Project Scope Document CorinaFournier Essay

Genrays is currently benefitting from a newly consolidated financial, logistics and purchasing system, which has also created an unexpected return of investment. Genrays’ senior management strongly believes that a consolidated HR system will have similar benefits, such as business productivity and cost reduction. The current environment is decentralized and includes manual processes, in such way that HR has a physical presence within each building, in order to manage payroll and additional duties. The primary benefits of a Human Resources Information System (HRIS) include: employee database consolidation into one solution, along with payroll, career advancement plan, performance evaluations, hiring process and more. The utilization of LDAP for the employee directory will ensure that information about employees such as phone, email, department and office location is updated. The automation process will start with the recruitment of talent from the up-to-date database. Existing and future employees will  have the ability to research available jobs on the Intranet or company website. Payroll will be automated to empower employees to make changes to benefit deductions as well as manage time off requests electronically. The updates of timecards will also be done by employees, through a self-service portal. This process will get automated via a business workflow, where the manager will automatically get notified of HR/payroll changes of their direct reports. The new system will also address a major concern- the ability for employees to take fractional time off during a workday. Performance reviews, also managed through HRIS will deliver a clear, wide-ranging solution for employee evaluations, where the score assigned by the manager will connect to the payroll function and automatically apply the salary change. The career advancement plan will also be addressed as part of HRIS, where an employee career’s path is tied into training and certifications related to either a specific job or future career targets. The data consolidation component is a critical task, which entails the migration of all distributed paper or electronic HR files into HRIS. The project team leaders will plan for staff training and discuss the switchover to IT for post-production technical support and Training department for application functionality questions. Customer Requirements The management team at Genrays requires the following: automation of job applications through company website in order to enable progress tracking; automation of employment application assessment; recruiting expansion to interns at college campuses or job fairs; enablement of existing employees to grow based on revamped training; automate reimbursement, timesheet & employee benefit change process to avoid double data entry and human error; automate attendance tracking by using system time clock-ins/outs; process improvement associated with performance appraisals and employee career goals; centralize all company payrolls to the HR department; set standards (description and pay scale) for specific job descriptions in Manufacturing; set standards for compliance for employee communication on forms and notices and consolidate system databases into one. Statement of Work The project team will implement a comprehensive HRIS, to include the  following components, as required by the project sponsors: employee database integration with LDAP, payroll system customization, timecard automation, recruitment workflow process, training integration as part of the employee career growth offerings, employee education on new HRIS. Project Deliverables The project team will execute the deliverables listed below, with the specified timeframe. Each deliverable has also been expanded upon within the attached spreadsheet (MGT2-Task1Milestones.xlsx). Acceptance Criteria The table below provides the acceptance criteria for each deliverable. The discovery phase requires an accurate inventory of software and hardware. The project manager will assess multiple HRIS systems available on the market, in conjunction with the business requirements.

American Films and Backhoe Operators Essay

Analysis Jim worked as a laborer for a gas utility in Winnipeg, Manitoba. When the opportunity came to apply for a backhoe/front-end-loader operator job, he was excited. Three people applied. To select the one who would get the job, the company asked each of them to go out and actually work on the backhoe for a day. Jim felt his chance for the job disappear because he had never even driven a tractor, let alone used a backhoe. When he went out, he did not know how to start the tractor. One of the other backhoe operators had to show him. He managed through the day, and to his surprise, did better than the others. He was given the job. On his first day at the new job, one of the other backhoe operators showed him where to check the hydraulic fluid and said, â€Å"These old Masseys are foolproof. You will be okay. † Jim taught himself how to dig a hole by trial and error. He initially believed that the best way was to fill the bucket as much as possible before lifting it out of the hole and emptying it. He would wiggle the bucket back and forth until it was submerged and then curl it. When it came out of the hole, the earth would be falling off the sides. This job was not so difficult after all, he thought. He cut through his first water line about two weeks after starting his new job. Going into a deep, muddy hole did not make the crew happy. After Jim cut through his third water line, the crew chief pulled him aside and said, â€Å"You are taking too much earth out with each bucket, so you don’t feel the bucket hitting the water line; ease up a bit. Water lines were usually six to eight feet down, so Jim would dig until about four feet and then try to be more careful. It was then that he pulled up some telephone lines that were only about three feet deep. Realizing that more was involved in operating a backhoe than he first had thought, he sought out Bill Granger, who was known to have broken a water line only twice in his 15 years. It was said that he was so good that he could dig underneath the gas lines—a claim that Jim doubted. Bill said, â€Å"You need to be able to feel any restriction. The way to do that is to have more than one of your levers open at the same time. Operating the bucket lever and the boom lever at the same time reduces the power and causes the machine to stop rather than cut through a line of any type. † Jim began to use this method but still broke water lines. The difference now was that he knew immediately when he broke a line. He could feel the extra pull, whereas in the past, he found out either by seeing water gushing up or by hearing the crew chief swearing at him. He was getting better. Jim never did become as good as Bill Granger. In fact, two years later, he applied for another job as gas repairperson and was promoted, but the training as a gas repairperson was not much better. Case Questions 1. What are the potential costs to this lack of training? Why do you think the company operated in this manner? 2. What type of training would you recommend: OJT, classroom, or a combination? Describe what the training might entail. 3. What type of training environment would you provide? 4. Who would you get to do the training, and why? 5. Would you consider purchasing a training program for backhoe operators? Provide your rationale.

Apple’s iphone – Not “made in America”

1) What is meant by globalization of human capital? Is this inevitable as firms increase their global operations? Globalization of human capital implies that people are moved out of their native country for employment in various fields. Since there are many companies around the globe and have branches in other countries, qualified people get an opportunity to move out and work. It is inevitable since globalization is established and the companies use the skills, labor, talent and knowledge as a part of globalization of human capital.2) How does this case illustrate the threats and opportunities facing global companies in developing their strategies? The main threat is when president Obama asked Steve job about reduction of job opportunities in United states and giving job in other countries, which made a feel of threat in their own country. And also many suicides at Foxconn lead a negative impression on Apple. The opportunities faced by them are high profit of $ 321 per i phone. It s hows the profit of a global company.3) Comment on Apple executives assertion that the company's only obligation is making the best product possible. â€Å"we do not have have any obligation o solve America's problems† I think it is really harsh to say these words. Everyone should have some obligation towards their country. But this is business and as an executive he is right he should always think about the growth and quality of the product. And should make maximum profit from low cost. So I think he is right.4) Who are the stakeholders in this situation and what, if any, obligations do they have? The main stakeholders are Apple company, Foxconn, and the government. All of these have obligations. Since Apple is a brand company and all expect best from them it is their obligation to be faithful and best quality provider to the consumers and also to the workers who work 24 hours for them. It is same for Foxconn too. They should be concern about the workers they should get the a dequate pay and rest. Also, government  should safe guard the people of each country from any type of pressure.5) How much extra are you prepared to pay for an iphone if assembled in the United states? I think I will not pay even a single penny extra to buy an iphone since they have a profit of $321 now itself. That is too much profit. I recommend they should decrease the rate of the phone. Some other product made in USA is not that expensive so the iphone should also be a little lower than now. After all, it is a phone although it has many application also it is not expensive enough to make it.6) How much extra are you prepared to pay for an iphone if assembled in China but under better conditions and pay? What kind of trade -off would you make? I have the same opinion as I said for United states. Better conditions and pay rights of workers and it does not mean the price should be increased since the already have a good profit. And it is the right thing to provide better conditio ns and better pay. We can also think about globalization of human capital to United states.7) To what extend do you think the negative media coverage has affected Apple's recent decision to ask the FLA to do an assessment and the subsequent decision by Foxconn to raise some salaries? What do you think will happen now?Since everyone knows about the case I think they will be more careful and take a favorable decision so as to protect the workers. It is sure that the negative media coverage has affected Apple's image very badly and so they asked for a FLA assessment. Foxconn on other hand was squeezing the workers to do more work with little pay and the suicide which occurred made made them into trouble and they increased the wages to save their face and I think they have to be very careful in future by providing good environment to work with a descent pay.

Preliminary Research Design Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Preliminary Research Design - Assignment Example However, once a business has been operating for an amount of time, they begin to rely on their customers to help their business continue to strive. Of course, customers are only a small part of the business, but the way that customers are treated will have a direct impact on the way that the business grows. Many businesses understand the relationship of customers to loyalty, but many do not see that it makes much difference in the way they do business. In the old days, there was a phrase that everyone seemed to use: "The customer is always right." But today, this may not be the case for every business. Customer satisfaction will automatically lead to customer loyalty if customers are treated well. Theoretical Framework Most business people understand that the relationship that they build with their customers will either bring them back to the business or make them go to someone else. The most important factor for them to remember is that there is a relationship between customer satis faction and loyalty. The idea of customer satisfaction can be defined in many different ways. ... Some researchers suggest that defining customer satisfaction means that quality of the product is important to customer satisfaction. Although this is one component that points to customer satisfaction, it is not the only one that can be seen in developing this concept. In order to define customer satisfaction, a research must look a several issues that create good customer service. Roethlein and Wicks (2009) suggest that one of those components is quality. Whether it is a product or a service, there are certain elements of quality service that most customers will expect. Customers satisfaction connects to customer loyalty which in turn connects to costumer retention. In each situation, customers are the major part of why a business or service works well and continues to thrive, especially in difficult economic times. According to Dubrovski (as cited in Roethlein and Wicks, 2009), consumer satisfaction is the most important aspect of profit because it is through customer satisfaction that profits are made. In other words, the more satisfied customers are, the more they want to purchase from the company. Kumar, Petersen, and Leone (2010) suggest that when customers are satisfied with a product or service, they will tell other people about it and they will refer them to the business. They devised a formula to decide what customers had the highest value for referrals and applied it to their research. They found that customers who had a high level of referral possibility only needed to have one form of advertising come to them because if they liked the business enough, they would automatically refer people to it. These different theories of how researchers see customer satisfaction makes it difficult to devise a strong independent or dependent variable for what

The Effectiveness of Performance Appraisal Dissertation

The Effectiveness of Performance Appraisal - Dissertation Example Performance appraisal refers to assess and analyze a worker’s performance and results at the work place. It refers to a system of retaining employees, by providing them the guidance, fair treatment and a sense of motivation towards work. These are built-in outcomes of a formally set performance appraisal system. Organizations need performance appraisal system due to multiple numbers of reasons. Out of all one major reason is employee performance and other is employee retention through employee rights. This chapter will signify the importance of performance appraisal system in the organization, by uncovering the effectiveness of the system and the positive outcomes it brings for the organization, managers and staff. To truly grasp the concept of performance appraisal and its effectiveness, a critical evaluation of the literature will be made. Research Aims and Objectives To determine the role of human resource management in achieving organizational goals. To determine how human resource management benefits employees to achieve organizational goals in Chinese business market. To analyze and assess the impact of performance appraisal on organizational performance. The aim is to focus on performance appraisal as one effective method of HRM to bring organizational performance. To understand the relationship between effective performance appraisal and organizational performance. To determine the relationship between effective performance appraisal and employee performance. The aim is to test and measure the effectiveness of performance appraisal of a selected food company in Hohhot China. Literature Review The Markets of Buying and Selling Labor When markets start flourishing with the capitalist regime, they have to bear challenges in the labor section. Markets which undertake industrialists’ basing and hold a major share of foreign direct investment, there is a chance that labor gets sidelined in such markets. India being an emerging industrialist econ omy upholds this situation where there is an excess of labor conflicts and strikes all over. Similarly, China where there is a trend of buying and selling labor in replacement of commodities, monetary and nonmonetary benefits precisely holds the same trend of labors’ strike and protesting. According to Chan (2010), in the last decade capitalism has been encircling around the communist state of China. A major investment has been brought into the Chinese private sector business which has invited the Stake holder’s interest and influence into the business function. Due to more power in hands of stake holders, the rights of labor are being avoided and ignored, which have created the revolt situation in most of the private sector firms. The protestation of labor is a situation where manpower has lost its focus, its direction and its willingness to work and perform respectively. The political segment of the country is dealing with this challenge as it is more on the national ist trail and wants to resolve the labor conflicts. This is because the country’s bureaucracy realizes the importance of labor power (manpower) - a source which it feels to be the primary base of industrialization and urbanization in the country (The Economist, 2010). From organizational point of view, employee constraining affects employee’s performance. Likewise, when employees are constrained by any means i.e by the market trend where labor is intensively sold and bought, they simply keep their directions straight- continuing to the job

Total Quality Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Total Quality Management - Essay Example TQM has been designed for companies that are operating in various disciplines and for this reason, each company has different uses and implementation technique of TQM. However, there are organizations that fail to implement TQM at an operational level. Some of the reasons for the failure are as follows:Â   Rigid Organizational CultureOne of the key reasons for failure of TQM is that the implementation of this process requires patience and agility and it requires flexibility in organizational culture. Organizations are required to change their paradigm from a functional to customer focus approach. Organizations that are unable to cope up with this approach can face detrimental consequences because implementation of TQM is not easy and it requires mobility to changing customer needs and business trends. Not every organization can cope up to such changes and this is certainly one of the reasons of failed implementation of TQM.Resistance to ChangeIf a company wants to implement TQM, it should first communicate to its employees the importance of TQM. Every single employee, from the lowest to the highest hierarchical level, should be accepting and willing to adopt this organizational change (Donaldson & Munir, 2013). However, such changes are not successful at times because some employees do not want to come out of their comfort zone and resist to any sort of change. Employees fail to understand the importance of this activity and do not understand that this will improve the productivity and profitability of the company.

Patterns of international trade Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Patterns of international trade - Essay Example China, which experienced rapid development over the last fifty years which catapulted it into the position of the second most powerful economy, continues to cultivate a strong relationship with Latin American countries in the 21st century. Globalisation avails numerous challenges as well as opportunities for countries that wish to develop greater trading experiences even if they are located in different parts of the world. Globalisation has also brought about the phenomenon of economic interdependence which encourages nations from all over the world to seek for trading ties with each other. While seeking to further develop their cooperative relationship, both Latin American countries and China are faced with different challenges and have to find strategic ways of overcoming these issues in order to mutually benefit from their trading relationships. Even though the Latin American region is culturally as well as geographically disparate from China, their governments have been successful in establishing trading relationships with each other since the days of yore. The first recorded exchange between Latin America and China is said to have taken place in the mid-16th century. This exchange resulted in the creation of a trade route, identified as ‘the Sea Silk Road’, which ran across the Pacific Ocean. This route would pass through the Philippines (Rosales and Kuwayama 2012). This route was used by the Chinese merchants to ferry commodities like textiles, embroidery, and flatware to Latin America, which was then identified as being part of the New World. The Chinese would then be rewarded with goods such as maize, silvers, and tobacco by nations like Peru and Mexico. These were loaded in carracks which were then given to the Chinese. In 1840, at the end of the Opium War, there were numerous Chinese labourers who were r elocated to Latin America for work purposes. These labourers would contribute significantly to the region’s cultural as

Space International Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Space International - Essay Example Between June 27 and July 5, 2014, Webmasters carried out a usability test on the publicly available Space website in Mexico, at the main usability test lab at Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as well as the Webmasters offices. The sessions at Webmaster’s offices provided the required geographic range to the test crew of Space participants; this similar test procedure was used for all the participants.  Between June 27 and July 5, 2014, Webmasters carried out a usability test on the publicly available Space website in Mexico, at the main usability test lab at Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as well as the Webmasters offices. The sessions at Webmaster’s offices provided the required geographic range to the test crew of Space participants; this similar test procedure was used for all the participants.  The functionality tests were majorly based on task cases obtained from Space’s past knowledge of the website’s main purpose and relevant end-user needs. W ebmasters came up with each activity to assess end-user’s ability to easily maneuver around the interface and be able to understand the kinds of information associated with each major areas of the site content.  Basically, Webmasters conducted the usability test to avail answers to some of the following questions:†¢ How well does the new Space website convey a sense of the type of content that users may expect whenever they explore the new Space’s internet sites? It is always essential to use modern technology by upgrading organization system to meet and satisfy user needs (NORLIN & WINTERS, 2001).  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ Does the new Space website wide navigation and organization ensure effective and efficient access to the relevant content?†¢ How well do users get to understand the meaning of links, site instructions, and labels?†¢ What groups do end users create whenever clustering functions according to discerned similarity?  

Identification and Evaluation of Five Marketing Strategies of Apple In Essay

Identification and Evaluation of Five Marketing Strategies of Apple Inc. and iPhone - Essay Example However, Apple’s iPhone has also become popular because of the growing demand for smartphones in the global market. Apple Inc. conducts its business in a highly competitive market and experiences threats of monopolistic competition in business (HSC â€Å"The International Business Cycle†). In order to acquire a greater share of market demand and gain superior core competencies, the organization tries to offer qualitatively unique non-imitable products (Porter 87). Apple Inc. implements differentiation strategy in business for offering electronic hardware products such as iPhone. However, across all its international marketplaces, Apple offers standardized iPhone models. The technological features used in iPhone are authentically patented by the company. These Smartphone manufactured by the company are run through Apple’s own customized software, iOperating System (Apple Inc. â€Å"Financial Information†). iPhone is well known all over the market for its bigger screens, strong battery life and unique design. No other market rivals of the company can exactly imitate the internal and external features of iPhone. Product differentiation strategy helps to augment the brand value of Apple Inc. in the global forum. Consumers prefer to purchase iPhone because of its rare features and non-comparable applications. Apple Inc. procures most of its hardware electronic products from the Asian economies. These semi-finished products are acquired by the company through the process of outsourcing. Some raw materials are obtained by Apple from its OEM trading partners (Apple Inc. â€Å"Financial Information†). Through an automated receiving system, Apple Inc. effectively manages the stock of its inventory. The organization utilizes environment-friendly means of production for ensuring low generation of toxins during its manufacturing process (Porter 160). Many by-products formed from the production process of Apple are recyclable in nature. The production amenities of the company aim to offer zero landfill facilities.

Hearts Essay Example for Free

Hearts Essay This case is about a company named Hearts ‘R Us. This company provides research and development for medical devices. According to the information provided the company is in its early stage and has no products in the market. They have developed a Heart Valve System that would be revolutionary in the market if is approved. Also there’s another company called Bionic Body that is a biological medical device company, they have another product that would work well with this new Heart Valve System. Therefore both companies decided to fuse by agreement. The agreement is as follows: $3.5 million preferred stock shares of Series A from Heart Company are sold to Bionics with a par value of $1 each. This transaction was completed on November 30, 2011, according to the information provided. This transaction gave Bionic specific rights: 1. Board Rights, 2. Mandatory Conversion right, 3. Contingent Redemption Rights. Additional Protective Rights, 5. Right of first refusal and Co-Sale Rights. The $3.5 millions of shares would be convertible in common stock according to the agreement when the IPO reaches net proceeds of at least $50 millions. It is stated that if on year five of the agreement the FDA has not yet approve the product to be in the market; the shares could be redeemed at its par value. Hearts R Us is a company that reports on a year basis and it’s planning to make an IPO soon. There are a couple of issues surrounding this case. First is an early-stage company that doesn’t have the financial stability and this might create trouble for further transactions. The only product that might be coming to the market still depends on a series of trials and the approval of the FDA. Since the company is just starting; all of its accounting transactions have being recorded to comply with the covenants of its outstanding debt. Furthermore they are not required to comply with SEC and are currently not doing so. Also theirs an issue of how to be done to register the Series A shares that have being sold to Bionic. Preferred Stock: A security that has preferential rights compared to common stock. †¢Participation Rights: contractual rights of security holders to receive dividends or returns from the security issuer’s profits, cash flows, or returns on investment. FASB has some guide lines of how companies should report or disclose information of their securities. 1.FASB: addresses disclosure of information about capital arrangement is in the FASB Codification 505-10-50-3. 2.Participation Right is contractual right of security holders to receive dividends or returns from security issuer’s profits, cash flows or returns on investments. †¢FASB Codification 505. An entity shall explain, in summary form within its financial statements, the pertinent rights and privileges of the various securities outstanding. Examples of information that shall be disclosed are dividend and liquidation preferences, participation right, call prices and dates, conversion or exercise prices or rates and pertinent dates, sinking-fund requirements, unusual voting rights, and significant terms of contracts to issue additional shares. An entity shall disclose within its financial statements the number of shares issued upon conversion, exercise, or satisfaction of required conditions during at least the most recent annual fiscal period and any subsequent interim period presented.

Reviewing Corporate Social Responsibility of Starbucks

Reviewing Corporate Social Responsibility of Starbucks The purpose of this annotated bibliography project is to research and review articles within the last 10 years regarding the corporate social responsibility of the Starbucks Corporation. All the articles I have chosen are relevant, recent, and address the following issues: Starbucks commitment to the environment, Starbucks commitment to the employees, Starbucks commitment to consumers, discussions of ethical and unethical business behavior, and Starbucks commitment and response to shareholders. After doing the necessary research, it is obvious that Starbucks and their CEO Howard Shultz are aware of the importance of corporate social responsibility. Every company has problems they can work on and improve in and so does Starbucks. As of recent, Starbucks has done a great job showing their employees how important they are to the company. Along with committing to every employee, they have gone to great lengths to improve the environment for everyone. Ethical and unethical behavior is always a hot topic for the media, and Starbucks has to be careful with the decisions they make and how they affect their public persona. Commitment to the Environment The first way Starbucks has shown corporate social responsibility is through their commitment to the environment. In order to improve the environment, with a little push from the NGO, Starbucks first main goal was to provide more Fair Trade Coffee. What this means is that Starbucks will aim to only buy 100 percent responsibly grown and traded coffee. Not only does responsibly grown coffee help the environment, it benefits the farmers as well. Responsibly grown coffee means preserving energy and water at the farms. In turn, this costs more for the company overall, but the environmental improvements are worth it. Starbucks and the environment benefits from this decision because it helps continue to portray a clean image. Another way to improve the environment directly through their stores is by going green. Their first attempt to produce a green store was in Manhattan. Starbucks made that decision to renovate a 15 year old store. This renovation included replacing old equipment with more energy efficient ones. To educate the community, they placed plaques throughout the store explaining their new green elements and how they work. This new Manhattan store now conserves energy, water, materials, and uses recycled/recyclable products. Twelve stores total plan to be renovated and Starbucks has promised to make each new store LEED, meaning a Leader in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED improves performance regarding energy savings, water efficiency, and emission reduction. Many people dont look into environmentally friendly appliances because the upfront cost is always more. According to Starbucks, going green over time outweighs the upfront cost by a long shot. Hopefully, these new design elements wil l help the environment and get Starbucks ahead of their market. Commitment to Consumers The second way Starbucks has shown corporate social responsibility is through their commitment to consumers. The best way to get the customers what they want is to understand their demographic groups. By doing research on Starbucks consumer demographics, they realized that people with disabilities are very important. The company is trying to turn stores into a more adequate environment for customers with disabilities. A few changes include: lowering counter height to improve easy of ordering for people in wheelchairs, adding at least one handicap accessible entrance, adding disability etiquette to employee handbooks, training employees to educate them on disabilities, and by joining the National Business Disability Council. By joining the National Business Disability Council, Starbucks gains access to resumes of people with disabilities. Another way Starbucks has shown commitment to the consumers is by cutting costs and retaining loyal customers. For frequent, loyal customers, Starbucks decided to provide a loyalty card. Once a customer has obtained this card, they are given incentives and promotions for continuing to frequent their stores. Promotions include discounted drinks and free flavor shots to repeat visitors. Also, with the economy being at an all time low, Starbucks realized that cheaper prices were a necessity. By simplifying their business practices, they were able to provide lower prices for their customers. For example, they use only one recipe for banana bread, rather than eleven! It doesnt end there either! Starbucks recognized that health is part of social responsibility. To promote healthier living, they introduced skinny versions of most drinks, while keeping the delicious flavor. For example, the skinny vanilla latte has 90 calories compared to the original with 190 calories. Since Starbucks doesnt just sell beverages now, they introduced low calorie snacks. Along with the snacks and beverages, nutrition facts were available for each item. Also one big way to cut costs was outsourcing payroll and Human Resources administration. By creating a global platform for their administration system, Starbucks is able to provide more employees with benefits. Plus, they are able to spend more money on pleasing customers, rather than on a benefits system. Commitment and Response to Shareholders One way Starbucks has demonstrated their commitment and response to shareholder needs is by giving them large portions. By large portions, Starbucks is implying that they plan pay dividends equal to 35% or higher of net income to. For the shareholders, paying high dividends means certainty about the companys financial well-being. Along with that, they plan to purchase 15 million more shares of stock, and hopefully this will attract investors who focus on stocks with good results. Starbucks made their commitment to shareholders obvious by speaking directly to the media about it. In 2004, Starbucks won a great tax break, but unfortunately the media saw them as money grubbing. Their CEO, Howard Shultz, made the decision to get into politics and speak to Washington about expanding health care and the importance of this to the company. Not only does he want his shareholders to see his commitment, but he wants all of America to be able to reap this benefits. In order to compete with McDonalds and keeping payout to their shareholders high, Starbucks needed a serious turnaround. They did decide to halt growth in North America but not in Japan. Shultz found that drinking coffee is becoming extremely popular for the Japanese. To show shareholders there is a silver lining, he announced they plan to open thousands of stores in Japan and Vietnamese markets. Commitment to Employees The first and biggest way Starbucks shows their commitment to employees is by just taking care of their workers. For example, they know how important health care, stock options, and compensation are to people in this economy. The Starbucks policy states that as long as you work 20 hours a week you get benefits and stock options. These benefits include health insurance and contributions to employees 401k plan. Starbucks doesnt exclude part time workers, because they feel they are just as valuable as full time workers. Since Starbucks doesnt have typical business hours like an office job, the part time workers help working the odd shifts. Another way Starbucks shows their commitment to employees is by treating them like individuals, not just number 500 out of 26,000 employees. Howard Shultz, CEO, always tries to keep humanity and compassion in mind. When he first started at Starbucks, he remembered how much he liked it that people cared about him, so he decided to continue this consideration for employees. Shultz feels that a first impression is very important. On an employees first day, he lets each new employee know how happy he is to have them as part of their business, whether it is in person or through a video. His theory is that making a good first impression on a new hire is similar to teaching a child good values. Through their growth, he feels each employee will keep in mind that the company does care about them. Shultz wants people to know what he and the company stand for, and what they are trying to accomplish. Ethical/Unethical Business Behavior The last way Starbucks demonstrates corporate social responsibility is through ethical behavior and the occasional unethical behavior. The first ethically positive thing Starbucks involves them self in is the NGO and Fair Trade coffee. Even though purchasing mostly Fair Trade coffee seriously affected their profits, Starbucks knew it was the right thing to do. They also knew that if they did it the right way, everyone would benefit, from farmers, to the environment, to their public image. In the fall of 2010, Starbucks chose to team up with Jumpstart, a program that gives children a head start on their education. By donating to literacy organizations and volunteering with Jumpstart, Starbucks has made an impact on the children in America, in a very positive way. Of course there are negatives that come along with the positives. Starbucks isnt the perfect company like it may seem. In 2008, Starbucks made the decision to close 616 stores because they were not performing very well. In order for Starbucks to close this many stores in one year, they had to battle many landlords due to the chain breaking lease agreements. Starbucks tried pushing for rent cuts but some stores did have to break their agreements. On top of breaching lease agreements, Starbucks was not able to grow as much as planned, resulting their future landlords were hurting as well. To fix these problems, tenants typically will offer a buyout or find a replacement tenant, but landlords are in no way forced to go with any of these options. These efforts became extremely time consuming and costly, causing Starbucks to give up on many lease agreements. As for Starbucks ethical behavior is a different story when forced into the media light. In 2008, a big media uproar arose due to them wanting to rerelease their old logo for their 35th anniversary. The old coffee cup logo was basically a topless mermaid, which in Starbucks opinion is just a mythological creature, not a sex symbol. Media critics fought that someone needed to protect the creatures modesty. Starbucks found this outrageous. In order to end the drama and please the critics, they chose to make the image more modest by lengthening her hair to cover her body and soften her facial expression. Rather than ignoring the media concerns, Starbucks met in the middle to celebrate their 35th anniversary. Subject Area 1: Commitment to the Environment Non-government organizations are concerned with the concept of Fair Trade. NGO hoped Starbucks would buy into Fair Trade Coffee. This posed problems for Starbucks. Knowing that NGO has quite a bit of media pull, they knew they had to do something to please the NGO. In order to keep their clean image, Starbucks had to compromise with the NGO and introduce Fair Trade Coffee for a period of time. Since it wasnt going to be forever, this benefited Starbucks and helped out the farmers. Starbucks has made several goals to improve the community and the environment. They have attempted to double the purchases of Fair Trade and conserve water in the last 2 years. While they are still continuing these goals, Starbucks is hoping to reach a long-term goal of only buying 100 percent responsibly grown and traded coffee. Also in 2009, the progressed towards more energy efficient farming to reduce energy use by 25 percent. By 2015, all of their paper products will be reusable or recyclable. Collaboration with the NGO and recyclers will make this possible. To help draw in new customers and to please the already loyal ones, Starbucks completely renovated their 15 year old store in Manhattan. A more intimate, modern feel was created to draw in on their rich heritage. This Manhattan store is just one of the twelve stores worldwide that are going green. Each of the twelve stores conserves energy, water, materials, and recycles. To show customers and employees how it works, they have places plaques that explain green elements throughout the store. Starbucks has done this in hopes that people will see what they have done for the environment and follow their lead. Many people think going green is expensive, but Starbucks claims over time the enormous savings outweigh the upfront costs. Starbucks has realized its unique market position. They recently pledged that each new store built will be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and are expanding into ready brew coffee, which is essentially instant. LEED uses recycled and reused materials to build and create each store. They hope to get ahead of the market with their innovative products and environmentally friendly designed stores. To continue to grow and become even more successful, commitment to consumers and the environment has shown to be important to the Starbucks Corporation. Subject Area 2: Commitment to Consumers Starbucks has been struggling to keep their romance and theatre imagine, yet compete with the worlds largest fast-food chain McDonalds. In the last 2 years, Starbucks has had trouble keeping their share-price up. Many analysts feel this is due to too much expansion in America and all-time high prices. Resulting from this, customers are choosing quicker coffee stops such as McDonalds and Dunkin Donuts. Just when Starbucks thought it couldnt get worse, McDonalds introduced Starbucks-style coffee bars to many restaurants. Starbucks has had to water down their image in order to compete with this type of market. To loyal customers, this appeared as if Starbucks was losing their passion for coffee. Starbucks has grown between 1995 and 2005 faster than any McDonalds growth period in history. Unfortunately, with the downturn in the economy, Starbucks has been facing many challenges. Sales have been at a low and they will have to make some improvements to get back to where they were 5 years ago. Starbucks plans to increase marketing and sell packaged coffee at a more competitive price. Even with the tough competition from McDonalds and other fast-food businesses, Starbucks is said to return good as new in a few years. In 2008, Starbucks decided to place an emphasis on cutting costs and retaining a customer base. In order to retain customers, Starbucks chose to implement a loyalty card that provided customers with promotions that lead to cheaper drinks and keeps customers from frequenting other coffee sellers. To cut costs, they did decide to close several stores. Simplifying the business also helped cut costs. For example, Starbucks is now using one recipe for their banana bread, rather than eleven. Fortunately, they have realized that McDonalds isnt cutting into their sales as much as predicted, which is a good sign for the company. Starbucks is aiming to understand demographic groups better. They have realized that people with disabilities have become an important group. Starbucks is attempting to enhance ethical leadership throughout the company by making Michelle Penman, a 36 year old woman with cerebral palsy, a literal model employee. The company is trying to make stores more adequate for customers and employees with disabilities. Counter height has been lowered at many stores for an easy reach by customers and workers in wheelchairs. Each store has also added at least one handicap accessible entrance. Shortly after, disability etiquette had been added into employee training. This training mostly consists of day-to-day matters people with disabilities deal with. In addition, when recruiting new workers, Starbucks as joined the National Business Disability Council to access resumes of people with disabilities. Since by law employees are not required to record disability information on an application, it is h ard to measure the progress. Starbucks wants the best talent, no matter who it is. Part of social responsibility is keeping people healthy. Healthy food and drink, plus dieting are at an all time high. Starbucks chose to introduce skinny versions of their most popular drink choices. For example, the skinny vanilla latte has only 90 calories compared to the regular version with 190 calories. Along with the skinny beverages, they introduced low calorie Panini sandwiches and snacks for their health conscious customers. In order to education consumers, they also distributed brochures with all the nutrition facts for their products. A recent study found that Starbucks customers would prefer lower prices over new menu items. 65% of customers said if prices were lower, they would return to frequenting Starbucks stores. Along with lower prices, customers would like to see more reward programs, so Starbucks launched a program that offered free flavor shots to repeat visitors. Fortunately for Starbucks, even though McDonalds offers lower prices the quality of coffee doesnt compare to Starbucks. The survey revealed that Starbucks customers arent going to McDonalds instead, meaning they do have loyal customers. For Starbucks, Corporate Social Responsibility serves two roles. They first make sure that social responsibility awareness is at the top of their list when decision making. The second role was to make sure they carry out what they said they were going to do. An annual report follows up with results and progress. Starbucks runs their system as an important supporting action. Subject Area 3: Commitment and Response to Shareholders In 2004, the Starbucks Corporation won a tax break. Unfortunately, the media saw this as a money-grubbing move. Starbucks then decided to hire a lobbying firm. The CEO chose to speak to Washington about expanding health insurance coverage to more workers. He explained his commitment to shareholders and value of employees and how important providing decent health care is to the company. He described how he hoped that this commitment should extend to all of America. Starbucks realized that customers and shareholders like big portions, whether it is of coffee or dividends. This giant serving went to the shareholders. The corporation announced its planning to pay dividends equal to 35% or higher of net income. On top of that, Starbucks plans to purchase 15 million more shares. They plan to attract investors who focus on stocks with a good yield. According to Wall Street, Starbucks was forecasted to have shares at 70 cents each. By the end of 2009, they proved him wrong with shares at 75 cents each. Starbucks began benefitting from their advertisements, becoming the most popular brand on Facebook. With the serious competition fast food chains have imposed, this national marketing campaign had no room for failure. Starbucks is in need of a serious turnaround like McDonalds pulled off in the past. Unfortunately for Starbucks, it is going to be a bit more difficult because it is less in the control of the Starbucks Corporation; this is because they have expanded their customer base further than upper-income customers. Since they are closing 600 locations, Starbucks CEO hopes customers will migrate to other locations, not competitors. This will be tough to avoid since McDonalds and other fast food chains are beginning to offer similar products. Sanchanta, M.   (2010,  April  14). Starbucks plans big expansion in China Chief  executive says coffee giant has turned its fortunes around, is eager to crack  markets in India and Vietnam.  Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p.  B.10.   Starbucks CEO Howard Shultz announced that the corporation plans to expand into Japan. This large expansion would make Japan the country with the second most Starbucks stores, first being North America. According to Shultz, they plan to open thousands of stores in Japan and possibly more into Indian and Vietnamese markets. Drinking coffee has become popular for the Japanese making this an easier area to grown into. As for growth in China, Shultz claims a more tactical growth strategy. Over time, he sees China with thousands of stores as well. A good method may be to target the younger generation who are consumed by the internet. Subject Area 4: Commitment to Employees Starbucks aims to constantly be mindful of the publics view on them. In order to do this, Howard Schultz must keep a sense of humanity and compassion in mind. He knows how important health care, stock options, and compensation are for many employees. As long as employees work 20 hours a week, they are given benefits and stock options. Schultz does not ignore health care reform either; instead, he speaks publically about it. He explains to his customers and employees that he wishes to remain small even as it gets big, meaning that he will continue to treat his employees as individuals. Corporate Social Responsibility has always been near the top of his list. Shultz hopes to continue keeping Starbucks as the perfect place between the consumers home and work. Since the economy has been at an all time low in the last few years, companies have had to cut costs anywhere and everywhere possible. In 2008, Starbucks had to inform their employees that they have the right to decide whether they want to contribute to their 401k plan. With this extra cash, Starbucks feels they are able to provide more employees with benefits. Using the utilitarian method, they plan to provide greatest good for the greatest number of employees. Fortunately for Starbucks employees, this cut back was as a last resort to cut costs. Many companies cut benefits altogether. Starbucks aims to make a lasting first impression on an employees first day of work, in a good way of course. Howard Shultz remembers how important it was to him that people cared. He know show new hires how much he cares, by telling employees how happy he is to have them aboard, even if it is by video. Shultz doesnt discriminate based on full time or part time workers, even though part time workers are notorious for high turnover. The theory at Starbucks is making a good impression to a new worker is like teaching a child good values. They want people to know what they stand for and what they are trying to accomplish, and there is no better time than an employees first day. Starbucks plans to outsource payroll and Human Resources administration for US and Canadian employee benefits. In turn, this outsourcing deal will help create a global platform for their HR. Administrative HR systems are extremely costly and companies prefer to spend their money on customers not a benefits system. This type of outsourcing will not only save them money but it will help avoid future increasing costs. Fortunately for HR employees, the ones that stay behind will still have a job and can focus on the bigger picture. Subject Area 5: Ethical/Unethical Business Behavior Johnson Johnson, The Timberland Company, Michael Mayo, Maiden Mills, SC Johnson, and Starbucks all devote a significant amount of effort to ensure corporate social responsibility. In order for Starbucks to keep their turnover rate low, they have realized that awareness of social responsibility is a big help. They give part time and full time employees or partners benefits and stock options. Not only does Starbucks help out their employees, but they do volunteering as well. They provide grants for nonprofit organizations when employees volunteer. Literacy is very important to their CEO, so he donated to nonprofit literacy organizations across America. In addition, he teamed up with Jumpstart, which is a program that gives preschool children an educational head start. To please nongovernment organizations, Starbucks had to implement Fair Trade coffee. To give small famers an income sufficient enough to live off of, Starbucks chose to work off the standards they set for themselves and sell Fair Trade Coffee as much as possible. The NGO still wasnt satisfied because they wanted ALL coffee to be Fair Trade. Starbucks knew that this would seriously affect their profit. In this economy, it wasnt possible for them to do right away; this lead to confrontation between Starbucks and the NGO. In 2008, Starbucks announced that they planned to close 616 stores that werent performing up to par. Starbucks was then forced to battle many landlords due to the chain looking to break leases. Many tenants similar to Starbucks have found offering a buyout or finding replacement tenants as a settlement offering. Unfortunately, these efforts can become costly and time consuming, which Starbucks didnt have. Since they have to close so many current stores, Starbucks will also have to hold off on scheduled new store openings. Starbucks, like many other coffee shops, provides books and magazines to buy and read while you enjoy your favorite cup of coffee. The William Morris Agency (WMA) scouts books for Starbucks to put on their shelves. One of their most popular sellers is For One More Day by Mitch Albom. William Morris represents Starbucks and authors simultaneously and many agents feel this is a conflict of interest for the Starbucks Corporation. Starbucks admits asking for a special two-week exclusive but no special discounts and everything William Morris does for them has had approval from the coffee Starbucks 35th anniversary took place in 2008, and the corporation planned to use their old logo for the cups to celebrate. Unfortunately, the media went crazy over their topless mermaid, which is a mythological creature. Critics claim that they need to protect sirens modesty. The mermaid was not depicted nude, but it was obvious that she was topless with hair covering her breasts. To make the image more modest, they chose to lengthen her hair and soften her expression, which make it a more appropriate design. Instead of ignoring peoples concerns, Starbucks met in the middle for their 35th anniversary. References Corporate behavior and strategy.  (2005). Strategic Direction,  21(8),  26-29.   Retrieved  September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  877321751). Starbucks tracks its global responsibilities.  (2010,  May). Beverage Industry,  101(5),  14.  Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global.  (Document ID:  2041497141). Wilson,  M.  (2010,  June). Starbucks redesign puts emphasis on sustainability.  Chain Store  Age,  86(5),  54-55.   Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global.  (Document ID:  2078389131). Zegler,  J.  (2010,  June). New initiatives expand Starbucks reach.  Beverage  Industry,  101(6),  62.   Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global.  (Document ID:  2060421021). Business: coffee wars; Starbucks v McDonalds.  (2008,  January). The  Economist,  386(8562),  58.   Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM  Global. (Document ID:  1412491651). Stars are aligned for Starbucks.  (2010,  June  13). Wall Street Journal (Online). Retrieved  September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  2057230511). Adamy, J.   (2008,  December  5). Corporate News: Starbucks Moves to Cut Costs, Retain Customers.  Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p.  B.3.   Retrieved September  29, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  1607039211). Corkery, M. (2005 November 14). Leadership (a special report); a special effort:  Starbucks is reaching out to people with disabilities both as employees  and as customers. Wall Street Journal. (Eastern Edition), p.R.8. Retrieved  September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  925860671) Jargon, J.   (2010,  January  22). Restaurants begin to count calories Applebees,  Starbucks push healthier food items to boost customer foot traffic amid Federal  Health-Care debate.  Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p.  B.6.   Retrieved  September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  1944833351). Jennings,  L..  (2008,  October). Study: Coffee fans want Starbucks to cut prices; rivals  lose fewer guests.  Nations Restaurant News,  42(41),  1,6,45.   Retrieved  September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  1593459171). Liu,  S.  Ã‚  Liu,  L.  (2009). Implementing corporate external social responsibility strategies  through organizational design and operation.  Journal of International Business  Ethics,  2(1),  79-83,119.   Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM  Global. (Document ID:  2145930981). Cummings, J. (2005,  April  12). Legislative grind: cautiously, Starbucks puts lobbying on  corporate menu; as coffee retailer grows, it seeks place in capital; hesitating to  start a PAC; Mr. Schultz gets stood up.  Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),  p.  A.1.   Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document  ID:  820534051). Jannarone, J.   (2010,  March  25). Starbucks announces a venti payout.  Wall Street  Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p.  C.14.   Retrieved September 30, 2010, from  ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  1992661101). Jargon, J.   (2009,  July  22). Earnings: Starbucks swings to profit, aided by cost  cuts.  Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p.  B.5.   Retrieved September 30,  2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  1799345261). Lockyer, S. E.  (2008,  August). Analysts: Starbucks needs more than McD-like  turnaround tack.  Nations Restaurant News,  42(31),  4,9-10.   Retrieved  September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  1549390161). Sanchanta, M.   (2010,  April  14). Starbucks plans big expansion in China Chief  executive says coffee giant has turned its fortunes around, is eager to crack  markets in India and Vietnam.  Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p.  B.10.  Retrieved September 29, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document  ID:  2008219851). Business: staying pure; face value.  (2006,  February). The Economist,  378(8466),  78.  Retrieved September 30, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document  ID:  994268361). Adamy, J. (2008,  December  24). Starbucks could cut 401(k) match. 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Re-establishment of Native Plants by Seed Germination

Re-establishment of Native Plants by Seed Germination Re-establishment of Native Plants by Seed Germination  in the State of Kuwait 1.1 Desertification Desertification and land degradation has become a matter of increasing importance both locally and globally. Due to heat fluctuations produced by climate change, arid and semi-arid areas are becoming easily susceptible and prone to desertification (Kassas, 1995). Conservation of natural desert habitats should be a priority for environmental agencies and governments especially in arid regions of the world (Stringer, 2008). Water scarcity is one of the factors provoking an increase of vegetation in arid climates, which can lead to land degradation and desertification (Dhief et al., 2009). The term desertification is used in diverse ways in the literature (Stringer, 2008). For this paper, it refers to land degradation in relation to loss of plant species diversity as well as loss of soil resources (Brown, 2003). The primary factor in the degradation of deserts is low rainfall, not to mention the huge impact on the deserts biodiversity from human activities such as camping, car racing or rallying (Brown et al., 2001), and unsupervised grazing by sheep and camels as well as the rapid increase of human population (Whitford, 2006). 1.2 Climate change and plant restoration Climate change is a global issue which is still rising and damaging our environment. Global warming is mainly caused and exacerbated by human influences and activities. Plant restoration is one way to reduce the effect of climate change (Dosery et al., 2012). Arid regions of the world are being effected by climate change the most. The issue of desertification primarily affects areas with less vegetation similar to those in desert areas (Hanafi et al., 2008) Restoration of plants to their natural habitats in arid climates with pressures from grazing and overpopulation is challenging. One way to vegetate these areas is germinating seeds of native species in lab condition to be transplanted in the desert. Plant restoration is a slow process, especially in ecosystems with unfavorable environmental conditions such as low rainfall, high evaporation rates and poor soil composition, precisely the conditions which are found in desert ecosystems (Bolling et al., 2000). Because seedbanks of desert plants can lie dormant for long periods of time, and can later germinate under favorable conditions (Brown et al., 2003) which can be replicated in lab facilities. 1.3 Seed germination and plant growth Seed germination is a process in which the seed emerges from dormancy and grows into a new plant. This occurs when environmental conditions are favourable including temperature, soil composition and water, (Derbel et al., 2007). This process is used to promote and establish plant seedlings for various desert species, which can contribute to increasing plant population for instance in arid and semi-arid climates. According to research on desert plants, temperature is one of the most important factors promoting seed germination, also it plays a big role in plant growth. Indeed, the optimal temperature for seed to germinate is usually close to the average temperature in the species natural habitat (Derbel et al., 2010). Knowledge of the life history, ecology and natural habitat of native species is important for a successful plant reestablishments. The most important part of the plant cycle is seed germination (Derbel et al.,2007). Scarification is a botanical term which refers to the process by which the coat of the seeds is opened, and it can be undertaken mechanically or chemically. Seed germination depends primarily on the level of moisture in the environment and temperature (El-Keblawy, Abdelfattah Khedr, 2015). This paper will examine seed germination treatment in the context of three different factors. The first is temperature: if the temperature is too high then the seed which has been planted for germination will die (Gorai, Laajili, Santiago Neffati, 2015). Low temperatures can also impact seed germination. The second factor which impacts seed germination is scarification of the seeds. The third factor relating to the pre-treatment of seeds for germination is soaking in water. It is important to soak the seeds in water prior to planting to give them the best chance of germinating (Gorai, Laajili, Santiago Neffati, 2015). 1.4 Use of peat moss for plant production Using peat moss to promote seed germination implies the use of stratification, which is a moist, cold treatment: this does not apply to desert plants, since they are mostly promoted by temperature and scarification[ES1]. It is reported that peat moss has growth-promoting substances, including antibiotics and oestrogens (Cox Westing, 2013). 1.5 Study area (add refrences) Kuwait is a small country located in the north-east of the Arabian Peninsula, with a total area of 17,820 km2 and a human population of 4.3 million. Kuwait borders Iraq (north) and Saudi Arabia (west and south), while the east of the country lies at the tip of the Persian Gulf, reaching its highest elevation above sea level at 280 m (Brown Al-Mazrooei, 2003).   The climate of Kuwait is considered an arid climate, with summer temperatures ranging from 35-50 ° C. Summer lasts from May to September, with the hottest temperatures occurring from June to August. Winters are dry and cool with mean temperatures ranging from 6-20 ° C. Rainfall varies from year to year, with an average documented rainfall of 120mm (Halwagy et al., 1982). On average, evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation on a yearly basis (Halwagy Halwagy, 1974a). 1.6 The vegetation and soils of Kuwait The vegetation cover of Kuwait is less than 10 % (Brown, 2001). The dominant plant of Kuwait isRhanterium epapposum. There has been no documentation of native trees found in the deserts of Kuwait, while only one tree (6al7a) has been recorded as a native tree and protected in nature reserves (Brown Al-Mazrooei, 2003). Soil texture and composition is an important factor for plant regeneration in desert climates. The primary soil characteristics to be considered in seed germination are soil texture, depth, permeability, penetrability and fertility (Batanouny, 1990). Sandy alkaline soils are dominant in the deserts of Kuwait, and these have low water retention, which is a disadvantage for seed germination (Johns et al., 1984). However, rainfall on sandy soils can be more effective for seed germination than on clay soils (Carbon, 1975). 1.7 Native plants Calligonum comosum Calligonum is a genus of perennial shrubs from the Polygonaceae family. One of the striking features of the species is that it is covered with numerous bristled fruits, which are easily carried by the wind, thus avoiding burial in the sand. The Latin genus name comes from the Greek words callus (beautiful) and gonos (knee), and reflects the original shape of the twigs as they link to one another (Gouja, Garnatje, Hidalgo, Neffati, Raies Garcia, 2015). Calligonum comosum is a native plant to the state of Kuwait. It is a perennial shrub which grows up to 2m tall with a crown ranging from 1-2.5m. Its leaves are simple and green. The   flowering season runs from March to April, with the red flowers attracting birds. The most widespread use of this plant is to stabilise sand dunes and wind breaks, but it also fixes soil to provide protein for livestock, provides wood for fuel and burns without smoke. It is one of the most common plants used to fight desertification and is usually employed along with other native plants for rehabilitation purposes. The most critical stage for this plant is seed germination and seedling stabilisation (Qu et al., 2008). It is prone to heavy grazing since it is a major source of food for camels, as well as goats and sheep (fact sheet). The active ingredients include tannins contained within the green branches of Calligonum. The fruits are edible, and taste similar to an apple. The economic significa nce of these shrubs is very high. Their young branches and fruits, with a pleasantly sour taste, are readily eaten by sheep and camels. In winter, the sheep eat fallen twigs and fruit from the ground. The nutritional value of these products is rather high in conventional feed units. The timber produced by this tree is dense and heavy (it sinks in water), and the pink kernel is a good building material in the desert environment. The wood is also used as fuel for various crafts. Finally, Calligonum is excellent fixative of sand and is used for reclamation in areas of mobile sand. The plant can form new side (adventitious) roots at the base of the stalks after backfilling them with sand (El-Keblawy, Abdelfattah Khedr, 2015). Farsetia Aegyptia This is a perennial shrub that grows in coarse sandy soil, reaching a height of up to 60 cm. Its leaves are succulent and linear, its blooming season is from March to June, and it has greenish-brown flowers. The fruit has a winged seed. This plant has no documented or official publications (Farsetia aegyptia Overview Encyclopedia of Life, 2017). Rhanterium epapposum This is the national plant of Kuwait, and the most dominant plant found in the countrys deserts. This bush grows up to 1m tall, has small narrow leaves which fall in late spring, and becomes dormant during the summer season. Its flowering season is from March to May, with small yellow flowers. For this plant to germinate, the capitulum must be facing upwards, with the achene still attached to the capitulum. Seeds can be viable for more than 4 years (Ahmed, Al-Dousari and Al-Dousari, 2016), and the plant is mainly used for skin infections and for fuel in remote areas. Calligonum comosum, which does not require a lot of water to grow and tends to grow in areas with low rainfall (Gouja, Garnatje, Hidalgo, Neffati, Raies Garcia, 2015); Rhanterium epapposum, which is bushy and is produced naturally as well as with the help of vegetation[ES2]; and Farsetia aegyptia which is also used to combat desertification with the assistance of seed germination. The main objective of this study is to determine why seed germination is important and under what conditions it can take place. The study will discuss how seed germination occurs under different conditions and the factors which affect it. Three desert plants will be used in the   seed germination experiment The aim of this study is to induce seed germination using chemical treatments such as gibberellic acid in two different concentrations (ppm) and physical scarification treatment with two different intensity levels. The second part of the study will investigate four different ratios of peat moss to sand to measure plant growth of seedlings of three desert species in Kuwait. This study will contribute to increasing vegetation in arid and semi-arid areas such as Kuwait, and explore the conditions in which seed germination can take place, including environmental conditions and appropriate temperature (Gouja, Garnatje, Hidalgo, Neffati, Raies Garcia, 2015). As we know, the more plants are grown, the more we can protect our environment. Seed germination is one process for producing plants by artificial methods, which would participate in desert revegetation by transplanting native species back in their natural habitat. Seed germination experiment Three plants will be investigated in this study: Calligonum comosum, Rhanterium epapposum and Farsetia aegyptia. Ten seeds from each species will undergo two seed germination treatments, each with two different intensities. First is a physical treatment in the form of scarification using sand paper, with two different intensities of scarification. Second is a chemical treatment using two different concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3). All treatments will be undertaken in the same environment and temperature conditions. The experiment will be replicated three times. Figure 1 Plant growth with peat moss For this experiment, seedlings from three species will be tested in five soil mixtures with different sand to peat moss ratios. A block of 15 seedlings, each with a different soil mixture (5 soil mixtures for each species) will be replicated 5 times (Figure 2).   Environmental factors such as temperature, soil moisture and pH will be measured for analysis. [ES3]Figure 2 A large data set will be collected over a period of 4-6 weeks, and daily logs will be completed for the final data analysis. Statistical data analysis using ANOVA will be applied to both experiments to compare the percentage of growth in different soil mixtures. As well as comparing seed germination percentages for four different treatments, ArcGIS software will be used to provide maps for this study if necessary. Petri dishes, paper filters and labels Sand paper Gibberellic acid (GA3). Native plant seeds (available at PAAFR*) Native plant seedlings (available at PAAFR*) 10cm plastic planting pots (75) (available at PAAFR*) Soil (peat moss and sand) (available at PAAFR*) Access to seed lab facility either at PAAFR* or KISR* (access fees may be applicabl For this study, safety precautions will be taken mostly when using seed lab facilities. Access lab safety check list Lab coat Long trousers Closed toe shoes Safety glasses Use of gloves Since this study will be done off campus, some expenses may apply, this is just a provisional budget plan Plane tickets (round trip from Aberdeen to Kuwait) (300  £) All materials mentioned previously might be available for use with no charge Onetime payment for seed lab access of 50  £ Petrol fees maybe applicable once experiment location is determined around 100  £ if the experiment is done over a period of six weeks. References Bolling, J. and Walker, L. (2000). Plant and soil recovery along a series of abandoned desert roads. Journal of Arid Environments, 46(1), pp.1-24. Brown, G. (2003) Factors maintaining plant diversity in degraded areas of northern Kuwait, Journal of Arid Environments, 54(1), pp. 183-194. Brown, G. and Al-Mazrooei, S. (2003). Rapid vegetation regeneration in a seriously degraded Rhanterium epapposum community in northern Kuwait after 4 years of protection. Journal of Environmental Management, 68(4), pp.387-395. Brown, G. and Schoknecht, N. (2001) Off-road vehicles and vegetation patterning in a degraded desert ecosystem in Kuwait, Journal of Arid Environments, 49(2), pp. 413-427. Derbel, S. and Chaieb, M. (2007). Germination behaviour and seedling establishment of two desert shrubs,Calligonum polygonoides(Polygonaceae) andSpartidium saharae(Fabaceae), under experimental conditions. Acta Botanica Gallica, 154(4), pp.533-544. Derbel, S., Touzard, B., Triki, M. and Chaieb, M. (2010). Seed germination responses of the Saharan plant species Ephedra alata ssp. alenda to fungicide seed treatments in the laboratory and the field. Flora Morphology, Distribution, Functional Ecology of Plants, 205(7), pp.471-474. Dhief, A., Gorai, M., Aschi-Smiti, S. and Neffati, M. (2009) Comparative phenological and water potential patterns of three Calligonum species in the eastern great Erg of Tunisia, Flora Morphology, Distribution, Functional Ecology of Plants, 204(8), pp. 581-592. doi: 10.1016/j.flora.2008.07.007. Dosery, N.A., Mathew, M., Suresh, N. and Al-Menaie, H.S. (2012) Kuwaits agricultural efforts to mitigate climate change, Energy Procedia, 18, pp. 1441-1445 Hanafi, A. and Jauffret, S. (2008). Are long-term vegetation dynamics useful in monitoring and assessing desertification processes in the arid steppe, southern Tunisia. Journal of Arid Environments, 72(4), pp.557-572. Kassas, M. (1995). Desertification: a general review. Journal of Arid Environments, 30(2), pp.115-128. Stringer, L. (2008). Reviewing the International Year of Deserts and Desertification 2006: What contribution towards combating global desertification and implementing the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification? Journal of Arid Environments, [online] 72(11), pp.2065-2074. Available at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140196308001742 [Accessed 19 Feb. 2017]. Whitford, W. (2006). Ecology of desert systems. 1st ed. San Diego: Academic Press, pp.275-304. [ES1]This sentence wasnt very clear please read and check it and let me know if you think Ive accidentally changed the meaning! [ES2]Not quite sure what you mean by with the help of vegetation? [ES3]I would change the title of the Figure to: Illustration showing different ratios of sand to peat for three different species

Research :: essays research papers

Research Skills Activity 1. Diversity Issues in workplace teams. A group of regional human resource professionals continually has made workplace diversity an ongoing educational item for its members. "Diversity in many aspects came about through attempts to address race and gender," said Scott Holsman, chapter president of the Human Resources Association of Mid-Missouri. "But they're also finding out there's more to diversity than those two issues. There's a rise of understanding on how teams work together, and I think we're moving toward more a substantial look at the role diversity plays." (Friedman, 2002, p.1) As part of a yearly look at diversity issues in the workplace, members of Holsman’s group attended a half-day conference early last week. Plummer spoke about diversity issues to about 60 of the group’s members. Diversity â€Å"is a topic because it’s a reality today,† said Holsman, who works for Express Personnel Services in Mid-Missouri. â€Å"The leading companies really understand that diversity is many things, and it’s not just a gender and racial thing. A team is made up of different talents, and the challenge is to optimize those talents to get the most benefit for an organization.† (Friedman, 2002, p.1) 2. Case Studies in Object Oriented Programming Pi is n debugger written in C+ +. This paper explains how object-oriented Programming in C+ + has influenced Pi's evolution. The motivation for Object Oriented programming was to experiment with a browser-like graphical user interface. The first unforeseen benefit was in the symbol table: lazy construction of an abstract syntax-based tree gave a clean interface to the remainder of Pi, with an efficient and robust implementation. Next, though not in the original design, Pi was easily modified to control multiple processes simultaneously. Finally, Pi was extended to control processes executing across multiple heterogeneous target processors. (Cargill, 1986, p.350) The subject of this paper is the impact of object-oriented programming on the structure and capabilities of a complicated piece of software - a debugger called Pi. The paper begins with observations about debugging in general and a description of Pi, to motivate the introduction of object-oriented programming. When the design of Pi began, object-oriented programming was chosen as a means of achieving a style of user interface. But the application of object-oriented techniques throughout had unforeseen benefits with respect to symbol table structure, multi-process debugging and target environment independence. (Cargill, 1986, p.350) 3. Current Political Trends in Singapore. Though being politically stable and popular, the government of Singapore has not been leading without dissentient voices.

Human Nature: Exposed :: essays research papers

Human Nature: Exposed More than a century ago, Mark Twain probably composed the single-most important piece of American Literature to ever be composed. This work, widely known as The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, essentially follows young Huck on a series of adventures and experiences with his close friend (and runaway slave), Jim, as they both escape society's burdens. The novel, in a sense, encompasses everything good, bad and in between about and concerning the society of that time. A majority of the novel takes place along the Mississippi river, with Young Huck, and Jim each striving to attain a common goal, freedom from the woes of society. In their journey, they come across many different people, and encounter many strange and new experiences that all relate to a common theme that is evident throughout the novel. As their journey progresses, the reader witnesses many horrific and surprising acts, all performed by none other than man himself. Looking deeper into the symbolistic meaning of many of these passages reveals that man, in essence , is cruel, silly, and hypocritical in nature. Through his writing, it becomes apparent that Twain supports the thematic idea of the human race being hypocritical. For instance, take the scene in Chapter 20 where a group of people in Arkansas are listening to the sermon of a preacher. In this descriptive passage, it can be inferred through Twain's writing that the average person of this time was in fact "blinded" by religious influences. The significance of this event can be observed later on in Chapter 21 where Twain describes the horrific abuse of animals. "There couldn't anything wake them up all over, and make them happy all over, like a dog-fight--unless it might be putting turpentine on a stray dog and setting fire to him..." (Twain 140). In putting the two preceding passages in perspective a distinctive irony becomes visible. The same type of individuals whom practice religion in good faith turn around and perform cruel acts to animals, for sport of all things. This is hypocritical because the basis of religion is definitely not to support or defend such acts, but that doesn't seem to have any adverse affect upon the average person who is merely "blinded" by glamour of religion and what it stands for, not having any intention of carrying out it's plight. So all said and done, Twain wanted to make it clear to the reader in a subtle way that these two scenes, in conjunction support the statement that Twain's writing makes the human race out as hypocritical in nature. In addition of Twain using the experiences that Huck and Jim undergo to

Critical Appraisal Essay

This exclusive practical session revolves around students’ attachment to family doctor or general practitioner. Beforehand, a sound understanding and distinguishable comparison between these two specialty is necessary to perform this task efficiently. Family medicine is a medical specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive health care for the individual and family across all ages, genders, diseases, and all parts of the body. It is based on knowledge of the patient in the context of the family and community, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion. According to the World Organization of Family Doctors, the aim of family medicine is to provide personal, comprehensive and continuing care for the individual in the context of the family and community. On the other hand, general practitioner is a medical practitioner who treats acute and chronic illnesses and provides preventive care and health education to patients. The good general practitioners will treat patients both as people and as a population. In some healthcare systems general practitioners work in primary care healthcare centers where they play a central role in the healthcare team. Nevertheless, in some models of care general practitioners work as single-handed practitioners. In conjunction with this block, I visited a local puskesmas to understand more about role of a general practitioner and family physician. Physical Access , Convenience and Facilities The clinic I was designated to is Puskesmas Danurejan I. The puskesmas is located in Bausasran, Danurejan in Yogyakarta. After being renovated and improvised since December 2011, Puskesmas Danurejan possesses new physical structure and more sophisticated facilities. Now, the puskesmas has a new building, whereas the ground floor serves as an infectious and non-infectious area. The puskesmas is almost 656 meter squared in size with general consultation rooms, dental consultation rooms, emergency room, pharmacy and laboratory fitted in the ground floor. On the other hand, the first floor serves as the supporting facility . This floor contains the office, hygiene and sanitation department and prayer room. This health center is located in the midst of housing estates, and therefore very accessible to those living within close proximity. The housing area is also densely populated, with numerous shops, public amenities which makes it a rather ideal and conducive stay. The puskesmas is open daily on weekdays and Saturdays from 7. 30am to 3. 00pm. The puskesmas also has a landline which makes it reachable for any prior information before the peoples’ visit. One distinct setback of the setting is that of, the signboard was unclear and hidden in tree branches. The direction guiding the visitors are vague and not specified. This may be inconvenient for anyone who is about to make their very first visit without prominently knowing the location. Furthermore, there were not enough parking lots near the puskesmas. The Waiting Room The waiting room is spacious, sufficient to fit about 20 patients at an instance with appropriate number of chairs provided. The cleanliness and tidiness of the waiting room is also well maintained . There were garbage bins provided. The ventilation of the room is also well considered as there are presence windows for good air movement. Huge healthcare pamphlets and banners are also seen in the waiting room, aimed educate and enlighten patients. A staff was bserved in the waiting area as she is assigned to take vital signs of the patients and direct them to the physician as their turn comes. As we were walking pass the waiting room, I noticed surreptitious gazes from the patients who were rather clueless of our enthusiastic presence with white coats. I managed to start a conversation with a few patients even before tending to the consultation room for observation. Patient Load and Examination Room The patients who visit this puskesmas are mostly from the community living within close proximity to the center. Apparently, the densely populated housing estate are attracted to the recently renovated health center. The health center receives a generous average of 40 patients daily, most probably due to the satisfactory health care received and affordable charges. The examination room is rather small but sufficient to carry out basic physical examination, equipped with racks, table for physician and an examination bed. During my observation period, the physician received 5 patients. in which 3 of them were regular patients under controlled medications (hypertension and diabetes mellitus patients), with the other 2 having ordinary fever and viral flu. According to the doctor, most of his patients are children with acute illnesses and elderly patients facing chronic diseases. However, any serious medical complication which cannot be diagnosed or treated by the doctor is referred to the possible hospital. Physician-Patient Communication Based on my observation, the physician seemed to have mastered all crucial skills in order to provide the best for the patient. Firstly, I would like to discuss about the primary care management of the physician towards the patient. The doctor successfully connects with the patient via good communication and interpersonal skills, and subsequently put the patient at ease to express his complaints and condition. Therefore, the physician is able do deal competently with the problems presented to her. Even though the physician I observed has just completed internship, she has an amazing person centered care towards each of her patient. She understands and relates her patients as individuals and developed the ability to work in partnership. The physician encountered various different cases involving different ranging from a myriad of genders, age group and illness. However, she applies specific problem-solving skills about the context-specific aspects of general practice and successfully dealt with undifferentiated illness and skills. The duration of consultancy was about 10 minutes per patient for chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes mellitus and the interaction process took about 5 minutes. Shortly after my observation, I managed to have a word with the physician. She explained to me that the key to a good family physician is the comprehensive approach. It is about how one as a physician must be able to co-ordinate care of acute illness, chronic illness, health promotion and disease prevention in the general practice setting. Not to forget, to respect and honor the patients for an impeccable physician-patient communication. Besides she emphasized the importance to keep patients informed about their condition, listen and respect their views about their health and respond to their question. Documentation and Medical Records The medical records are stored very systematically in the center. There is an allocated room with limited accessibility to keep all of the documents safely in order to avoid breach of confidentiality of the documents. Only the administration personnel are permitted to enter. As we were informed, the documents of the medical record has been computerized using a programme called MedCis System. However, the manual means are still practiced in the physicians desk. The information is then transferred by the administration personnel. The medical record on the hysicians desk is a piece of white-colored paper with patient identity particulars such as name, age, gender, registration number, and consultation date at the top. The remainder of the page is filled up by writing by the doctor himself, which are anamnesis, medical history, drug allergies, vital sign results, physical examination results, diagnosis, treatment and prescription. By the implementation of the computerized system, loss of data due to natural disaster is prevented. Besides, the patients privacy and confidentially is recognised as the system is well secured, in the sense no changes of previous medical history is made possible. The system can only be viewed by physicians for follow-ups and patient himself upon request. Clinical Care Processes The overall process of treatment is very structured indeed. It begins with registration and recording of vital signs. Later, the patients are directed accordingly to the appropriate departments namely psychology, nutrition, general consultation and dental consultation. After receiving their treatment, they were to settle payments before collecting their prescription from the pharmacy. As per clinical care specifically, the physician has performed necessary procedures to diagnose and treat the patient. The physician accomplishes her role as a family physician very successfully. Her anamnesis was very detailed and intricate. She thoroughly skims the past medical history, medication history, and latest prescription before she proceeds further. Concerning chronic diseases of the elderly like hypertension, she initiated by asking the patient how did they feel lately and if there were any relieve or aggravation from their condition. As the temperature, height, weight, blood pressure, respiratory rate and pulse rate has been obtained earlier from the registration personnel, she proceeds with treatment and prescription. The physician prescribes simple generic medicine for the patient which was available in the pharmacy. As for the child, she performed basic physical examination as he complained of body ache. I also observed that treating an elderly person and a child requires different approach altogether. Obviously, they had to be nurtured with care and respect. The physician was seen to have given importance to personal safety by the usage of gloves, masks, and hand sanitizer. This is an undisputedly important step to prevent nosocomial infections in the health center. One setback that I observed was in terms of educating the patients. The physician only provided the patients with very minimal input and education. Payment There are several paying methods made feasible by the puskesmas to facilitate the patients, namely insurance coverage and direct payment. For instance, Jaminan Kesihatan Masyarakat, Jaminan Kesihatan Daerah, Jaminan Kesihatan Social, Jaminan Kesihatan Persendirian and Jaminana Kesihatan AKS. Patients who owns insurance coverage as mentioned need not make any payment, whereas those without pays an amount as low as RP5000. 00. However, the medications has to be purchased by the patients at their own expense. For the most part of my observation, the patients receives prescription of their medication to be purchased themselves in the pharmacies, unless generic medicines which are provided in the puskesmas. I could deduce that the charges are very affordable compared to that of private practices. Therefore, quality medical care is made accessible to everyone regardless of their economic background. This is indeed extremely favorable in reaching out to the needs of the people in an actively developing region. Discussion In the context of satisfactory health care, patients gratification is substantial. This explains why health care providers should make extraordinary efforts in providing the best achievable standards of health care. In the context of Indonesia, family medicine is developing slowly, however a clear structure and guideline for patients has not been constructed. On the other hand, due to limited number of specialist available, most specialists carry out private general practice outside their work hours. This may reduce the efficiency of the physicians due to stress and overwork. Moreover, the general practitioners training programme is not welcomed and well supported by the specialist because they are held in direct competitions with the general practitioners. Pertaining the clinical attachment, the physician tried their level best to provide appropriate health care to her patients despite the limited resources. However, there is also abundant room for improvement in terms of educating the patient about prevention of diseases and the effects of medication prescribed. Besides, the physician should have given more enlightenment when concerning lifestyle related iseases, because at all times, prevention is better than care. On the whole, the entire health care team should work on the regulations concerning controlled medication to avoid abuse and overuse. Another most crucial point in family medicine is the community orientation. Community orientation is about the physical environment of your practice population, the need to understand the interrelationship between health and social care, and the tensions that may exist between individual wants and needs and the needs of the wider community. As a conclusion, holistic approach is about your ability to understand and respect your patients’ values, culture, family beliefs and structure, and understand the ways in which these will affect the experience and management of illness and health. I am very contented to be granted an opportunity for this clinical attachment. This would, in time, help me in my future endeavors as a doctor.

Profesional Manager Essay

What are the Institution Building Skills of the Top Executives in organisational set up? Explain with examples from various Institution Building Personalities quoting their role relating to various skills which contributed in Institution Building. Briefly describe the organisational history you are referring to. Most of the institution building activities require attending to some very important functions. The chief executive has to maintain his position of a leader of the organisational management. Apart from the efficiency of the organization top executive has to be equally concerned about satisfaction of employees, their welfare, their development which will create an impact on the society and their morale. Managerial skills that help in building an institution or organization the skills of the top executive are broadly categorized as follows: i) Identity Creating Role: You create a special place for your organisation by making it unique in one or more than one respect. You may have good employee welfare measures that make your employees happy. You may also be known for your technological innovations and users of your technology outside your organisation are happy about it. Thus, you are known with your identity with the above two areas which are created and you have also made or established your organisation’s identity that way. Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Governance, employee satisfaction, goodwill, transparency,. ii) Enabling Role: The chief executive has to develop various kinds of resources such as men, material, facilities for work as well as a good work atmosphere. Employees have to be trained and updated in their skill and materials so that outputs can be multiplied. Also, he has to give employees a very challenging/satisfying atmosphere to work by knowing their ability as well as willingness to work by this means efficiency of the employees can certainly be increased as well as morale. Involvement of employees in decision making. Focused participation, development of resources (men, materials, machinery and money etc.). Breakeven point. iii) Synergising role: Synergy is working together of two or more people, organizations, or things, especially when the result is greater than the sum of their individual effects or capabilities. Collectively resources – men, material, money and machines contribute to the goals of the organisation. Ensuring proper utilisation of the available resources particularly when such resources are scarce is very important role of the top executive. Also, this role of the top executive is very challenging one because he has to uniquely combine available resources with their optimum utilisation in order to achieve the predetermined objectives. iv) Balancing Role: The role of the top executive is to make subordinates conform to rules, expectations, regulations or procedures to achieve the goal of the organisation. Such conformity may not be so much stressed that it destroys the creative potential of the subordinates/employees. Allowing employees to be creative, to be able to move in new directions and respond to the new challenges and pressures from the environment gives them autonomy without causing damage to their potential. Thus, a balance between the conformity and creativity should be maintained. v) Linkage Building Role: As a top executive, realizing the social obligations of the organisation to the benefit of other organisations as well as the community and society at large he link the organisation with other technical or financial organisations or government agencies or policy making bodies which may have similar goals. For example, research and development unit of the industry can have link with a similar unit in educational or research organisations. He has to get support from financial institutions to develop research and development activity in his organisation. Linking the organisation’s activity with the community where he works. A rural development centre’s activity at a technical education institution can be very well linked with community development programmes in rural areas on issues like health, sanitation, education, etc. vi) Futuristic Role: This is role is very vital because the very future of the organisation will be at stake, if let loose. Top executive has to take decisions to expand or diversify or change or reorganise his organisation  for meeting new demands and challenges. He should be prepared for the importance of the role his organisation can play in future. vii) Making impact: This means making an impact of one’s organisation on others. A leading manufacturing organisation of a product can be very influential in several ways to influence the policies in the field in which it operates. Examples of electronic goods such as television, transistors, calculators and computers are not rare, where superior technology in the manufacturing process is ever on the increase. viii) Super ordination to the employees working under a top executive. You can done by giving a sense of fulfilment to the members of your organisation by building in them a sense of pride that they are working in a very important field of work, which is so important for the society. For example, members of a fertiliser or oil or steel organisation would be very highly motivated and satisfied people as their work is of importance to the society. This sense of pride has to be brought out by you as a top manager. xi) Team Building: Building an efficient and strong team of people at the middle management level so that they can really work for him and the organisation. Being chief executive he can always encourage some persons to learn some of his management as well as managerial skills to keep the organisation functioning by their strong and mutually supporting activities. x) Monitoring and Reviewing: Monitor and review the functioning of the organisation at different time intervals to ensure correct way of functioning. You may also make sure that your team of people are open to problems of their own group as well as appreciate problems of similar kind occurring at various levels in other organisations. Many times we are successful in resolving our problems concerning people or their work by borrowing experience of others. xi) Quest for Talent Search: This role of a top executive assumes high importance. This role involves a constant monitoring and search for competent people at all levels and reward them for their competence and  dedication. Search of competent personnel in a significant way to enhance the competence of the organisation. xii) Sharing ideas: To keep in touch with and share ideas with policy makers and planners as well as intellectuals who bring in deep insight to understand and plan for the future. This role of chief executive is very crucial as sharing of ideas and the feedback from them to join meetings and debates of such nature which will make you think about your own skills in this regard. xiii) You may like to develop in yourself a kind of skill to be involved with the organisation yet remain detached about it. In India, this sense of remaining detached, yet knowing what is happening is one of the very important work values existing in our culture and tradition. You may be deeply involved to become a very effective top person in the day-to-day operations of the organisation and its results. Yet you should also be detached from people and situation to observe your own activities and experiences to learn about a different approach to your organisation. Container Corporation of India Limited – a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the administrative control of Ministry of Railways had made its humble beginning in 1988 with its one and only one ICD at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi – with various institution building measures of its various Chief Executives right from Mr. R.D. Sharma to Mr. Anil Kumar Gupta (current CMD) over a period of 25 years now the company enjoys a near monopoly status in multimodal logistics business despite Ministry of Railways granting licences to the private container operators. The tenure of Mr. Ashwini Kumar Kohli and Mr. Rakesh Mehrotra the ex-CMDs has seen a commendable development scenario because of all the above explained roles being played by them despite facing the odds during the period of economic slow down i.e. in 2008. As we are all aware during this period the export import (EXIM) trade as well as the domestic trade was severely hit. But the strategic role played by the top/ chief executive in reducing the freight tariff slightly had given boost to the domestic as well as exim trade while maintaining the upward trend in profitability.