) Here we are making a business report which evaluates the performance of Mountainarious Sporting Co. to take loan from Canadian Commercial Bank. With the given basic financial reports by the company we have used few methods of analysis which includes horizontal, vertical and trend analysis as well as ratios such as Debt, Current, Acid Test and Asset Turnover ratios. We also used other ratios such as Return of Total Assets, Return on Equity , net profit margin and so forth. Horizontal and vertical analysis The Financial Statement analyses how sales are increasing and whether the sales are reasonable for the company. The company’s sales and gross profit positively grew from the year 2003 to 2007 with a slight decrease of 15.6% in sales in the year 2005. The gross profit continuously increased with the introduction of soft goods in the store although the merchandise found in the store next door affected his sales considerably. Company’s gross profit was 28.73% of net-sales in 2003 and it increased by 3.12% of net sales in 2007 which is a sign of good financial health and company is able to pay its operating and other expenses and build for future. Operating expenses The company’s total operating expenses continuously raised at a slow rate from 2004-2007 except in 2005 which express company is not maintaining its expenses properly and its vertical analysis also shows operation expenses were highest that were 29.68 %of the total sales in 2006 comparatively other 3 years. Net income The company faced net loss instead of income in the year 2003 and 2004 due to the fire accident and the re-establishment of his store in the new location. Net Income hiked in 2005 and 2006 as Donnie introduced soft goods and promoted them with the local gyms and running clubs. There was a loss again in 2007 Net Income as the company required a new strategy to develop the sales of soft goods as there were strong competitors. The company faced Net Loss of 4.92% of the total sales in 2004 but it gained net income of 2.60% of the total assets in 2007. Here, the overall situation is that company is not so much profitable over the years. Retained earnings  company’s beginning retained earnings records fluctuations in all years,  after added net income and subtracted net loss it shows increasing trend from 2004 to 2007 which seems company reinvest its retained earning where it can creates growth opportunities.that is a positive sign for companies good financial health. Balance sheet Total current assets continuously move upward from 2005 to 2007. it was lowest in 2005 as there was superior competition in the market with the emergence of Big-Box Retailers, Speciality Stores and Online Sales and company needed more assets to fund day to day operations. After 2005 there is a slight increase in the TCA and a sharp increase visible in 2007 by 38%. In 2004 the TCA were 49.09% of the total assets and dropped to 47.50% of the total assets in 2007. The Net Fixed Assets reflects similarities in all the years whereas Total assets were raised from 2005 to 2007 which indicates the positive value of firm’s operations. The Net Fixed Assets were 43.12% of total assets in 2004 and 44.50% of total assets in 2007. The Total Current Liabilities increased in all the years and in 2005 there is a noticeable drop of 101.13% as the online sales increased. The introduction of the soft goods decreased the expenses as the company availed a good deal with better purchasing discounts and longer terms of payments in 2005. The TCL were 56.92% in 2004 and 36.45% in 2007 of the Total Liabilities and Equity of the company. The total long-term liabilities of the company increased due to the fire accident and the re-establishment of the new store in 2003. In 2005 the TLT Liabilities increased due to the shareholder’s loan. In 2007 the TLT Liabilities increased as the owner had taken loan from some family members which was unsecured loan. The TLT Liabilities were 30.50% in 2004 and 31.23% in 2007 of the Total Liabilities and Equity. The Total Liabilities and Equity increased in 2004, decreased in 2005 and gradually increased thereafter. Profitability Gross Profit Margin – The gross profit margin of the company witnesses a significant increment from 2004 to 2006. Predominantly, the Company’s Gross profit produced 26% in 2004 to 32.6% and 36.9% in 2005 and 2006 of net sales growth respectively. On the other hand this ratio experiences a visible fall in 2007 with 31.9%. Hence the situation of the company indicates a rise in cost of goods as there is unplanned purchase management. Net Profit Margin – The Net Profit Margin experiences a drastic fall in 2003 and 2004 i.e. -0.8% and -4.9% respectively and there was increment in the next two years 3.8% to 6.1%. This increasing ratio shows company has better control over its costs. However, in 2007 it again loosed its net profit due to the higher cost of goods sold which create negative image of company. As the Gross Profit Margin dropped so as the Net Profit Margin witnessed a fall. Return on Equity- Mountainarious Sporting Co.’s return on equity was increased in 2005 to 2006 by 34.2% and 40.7% respectively that is the indicator of how much profit company generates with the money shareholders invested. But in 2007 company generated only 15% on the shareholders’ investment which was 25.7% less than the previous year. Return on Average Assets- The return on assets was -8.11% in 2004 then it climbed continuously next two years from 5.7% in 2005 to 10.7% in 2006 which demonstrates that assets had made more benefits and company utilized its assets more effectively. Nonetheless, the company encountered a fall in 2007 to 4.7%. It seems company is not able to handle its assets in a planned manner. Liquidity Liquidity is a measure of the firm’s cash position and it keeps a company in business in the short run. Acid test/ quick ratio- This ratio indicates whether current liabilities could be paid without having to sell inventory. Generally acid test ratio of 1:1 is considered satisfactory as a firm can easily meet all current claims. But in Mountainarious Sporting Co’s case quick ratio from 2003 to 2007 is less than the standard ratio. It seems company would find it difficult to pay its current liabilities. Current ratio- the current ratio which measures the company’s ability to pay current liabilities from its current assets. Current ratio is greater than 1 ( current assets exceeds current liabilities) in all years from 2003 to 2007 but less than industry ratio that is 1.9 . In particularly, company’s current ratio is acceptable when it is more then industry ratio. Therefore, its working capital and financial position is not strong to lower the risk for creditors and owner Solvency Debt ratio- â€Å"The debt ratio tells the proportion of a business assets that it has financed with debt.† (Horngren, Charles T.,7th ed.) Mountainarious sporting co’s highest debt ratio was recorded 87.42% in 2004 which indicates in 2004 company faced more financial risks. Then it started to decline from 2005 to 2007 by 78.53% to 67.69%. It seems now company’s leverage goes downward and financial risk is also decline. Cash Debt Coverage Ratio – cash debt coverage ratio was -11.41% in 2003 while it increased to 26.35% in 2005 which reveals company’s better ability to carry total debts. Nonetheless it dropped to .035% till 2007 which means now company’s ability is not sound to cover total debts with its yearly cash flow from operations. Recommendations The following recommendations have been made in order to the performance of the Mountainarious sporting Co. Profitability: Mountainarious sporting Co. should review their pricing strategy and effectiveness of any advertising campaigns, including scaling back the level of advertising in the short run to minimise costs and improve profit margins. Stricter employment policies can also improve productivity and reduce employee absenteeism without any increase in costs. Efficiency: If labour productivity does not lead to the operation of idle assets, it would be wise for Mountainarious to sell all idle assets to free up cash whilst and from not sacrificing profits. Along with selling its idle assets, Mountainarious have to buy back excess shares from inventors. It should be noted that this decision would likely turn current investors away and encourage them to sell leading to as much larger than intended fall in equity. This could pose financing future investments. Liquidity: Adopting a ‘just in time’ approach for stocking shelves to reduce inventory costs and the risk of attaining unusable stock. A short term solution to free up cash flow would be to sell idle assets as discussed earlier, however  with less assets, revenue and profits are limited. Alternatively Mountainarious can choose to no longer offer store credit, however it must be noted that this conservative approach may limit sales and net profits. Tighten customer credit policies such that the maximum receivable settlement period is at least the duration of the shortest payable settlement period agreed to with suppliers. Solvency: Review product marketing strategy and pricing in order to achieve price premiums and boost sales and profits, reducing their reliance on debt for finance. Sell idle assets to free up cash flow and pay off a portion of current liabilities to improve attractiveness and solvency to a potential lender. Conclusion: From the above analysis horizontal and vertical, we can conclude that the companies performance as compare to the industries average is below par and the current ratio, quick ratio shows that the current assets are not managed properly which further deepen the problem of repayment of the liabilities, secondly there is no cash in flow from the financing activities as shown in cash flow analysis and more over the assets were increasing in 2007 but they were not utilized in the manner so as to maximize the profits. The sales over the five fiscal years were showing the increasing trends still the profits were not as it is expected reason being the cost of good sold is too high and the inventory level is also high of the company, thus to conclude as the company do not have the repayment potential as evident from the above ratios, hence it won’t be a wise decision to grant loan in the present scenario. References Dr. Jawahar Lal, P2009, Accounting Theory and Practice,Himalaya Publishing House PVT.LTD., Mumbai, India. Horngren, Charles T.,7th edition,Financial accounting, Pearson, Australia Ken Trotman & Michael Gibbins,3rd edition, Thomson, Australia.