Diamond cites multiple factors Essay

A tale of two very similar farms, 500 years apart in time, in Montana and in Greenland respectively, sets the scene for Jared Diamond’s romp round the known world with an ecological bee in his bonnet. One farm prospered, and the other collapsed. Here ends the first reading, and sure enough, another few dozen parables of human folly follow immediately after. The book reads like a sequel to Diamond’s Pulitzer Prize winning title of 1997: Guns, Germs and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies even though the focus this time is more firmly on the societies that failed. The same cherry-picking formula is used, and the same breezy tone makes Collapse a fairly easy read, despite its heavy theme and expansive range. The book’s central thesis is that it is geography, more than history, that ultimately causes the demise of individual human communities and societies. This is perhaps not surprising from a professor of geology and physiology at the University of California in Los Angeles. The frozen wastes of Greenland and the striking stone heads of Easter Island are presented as grim reminders of past civilisations. Diamond cites multiple factors such as environmental change, climate change, hostile neighbours, loss of trading partners and a poor response to emerging environmental problems as the causes of decline and ultimately the collapse of these societies. He is at his best when he talks about smaller, more isolated and pre-industrial groups, putting us all in mind of an earlier time when people generally lived in villages rather than cities. The book shifts, however, and applies the same kind of analysis to large city-based civilizations like the ancient Maya of South America and more mixed modern economies such as China and Australia. In these cases, as they say, the plot thickens and when Diamond gets his crystal ball out, he predicts that China, â€Å"the lurching giant† will have to apply its typical top-down draconian pressures to environmental issues in the same way that it enforced a strict curb on the birth rate. Diamond’s innocuous description of China’s brutal one child ruling as â€Å"family planning policies †¦ bold and effectively carried out† underplays the culture shift that would need to occur if ever a western democracy were to try a similar tactic in aid of environmental reforms. One can’t help thinking that Diamond has not yet got his head round the concept of globalization and the astonishing capacity that modern democracies have for technological solutions to the old crises of supply and demand of raw resources. His rather glib conclusion â€Å"Globalization makes it impossible for modern societies to collapse in isolation†¦ for the first time we face the risk of a global decline† simply expands the primitive pattern to a bigger scale. This book is a wake up call. Some of its claims are exaggerated, as when the situation of modern Australia is compared to â€Å"an exponentially accelerating horse race† which for Diamond means â€Å"accelerating in the manner of a nuclear chain reaction. † The metaphors may be hopelessly mixed, but the point he is making is clear and critically important. After a leisurely wander through most of human civilisation as we know it, Diamond draws sobering conclusions about the cost of mistakes that we should, theoretically at least, be able to predict and deal with before they become fatal and final errors. While we may not be able to agree with all of his conclusions, we certainly are in debt to Jared Diamond for providing us with, yet again, a gripping sequence of well-drawn episodes and plenty of food for thought.

Costco Wholesale in 2012 Essay

Analysis and Evaluation Since the inception of Costco in 1983, one of its drawbacks is, they have 4,000 selections of merchandise compared to their competitors. In addition, customers can only purchase merchandises in bulk. Consumers who shop at Costco do not have the choice to pick up one single item, for instance a can of soup. Although Costco prices are low and the consumers get more for their money, more consumers are wasting food because they no longer have the big families. Costco needs to look at the demographics and re-evaluate their business model, as this could be detrimental to the company. In today’s society, more families are getting divorce and are becoming single parents. The big families are almost none existent; therefore, most consumers do not need to purchase in bulk. Many consumers want to have choices when it comes to the amount of food they purchase. One may say there are other shopping establishments a consumer may visit to get exactly what they want; however, that is beside the point. Giving consumers the choice to purchase individual merchandise will not only bring in more business but also an increase in cash flow, which will also increase profits for Costco. On the other hand, Costco competitors such as Wal-Mart stocked up 40,000 to 150, 000 items for shoppers to choose from and Sam’s Club have over 16,000 items. Sam’s Club have the treasure-hunt items but tend to be less upscale and carry lower price tags than those of Costco. Both Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club give shoppers more choices than Costco even though Costco offers a cheaper price on their merchandise. Costco spends very little in advertisements and they totally rely on their name and word of mouth by their customers. Compared to Sam’s Club they spent about $50 million annually advertising and direct mail promotions. Furthermore, Costco does not have a Public Relation department, which is not good business practice, even though they have been around for years and they are doing well financially. However, there are many opportunities for one of its competitor to come in take away their market share. Costco does not attract people who are below the poverty line; they cater to the business consumer and urbanites that have an annual income of $100,000; therefore, people who are impoverish cannot afford the membership fees and bulk purchase. In addition, Costco membership fee is more expensive compared to Sam’s Club. Recommendation Costco needs to improve the variety of choices by giving the consumer more than 4,000 items to choose from while their competitors are actually giving customers what they want. Costco needs to take into consideration the economy; people have lost their jobs and the recession, as customers are looking for cheaper prices and ways to saving money. Furthermore, if Costco does not come up with new and innovative strategies to entice low income and single household family to their establishment they are giving their competitors the upper hand. Costco should also focus on the advertisement because number of its rivals is already doing intense advertisement. In today’s global and technological world, many businesses are being aggressive and are taking advantage of investing heavily on the marketing. Costco cannot continue to use the concept of sitting back and waiting for their customers to spread the word by mouth. Costco needs to move in the direction of the 21st century by being more proactive by utilizing technology and a PR department for marketing purposes. It is true that company like Costco are doing good in economic downturn but competitors like Sam’s club is outperforming Costco in pricing which could be biggest threats to the Costco even though Costco keeps relatively branded and qualitative product than that of Sam’s Club The Five Forces Model of Competition Substitutes Strong threat Good substitutes everywhere Price not significantly higher Comparable product features More variety of features Low switching cost Potential new entrants Low threat Small pool entry candidates High barriers to entry Expanding market Attractive profits Buyers Weak bargaining power Some switching cost Large membership base Costco has the best value Suppliers Weak bargaining power Many suppliers Low switching cost Many substitutes exist Large quantities are needed Competing sellers Fierce Competition Costco is on top Quality is slightly better Buyer demand is growing Buyers switching cost is low SWOT Strength| Weakness| Low product and services†¢ Strong brand†¢ Excellent merchandise†¢ Exceptional employees†¢ 54 million members†¢ Economics of scale†¢ Efficiency| James Sinegal is 79†¢ Maintain high wages†¢ 42% higher than Sam’s Club†¢ Comparatively less attractive store layout for luxury items†¢Ã‚  Declining or inconsistent profit margins†¢ Primary focus on business customers rather than individual customers| Opportunities| Threat| Recession- Easier to find bargain luxury-items- Increased popularity of Costco†¢ Expanding foreign markets- Europe- China – India †¢ Positive image in terms of employees pay and social responsibility†¢ Increasing brand awareness| Fierce competition†¢Costco cannot attract people who are below poverty line due to its membership fees and bulk purchase†¢High competition from Sam’s Club and BJ†¢Political problems in other countries| References Thomspson, A. A., Peteraf, M. A., Gamble, J. E., & Strickland III, A. (2012). Crafting & Executing Strategy (19th ed.). New York, New York: McGraw-Hill/Irvin.

African American History in America Essay -- History Blacks African Am

In From Slavery to Freedom (2007), it was said that â€Å"the transition from slavery to freedom represents one of the major themes in the history of African Diaspora in the Americas† (para. 1). African American history plays an important role in American history not only because the Civil Rights Movement, but because of the strength and courage of Afro-Americans struggling to live a good life in America. Afro-Americans have been present in this country since the early 1600’s, and have been making history since. We as Americans have studied American history all throughout school, and took one Month out of the year to studied African American history. Of course we learn some things about the important people and events in African American history, but some of the most important things remain untold which will take more than a month to learn about. The Fight for Freedom and Rights When Afro-American’s came to America in hopes of having a better and easier way of life, and after they arrived it was a totally opposite of what they expected. The following are a couple events that took place in different locations for the fight for freedom and right. The first is Bloody Sunday; which took place in Selma, Alabama. This particular event was the march of black activists from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. Thomas-Samuel (1996) stated that â€Å"In 1965, Alabama state troopers and local deputies stopped and clubbed black activists as they marched peacefully†¦.† (para. 1). These people just wanted to make a point by marching from one city to another and they got beating just for it. Next is the fight for 7, 2007 from Web site: http://www.who2.com/denmarkvessey From Slavery to Freedom: African in the Americas. (2007). Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Retrieved October 7, 2007 from Web site: http://www.asalh.org/ Harlem Renaissance (1997-2007) Microsoft ® Encarta ® Online Encyclopedia 2007. Retrieved October 7, 2007 from Web site: http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761566483/Harlem_Renaissance.html/ Harlem Renaissance. (2007) The Columbia Eletronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Retrieved October 7, 2007 from Web site: http://www.factmonster.com./ce6/ent/A0822748.html History of Little Rock Nine. (1999) Little Rock Nine Foundation. Retrieved October 7, 2007 from the Web site: http://www.littlerock9.com/

Social Change Impact Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Social Change Impact - Assignment Example These individuals protested in order to attain their rights and to gain acceptability within the society. For example: the civil rights movement started as the society viewed black Americans as inferior and was not accepting them as equal part of the society and similar events were witnessed in LGBT rights and women rights movement. The women’s right movement ended up in gaining success because they broke their ultimate goal of attaining their rights into manageable goals and they did not try to bring out a change immediately (Loeb, 2010, p.64). Secondly no one was quite aware about the various advantages that will take place as a result of this change and in order to experience the unforeseen advantages, this change was accepted. The main contributing factor for the sustainability of women right movement was that those involved in this movement did not back down and continued to fight for their rights even when there were huge

The Christian Building and the Jewish Synagogue Essay

The Christian Building and the Jewish Synagogue - Essay Example The Dura-Europos synagogue is referred to by some as "Pompeii of the Syrian Desert†, due to the remarkable preservation it underwent. The Dura exhibited a rectangular shape of the grid, and was located in close proximity with the central agora streets.The location of the Dora on the main crossroads made it a cosmopolitan city, according to inscriptions with multiple languages, together with numerous religious buildings for Jews, Pagans, and Christians that lay side by side (Davies and Whitehead 175). Dura Europos was abandoned after the Sassanian siege that took place between 254 and late 256. During the last gasp of saving the city, the synagogue got filled in in-order to make a fortress, thus facilitating its preservation. This was followed by eventual covering of the city with shifting sands that caused its disappearance. Architectural PortraitThe Dura Europos was largely made of the mud-brick architecture, but its siege works and walls had the dramatic remains that combined with the precipitous views on the Euphrates green valley that made for the striking sight (Olin 10). Being a cosmopolitan society, the Dura-Europos exhibited many inscriptions of different origins, including Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Safaic and the Palmyrenean. Among the Dura Euporos homes, there were three that were converted for religious purposes. For instance, the Mithraem was dedicated to Mithras god worship, and another one had its structure modified to create a synagogue for the Jews (Feugere 723).

State Bank of India Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

State Bank of India - Essay Example In fact, after five years of deliberations, the chairman reflected bank’s achievements on the attribute of positive attitude regained by leadership thought. This opened up avenues through which the chairman shifted the focus to start aiming at being among the top twenty banks in the world. With such deliberations, the concern is on how the bank has been performing, what contributed to its advancements, the challenges it met along the journey, the opportunities available, its current weaknesses, and the potential it has in order to go to higher horizons. In light with this, the following section will evaluate on the current bank’s situation. This will give an insight and overview of the potential that the bank has in terms of advancing or deteriorating (Samuelson 1980). SBI profile: the primary internal and external influences on State Bank of India One theory that can be put into the context of explaining the primary internal and external influences on state bank is the ory of planed behavior. This theory can be applicable in explaining why, for example, people have a perception the SBI is a good bank. It takes several strategic measures for the internal management of the bank to put incentives that change the view of customers in relation to services offered by the bank. In order for employees to be able to perform well in their duties, they need to have a good attitude towards both the organisation and the customers. In essence, theory of planned behavior argues that, the attitude toward a behavior changes individual behavioral intentions (Ajzen 2007). In this regard, due to good employee incentives offered by the bank, employees are able to have a positive attitude towards the bank, something that results in top performance. In addition, organisation and management theory argues that organisations must understand both internal and external factors in order to succeed in their business. This can be analyzed to be the case in SBI. For example, on his reflection of the journey, in 2011, the chairman admitted that the bank has been the largest commercial bank in India. According to the chairman, this has been a journey full of transformations, which focused on changing its hierarchy, transaction orientation, customer focus, government ownership, and change of technological advancement, which has made it to be a universal bank. After Bhatt took over its leadership, he talked of transforming the leadership of SBI in order to propel it further. By 2010, SBI had doubled its profits and regained market share, something that led to the bank being awarded the ‘achievement award’ for the strongest bank in the Asian pacific region. In this regard, it is apparent that the change of leadership exhibited by Bhatt was very instrumental in taking the bank to new levels (Rust and Zahorik 1993). Therefore, analytically, it can be argued that apart from adopting all necessary technology and other strategies in business, leadership plays an indispensable role in development of any organisation (Yeung, Ging and Ennew 2002). By 2011, SBI was 43rd largest bank in the world taking a capitalization of over $ 36.5 billion in. By that time, SBI had more than 267,000 employees and with 18,000 branches and 25,000 ATMs. In this year, it made profits of $ 2.6 billion. However, the journey of SBI has been a long one since its establishment in 1806. Some years down the line, the bank was granted the right to issue currency; something updated it into the status of a presidency bank. At that time, the bank was partly owned by the government and part by private individuals. One of the parties that have had influence on

BUSINESS ETHICS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

BUSINESS ETHICS - Essay Example Ethics, after all, encompass wider perspectives of human concerns ultimately affecting business organizations. Ferrell, Fraedrich & Ferrell (2009, 6) define business ethics as â€Å"the principles and standards that guide behavior in the world of business†. As businesses comprise a greater majority of the world’s human activities, the importance of studying ethics come as a necessity rather than a matter of natural occurrence. Businessmen interact with diverse stakeholders in capacities ranging from employees, creditors, customers, directors, stockholders, government entities, and the community, as a whole. In this regard, they are obliged to abide by a set of standards which guide their actions and decisions in order to protect the stakeholders’ interests which they serve. Accordingly, each professional endeavor is governed by a code of ethics which encompass principles and values of integrity, objectivity, competence, respect and protection of legal and personal rights, confidentiality, nondiscrimination, promotion of wellness, refusal to participate in illegal and unethical acts, following scientific and ethical research procedures and compliance with state and federal laws, among others. Studying business ethics would assist individuals, as part of the organization, to discern their personal values that affect or influence the performance of their required responsibilities. By learning theoretical ethical concepts and their applications in business, individuals are made aware of the need to recognize relationships between legal and ethical decisions. Business ethics discusses the concepts on leadership and management where managerial responsibilities for the conduct of subordinates need to conform to ethical codes for guidance and compliance. The study of ethics give direction to promote the ethical behavior expected of stakeholders in the business setting. It

How malt liqour is bad for health Research Paper

How malt liqour is bad for health - Research Paper Example The variety of injurious health effects produced by Four lokos is so abnormally huge that this particular brand of malt liquor was even banned from being sold in the market. A range of heart and blood pressure problems originate from consuming malt liquors. This is a sad reality that many malt liquors are marketed to children by masking the overwhelmingly bitter taste of alcohol with fruit flavors and people have certainly no idea about their markedly high alcohol content. People most often have no information how inebriated they are concerning the high level of stimulants contained in those liquors. The following discussion illuminates the majorly researched ill health effects produced by malt liquors. (Bellamy) stresses on the adverse results produced by consuming malt liquor Joose by mentioning that a large percentage of health researchers have linked Joose drinking and impaired mental performance due to which motor vehicle accidents result. Impaired or loose driving is one of the most fatal and common results produced by consuming Joose liquor. ... The Joose drinks are advertised as premium quality malt beverages with alcohol content ranging from â€Å"9-12% ABV† in 24oz. cans, which roughly equals alcohol content of wine. (Buzz Brands). A more reliable source claims that 24 oz. Joose cans contain 9-9.9 percent alcohol depending on the flavor. (Joose: Steel Reserve Killer). Here, the brand Four Loko clearly differs from Joose because it contains even higher alcohol content (and is capable of intoxicating an individual even more. This is because people new to malt liquor initially go for Joose and only after developing tolerance for that, they turn to Four Loko’s. Four Loko energy drinks have been the subject of critical legal, moral, and health concerns regarding the high alcohol content and injurious combination of caffeine and alcohol. â€Å"Four Loko has as much caffeine as two eight-ounce cups of coffee, and has 12 percent alcohol by volume.† (Johnson). This comparison of two of the most popular brands Joose and Four Lokos gives an insight into how the marketers of alcohol-based energy drinks rigorously try to outrun each other in increasing the alcohol content in an order to survive in the market. But, the sad reality is that this ferocious trend adopted by the marketers proves to be injurious and also fatal for the consumers, eventually. There has been much controversy and legal issues related to marketing of Joose and Four Loko drinks. The US state attorneys began investigation of companies selling alcohol-based energy drinks like United Brands Co. and Phusion noticing their rise in market share. This rise in market share occurred because the brands Joose and Four Loko were particularly marketed to teenage consumers, who

What is new media Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

What is new media - Essay Example nication content, such that either unique content would be passed on to one individual at a time, or general content would be passed to many audiences at a time, but both would not occur simultaneously (Crosbie, 1998). The old media comprised of one-to-one (interpersonal communication) or one-to-many (mass communication), where the interpersonal communication would allow for passing a unique content to one person only; at a time, while the mass media would allow for the distribution of the same message to a large audience, but without the ability to make the content individualized or made unique for any single individual (Crosbie, 1998). Thus, the New Media can be defined as the mode of communication that allows for unique and general content transmission at a time, meaning that using the new media, an individual can be able to communicate a unique message to a selected individual in form of a one-to-one communication, and at the same time be able to send a general communication content to a wider audience (Crosbie, 1998). Thus, New Media is characterized by the possibility of democratization of the communication content; the possibility to send and receive communication either in the form of unique or general content for an individual. The New Media can also be defined as a creation of the technological advancement, such that it is a communication media that could not have been possible if technology did not exist (Manovich, 2001). It is possible to communicate one-to-one without any technological aid, for example through face-to-face communication of two individuals. Additionally, it is possible to communicate to a wider audience without the use of technology, for example a leader addressing a gathering. However, it is not possible to communicate a unique content to one individual and pass general information to the rest of the gathering, if technology does not exist. In this respect, New Media is the communication media that is technology-dependent, and which

The implications of erecting additional Transmission Lines in New Assignment

The implications of erecting additional Transmission Lines in New Zealand by Transpower - Assignment Example It, therefore, runs the national conveying grid for the country (MacInnes, 2011). The national grid is a centralized system that allows proper and organized distribution of power to the New Zealand inhabitants with reliability. The system is such that it regulates the conveyance of electricity and prevents exploitation of people (Action, 2011). The current state law disallows any attempts by the company to exploit people. This regulation is present in the commerce act, which commenced early last year. The New Zealand regime has a responsibility of conducting a review after a specified period, which aims at ensuring proper power prices (MacInnes, 2011). Through the mandate allowed to the company by the country government, Transpower performed distribution of electricity. The company improved efficiency of power conveyance in the country. The regime allows a regulated a mount of revenue collection by the company by performing desired controls (Action, 2011). In order for the company to perform well, it seeks assistance from the government. The government at times offers financial assistance to the company to aid the widening of the national grid. The company provides succinct plans for improving the national grade, which earns it a government endorsement for collecting revenue. The plans must be convincing to the government to allow the request that the company presents (MacInnes, 2011). 2.0 Overview of the national grid of New Zealand Figure 1: The electricity grid in rural New Zealand, Retrieved on 6Th May 2012 from Transpower company owns the grid which is over 11000 Km in length. It conveys lines having high current plus voltage. The power conveyance in the entire country occurs via over 175 stations constructed by Transpower Company at different areas (Luke, Kearins & Verreynne, 2010). The construction of the stations is strategic in order to serve the needs of the population in different regions. Since the source of power is hydroelectric, stations for pro ducing electricity are evident near large water bodies, usually, in the southern regions of New Zealand (Luke et al., 2010). The northern parts of New Zealand have a higher power need than other regions hence long distance conveyance is evident. Covering the distance from the south to the northern regions is expensive. However, the commercial commission works in conjunction with the Transpower Company in order to perform proper plans for conveying electricity to needing areas (Action, 2011). Figure 2: Te Uku wind power project near Hamilton, New Zealand, Retrieved on 6Th May 2012 from 2.1 Background of power generation in New Zealand In New Zealand, the first power station lied in Bullendale region near Otago. There existed a mining centre in the region, which the power generation aimed to serve (Luke et al., 201

Physical Therapist Essay Example for Free

Physical Therapist Essay Physical Therapist [pic] Ka’Liyah Matthews Workforce Essentials 7th Block Mr. Boyd Advantages One advantage of becoming a physical therapist is that you get to know more people of different age groups, values, cultures, and faiths. The advantages of becoming physical therapist do not end there, qualified and skilled physical therapy professionals receive competitive salaries and excellent benefits as well. Disadvantages Sometimes physical therapist work long hours. They can get overworked, and have a heavy patient load. If working in a hospital they are exposed to all kinds of nasty bugs and viruses. Sometimes they have to hurt people. Job Outlook Although many people are training to become physical therapists, the supply of these workers is expected to fall short of demand. However, employment growth may be restricted by controls on health-care costs. Education Requirements To become a physical therapist, one must have a masters degree in physical therapy from an accredited institute and a state license. Moreover, he should possess strong interpersonal skills so as to communicate with the patient and his family. The physical therapy job demands scores of patience from the practitioner. Training Requirements Accredited physical therapy programs offer both masters degrees or doctorates in physical therapy. Applicants need bachelors degrees that include prerequisite courses, which are set by each graduate program. To be licensed, graduates of accredited programs must pass state examinations. Many states require continuing education to remain licensed in the field. Salary A physical therapist’s salary may vary slightly according to the type of employer. Most physical therapists are employed by health practitioners and earn about $73,980 annually. Benefits Benefits for salaried physical therapists included paid holidays and vacations, health insurance, and retirement plans. Self-employed therapists had to provide their own benefits. Work Schedule Most physical therapists work forty hours per week. Those who prefer flexible hours can usually find part-time or consulting work. Work Conditions Physical therapists usually work in clean, pleasant, and spacious areas. Some therapists treat patients who are confined to hospital beds or their homes. Because they treat patients who may be depressed by their disabilities, physical therapists should be patient and encouraging. They need to be in good health and should be able to work well with their hands. Opportunities for Advancement Experienced therapists can become supervisors of hospital departments. With additional education, they may teach physical therapy. Employment of physical therapists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2014, because the population is growing older and likely to need rehabilitation and long-term care. Advances in therapeutic techniques, especially for trauma victims and newborns with birth defects, should create additional demand for rehabilitative care. Personal Qualities Needed Physical therapists must possess problem-solving skills, resourcefulness, patience, manual dexterity, physical stamina, and the ability to work closely with a variety of people. Physical therapists must work well independently, as well as with a team of care givers. From initial examination and evaluation through the discharge of a patient or client, the physical therapists responsibility is to work with the individual to ensure maximal function. A love of lifelong learning, a positive attitude, and an outgoing personality would serve you well in this field.

The Role of Forensic Accountants Essay Example for Free

The Role of Forensic Accountants Essay PROBLEM STATEMENT In recent times, the world has witnessed the failure of large corporate organizations which has been attributed to large scale fraud by Directors in connivance with auditors. There is the case of Enro in the U.S, Parmalat in Italy and many cases in the U.K such as Polly Peek, Maxwell communications and BCCI. This development brought about in its wake the lack of public confidence in audit reports and auditing. By this many stakeholders seek redress in the court of law. In the court of law, the service of an expert witness is required in order to ascertain the true state of affair of the troubled enterprise. PURPOSE OF STUDY To examine a forensic Accountant as an expert witness in litigation and to effectively determine his role in judicial process BACKGROUND STUDY Forensic accounting is hardly a new field, but in recent years, banks, insurance companies and even police agencies have increased the use of these experts. A nationwide study conducted by Kessler International (a forensic accounting and investigative firm) showed that 39% of organizations have considered the need for a forensic accountant. The study intends to find out  how the knowledge of forensic accounting can reduce corporate fraud, mismanagement and seeking redress in the court of law. INTRODUCTION What is forensic Accounting? Forensic accounting is the practice of utilizing accounting, auditing and investigative skill to assist in legal matter and the application of specialized body of knowledge to the evidence of economic transaction and reporting suitable for the purpose of establishing accountability or valuation of administrative proceeding. In wide sense, it can be said as the integrity of accounting, auditing and investigative skill to abstain a particular result. Journal of college Teaching and Learning (2007). Vol 4, Number 9; states Forensic accounting as accounting analysis that can uncover possible fraud that is suitable for presentation in court. Such analysis will form the basis for discussion, debate and dispute resolution In my view, forensic accounting is that aspect of accounting that provides an accounting analysis that is suitable to the organization in resolving disputes that arises in the organization. Forensic accountants utilize accounting, auditing and investigative skills while conducting an investigation. These accountants are trained to look into the dispute in a number of ways. They often retain to analyze, interpret, summarize and present a complex manner which is understandable and probably supported. Also, they are often involved in various activities such as investigating and analyzing financial evidence, developing computerized application, exhibiting documents and presenting the evidence obtained. This new and ground – breaking accounting has two main areas which are: a. Litigation support and investigation b. Dispute resolution. Role of Forensic Accountants in Judicial Process A Forensic accountant is involved in the collection of document, investigating, analyzing and development of computerized application to assist in the analysis and presentation of financial evidence, communicating their findings in the form of reports, exhibits, including testifying in court as expert witness and preparing visual aids to support trial evidence. Thus, the role a forensic accountant can be said to include the following: a. Giving preliminary advice as an initial appraisal of the pleading and evidence available at the start of proceedings b. Identifying the key documents which should be made available as evidence, this is important when the forensic accountant is acting for the defense and lawyers are preparing lists of document to tender in court. c. Preparing a detailed balanced report on quantum of evidence, writing in a language readily understood by a non-accountant and dealing with all issue, irrespective of whether or not they are favourable to the client d. Briefing legal counsels on the financial and accounting aspects of the case during pre-trial preparation e. Initiate measure for introduction of environment accounting to highlight the damage done to the environment by the possible recoupment of such damages or replenishment of lost properties through environmental management continually. CONCLUSION The expert witness testimony of the forensic accountant has forced businesses to restructure, and millions of naira, dollars to be paid in damages; people have on occasions even gone to jail. The practical and in-depth analysis that a forensic accountant brings to a case helps to uncover underlying problems in business. Forensic accountants are currently in great demand, with the public quest for honesty, fairness and transparency in reporting increasing exponentially. Whatever the reasoning may be more and more forensic accountants are being called upon to use their investigative skills to seek out irregularities in their companies’ financial statements. References 1. Aderibigbe, P. (2000): The Role of forensic chartered Accountant in Nigeria. July, 2000. 2. Crumbley H. (2003): Forensic and Investigative Accounting; CCH Publishing 3. Financial Restatements, General Accounting Office Report, 2002 4. Kessler International study; (2002) Forensic accountants needed as economy worsens. Press release 5. Oremade, T. (1988): Auditing and Investigations, Lagos; West Africa Books Publishers Limited.

Survey Engine to Assess Indirect Attainment Parameter in OBE

Survey Engine to Assess Indirect Attainment Parameter in OBE 1 INTRODUCTION The proposed system consists to two modules: Admin Users Report The administrator can perform several operations such as add and delete Question in question bank and creating survey etc. The administrator cans also send email to user to give survey and generate report. The User can receive an email to give survey he can give survey by opening link in email received by him. If user does not give survey he will receive email again for survey. The Generated report are useful for useful for outcome based education system where improvement and necessary changes are made into the system by using survey reports. 1.2 COMPANY PROFILE Founded in 2007, e-Sutra Chronicles Pvt. Ltd is a technology products firm based in Bangalore, India. Our innovative, category creating products for the Indian and international education sector are marketed under the brand name of Contineo. Our vision is to build world class products with Indian relevance and global applicability. Our mission is to accelerate the adoption of academic autonomy in India through IT. Contineo is a pioneering OBE enabling software platform for implementation and administartion of academic autonomy contineo executes full academic autonomy cluminating in secure confidential accurate,efficient and auditable examination of both the digitized answer script and coventional paper and pen variety. The contineo IT platform helps to organizations to quickly implement OBE conform to processes of academic autonomy execute credible examiniations and simplify accredition. While providing insightful analysis so as to allow institutes to focus on academic inovation and research. 2. LITERATURE SURVEY EXISTING SYSTEM: Currently to find information about survey we have to depend on various different sources to gain or find information Before the computerization of the survey system. Survey was taken manually using papers. The manual system requires lot of man power. A Person has to handle all the section like creating survey taking survey by using paper etc. which was so lengthy and tedious job. A Person has to manually check the records and maintain it. Then he generate reports it is very difficult job. If there is some inquiry for any information about survey then we need to check all the survey information and then the information was given. It was very tedious process. Limitation of manual system Wastage of manpower Inaccuracy in Maintaining records Time consuming PROPOSED SYSTEM: The proposed system is a web based application that helps to take survey from the people online. Admin will setup survey and send email to invite people for survey. People will give survey. In management dashboard we can maintain all the stuff like who is responded those who not respond we can send remainder email. Survey is based on question and option each option has weight age and this weight age is analyzed by using different OBE parameter. By using formulas graph and report are generated. Advantages of proposed system Saves manpower Accuracy in Maintaining records Time Saving FEASIBILITY STUDY Once you define a problem you have to check whether it is feasible or not, because all possible solutions are not feasible and feasible one is not always possible. A feasibility study is a test of checking your system proposal and its work ability, impact on the organization ability to meet user needs an effective use of resources. When a new application is proposed it can be goes through a feasibility study before it is approved for deployment. During feasibility analysis for this project, following issues are to be considered. The Key Considerations In Feasibility Study Are: Technical Feasibility. Organizational Feasibility. Economical Feasibility. Behavioral Feasibility. Technical Feasibility: In Technical Feasibility study, we have to test whether the proposed system can be developed using existing technology or not. The proposed system can be implemented with the existing technology with few changes easily. Organizational Feasibility: Organizational Feasibility is the study to identify the priority given to the system in the organization. The objective of the proposed system is to reduce the maintenance and overload of management employees. Using Online Application for survey the company can maintain all the detail of survey. Economical Feasibility: Economic feasibility means that the benefits of project are greater than the costs incurred. 1. Manpower cost As the proposed system is automating the survey it doesn’t require any additional man power thereby reducing the manpower cost. 2. Hardware and Software cost The organization already has a computer network and the proposed system can be installed without any additional expenditure of hardware and software. Behavioral Feasibility: In behavioral feasibility an estimate is made of how strong a reaction the user staff is likely to have towards the development of a computerized system. As the firm is in process of development so there are no chances of resistance from the users. TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGIES USED TOOLS USED 1) LAMP Server: is a Linux web development environment. It allows you to create web applications with Apache2, PHP and a MySQL database. Alongside, PHPMyAdmin allows you to manage easily your databases. 2) Firebug: What is Firebug? Firebug integrates with Firefox to put a wealth of web development tools at your fingertips while you browse. You can edit, debug, and monitor CSS, HTML, and JavaScript live in any web page. 3) phpmyadmin : It is a open source free tool developed in PHP. It handle the data of MYSQL by using GUI and web browser. It can do various tasks such as add, delete, modify databases, tables, rows etc. by executing SQL command. 4) Mysql workbench: It is good software of Mysql. This is useful creating database. Adding foreign keys and all is easy. We can also draw EER diagram which show exact relation between tables. 5) gedit: this is ubuntu by default editor where we can write code. It shows line number and other details. TECHNOLOGIES USED The technology selected forimplementing the application is PHP, and joomla framework MVC component since it was the requirement of the Client to develop an Interactive User Friendly Application. The development was done in a ‘Linux’ environment using for security reasons. The MVC software design pattern There are three parts to the MVC design pattern: the model, view, and controller. The controller and view may both be considered a part of the presentation layer while the model may be seen as a fusion of the business logic and data-access layers. Each element of the MVC is represented in Joomla! by an abstract class: Jmodel, JView, and JController. These classes are located in the joomla.application.component library. MODEL A model will normally contain data access methods to retrieve, add, remove, and update data stored within a specific data source. The model allows us to modify data. The methods that define business logic are essentially defining the behavior of the data VIEW The view defines how we present our data. In Joomla!, when we use a view to display HTML, we use layouts (a form of template) that provide us with an extra layer of control and enable us to present our data in multiple formats. In addition to HTML, views can be formatted to present data in other formats such as PDF or news feeds. CONRTOLLER The controller determines what operation or task has been requested and, based on the request, selects the appropriate model(s) and passes any data modification requests to the appropriate model, creates a view, and associates one or more models with the view. The controller does not manipulate data; it only calls methods in the model. The controller does not display data but rather creates a view that can display the data. JOOMLA Joomla! is a modular and extensible PHP MySQL CMS (Content Management System). It is an open-source project, which is released under version 2 of the GPL license. Joomla! has fast become one of the most popular open source CMSs, which is proved by its numerous awards and massive online community. PHP PHP originally stood for â€Å"Personal Home Page† and was released as a free, open source project. Over time, the language was reworked to meet the needs of its users. GUI applications PHP generally runs on a web server, taking PHP code as its input and creating web pages as output. HTML: HTML is used to creating the web page either of Static or of Dynamic and used to develop the user friendly web pages. HTML uses ASCII characters for both the main text and formatting instructions. The main text is data and the whole information is used by the browser to format the data. A HTML document is simply a text file, which contains certain information you would like to publish. HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS Hardware Requirements: The basic hardware requirements are as follows: PROCESSOR : Pentium IV above. RAM : 512 MB above. HARD DISK : 10 GB above. MONITOR : Color. Software Requirements: OPERATING SYSTEM: Linux Ubuntu 12.04 SERVER: LAMP server DATABASE : Mysql BROWSER : Mozilla Firefox/Google chrome TOOLS USED : Mysql workbench; USER INTERFACE : HTML, CSS, JavaScript LANGUAGES : PHP FRAMEWORK : Joomla 3 SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS SPECIFICATION USERS Users are those who are actually going to use this software. The â€Å"survey engine to assess indirect attainment parameters in outcome based education† has two types of users. Both of these users are provided with different user interfaces. Users: Users are the actual users of this system. They use this software in to give an feedback. The user will receive an email for survey he has give survey which is very useful for outcome based education system make changes in system. Admin: Administrator is the person who is going to maintain this software. He is provided with the interface that helps to create an survey an send email to users and generate report. This software must satisfy the time and speed constraints of both the users. FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS Functional requirements are very important system requirements in a software requirements in a software engineering process (or at micro level, a sub part of requirement engineering) such as technical specifications, system design parameters etc. In contrast there is one more requirements which are based on some parameters such as performance of the system, software quality attributes, reliability and security, cost constraints, design/implementation constraints. The functional requirement defines the capabilities and functions that a system must be able to perform successfully. The System must provide following functionalities :- Keeping records survey. A detailed Report regarding the survey should be maintained and produced whenever needed. Storing the feedback complaints given by the users. The Feedback and Complaints given by the users should be stored and accessible by the Admin. Keeping details about the users he is given survey or not. Sending emails. The Admin can notify users regarding information of survey through email. User friendly user interface User will get good user friendly interface.The software should run on various operating systems with different browsers . NON-FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS Non-Functional requirements define the needs in terms of performance, logical database requirements, design constraints, standards compliance, reliability, availability, security, maintainability, and portability. Performance Performance requirements define how fast the system responds. The load time for user interface screens shall take no longer than ten seconds. Requested queries shall be return results within few seconds. Reliability System should specify the factors required to establish the required reliability of the software system at time of delivery. Availability The website is available as and when user needs. Maintainability Data in the System shall be easily maintained. Testing rigorously and fixing bugs as it occurs to make the application robust Scalability The system should scale well as the number of users increase. It’s a large survey base application so as the numbers of user increase the application should provide the same performance Testability The Developed system is tested with test goals, test methods used, and test resources. The result is stored with proper values so that it can be referred for future testing conditions. 4 SYSTEM DESIGN SYSTEM PERSPECTIVE This system is a replacement for the manual existing systems to get survey from users. The authenticated users only allowed using the services of the system. So that the related information can be accessed by the particular users. â€Å"Survey engine to assess indirect attainment parameters in outcome based education† is aimed at developing a web-based system that helps people to get the details regarding the request from the users. Our application helps to maintain the details of survey i. e. feedback is taken from users to improve outcome based education system. Our application provides a way to produce staff, course, industry survey reports with graphs, which helps in analyzing growth and suggestion of institute. This can be achieved by graphs like PI, Bar graphs. CONTEXT DIAGRAM System Design: Design is the blue print of the system documentation. Designing process starts after identifying reports and other outputs the system will produce. It should be done carefully since if it is incorrect, it will produce the incorrect outputs. CONTEXT LEVEL DATA FLOW DIAGRAM OF PROPOSED SYSTEM: Here is the Context Level DFD and let’s see it contains: First admin login. He can add question in question bank. Then he creates a survey by selecting question from question bank and assigns it to a particular survey. After that he send email to user. user will receive email and gives survey. According to the user response report are generated. 5 DETAILED DESIGNS Use-Case Diagram: SEQUENCE DIAGRAMS COLLABARATION DIAGRAMS ACTIVITY DIAGRAM DATABASE DESIGN CONCEPTUAL SCHEMA : 6 IMPLEMENTATION SCREEN SHOTS 7 SOFTWARE TESTING Introduction: Software testing is the execution of program to find its faults. The testing process focuses on the logical internals of the software, ensuring that all statements have been tested and on the functional externals, that is conducting test to uncover errors and ensure that defined inputs will produce actual results agreed with required results. The following test strategies were adopted to test the system. Testing Strategies: There are two general strategies for testing software. These are as follows: Code Testing: This examines the logic of the program. To follow this test, cases are developed such that every path of program is tested. Specification Testing :Specification Testing examines the specification starting what the program should do and how it should perform under various conditions. Then test cases are developed for each condition and combinations of conditions and to be submitted for processing. Testing Method Used: Here black box testing and statistical testing are used. In black box testing, all possible types of inputs and seen for corresponding outputs and if not giving, code are corrected. In statistical testing, checking for all variables whether they assigned values before using it, whether array bound correctly defined, whether looping statement terminating without going to infinite loop, whether function parameter are passed in order and about number of parameters etc., are checked successfully and found correct everything working satisfactorily. The stages in testing process are: Unit Testing: Individual components are tested to ensure that they operate correctly. Each component tested independently without other system components. Ex. Checked for Username and Password with the table, after the next module is loaded session allocation. System Testing: System testing is actually a series of different tests whose primary purpose is fully to exercise the computer-based system. The system tests that where applied are recovery testing and performance testing. Finally a review or audit is conducted which is a final evaluation that occurs only after operating the system long enough for user to have gained a familiarity with it. System testing was done by the inspection team to verify that all the functionality identified is the software requirement specification has been implemented. Defects that crept in the system has been found defect free and is working well. System testing is concerned with interfaces, design logic, control flow recovery, procedures throughput, capacity and timing characteristics of the entire system. For blank field, alphabets, number and special character validation. 8 CONCLUSION The present computerized system is useful for creating survey. This system is developed as simple as possible to user. Being user-friendly software the user doesn’t find any difficulty in using it. Creating survey and taking survey by using paper. Which was so lengthy and tedious job. This software overcomes these problems. Importance of the system: Less manual work. Increased efficiency. Decreases the rate of errors. It reduces the time consumption. Quick (instant) result. 9 FUTURE ENHANCEMENTS We can use this project in all the Institute where survey is required. We can manage all the information of survey in cloud. The coding pattern is kept as dynamic as possible with minimum amount of static values to make it easier for future extensions. As the current system is expected to add more functionality and dependency according to requirement changes and technology, proper coding standards and working platform have been kept in mind to produce a quality product. This will be a feature which will be added in future. Appendix A BIBLIOGRAPHY Reference Books Robert W. Sebesta : â€Å"Programming the world wide web†, 4th edition, Pearson Education, 2008 Ian Sommerville: Software Engineering,8th Edition, Pearson Education, 2007 Elmasri and Navathe, Fundamentals of Database Systems, 4th, Edition, Pearson Education 2003. Mastering Joomla! 1.5 Extension and Framework Development Second Edition The Professional Guide to Programming Joomla! Website https://docs.joomla.org/ http://www.php.net/ http://www.w3schools.com/ http://www.joomla.org/ KLEDRMSSCET, BelgaumDepartment of MCA 2014-2015

Existence of God Essay -- Literary Analysis, Suma Theologica

In the â€Å"Suma Theologica,† by Saint Thomas Aquinas, Aquinas combines the doctrines of Christianity with Aristotelian philosophy, through the assertion that as a result of observation, utilization of the senses, and an empirical mindset, one can substantiate the existence of God. Aquinas holds the conception that in the quest for God’s existence, philosophy and theology are interwoven together and both play complementary roles. He infuses numerous theological doctrines, mainly from Saint Augustine, alongside Aristotelian ideals such as, the first mover, to corroborate his argument for the existence of God. Instead of basing his argument on human reason and rationality like his predecessor, Saint Anselm of Canterbury, Aquinas holds that it is instead through an empirical mindset that one is able to ascertain and comprehend the existence of God. Aquinas deems that all knowledge acquired originated from the experiences of our senses. He believes that by experiencing eve nts, the human being is aware of the fact that there exists an effect for every action that is undergone. Through this realization, Aquinas recognizes that there must exist a cause that triggered that event into existence, culminating in the conclusion that everything in existence must be characterized by a cause. This argument presented defines the cosmological argument, a belief that there is a first cause, which is God, who is seen as the source of the cosmos that sets in motion a cycle of cause and effect. To prove this argument, Aquinas presents five different variants, each with subtle distinctions that display two reoccurring themes, the importance of sense experience and the notion of causality, to prove the existence of God. In Aquinas’s first argument, he lin... ... cause and effect stopped at the Big Bang, as it does to claim it stopped at God. The Big Bang Theory, which has no previous cause, could have easily prompted the chain of cause and effect. Why must we presume the world to have a beginning and claim that the cosmos could not have been a cause of itself? Since Aquinas, at the time, does not fully understand the workings of the Universe, his claim that the infinite regression arbitrarily stopped at God, is misleading, since the regression could have stopped as the universe itself prompted the chain of cause and effect. I wholeheartedly agree that Aquinas’ cosmological argument proves the existence of an â€Å"uncaused cause,† however I believe that it fails in acknowledging other means of creation and holds no validation that the first cause attributes the characteristics of the God of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.

College Athletes Should be Paid Essay example -- argumentative essay

A running back slips through the line, breaks a couple tackles, and scampers down the sideline for a large gain. The point guard pulls up for a deep jump shot over his defender and nails it as the shot clock expires. Both of these descriptions can be used to describe either a college athlete or professional athlete. Both are participating in a sporting event in which fans will pack into the stadium or arena. Money is flowing into both the college and professional organization. This is where the similarities end. In the professional leagues such as the NBA or NFL, athletes make millions of dollars off of lucrative contracts and an abundance of endorsements. They can make as much money as they possibly can. In college, the athletes are limited to what kind of scholarship the college they are attending provides them and whatever money they have saved. It may not appear like this is not a serious problem. However, there is the one glaring difference between these two sides. While professional athletes are paid to play and can make bundles of money, college athletes are not allowed to receive money or other benefits of any kind even if they acquire this money in a legal and correct fashion. This has been the rule for ages, but many people are starting to challenge the rule. There are people who believe that college athletes should not be able to receive benefits of any kind, including money. On the other side, there are people who believe that the college athletes should be able to make money and support themselves. The people who are the side which believes the should not make money usually point out the fact that they are in college and should be more focused on their studies. The other side provides many valid points to h... ...rmine how much to pay each player in different sports. However, it seems completely unfair that a college athlete can neither accept gifts from someone or even sell their own possessions to make money. If a regular student can sell something they own on a website such as Ebay, why is that an athlete is not allowed to do the same with something they own? It also seems crazy to me how something as simple as â€Å"Dez Bryant [a former wide receiver at Oklahoma State]...having a meal with Deion Sanders† (Rogers 2) will cause the NCAA to throw down harsh suspensions down on the athlete and school. The NCAA needs to worry about more important things then who the student-athletes dine with and whether or not they are selling apparel they wore in a game. Hopefully they will realize this and the student athletes in college will finally get a fair chance at the money they deserve.

A Walt Disney World Advertisement :: Travel Advertisements

The family vacation is an American tradition. Thinking and planning for this adventure captures the imaginations of thousands of families each year. While parents and children may disagree over what constitutes the ideal vacation, there is no question about there being a family vacation. Savvy entrepreneurs are aware of this fact and spend millions of dollars in advertisements to capitalize on the money families spend for family vacations. Most advertisers craftily market to children, believing that children, through coercion (whining), can get their parents to buy what they want (see advertised on television). The Walt Disney World advertisement, however, takes a different approach by marketing to the entire family. The Disney advertisement is extremely effective, appealing to both the parents’ and children’s sense of wonder and excitement, while also making an emotional appeal to the parents’ sense of value. The caption of the Walt Disney World advertisement in Family Circle magazine reads: â€Å"Pretend your family is on the most magical vacation ever.† The first picture in the advertisement shows a larger- than-life Mickey Mouse happily greeting a young girl with pig tails in her hair. The girl’s eyes are wide with excitement and disbelief. The imagery in this picture brings on wonder and fantasy: the background is softly blurred with splashes of bright colors and light. In fact, there seems to be a rim of bright sunshine just above the girl’s head. The next picture shows a girl and boy enjoying one of the many rides at Walt Disney World. The feeling that both pictures convey is summarized in the words of the advertisement: â€Å"Indeed they had to pinch themselves to make sure it wasn’t a dream.† The next picture shows a mother being pampered by her husband in a make believe Hollywood scene. This is very effective advertisement because the mother who usually does the pampering and caring is instead being pampered and adored by her family. The caption above this scene reads â€Å"Mama got ‘discovered’ in Hollywood, the way she always imagined it would happen. This advertisement appeals to the parents who are swelled with pride to be able to fulfill their children’s dreams. One caption reads â€Å"They dreamt of fairytale characters that came to life and embraced with a hug†. This shows parents that Disney wants to do the same as the parents, when it comes to their children.

Arthur “Mr. Chips” Chipping, age 85 Essay

The venerable institution of Brookfield has grown a little poorer. Its memories have faded, just a little more swiftly than memories are apt to do, having lost its greatest memory-keeper. The teachers, the staff, and even the boys that passed through its halls, considered Arthur Chipping to be as much a part of Brookfield as the stone and mortar of its walls. However, in the end, he proved to be flesh and blood. Arthur Chipping died in his sleep today, at the age of 85, after a long life of service to the young men of England. Chipping was born in 1848. In 1870, at the age of twenty-two, Chipping â€Å"took his prep† at in the Big Hall of Brookfield, a boys’ public boarding school. It was at Brookfield that he remained until the end of his life, although he had retired in 1913, at the age of 65. Viewing hours will be between 7 p. m. and 9 p. m. tomorrow. Flower donations should be sent in care of Mrs. Wickett, Brookfield. Chipping was a master throughout his career, teaching classical history, Greek, and Latin for all of his 42 years at Brookfield. In 1900, Chipping briefly served there as Acting Head, following the sudden death of the Head of Brookfield, from pneumonia. Following his retirement in 1913, Chipping remained active at the school, attending important matches and dinners and taking it upon himself to prepare and edit a new Brookfeldian Directory (91). In 1916, Chipping returned to teaching at his old post, due to the teaching shortage created by the First World War. During this time, he acted as a stabilizing force for Brookfield, keeping, as he was fond of saying â€Å"a sense of proportion† about it when he was again appointed to Acting Head of Brookfield. He retired for a second time in 1918; this time his retirement was permanent. It would not be overstating the matter to say that Chipping, fondly known as â€Å"Mr. Chips,† was a once in a lifetime master. Only one other individual seems to approach his dedication: a Mr. William Balgarnie, a master at The Leys (Carroll par. 8), whose life was similar enough so that they seemed modeled after one another. Chipping leaves no living relatives. At 48, he met 25-year-old Katherine Bridges, an out of work governess, while walking at Great Gable. They married only a week before the autumn term began that year, not leaving themselves time for a honeymoon. It was Katherine who gave Chipping the nickname of â€Å"Mr. Chips. † She predeceased him after a brief marriage, while giving birth to their only child. Although he leaves no heirs, Chips once commented that he had â€Å"thousands† of children. All boys. Goodbye, Mr. Chips. You will be missed. Works Cited Carroll, Timothy. â€Å"Who was the real Mr. Chips? † 12 Sept. 2002. 6 June 2008. . Hilton, James. Goodbye, Mr. Chips. 1934. New York: Little, Br

The Importance Of Teamwork In Business

?Teamwork is the gear to maintain the huge business machine to work, as it helps to improve business performance by providing benefits. It is said that tasks should be grouped in order to make people working toward a shared goal (Lau, 2013). Basically, putting people working together could allow the team members to put effort into the goal which they have in common; it is also capable to maximize the efficiency. Lau (2013) points out that â€Å"A tight feedback cycle is critical to achieve a productive state of flow.†What Lau (2013) suggests is in such circumstances, people who share work and the same project context are able to provide useful feedback to each other at first hand, and it works effectively to avoid the team going down the wrong path. However, teamwork can do more. Lau (2013) makes a statement that teamwork could bring down the risk when doing business decision, which is, a multi-sided view is available when making decisions.Lau (2013) argues that teamwork preve nts obscure and undocumented shortcuts taken by single individual, forcing team members to spread knowledge to cover as many details as they can. Furthermore, people would be able to sense responsibility when they are assigned as a team. Lau (2013) concludes that the motivation from your peer will boost each individual in the team walking forward, overcoming obstacles and getting in the best shape. In conclusion, teamwork allows people to work efficiently and make the idea of the group comprehensive; therefore it helps with business performance to go up. The Importance of Teamwork in Business Teamwork is the gear to maintain the huge business machine to work, as it helps to improve business performance by providing benefits. It is said that tasks should be grouped in order to make people working toward a shared goal (Lau, 2013). Basically, putting people working together could allow the team members to put effort into the goal which they have in common; it is also capable to maximize the efficiency. Lau (2013) points out that â€Å"A tight feedback cycle is critical to achieve a productive state of flow.†What Lau (2013) suggests is in such circumstances, people who share work and the same project context are able to provide useful feedback to each other at first hand, and it works effectively to avoid the team going down the wrong path. However, teamwork can do more. Lau (2013) makes a statement that teamwork could bring down the risk when doing business decision, which is, a multi-sided view is available when making decisions.Lau (2013) argues that teamwork preven ts obscure and undocumented shortcuts taken by single individual, forcing team members to spread knowledge to cover as many details as they can. Furthermore, people would be able to sense responsibility when they are assigned as a team. Lau (2013) concludes that the motivation from your peer will boost each individual in the team walking forward, overcoming obstacles and getting in the best shape. In conclusion, teamwork allows people to work efficiently and make the idea of the group comprehensive; therefore it helps with business performance to go up.

Colonial and Revolutionary Eras in America Essay

The colonial and Revolutionary eras in America are not so chronologically distant, yet they are two very different times for America. These two eras are very important parts of America’s history. The transformation of colonial America to Revolutionary America is quick but drastic. To be a colonial American would mean solely relying on God. An American at that time would center their whole life around God. They believed they did not personally own anything. For example, in Anne Bradstreet’s poem â€Å"Upon a Burning House†, Anne implied that it was wrong to feel sorry for the loss of your house or family, because the Puritan belief was that everything is owned by God. Anne considered herself lucky because she was left with the most important thing of all; her life (Chin 78). Anne Bradstreet most captured my attention with her writing style and her pure love of God. Puritans believed that â€Å"if God should let you go, you would immediately sink and swiftly descend and plunge into the bottomless gulf† (Chin 103). It was easy for the British to keep people of the Puritan lifestyle under its crown because of their religious beliefs (Kiracofe) The Revolutionary era is when the colonists began to become more opinionated. The start of the Revolutionary era was when the British began taxing sugar. The sugar act lead to a boycott of buying all British imports. The Boycott put the British in great debt and was eventually repealed. At that point, the colonists discovered that they do have a say in their government. The people of America began relying on logistics and facts instead of their faith. This lead to the Revolutionary war, also called the War of Independence (Higginbotham). More and more people began speaking their mind, such as Phillis Wheatley, an African American who writes a Revolutionary piece of art, praising George Washington for fighting and leading in the Revolutionary war. The colonists began to become more and more individualized from the British. The whispers of rebellion turned into shouts after the Stamp Act. The farmers and merchants of America quickly transformed from strongly religious and peaceful men, into soldiers of the Revolutionary war. Colonial and Revolutionary Americans are two very different groups of people. The colonists were Puritans which means they were highly religiously dependent. Although the Revolutionary Americans did believe that there was a God and that he was on their side, they took their own initiative and fought for their freedom from Britain’s crown. If it were not for Revolutionary thinkers such as Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, George Washington, and the men who fought for this country, America would still be under the British laws and taxation. We would not have the rights and freedoms we have today. The Revolutionary war has made America for what it is today.

Essential Questions

While the North veered toward a mechanical future of efficiency and invention the Southern dependence on their cotton industry kept them at a stand still. By 1877 prior t o the compromise which ended Southern Reconstruction the Southern economic system was in a steady decline as emend for cotton slowly shifted while the North's demand for manufactured goods continued its steady incline. Peopling: How did the growth of mass migration to the United States and the railroad a effect settlement patterns in the cities in the west?The growth of mass migration to the United States caused massive population n changes which tended to slow as immigrants settled into large towns and cities near or center red around the growing railroads which promised life and fortune to the prospective America Politics and Power: Why did the attempts at compromise before the war fail to prevent the inflict? To what extent and in what ways, did the Civil War and reconstruction n transform American political and social relationships?The attempts at compromise failed because no politician was ever able to full y address the issues of slavery in a way that would last forever. Plus the fact that no Southern nerd was willing to give up their way of life because of a northerner who did not know t he value of slavery. America in the World: How was the American conflict over slavery part of larger global events? As the European powers grew and left slavery for industry America was the la SST of the powers to attain a patch of slavery slowing the turn towards industry.With growing ball Zionist movements the views of the world focused on slavery in the south. Environment and Geography: How did the end of slavery and technology and military developments transform the environment and settlement patterns in the so the and the west? At the end of the civil war with the end of slavery and the introduction of milt ray rule to the south there was a massive change in settlement as freed slaves began travels Eng throughout the south to find lost loved ones. Introduction of â€Å"modernized military tactics and other technologies lowed the flow of populations within the American South.Ideas, Beliefs, and Culture: How did the doctrine of manifest destiny affect debates over territorial expansion and the Mexican war? How did the Civil War struggle shah pep Americans beliefs about equality, democracy, and national destiny? The doctrine of Manifest Destiny caused a lot of debates concerning the right of American expansions in the west while all other countries could no longer claim any of t he land. The results of the civil war molded and enforced American belief in the divinity of their actions of spreading democracy from ocean to ocean. Essential Questions Europeans even knew about the Americas, Native American tribes were the first inhabitants. These first inhabitants were a people group united by kinship and called Pale-Indians and they settled in the Americas between twelve and fifteen thousand years ago. Large mammals and an abundance of plants drew hunter- gatherers to the Americas, which provided the sustenance necessary for survival. Agriculture takes hold in a portion of the Americas between 1000 to 1200 AD, but spreads further and more extensively by 500 AD.Agriculture in the Americas was much different than in Europe and other countries. In the Americas, crops such as corn, beans, and squash were grown and there were no animals involved. Early fifteenth century, Europe was a patchwork of small kingdoms and principalities, and Europe began to expand Into Muslim country and acquired a desire to trade goods with Asia, so they went about exploration of other than previous forms and ended up In America, without knowing It.Soon aft er Columbus arrived, Spanish explorers took an interest and also began to Lonnie, and proceeded to slaughter large numbers of Indians in get rich quick attempt. Also missionaries took an interest in converting the Indians to Christianity, which resulted in blended versions of Catholicism that exist today. Conquistadors, Spanish colonists under a man named Cortez, conquered the Aztec and began Indian labor system. Because of the scarcity of laborers in the Americas, Portuguese and Spanish colonists looked to Africa for black slaves.Spanish colonization and exploitation of Indians resulted in the Pueblo revolt against the Spanish. Europe soon followed their explorer Columbus to the Americas, bringing diseases and sickly pigs, this event Is now called the Great Dying. The Indians began to resist the power of the Spanish and soon coexisted with them, adopting their cultures and learning the Spanish language. Coming to America: Portrait of Colonial Life The New World, the Americas, becam e a magnet for all ethnic groups. People had such a desire to go to the Americas that they would indenture themselves so that they could pay for their passage to the Americas.Voyages to the New World were ungenerous and many died on the voyage, while the youngest and healthiest were sold on shipboard. In New England, family relationships were of a great deal of importance. A marriage ceremony was created by the Puritans who also established obligations that were to be fulfilled by the male and female In each relationship. Divorce also became a right If a spouse broke the rules. The head of the house was to have moral order and correctional order and emotional stability. Men were expected to work in the fields and women joined them during harvest time, but made soaps,

Areas Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Areas - Research Paper Example Therefore, the total number of square units in the rectangle will be ‘b times h’, which is the area of the rectangle. Thus, the area of a reachable is given by: The line DC is extended to point F. The line AE is perpendicular on the line DC and the line BF is perpendicular on the line DF. The shape (triangle) represented by enclosures ADE and BCF are same (congruent triangles). Therefore, if we cut part ADE from the parallelogram from left and place this to the right on part BCF, than the enclosure ABFE will be a rectangle with base b and height h. Therefore, the area of the parallelogram ABCD will be equal to the area of the rectangle ABFE that is given by: The line DA is parallel to line BC and the line DB is parallel to the line AC. The enclosure DACB represents a parallelogram with base b and height h. The line AB divides the parallelogram DACB into two congruent triangles. Therefore, the area of the triangle ABC will be half the area of the parallelogram DACB, which is given by: Figure 5 shows a trapezoid (enclosure EFGH) with bases b1 and b2, and height h. This trapezoid can be separated in two triangles, triangle FGH and triangle FEH. Thus, the area of the trapezoid will be sum of these two triangles. The triangle FGH with base b1 and height h. and the triangle FEH with base b2 and height h. The circumference C of a circle is equal to its diameter d times π, or 2 times its radius r times π. Finding the area of a circle is related to finding the area of a parallelogram. A circle can be separated into congruent wedge-like pieces, as shown in figure 6 (left). These wedge-like pieces can be arranged to form a figure similar to a parallelogram as shown in figure 6 (right). Thus, the circle has an area that is relatively close to the area of the parallelogram-shaped figure. Therefore, we can use the formula for the area of a parallelogram to find the area of a circle. In

Supporting Regulation of E-Cigarettes Term Paper

Supporting Regulation of E-Cigarettes - Term Paper Example intaining the effect of electronic cigarette smoking in the United States, in April 2014, Food and Drug Administration proposed regulations authority over electronic cigarettes that have risen in its use. The regulation will see consumption of Electronic cigarettes not being allowed on any public sites including over one hundred cities and in many organizations (Mowry et al, 2012). This policy has several effects on ethics as discussed below. As argued by Carter and Chapman (2006), control of use electronic cigarettes on public places (any place not below twenty meters from person next to you) aims at protecting non-smokers from the health effects that come from release of infective chemicals released after tobacco combustion. In this case, it is ethics to protect the passive party from harm that may be caused by the infective chemical exposed to the environment by the smoker. As presented by Fuoco Buonanno and Vigo (2014), Electronic cigarettes battery powered gadget produces an aerosol vapors composed of nicotine, glycoland propylene. Possibility of nicotine exposure considering Electronic cigarette gadget holding, inhaling the smoke produced, any skin contact when handling the Electronic cigarette device are the major health issues associated with electronic cigarette. This effect get worse in paces associated with children’s pregnant women’s as well as nursing mothers. It un-ethical to disrupt other people’s environment as it causes body problems. The burn of electronic cigarettes in public upholds ethics by controlling the risk that could have been imposed on passive smokers. The stakeholders in manufacturing argues that the vapor produced by powered electronic cigarettes device is water vapor but the responsible health group disagrees with this claims. The vapor produced by electronic cigarette gadget contain of nicotine, glycol and propylene (Richtel, 2014) which are harmful to consumer as well as to passive smokers. Publishing such a misleading

Identifying the Hypothesis Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Identifying the Hypothesis - Research Proposal Example Acemoglu and Robinson (2012) further explains that the definition of poverty by the government is always based on the total amount of income that an individual receives. For example, in the year 2014, the poverty level for a family of four people was set up at 23,850 dollars total income for the year (Hempel, 2014). The rates of poverty are always high in the inner cities and rural areas in comparison to the suburban areas. This paper examines the cause of poverty in America. Of particular interest to this paper, is the cause of poverty amongst the Hispanic communities. This paper asserts that the major cause of poverty amongst the Hispanic community is their immigration status. The Hispanics are the largest immigration groups in America, and some of them do not have legal papers that confirm their legal stay in the US (Shannon, 2014). This topic of immigration is very sensitive in the United States, and most presidential outcomes are always decided on the opinion that a presidential candidate has towards immigration (Hempel, 2014). This paper will analyze how this debate on immigration has led to a high poverty level amongst the Hispanics in the United

Understanding project contractors and contracting businesses Essay

Understanding project contractors and contracting businesses - Essay Example Understanding project contractors and contracting businesses Analysis of such parameters will help us with an understanding about how the companies have performed over the seven years and whether they were able to add value to the company. One of the companies chosen above has a high total asset usage and the other one has a low total asset usage. The underlying rationale behind choosing this ratio as the primary differentiating parameter between these two companies is because this ratio is very useful in determining the financial performance of the company. It gives us an indication of the pricing strategy that the companies have adopted. Moreover, the firms have been chosen as a case of high and low values of a ratio that appears in the Du Pont system, which will make it easy for us to explore relationships and trade-offs between that and other ratios. The following sections will involve the analysis of key financial ratios that the firms have been able to achieve over the seven years. 2. Midas Retail Limited Midas construction is the larges t company that belongs to the Midas group of companies. The primary line of work that the company is engaged in is to serve the design and construction needs of all its customers from a network of local offices. The company works in close partnership with its local partners who specialise in supply chain, thereby utilizing their local expertise and knowledge. Each of the regional business under the Midas group offers highly personalised services which are designed to suit the needs and requirements of every individual customer and project (Midas, 2013) 3. Rock Fall Company Limited This company specilises in drilling, explosives engineering and blasting, particularly in the marine environment. The company has been able to complete more than 200 contracts in about 35 countries. The line of work that the company is engaged in ranges from the removal of small boulder outcrops to massive port development schemes. The activities are generally related to harbor deepening, clearance of navi gation channels and quay well construction. Another activity that can be include in the company's list of underwater expertise is foreshore trenching (Rock Fall, 2013). 4. Ratio Analysis Ratio analysis is an attempt to reduce accounting information in to more usable understandable figures and look at relationships between the figures. It can be used to ‘help interpret trends in performance year on year and by benchmarking to industry averages or to the performance of individual competitors or against a pre-determined target’ (Collier, 2009, p.104). Firstly, we can compare ratios for two or more accounting periods and look at the change. However, external factors may have influenced activity levels. For example, public awareness of environmental issues may have necessitated a change in manufacturing process leading to increased costs. Secondly, we can compare this to another company in the same industry. However, in some case, businesses may not be truly comparable with regard to size and type. For example, bases on which accounting information is prepared, may be different (inventory valuations and depreciation). Thirdly, we can compare this to an industry average, these can be compiled using data bases such as â€Å"Data Stream†. However, these have to be comparable as reflect as closely as possible the various characteristics of the company (McLane & Atrill, 2009, p.224-225). 4.1 Efficiency Ratios 4.1.1 Asset turnover This ratio measures the amount of sales that a company generates for every dollar’

The Merits of Automating Business Processes Essay

The Merits of Automating Business Processes - Essay Example This entails collecting appropriate data that would demonstrate the significance of automation as a quality enhancer and a transferrable idea that could help organizations to speed up their activities while aiming for optimum performance and productivity (Atkins, 2001; Domingue and Pedrinaci, 2009). To understand how effective the phenomenon of automation is, it is imperative to design this research in a way that the applicable variables are tested and the right participants are investigated in order to come up with useful statistical presentation. The purpose of this is to reveal the fact that automation works perfectly when all the component structures are properly aligned in its implementation (Comuzzi and Pernici, 2009). 2 3.1 Sample The participants to be investigated for this research would be employees of the target organization who are in charge of the organization’s IT Department, Manufacturing Department, and Accounts Department. The number of participants from each Department will be ten (n=10); hence, the total number of employers to be engaged in the entire research would be 30 (N=30). The employees would be chosen at random to avoid prejudicial selection so as to get fair results. The conditions for participation would be that each chosen employee has worked for the organization for a minimum of 5 years and have noticed drastic improvements in the organization’s performance owing to the automation of the operations at the organization. Variables The most important variables this research would test include the following merits of automation: Optimum Performance Ratio:- This will be measured by comparing the percentages of performance before and after automation. The percentage of performance can be estimated from the responses participants would provide to the questionnaires. Cost-efficiency Ratio:- This is why the Accounts Department employees are included as participants in this research so that they could give the extent of cost o f operation before and after the automation. 3 Comparative Speed of Operation:- The employees at the IT and Manufacturing Departments would be expected to supply the needed information about the relative speed of operation at the organization before and after the implementation of automation. 3.2 Instruments The major instrument that would be used for this study is an open questionnaire which would contain important questions the chosen employees of the organization must provide responses to. The advantage of an open questionnaire is that applicants would not be provided with any response option: they would be required to supply response to each question as they deem fit. Other applicable information about the organization’s operations would be garnered from the Annual Report of the organization. 3.3 Research Design Each open questionnaire would contain ten questions. And unlike closed questionnaire, the participants are free to supply any response they deem appropriate to th e questions. A sample of the ten questions is given as follows: (i) What does the operations at your organization look like before some or all of the processes were automated? Please comment about the speed, cost and performance of operations. (ii) And what does the operations look like after automation? Please also comment on the speed, cost and performance of operations. 4 (iii) Which areas are mostly improved through the implementation of automation procedures? (iv) How about the quality of production or

Usefulness of a companys annual report and accounts in understanding Essay

Usefulness of a companys annual report and accounts in understanding and analysing its market, productive and financial performance - Essay Example Other non-financial information is also incorporated. The report should be ample and show the company’s activities throughout the foregoing year. Annual reports are anticipated to confer to stakeholders and other engrossed persons information on company’s actions and monetary presentation. Almost every sway requires annual reports to be prepared by companies and be disclosed. Some even recommends that the annual report be filed painstakingly at the registry of the company. In case the company is among those on a stock exchange’s listing then the report have to be prepared at a more recurrent intermission depending on the regulations of the stock exchange concerned. A typical annual report should contain the following: accounting policies, cash flow statement, balance sheet, profit and loss account, financial statement, director’s report, chairperson’s statement, operating and review of finance, and auditor’s report. Other information that may be of apprehension to stakeholders may also be incorporated. For instance, a report on company social accountability or operations for industrialized firms report may be included for companies with social or environmental sensitive operations. For superior companies the annual report is a high annotation periodical that is glossy and vivid. The information provided in the report is useful to investors in order to comprehend the company’s prospect trend and its financial situation. ... The assets, company equity, and liabilities are cataloged as of a specified date mostly at the conclusion of the financial year. The only statement that can apply at a solitary point in the occasion of business is a balance sheet out of all the financial statements. In the annual report a balance sheet has to be incorporated to illustrate in a snapshot a company’s financial situation. (Jenster 2001) An income statement also referred to as the profit and loss account or revenue statement indicates how the returns of a company transform into net income. This is achieved when all the expenses and revenue have been worked out also identified as bottom line or net profit. The revenues renowned for a particular period are displayed, and the expenses and cost incurred on this revenues, including taxes and write-offs. The income statement shows the shareholders whether the company prepared or lost money for the duration of the period reported. The companies required to publish their a nnual report do not always fabricate an income statement, instead a similar statement is produced that replicates the funding foundations, compared against administrative costs, program operating cost, and other in service commitments. A statement of cash flow is a fiscal statement showing adjusts in accounts of balance sheet income impinge on cash and cash comparables. The analysis is broken down into operating, financial activities and investing. Basically, the cash flow statement is apprehensive with cash flow out and into the business. The statement incarcerates both the existing operating fallout and supplementary changes in the balance sheet. Cash flow statement is helpful in

Language is the only homeland Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Language is the only homeland - Essay Example These women were searching for independence and Kingston describes independence in speaking up rather writing. It became her identity and made her look at herself and her family from a new perspective that is in a more mature manner. Similarly Marshall finds independence in spoken word and in writing with emotions. Marshall and Kingston see their stories as inspiration to black women writers and those Chinese emigrants who are afraid to speak up about their values and culture. Marshall connects himself to the African American ancestors. Both writers believe their writing can be linked to unsaid words of Chinese and African American women. It states what the women were always longing to say but they did not had the independence to do so. Their writings are related to the cultures they were exposed to throughout their lives. Paule Marshall talks about her experience in growing up a family that immigrated to America from Barbados in West Indies.In her essay "Poets in the Kitchen she not only talks about what experiences shaped her personality but also the inspiration behind her writing.History of Barbados explains a lot about the background of thi8s essay.The inhibition of island by ArawakIndians and then Carib Indians greatly describe about the traditions told by Paule at her house.For instance Indians would tie their children's forehead to slope them up.This tradition is quite similar to one discussed by Paule in her essay: â€Å"the bellyband that is tied around the stomach of a newborn baby to keep the navel pressed in† (Marshall1). .Therefore indicating where the traditions discussed by Paule actually originated from. Marshall’s relation to African-American ancestors directly involves her mother and friends of mother. In that era when black women were just viewed as labors, Marshall viewed them as a piece of art. Therefore Marshall uses the kitchen and home setting she was exposed to in her childhood, to describe the African American tradition. All day labor, hard work gave these women no time for any other activity. They resided to their language and freedom of expression as the only way to self express themselves. (Marshall1).While relating to her mother, Marshall talks about how her mother resorted to oral communication and she on the other hand adapted written form of communication to express her creative desires and emotions. She talks about how the language transformed daily wit the evolution of new words such as tumbling big for a pregnant woman, free bee for one with freedom for sexual favors (Marshall1).Marshall identifies with her mother’s personal experiences, stories and writes a record of it all. Identity can be defined in several different ways.It is way more diverse and complex than one's identification card simply.Orientalism defines identity in quite a new perspective.It talks about how West perceives East.The West is always seen as the dominating superior power while East are considered weak, suppr essed and uncivilized nations.This point of view has been rooted in our traditions since centuries and it has shaped the people's way of thinking.As a result East has adapted the mindset of being powerless in front of West.In the chapter a Song for Barbarian Reed Pipe in the Book "The Woman Warrior" by Kingston, the issue of

Psych 1010 out of class activity 5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Psych 1010 out of class activity 5 - Essay Example Sleep Diary: Night 2. Tuesday. 1. Total time spent sleeping 7.25 hours 2. Number of times you woke up during the night None 3. Number of separate dreams you can recall at least partially.   None 4. Number of dreams related to experiences of the recent days.*   None 5. Overall Sleep Rating ( 1 – 7 ) 3 – I feel rested. Sleep Diary: Night 3. Wednesday. 1. Total time spent sleeping 5.25 hours 2. Number of times you woke up during the night Three 3. Number of separate dreams you can recall at least partially.   Two 4. Number of dreams related to experiences of the recent days.*   None 5. Overall Sleep Rating ( 1 – 7 ) 6 = I feel groggy. Sleep Diary: Night 4. Thursday. 1. Total time spent sleeping 3.75 hours 2. Number of times you woke up during the night Twice 3. Number of separate dreams you can recall at least partially.   Two 4. Number of dreams related to experiences of the recent days. One 5. Overall Sleep Rating ( 1 – 7 ) 7 = I feel very tired a nd want to go back to bed Sleep Diary: Night 5. Friday. 1. Total time spent sleeping 6.75 hours 2. Number of times you woke up during the night Once 3. Number of separate dreams you can recall at least partially.   None 4. Number of dreams related to experiences of the recent days.*   None 5. ... Sleep Diary: Night 7. Sunday 1. Total time spent sleeping 8.25 hours 2. Number of times you woke up during the night Once 3. Number of separate dreams you can recall at least partially.   One 4. Number of dreams related to experiences of the recent days.*   None 5. Overall Sleep Rating ( 1 – 7 ) 3 = I feel rested   MEAN/AVERAGE SCORE 1. Total time spent sleeping 6.54 hours 2. Number of times you woke up during the night 1.14 times 3. Number of separate dreams you can recall at least partially.   1.29 dreams 4. Number of dreams related to experiences of the recent days. 0.29 dreams 5. Overall Sleep Rating ( 1 – 7 ) 4.57 4 = I feel neither refreshed nor tired   5 = I feel somewhat sleepy   HANDOUT 8.2 In general, what do you dream about? How do you feel about your dreams, in general? Usually the dreams I have are pretty abstract but I have noticed that most of my dreams comprise of natural elements such as water or wind and sometimes animals such as cats and s nakes. Describe some of the dreams you had over this period. Were they recurring dreams or did they happen only once? Why did this dream stand out from others? I don’t recall having any recurring dreams during this period however I did dream of a very long snake with red eyes that appeared to be hissing at something hidden in the shadows. Also I do recall dreaming of a huge mansion on top of a hill which was lavishly decorated. I remember being trapped inside the mansion as water starts flooding in from all sides; anxious to find a way out I run out to the back exit only to find I was on the edge of a cliff. I remember jumping from the edge; such had been my fear of drowning in the growing amount of water. This was when I woke up (Thursday, Night 4). This dream