Monday, December 30, 2019

Battle of Amiens in World War I

The Battle of Amiens occurred during World War I (1914-1918). The British offensive began on August 8, 1918, and the first phase effectively ended on August 11. Allies Marshal Ferdinand FochField Marshal Douglas HaigLieutenant General Sir Henry RawlinsonLieutenant General Sir John MonashLieutenant General Richard Butler25 divisions1,900 aircraft532 tanks Germans Generalquartiermeister Erich LudendorffGeneral Georg von der Marwitz29 divisions365 aircraft Background With the defeat of the 1918 German Spring Offensives, the Allies swiftly moved to counterattack. The first of these was launched in late July when French Marshal Ferdinand Foch opened the Second Battle of the Marne. A decisive victory, Allied troops succeeded in forcing the Germans back to their original lines. As the fighting at the Marne waned around August 6, British troops were preparing for a second assault near Amiens. Originally conceived by the commander of the British Expeditionary Force, Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig, the attack was intended to open rail lines near the city. Seeing an opportunity to continue the success achieved at the Marne, Foch insisted that the French First Army, just to the south of the BEF, be included in the plan. This was initially resisted by Haig as the British Fourth Army had already developed its assault plans. Led by Lieutenant General Sir Henry Rawlinson, the Fourth Army intended to skip the typical preliminary artillery bombardment in favor of a surprise attack led by the large-scale use of tanks. As the French lacked large numbers of tanks, a bombardment would be necessary to soften the German defenses on their front. The Allied Plans Meeting to discuss the attack, British and French commanders were able to strike a compromise. The First Army would take part in the assault, however, its advance would commence forty-five minutes after the British. This would allow the Fourth Army to achieve surprise but still permit the French to shell German positions before attacking. Prior to the attack, the Fourth Armys front consisted of the British III Corps (Lt. Gen. Richard Butler) north of the Somme, with the Australian (Lt. Gen. Sir John Monash) and Canadian Corps (Lt. Gen. Sir Arthur Currie) to the south of the river. In the days prior the attack, extreme efforts were made to ensure secrecy. These included dispatching two battalions and a radio unit from the Canadian Corps to Ypres in an effort to convince the Germans that the entire corps was being shifted to that area. In addition, British confidence in the tactics to be used was high as they had been successfully tested in several localized assaults. At 4:20 AM on August 8, British artillery opened fire on specific German targets and also provided a creeping barrage in front of the advance. Moving Forward As the British began moving forward, the French commenced their preliminary bombardment. Striking General Georg von der Marwitzs Second Army, the British achieved complete surprise. South of the Somme, the Australians and Canadians were supported by eight battalions of the Royal Tank Corps and captured their first objectives by 7:10 AM. To the north, the III Corps occupied their first objective at 7:30 AM after advancing 4,000 yards. Opening a gaping fifteen-mile long hole in the German lines, British forces were able to keep the enemy from rallying and pressed the advance. By 11:00 AM, the Australians and Canadians had moved forward three miles. With the enemy falling back, British cavalry moved forward to exploit the breach. The advance north of the river was slower as the III Corps was supported by fewer tanks and encountered heavy resistance along a wooded ridge near Chipilly. The French also had success and moved forward approximately five miles before nightfall. On average, the Allied advance on August 8 was seven miles, with the Canadians penetrating eight. Over the next two days, the Allied advance continued, though at a slower rate. Aftermath By August 11, the Germans had returned to their original, pre-Spring Offensives lines. Dubbed the Blackest Day of the German Army by Generalquartiermeister Erich Ludendorff, August 8 saw a return to mobile warfare as well as the first large surrenders of German troops. By the conclusion of the first phase on August 11, Allied losses numbered 22,200 killed wounded and missing. German losses were an astounding 74,000 killed, wounded, and captured. Seeking to continue the advance, Haig launched a second assault on August 21, with the goal of taking Bapaume. Pressing the enemy, the British broke through southeast of Arras on September 2, forcing the Germans to retreat to the Hindenburg Line. The British success at Amiens and Bapaume led Foch to plan the Meuse-Argonne Offensive which ended the war later that fall. Selected Sources History of War: Battle of AmiensFirst World War: Battle of AmiensBritish Army in World War I: Battle of Amiens

Sunday, December 22, 2019

Effectiveness Of Mental Health Essay - 1191 Words

Effectiveness of mental health court The incarceration of people with mental illness has grown to be a serious social, clinical and economic concern (Hawthorne, 2012). There is an estimated 804,000 people in the United States annually that enters into the system (NcNiel Binder, 2007). Majority are non-violent, low-level misdemeanor offenders that cycle in and out of the prison system due to the multiple barriers they encounter when attempting to access mental health services within the community (Hawthorne, 2012). A solution that has been developed to resolve this issues is establishing mental health court. Mental health court was established to reduce recidivism of individuals with mental illnesses and ensure public safety. The thought was that providing individuals with treatment needed to ensure stability of their mental health illnesses would aid in the decrease of the individuals involvement with criminal activity. Problem History In the past several decades the increase of mentally ill individuals have grown in the criminal justice system. The problem originated back in the early 19th century with asylums (institutions), deinstitutionalizations and budget cuts. (Steadman, Osher, Robbins, Case, Samuels, 2009). People with mental illnesses were are not receiving the treatment and support needed to maintain stable and functioning lives thus causing them to cycle in an out of prison. Current problem Currently individuals are arrested and endure the process ofShow MoreRelatedEvaluating The Effectiveness And Capture The Experiences Of Adolescence That Went Through A School Based Mental Health Program1406 Words   |  6 Pagesstudy to evaluate the effectiveness and capture the experiences of adolescence that went through a school based mental health program in Sweden. The majority of programs that have been implemented for depression are cognitive behavioral therapy based. Garmy points out that in Sweden students are mandated to go through nine years of education that is nationally controlled learning curriculum but that local school districts may also install extra activities such as mental health promotion and preventionRead MoreBalancing Efficiency And Effectiveness Of An Organization1146 Words   |  5 PagesBalancing efficiency and effectiveness is necessary in any organization despite the motives and definition of success. When determining an organizations e fficiency and effectiveness many factors should be considered because one may affect the other. There are several tradeoffs between the two that include quality, quantity, customer satisfaction or success, recidivism, employee satisfaction or success, defining organization’s goals, determining what to measure, and how technology impacts both. NoRead MoreThe Use Of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( Cbt )1543 Words   |  7 Pagesreducing depression in college students which are: increased state funding of programs that use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), expansion of mental health benefits legislation to non-parity states and school-based student health plans, and voluntary regulation of collaborative care models on college campuses through increased state funding linked to mental health outcomes. Policy Option 1- Selective prevention program of CBT The Coping with Stress (CWS) course has been developed as a youth at riskRead MoreAn Examination Of Attitudes, Beliefs, And Understanding Of Mental Illness1449 Words   |  6 Pagesprovide an examination of attitudes, beliefs, and understanding of mental illness and treatment seeking behaviours by British individuals of West African descent. Relevant literature specifically focussed at the British West African demographic is extremely scarce, with primary focus in this area being on African American individuals, hence the benefit of the proposed study, providing insight into beliefs and attitudes towards mental illness from the perspective of British West Africans. Ward, ERead MoreBenefits And Detriments Of Headspace1645 Words   |  7 Pagescoordination of services for young people with mental health concern is headspace. headspace is the National Youth Mental Health foundation and is a provider of early invention mental health services for young people aged 15-25. Whilst headspace has shown success in engaging and delivering preventative mental health services to young people since 2006, there is much controversy around how effective headspace actually is at addressing mental health concerns for all young people. This critical reviewRead MoreTreatment Of Mental Health Disorders1388 Words   |  6 Pagesprimarily used in the treatment of mental health disorders. Their discovery was monumental for the science of psychiatry. Antidepressants are the primary treatment for a myriad of mental health disorders. However, many scientists, clinicians and patients question the effectiveness of antidepressants for this broad scope. Examination of effectiveness, side effects and alternative treatments suggest reduction in the scope of antidepressant use for mental health disorders. The advent of antidepressantRead MoreEvaluation Of A Student Program Evaluation Reports And Complete The Criteria That Were Provided By The Instructor869 Words   |  4 Pagessearch program evaluation reports and complete the criteria that were provided by the instructor, such as identify the evaluation it illustrates, and identify the methodological strengths, and weaknesses. The article, â€Å"D.C. Department of Mental Health School Mental Health Program SY 07-08 Report†, discussed the limitations and barriers of learning opportunities provided to many helping professionals within the school districts, youths, and the parents. This program offers services that are individualizedRead MoreSymptoms And Symptoms Of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Essay1498 Words   |  6 PagesGeneralized Anxiety Disorder in the United States is estimated to be approximately 4–7% with current prevalence rates ranging from 1.5–3% (Blazer et al. 1991). These rates could be as high as 5–8%, if the International Classification of Diseases and Health Related Problems (ICD-10) are used as the basis for diagnosis (Ustun and Sartorius ,1995). During the intake interview with my client, Ms. Hendricks stated that as a child she suffered with social anxiety. She also shared with me that during herRead MoreSchools Have Implemented Self Esteem Programs907 Words   |  4 PagesTo follow the legislation outlined above, schools have implemented self-esteem programs to attempt to provide mental health services and education to all students. The following two studies are only samples of the countless research done on the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of self-esteem programs in schools. The purpose of this paper is not to argue whether the self-esteem programs both outlined here and elsewhere still have a place in schools today. The goal, rather, is to provide informationRead MoreThe Mentally Ill O FF Ender Treatment And Crime Reduction Act Of 2004 : Problems And Prospects1321 Words   |  6 PagesChristine M. Litschgea and Michael G. Vaughn, is a research article whose focus is three-fold. First, the researchers reviewed the literature available on the components that have influenced the considerable increases of incarcerated persons with severe mental illness (SMI). Secondly, they analyzed the Mentally Ill Oï ¬â‚¬ender Treatment and Crime Reduction Act of 2004 (MIOTCRA), and evaluated if, since its inception, has reduced the problems associated with incarcerated persons with SMI. Thirdly, they offered

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Pakistani Girl Got Shot Free Essays

Pakistani girl got shot In the last century,women empowerment movements swept across Europe clamoring for gender equality. The successful struggle granted girls and women the right to education in many countries. Nevertheless,until today,the blessing hasnt reached Pakistan. We will write a custom essay sample on Pakistani Girl Got Shot or any similar topic only for you Order Now Falling into the shadow of Taliban,universal education is nothing more than a pipe dream to many girls there. Malala,a 15-year-old activist who promoted women’s right to education in Pakistan was shot in the head by Taliban militants on her way home on October 19th. Despite being swiftly sent to a hospital in Britain,the life of the young heroine was at stake. The heinous attack sent shock waves through the nation and fanned up the indignation of the international community. ‘ believe while international community should fght against the Taliban militants ,the Pakistan government and people are responsible for the tragedy Mingled with rage and appal,’ found the case of Malala was Just the tip of the iceberg in Pakistan. ‘ condemn the unforgivable acts of the Taliban militants and believe the International community shall counteract these subversive beasts at all costs. Education is a universal right and nobody should be denied access to it. lt is never confine to a gender or race. Therefore,for the sake of Justice and peace,The international community should follow the Taliban millitants to the end of the Earth while giving profuse support to the victims. The Pakistani government,though menaced by the Taliban militants,should not watch the battle with folded arms. Apart from lives and properties,a responsible overnment should safeguard the rights and freedom of its people. Education,without doubts,is among the basic rights. Sadly to say,the education system in Pakistan is still a crawling toddler. People languish at the bottom of the world literacy list due to the fact that the government drains away immense resources on military defense. Without the government’s sincere support of education for its people,no wonder terrorist suppression on girls’ education remains unchecked for ages. In addition,the deprivation of education of many girls has much to do with the vicious ocial practice in Pakistan. Girls drop out of school early to Join parents at work while some are married off as teenagers. consequently,girls could not climb up the social ladder when they grow up and poverty haunts them for good. The lack of support from parents is also a decisive factor favoring the Taliban’s crackdown on education. To save countries like Pakistan from miseries,’ hope the international peacekeeping values. Last but not least,may Malala and other victims speedy recovery,may education become universal and may the world a long-lasting peace. How to cite Pakistani Girl Got Shot, Papers

Thursday, December 5, 2019

MUHAMMAD AZIZUL RAHMAN BIN RODUAN Essay Example For Students

MUHAMMAD AZIZUL RAHMAN BIN RODUAN Essay MC 160100277Impact of Cell Phones on People: Pros and ConsOver the years, the world has witnessed a booming number of cell phones. They are dramatically changing the way people contact, communicate, interact or socialize with each other. It is apparent that cell phone has had a profound influence on personal lives. However, not all of the impact of them could be positive nor negative, this is because the existent of these multifunctional tools have both pros and cons and the side effect is obviously made or judge based on the user itself. Recently, people who is actually living in this deep world of communication era now days belief that this communication devices has an advantage to bring significant fortune or profit to the agencies, companies and marketers, and whenever this cellular phones become popular, many of the tech user started to recognized that this incredible outstanding devices is qualified as a need for them. As developments in communication continue, cell phone devices become more advance and sophisticated. For example, cellular phones are now equipped with greater multiple functionalities, thus, making these electronic devices essential in the communication system of any businesses. Indeed, cell phones are always connected to the Internet, via a data network, mobile broadband or Wi-Fi connection. However, the very things that make cellular phones so convenient and useful are the same things that can stop user in their tracks with a dead battery. The more application and programs running in the phone, the more energy it needs to perform. Even though battery life is drain out, cell phones still consider as a source of unlimited entertainment. The things which we never thought would be present in a cellular phone are now possible. Which means cell phones have come into existence which not only helping in making calls but also help out user to stay entertained by allowing the user themselves to play games, listen to music and do lots of other stuff. Although cell phones had a bunch of possibilities to the majority of society there is also a disease came along with it, such as causing a distraction and addiction. It is true that people are now getting a numerous number of advantages from a single high tech cell phone but these communication technologies also have several negative impacts. For example, using cell phones too often could probably be harmful for humans health as it can increase the risk of brain cancer and lacking of face to face communication is also the result of using cell phones. Instead of going out or finding an alternative ways to prevent laziness, many people still prefer to stay at home and use their cell phones to connect to others onlineIn conclusion, we can see how cell phone is capable changing our cultures in both good and bad ways. Even though these devices have brought people from different parts of the world closer together, it does not mean it has not alienated the people closest to us. As useful as cellular phones are, it is important to use them accordingly and not make them our lifeline to the outside world. Communication consists of verbal and non-verbal cues and this is what makes us feel close to one another and measure should be taken to ensure this does not stop. Is keeping animals in zoos acceptable?In recent years, zoos are consider as a place where animals from around the world are kept and technically animals are being forced to be taken away from their natural habitat, where there are naturally existing food sources, enemies, and placed inside of a cage that keeps out all of animals which consists of only a small percentage of the naturally occurring flora and fauna to which the animal is accustomed. With no natural predators or food sources to hunt, many animals will lose their natural instincts, which are necessary for survival. This prevents reintegration into the animal kingdom and leaves them sentenced for life in a zoo. .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d , .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .postImageUrl , .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d , .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:hover , .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:visited , .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:active { border:0!important; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:active , .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u2973ae9b47e7be98dd41a7e97055e40d:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: An overview of breastfeeding EssayHowever, there is no doubt that zoos main goal is to ensure that these overall animals were protected from the midst of a global extinction crisis. Not only zoos play a critical role in fighting for wildlife extinction, but they are also emphasis their right to keep animals in captivity in order to help endanger species population from decreasing. Indeed, these animals have been born in captivity and they do not miss the wild as they do not know what it is, but letting a captive bred animal out into the wild would be far more cruel as it would not know how to feed or protect itself from any number of dangers. Some species, without captive breeding, would be long extinct such as Przewalskis horse which no longer exists in the wild. Many other species such as the rhino, panda, wolf, cheetah, leopard, and many species of birds without human protection and conservation would also suffer for a long extinct. This is why zoos have to prove themselves and take this opportunity in order to help these animals survival from extinct because out in the wild there are still a tons of animals would have a very little chance to survive, especially those on the endangered list. As what we know, these animals are still hunted by poachers for their skins, bones and other by products. Also, some of them have a more difficult time surviving in the wild by themselves due to pollution, destruction of their habitats, high level of competition for food, over-predation, diseases and other unfortunate reasons. And when it comes to education, zoos are also playing a very important role among community. For example school children are curious about animals and see them everywhere in their daily lives, and an opportunity to go to the zoo and see them for real is amazing for them. With this opportunity, they enjoy learning about animals and endangered species. Besides, the zoos also have launched and added signs to most places where animals are located in order to inform people about them too, including how many there still are in the world, what they eat, and so on. Not only school children, but pretty much everyone can get informed about animals at zoos, as they start to raise awareness towards important issues regarding animals. In conclusion, keeping animals in zoo is obviously acceptable because the zoos itself have useful purpose and it provides safety to the animals as well. And not only that, it is also consider as the best ideal habitation for the rare animals from extinction even though some of the community that may not agree with their way to keep animals in their property.

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Ethical and Moral Dilemma McDonalds

In the contemporary business environment, many companies are embarking on the corporate social responsibilities to not only enhance a positive public image but also show an act of social responsibility and moral obligation to the society. In particular, McDonald’s fast food company embarks on an aggressive social responsibility strategy.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ethical and Moral Dilemma: McDonald’s specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company has suffered criticism over junk food. Nonetheless, the fast food giant continues to make substantial amounts of revenues notwithstanding the health issues raised regarding fries and junk. Should a company bear the social obligation to meet the demands of the society despite making profits from hazardous goods to consumers? Using the perspectives of such thinkers as Yukl, Machiavelli, Plato, Hobbes and Rand, this paper will focus on the analysis of the organizational dilemma. Standpoints of Various Thinkers on the Issue The moral challenges of power and self-interest raised by the above issue is dazzling. Judging the organization from Yukl perspectives of leadership, the leaders of McDonald’s have assumed various ways in which they exercise power not only on the employees and teams but also on the society (Yukl, 2006). Corporate social responsibility reflects reward power to the society where the company reaps benefits from sales and rewards the society through the initiative (Spence et al., 2004; Zaccaro et al., 2001). The use of reward power by McDonald’s has helped the organization to meet its objectives amidst calls for a paradigm shifts in eating habits. Further, the concept of power and self-interests elucidated by Plato could infer that McDonald’s has centralized power of influencing both the employees as well as the society. Plato sees no rationale for embarking on such strategy since it would imply th at people have power. He distances himself from ‘people power’ and argues that the company, which in this case represents the ‘Republic’, should not bear any moral obligation for the society (Bostock, 2000). Due to the power of self-interests, McDonald’s should focus on its objectives, which is to increase the wealth of its owners rather than distributing its revenues to people (Annas, 1981).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Contrary to the views of Plato, Hobbes could judge the dilemma from different perspectives. His perspective of power, which in this case is wielded by McDonalds, should be in relation to other people. In his masterpiece, The Leviathan, Hobbes says that power is relational to other people without whom there would be no any phenomenon referred to as power (Ellis Harper, 1997). Hence, McDonalds has wielded relative power giv en that the consumers continue to have faith in the company. Niccollo Machiavelli would argue in line with his premise that human nature is typical of endless competition. In fact, the essence of life is to ensure that every person gets an edge over others. Applying this argument to the context of an organization, McDonalds should not relent on its current strategy whether or not the food they serve are healthy. Antonakis et al. (2009) assert that the company should focus on ensuring that it maximizes on profits without considering the consequences of its operations on the society or consumer. This is in lieu of the fact that an organization should aim at posing the increased competition with other food industry despite the means it uses (Davis Blomstrom, 1975). To the contrary, Rand conceptualizes the concept of power by elucidating that practical power is important and inherent aspect of human beings (Carroll Buchholtz, 2006). Therefore, McDonald’s consumers should be abl e to question the motives of the organization and demand the company to give back to the society through corporate social responsibility. References Annas, J. (1981). An introduction to Plato’s Republic. Oxford: Clarendon Press Antonakis, J., Ashkanasy, N. Dasborough, M. (2009). Does leadership need emotional intelligence? The Leadership Quarterly, 20 (2), 247–261. Bostock, D. (2000). Aristotle’s Ethics. New York: Oxford University Press.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Ethical and Moral Dilemma: McDonald’s specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Carroll, A. Buchholtz, A. (2006). Business and Society: Ethics and Stakeholder Management. Mason, Ohio: Thomson/South-Western. Ciulla, B. (2003).The Ethics of Leadership. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Thompson-Wadsworth Publishers. Davis, K. Blomstrom, R. (1975). Business and Society: Environment and Responsibility. New York: McGraw-Hill. Ellis , A. Harper, R. (1997). A Guide to Rational Living. Hollywood, California: Wilshire. Spence, L., Habisch, A. Schmidpeter, R. (2004). Responsibility and Social Capital. The World of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises. New York: Palgrave. Yukl, G. (2006). Leadership in Organizations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall. Zaccaro, J., Rittman, L., Marks, A. (2001). Team leadership. Leadership Quarterly, 12(4), 451-483.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This essay on Ethical and Moral Dilemma: McDonald’s was written and submitted by user Marisa Tillman to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Monday, November 25, 2019

The Rules of Using Positive and Negative Integers

The Rules of Using Positive and Negative Integers Whole numbers, which are figures that do not have fractions or decimals, are also called integers. They can have one of two values: positive or negative. Positive integers  have values greater than zero.Negative integers have values less than zero.  Zero is neither positive nor negative. The rules of how to work with positive and negative numbers are important because youll encounter them in daily life, such as in balancing a bank account, calculating weight, or preparing recipes. Tips for Success Like any subject, succeeding in mathematics takes practice and patience. Some people find numbers easier to work with than others do. Here are a few tips for working with positive and negative integers:Context can help you make sense of unfamiliar concepts.  Try and think of a practical application like keeping score when youre practicing.Using a number line showing both sides of zero is very helpful to help develop the understanding of working with positive and negative numbers/integers.Its easier to keep track of the negative numbers if you enclose them in brackets. Addition Whether youre adding positives or negatives, this is the simplest calculation you can do with integers. In both cases, youre simply calculating the sum of the numbers. For example, if youre adding two positive integers, it looks like this: 5 4 9 If youre calculating the sum of two negative integers, it looks like this: (–7) (–2) -9 To get the sum of a negative and a positive number, use the sign of the larger number and subtract. For example: (–7) 4 –36 (–9) –3(–3) 7 45 (–3) 2 The sign will be that of the larger number. Remember that adding a negative number is the same as subtracting a positive one. Subtraction The rules for subtraction are similar to those for addition. If youve got two positive integers, you would subtract the smaller number from the larger one. The result will always be a positive integer: 5  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 3 2 Likewise, if you were to subtract a positive integer from a negative one, the calculation becomes a matter of addition (with the addition of a negative value): (–5)  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 3 –5 (–3) –8 If youre  subtracting negatives from positives, the two negatives cancel out and it becomes addition: 5  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ (–3) 5 3 8 If youre subtracting a negative from another negative integer, use the sign of the larger number and subtract: (–5)  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ (–3) (–5) 3 –2(–3) – (–5) (–3) 5 2 If you get confused, it often helps to write a positive number in an equation first and then the negative number. This can make it easier to see whether a sign change occurs. Multiplication Multiplying integers is fairly simple if you remember the following rule. If both integers are either positive or negative, the total will always be a positive number. For example: 3 x 2 6(–2) x (–8) 16 However, if you are multiplying a positive integer and a negative one, the result will always be a negative number: (–3) x 4 –123 x (–4) –12 If youre multiplying a larger series of positive and negative numbers, you can add up how many are positive and how many are negative. The final sign will be the one in excess.   Division As with multiplication, the rules for dividing integers follow the same positive/negative guide. Dividing two negatives or two positives yields a positive number: 12 / 3 4(–12) / (–3) 4 Dividing one negative integer and one positive integer results in a negative figure: (–12) / 3 –412 / (–3) –4

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Video review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Video review - Essay Example Organization culture is also aligned in respect to the set goals. Organization structure is aligned in respect to the goals with each department working to achieve the set goal in order to achieve the overall organizational goals (CEB 1). As stated by the speaker, the four critical trends which should be responded to are complex new work environment, the changing work force demographic, the management of talent in respect to the business management and the talents strained by the new realities (CEB 1). The four generation of people explained by the speaker include the individual who work through others, individuals who need close supervision in order to work, talented people but placed in wrong working department and those in need of training in order to perform. All those generation must be managed properly for business progress. The HR should not dismiss individuals who do not deliver but they should be trained and monitor them to identify their talent and fix them in the right department (CEB 1). One significant reality strained by employees in workplace is changing to new work environment. In many cases employees change demographic or places of work in which they experience new rules. Employees moved from one organization to another and strain in adopting the new terms and goal (CEB 1). The five big steps explained by the speaker which companies need to take to drive better talents for good business outcomes are looking back for performance, organizing human resources through performance, moving to new view, redefining means of measuring success and driving any new move through application and not theories (CEB 1). The implications of the human resource function in an organization are network performance, high performance talent, achieving breakthrough performance after application of network performance, team work and process design. The human resource leadership must carry out different

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Death penalty Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Death penalty - Term Paper Example Following an unsuccessful attempt by a foreign passenger to set off explosives on an airplane in the U.S., public outrage led to pressure to extend the federal death penalty to such crimes. The President has asked for an opinion regarding the constitutionality and the appropriateness of the death penalty for crimes that do not involve actual killing. I am working as one of the staff of the Attorney General of the United States. The Attorney General has asked me to draft a memo that spells out the policy arguments on both sides of the issue and then make a recommendation. This memo is prepared to submit to the president of United States which analyses both the sides of death penalty issue and argues against death penalty. Moreover, this memo provides recommendations to the President about the alterative options to death penalty. â€Å"The death penalty is the ultimate, irreversible denial of human rights† (Death Penalty, 2009). Unlike many other modes of punishment, death penal ty cannot be reversed once it is executed. The core philosophy of American criminal justice system is that not even a single criminal should be punished even if thousands of criminals escaped. Under such circumstances, it is quite possible that an innocent person could be given death penalty based on circumstantial evidences. It is possible for smart criminals to fabricate evidences which are pointing towards innocent people at the crime spots. Thus, instead of original culprit an innocent person may face death penalty. Life is the most important thing in this world and so science or technology succeeded in creating an artificial life form in a laboratory set up. In other words, the secrets behind life are still unknown to us. Only the creator has the moral authority to make changes in his creations. Capital punishment is the most an expensive way of punishing a criminal; so it should be prohibited. It is estimated that the cost needed for executing a death penalty is around 70% mor e than other punishments because of the necessities of the services of expert advocates, forensic testing, witnesses, investigating officers etc. In 1989, the state of Florida executed 42-year-old Ted Bundy. Bundy confessed to 28 murders in four states. During his nine years on death row, he received three stays of execution. Before he was put to death in the electric chair, Bundy cost taxpayers more than $5 million (Capital Punishment - The Costs Of Capital Punishment, 2011) The purpose of death penalty is to avoid threats from hard core criminals to innocent people in future. The innocent people or the tax payers forced to spend millions of dollars for punishing a criminal which is illogical especially when we consider that the objectives of death penalty can be obtained through cheaper options like life sentencing. Death penalty is not suitable for a civilized society like ours since it reduces the gap between the criminal and criminal justice system. A criminal who kills a perso n and the criminal justice system which execute a criminal are doing the same activity of taking the life. Even though the circumstances are different, the outcomes are the same. Delfino & Day (2008) have pointed out that â€Å"In the United States, death penalty is said to serve two principal social purposes: retribution and deterrence of capital crimes by prospective offenders† (Delfino & Day, 2008, p.1). Taking revenge for a crime is not a good philosophy to current generation. America is a Christian

Monday, November 18, 2019

Analysis of Steve Jobs as an entrepreneur Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of Steve Jobs as an entrepreneur - Essay Example This study will look to analyse Steve Jobs as an entrepreneur by evaluating him with Saras D. Sarasvathy’s work on ‘Effectuation: Elements of Entrepreneurial Expertise’. The study by Saras D. Sarasvathy (2003) was done with an endeavour to seek an answer to question related to the fact that ‘what makes a successful entrepreneur’s brain different from the average person’ (Young Money, LLC, 2011). The main findings of the study were related to ‘process elements of entrepreneurial expertise’, ‘principles of entrepreneurial expertise’, and ‘effectuation: the logic of entrepreneurial expertise’ (Sarasvathy, 2003). The conclusion that Saras D. Sarasvathy derived from her research was that most successful entrepreneurs generally rely on the factor of ‘effectual reasoning’. It means that they primarily define their goals based on the choices as well as the means they are provided with. Successful entr epreneurs are observed to be brilliant improvisers. They generally do not start their business venture with tangible goals, but they look to constantly assess situation to find ways to make most effective utilisation of the available resources. They look to use their personal strengths in order to develop different goals extemporaneously.

Friday, November 15, 2019

Petroleum As The Core Business Of PETRONAS

Petroleum As The Core Business Of PETRONAS The company of my choice is PETRONAS, the petroleum Multinational Corporation based in Malaysia. The paper will outline the background of the company followed by identification of the actual and potential impacts of globalisation on the company. Recommendation of strategies which the company might use to respond to the impacts is covered in the last part of the paper. 1.0 Overview of PETRONAS Multinational enterprise is defined as a large company with substantial resources that perform various business activities through a network of subsidiaries and affiliated located in multiple countries. (Cavusgil, Knight Riesenberger, p.13). PETRONAS, the acronym for Petroliam Nasional Berhad is a petroleum multinational corporation headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia which was incorporated on 17 August 1974 under the Companies Act, 1965. It is national oil company of Malaysia, vested with the entire ownership and control of the petroleum resources in the country (PETRONAS, 2010). Under the leadership of Tan Sri Hassan Marican, PETRONAS is transformed rapidly into a global company with oil explorations and business joint ventures with overseas partners. Over the years of effort, it has become a fully-integrated oil and gas corporation with operations in more than 30 countries worldwide and ranked among FORTUNE Global 500 ® largest corporations in the world (PETRONAS, 2010). 1.1 Integrated business of PETRONAS PETRONAS is fully integrated across the value chain from the upstream exploration, development, production, processing, and transportation and gas transmission to the marketing of liquefied natural gas and other petroleum products as shown in Figure 1.0. PETRONAS also involved in domestic refining, petrochemical manufacturing and marketing business, while managing a globally coordinated downstream operation designed to optimize product delivery to its customers through its marketing and trading operation (PETRONAS Capital, 2009). PETRONAS also engage in shipping, automotive engineering and property investment. Figure Integrated Business of PETRONAS Source: PETRONAS Annual Report 2010 1.2 Petroleum as the Core Business of PETRONAS Petroleum is the core business of PETRONAS because refined petroleum products account for 37% of the company total revenue amounting to RM80.7 billion (PETRONAS, 2010). Exports and domestic operation contributed 35% and 19.7% of PETRONASs total revenue respectively which bring positive balance of payments to Malaysia (PETRONAS, 2010). Thailand, Japan, Korea and Singapore has been the main crude oil export countries of Malaysia which account for 87% whereas over 40% of gas was exported to markets in Japan, Korea and Taiwan, most of the remainder used domestically for electricity generation (Malaysia Green Technology Corporation, 2010). Figure PETRONAS Composition Revenue 2010 Source: PETRONAS Annual Report 2010 The international operations are as important to PETRONAS which generated 45.3% (RM98.1 billion) of the company total revenue. PETRONASs production are mainly comes from Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Chad, Egypt, Sudan, Mauritania, Iran, Pakistan and Turkmenistan. Africa remains to be the companys prominent operation region which contributed 57.7% of the company international production followed by South East Asia (25.1%) Oceania and Middle East Asia (17.2%). 1.3 Organisational Structure of PETRONAS Figure Organization structure of PETRONAS Source: PETRONAS Annual Report 2010 PETRONAS adopted a centralized functional organisation structure which the executive vice president (EVC) and vice presidents (VC) have to constantly report their performance to the CEO. Each VC or EVP from respective function are responsible to monitor and controlling the overseas operation with the aids of overseas joint venture companies or partners 2.0 External Analysis of PETRONAS 2.1 Political PETRONASS oil exploration often takes place in high political risk countries such as Sudan and Iraq with abundant resources of oil and natural gas. Sudan has been in political instability and having war for more than three-quarters of its existence due to the independence, protracted conflict rooted in deep cultural and religious differences which has slowed down country economical and political development (U.S. State Department, 2010). Recently, Sudans internal war evolved from the issue of exploring more oil region outside the territory because of depletion of the existing oil reserves. Despite political instability of Sudan could disrupt PETRONAS in oil exploration, the company had strengthened its politics affiliation through Malaysian Government to mitigate the effect. For example, PETRONAS is welcome by Sudan Government to pursue exploration and development works in its, Melut and Muglad Basins which has expanded in both the upstream and downstream sectors of the countrys oil and gas industry (PETRONAS, 2010). Besides, liberalize of countries trade policy is prominent to guarantee the profitability of PETRONASs overseas operation. In Malaysian, fewer tariffs are imposed on petroleum and gas product. PETRONAS is assigned to regulate the upstream activities in oil and gas as well as controlling the foreign investment of upstream petroleum and gas industry through the form of production-sharing contracts (PSCs), between foreign investors and PETRONAS. Likewise, South Africas government also developed their national oil and natural gas company, Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa (PetroSA) on managing and promoting the licensing of oil and gas exploration includes onshore and offshore exploration of the country. Thus, PETRONAS set its own oil refining and marketing presence in Africa through its 80% owned subsidiary, Engen Petroleum Limited ENGEN, a leading South African refining and marketing company. 2.2 Social Islam remain as the important role in shaping Malaysias position on many international issues especially those related to the Muslim world of which the Middle East is a part (Ruhanas Harun, 2009). Middle East and North Africa account for 60.4% of the world oil reserve which are the important for PETRONASs exploration and production. Thus, Malaysian government has been proactive to build up religious affiliation by developing membership of a worldwide Islam brotherhood. The action is paid off when Malaysia oil reserves have dwindled and few domestic opportunities exist to drill for new reserves, PETRONAS has successfully to expand its operations to Iraq and Sudan which are Islamic oriented developing countries. 2.3 Economic PETRONAS is the biggest contributor to the Malaysian government budget, accounting for 39.3% of the federal governments revenues in 2008, up from 36.4% in 2007 (CIA, 2010). According to Bank Negara, 26% of inward FDI of Malaysia was channelled into manufacturing oil and gas in 2008. With the financial support of PETRONAS, Malaysian Government has been subsidizing the local fuel prices since 2004 which is different from many countries whose followed the exact fuel prices regulated by global market price of gasoline (Bernama, 2010). The fuel price subsidies is intended to protect the local welfare of middle income household but it causes 5.0 to 44% of Malaysias fiscal deficit (JATRO). The activities of the state-owned PETRONAS influence the aggregate patterns, resulting in substantial investments in exploration and extraction in the oil and gas industry which is more towards the US, Canada and Australia as the recent rapid development of unconventional gas resources. 2.4 Technology Environment In Malaysia, domestic reservoirs are maturing due to the fact that Malaysian production is depleting since oils has been produced for hundred years. PETRONAS has been expanding overseas exploration and production of resources such as South Africa, Egypt and so on. Just like many other oil companies offshore rig has caused ecological imbalances such health and reproductive problems for surrounding marine life, destroys kelp beds, reefs and coastal wetlands, and exposes the wildlife to threats of oil spills (Greening Forward, 2008-2010). In such way, PETRONASs image is harm through the directly linkages to environments pollution. Company has been focusing on green technologies and developing in-house greening solutions. In particularly, the company has an ongoing research for strengthening PETRONAS ECOPLUSà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ environmentally friendly, degradable polymer series (PETRONAS Annual Report). 3.0 Overview of Globalization According to Business Dictionary, globalisation implies opening out beyond local and nationalistic perspectives to a broader outlook of an interconnected and inter-dependent world with free transfer of capital, goods and services across national frontiers. As world economy globalizes the national economies integrate into the international through trade; foreign direct investment; short-term capital flows; international movement of workers and people in general and flows of technology (Najam, A., Runnalls, D. Halle, M). This has created opportunity to the rise of multinational like PETRONAS in developing country venturing to the petroleum industry that used to be the exclusivity of companies from developed countries such as Royal Dutch Shell from United Kingdom and Exxon Mobil from United States. With the globalisation effect, PETRONAS has been growing organically and through strategic partnerships, via joint ventures, mergers acquisitions and so on as catalysts for escalated performance (Dato Shamsul Azhar Abbas, 2010). PETRONAS is gaining more freedom either on exporting petroleum products or setting up oil refineries in worldwide. This enable the company to continue dominant its position in the international business environment by penetrating larger capital market that has lesser regulations on foreign direct investment. For instance, PETRONAS is included in The New Seven Sister ranking by Financial Times which considered as one of the most influential international oil and gas companies which controlled about one third of the of the worlds oil and gas production and reserves (Nicholas Vardys The Global Guru, 2010). However, globalisation is not a bonus giving for all companies but imposes certain opportunity cost to the companies operations. PETRONAS may enjoy of possessing diversified revenue base which generated from its overseas operations and marketing. At the same time, the company has the opportunity cost of facing unexpected problems of like changing economic, regulatory and political environments globally and regionally which would create a serious impact to the companys growth. The actual globalisation impact on PETRONAS will be political risk, global competition and global technology transfer. 3.10 Actual Globalisation Impact on PETRONAS 3.11 Political risk Political risks of operating countries remain as the fundamental globalisation impact of PETRONAS because 42.1% of the companys revenue derives from international operation in countries such as Iran, Myanmar, Cuba and Sudan in the fiscal years ended in 2009. PETRONAS strategy was to pick strongest partner in operating countries to minimise these risk. For instance, the company is in partnership with China National Oil Corp. and Sudans National Oil Company, Sudapet, while in Iran it has a tie-up with Frances TotalFinaElf, which has a strong relationship with the country (Leslie Lopez, 2003). 3.12 Global Competition Globalization makes it increasingly difficult for PETRONAS to rely only on national regulation to protect its local positions in oil and gas industry. PETRONAS is deemed to face intense competitions of its oil and gas and refining industries in both domestically and internationally. For instance, PETRONASs retail subsidiary company, PETRONAS Dagangan Sdn Bhd used to compete with its main competitor Royal Dutch Shell but now competing with other retail competitors like ESSO (Exxon Mobile subsidiary), Caltex and BHP (Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd). On the other hand, globalisation of liberalization enables oil firms to set up oil refinery in other countries which lead PETRONAS in a competition of oil exploration and production operations in Sudan. 3.13 Risk and Benefit of Technology Transfer As economies open up, more people become involved in the processes of knowledge integration and the deepening of non-market connections, including flows of information, culture, ideology and technology. New technologies move across boundaries quicker, by connecting workers and citizens across boundaries and oceans (e.g., the rise of global social movements as well as of outsourcing), but they can also threaten social and economic networks at the local level (Najam, A., Runnalls, D. Halle, M). Under the effect of globalization, technology transfer is performed from MNC home country to host countries. PETRONAS presence in Sudan has transferred its exploratory and production technology to expand upstream and downstream sectors of Sudanese oil and gas industry. This could have harmed PETRONAS in a sense that transferring its competitive advantage to Sudan because the nation can explore the countrys oil reserved through skills learned from PETRONAS. Nevertheless, PETRONAS also learn special technology skill through its overseas joint venture partners. PETRONAS learned appropriate petrochemical technology through its joint venture partners include The Dow Chemical Company (Dow Chemical), BASF Netherlands B.V. (BASF), BP Chemicals, Idemitsu Petrochemical Co. Ltd, Mitsubishi Corporation, and Sasol Polymers International Investments (Pty) Ltd, (Sasol Polymers) which possess financing capability, marketing and distribution expertise (PETRONAS Capital). 3.20 Potential Globalisation Impact on PETRONAS 3.21 Depletions of Natural Resources The rapid acceleration in global economic activity and our dramatically increased demands for critical, finite natural resources undermine our pursuit of continued economic prosperity (Najam, A., Runnalls, D. Halle, M.). Under the globalisation process, firms gain free access to exploit natural resources of one country to another without any restriction. Non renewable resources like petroleum and gas sooner will be depleted over the years through uncontrollable exploration and productions. These impose serious environmental cost as well as the influencing the future direction of oil and gas industry. Sustainability of PETRONAS and other petroleum companies is deemed to be affected as petroleum product is source of revenue of the industry. Therefore, finding replacement of these depleted resources through invention of new technology is crucial to sustain the companies the industry. 3.22 Changes in foreign environmental laws and regulation In order to protect the environments, some countries might enact additional environmental legislation and regulation regarding exploration and production of oil and gas, petroleum, petrochemical products and other activities. Environmental law and regulation would limit or prohibit the company on drilling activities within protected areas and certain other areas; and impose penalties for pollution resulting from oil, natural gas and petrochemical operations, including criminal and civil liabilities for serious pollution ( Green Forward, 2008-2010). These would incur significant unforeseen expenditures for PETRONAS to comply with such requirements, which could adversely affect on PETRONAS business, financial condition and results of operations in overseas. Therefore, PETRONAS is in disadvantage because of taking longer time to response the changes in foreign environment laws and regulation attributes to its centralised management structure which connected globally 3.23 Risk of Brain Drain During the year under review, the shortage of critical skills faced by the oil and gas industry represented the key people related challenge faced by PETRONAS (PETRONAS, 2010). With the globalisation effect, PETRONAS could have enjoyed the benefit of penetrating and extracting talents in different countries by setting up overseas operations. However, it put the company at risk of brain drain in worldwide operation. Brain drain is referring to the net loss of a countrys highly trained and skilled manpower through migration (WebFinance, 2010). This is because globalisation process improves the mobility of skilled labour to move around the world freely. This means workers are becoming active information seekers and concern about their benefits in the organisations. Conveniences of knowledge sharing like pay standards and job opportunity via Internet able to influence the workers decision on staying in the same organisations. If PETRONAS Malaysia unable to offered attractive incentive to motivate skilled workers, the company is likely to find very difficult to retain the higher skilled workers who attracted better remuneration and benefits from companies in developed countries such as UK, Middle East, and so on. 4.0 Recommendation Figure Ansoffs Matrix Strategy Source: http://www.franteractive.net/resources/Ansoff-Matrix.GIF 4.10 Diversify to innovative green technology In order to overcome the potential impact, PETRONAS should not over dependence on natural resource like oil and gas to sustain the company future. PETRONAS is recommended to acquire new market with new product line through diversification. The company could focus on developing green technology as the environment preservation is key concern of around the world. Thus, PETRONAS is recommended to develop alternative fuels such as converting plastic waste to fuels, wastewater to fuels and so on which are considered economical to consumers yet reducing the pollution and damages to environment. In Malaysia, PETRONAS should emphasize on recycle energy supply technology by turning garbage into energy because Malaysian produced 23000 tonnes of garbage each day. With this technology, PETRONAS could form partnership with local electricity producer, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) as a way to increase its competitive advantage of diversification in energy industry over other oils and gas competitors as well as improving the environment status in Malaysia. 4.20 Reposition PETRONASs image By addressing the environmental problem causing by exploration and production activities, PETRONAS has been investing on its corporate social responsibility (CSR) centred on enhancing the education and community programme in Malaysia and abroad. In Vietnam, PETRONAS contribution to the nations development through education was recognised through the Certificate of Merit in Education by the President and Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam in 2010 (PETRONAS, 2010). But still there is a limitation of the companys CSR direction which should be refocuses on preserving the environments. Therefore, it is important for PETRONAS to reposition its image to be responsible and environmental concern oil and gas corporation. The company has to be alert of the changes foreign environmental laws and regulation as well as filling Environmental Assessment (EIA) before setting up exploration, production, refining and chemical projects in overseas. The company should increase investment on its research an d development by reducing the air emission and discharges resulting from the operation of natural gas processing plant, chemical plants, refineries, pipeline system. 4.30 Retain talents with attractive incentives program and growth PETRONAS believe staff is selflessly built, nurtured and grown under the corporation share value of loyalty, integrity, professionalism and cohesiveness. PETRONAS should continue its CSR on providing quality education in each country as a way to recruit talents from amongst the local and overseas graduates. However, retaining the existing high quality staffs of PETRONAS is a prominent factor to sustain the future of the corporation. Therefore, PETRONAS should increase the human empowerments by offering occupational mobility along both the technical or managerial tracks and ample opportunities for learning and growing. PETRONAS should also launches special incentive program to motivate staff through giving bonuses, company trips and other staff benefits. In this way, staffs would find themselves appreciated and more willing to serve the company with loyalty. 5.0 Conclusion From time to time, the most distinct globalisation impact on PETRONAS is the politics instability of oil exploration and production countries followed by the global competition of building market share as well as the oil and gas resources. The trend of technology transfer under globalisation, on the other hand, has benefited PETRONAS of capturing technical skills from overseas partners but it also leads PETRONAS losses its competitive advantage through transferring patented technologies while exploring other countries. Potential impact of globalisation would be the depletion of resources, changing environmental law and regulation and loss of human capital which are needed to take account by PETRONAS of sustaining its global presence in the coming future. In order to mitigate the actual globalisation impacts, PETRONAS has to strengthen its politics and religious affiliation with oil production countries for the future benefit. As for resolving the potential impact, PETRONAS is recommended to perform diversification in innovative green technology as the world is stressing on environment preservation. In addition, the company needs to reposition its global image not only by means of its current corporate social responsibility that solely focus on regional education but it should be more focus on environment preservation. Next, PETRONASs re-evaluate their incentives plan to avoid brain drain problem which high skilled workers are poached by competitors in developed countries. As a conclusion, it is important for MNC to join hand with government to mitigate the globalisation impact. PETRONAS strategy of growth through joint venture and partnership in the global is a brilliant way of reducing business risk. But without the effort of Malaysia Government of being proactive in developing politics and religious affiliation with Middle East countries, PETRONAS can never gain the opportunity to explore in these countries. Therefore, PETRONAS has to maintain its current competitive advantage as well as keep an eye on the unknown impact of globalisation. 2897 words

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Speeding up the close :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Speeding up the close†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The article I choose to review is â€Å"Speeding up the close† by Gaye van den Hombergh and Laurie Streling from the magazine Financial Executive June 2004 issue. Companies with a 12-month accounting period otherwise known as a fiscal year are coming up with alternative ways to reduce time and speed up the process to meet the impending 60-day deadline. This article discusses fiscal year and the abilities of companies to close the books quickly to access real-time financial results, which, in turn, lead to better decision making. Companies spend or invest funds in projects that hopefully make the firm more profitable, having real-time financial results would make this more efficient. Faster closings means more time for the company to process the numbers, also a rapid close is a sign of the efficiency and success of management and the company. If management has real-time financial results it allows them to respond more efficiently to changes in the market, which, in turn, help investors make significant investment decisions. The article goes on to discuss the pressure mounting for virtual close, but how urgent is it, and is it worth the investment? A survey was conduct of financial executives in companies to see if the pressure mounting for virtual close is significant often to proceed with further action. The Johnsson Group found less than one out of five respondents reported a fully automated close, more than half said that their close process is semi-automated and requires some manual intervention, and a quarter replied that their systems need significant manual intervention. Speed up the close should not be viewed as a vital step to be taken all at once, but as an evolutionary process. The concept of virtual close shows us how far the finance organization have come in the pass couple of years in the time it takes to performing closings. Two-thirds of companies closed their books for the quarter in 4 to 7 business days, 16 percent are accomplishing their closings in 1 to 3 days, but on other hand 21 p ercent of the companies reported needing more than 7 business days for closing. Although companies have to be prepared to confront certain issues while obtaining faster closing, like less emphasis on training, leaving companies with fewer finance â€Å"historians who in fact know the rationale behind the processes and have a deeper understanding of the business†. The next paragraph in this article discusses a more strategic role for finance.