And Still We Rise – Essay

If you had different hardships in your life would you be a different person? The answer is most likely yes. A person’s character is based upon the experiences they have been through. â€Å"Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant,† –Horace. In â€Å"And Still We Rise† by Miles Corwin, Corwin shares the lives of inner city kids who still strive to succeed and go to college although the circumstances they are dealt with have told them otherwise. Some of the kids that dealt with bad hands were Toya, Olivia, and Willie. The struggles that they went through are impetuous. Growing up, Toya never knew her biological father. Instead she lived with her mom and stepfather. Toya would often see the two arguing and eventually it came to her stepfather beating her mother up on his drinking binges. Finally her mother getting so tired of this abuse grabbed her two daughters and took shelter. Although, once Toya’s mother could not afford the nightly shelter fee she arranged for her girls and herself to stay with a friend. When she went home one day to get the girls’ clothes her husband strangled her to death. Toya walked in the bathroom to find her mother dead on the floor. After the murder of her mother, Toya and her sister were sent to a group home and later to their aunt’s house. Toya was sexually abused by her stepfather who had a huge effect on her. She later became pregnant and gave birth to a boy during her junior year. This ruined a lot for her in school. She was now going to study at home, return to high school the next year and attend college. â€Å"I didn’t have time to think about tomorrow. I had to survive today,† (47). Her plans were completely ruined when both her aunt and cousin kicked her out. She could not graduate from high school but instead got her GED and will attend college with the help of her church. Like Toya, Willie’s parents were divorced. Willie lived with his mother and siblings until she was arrested. His mother had an addiction to cocaine and often left her children home for long periods of time. They were then separated into several different houses never to live with together again. Willie ended up living with his dad who was constantly working. He strived in school because he didn’t want to end up like his parents. One afternoon Willie saw his mother passed out in a yard in the neighborhood. When things went wrong, all Willie could do was cry and be sad because he really had no one to turn to. Later in the year, Willie became homecoming king which symbolized to him that he did not let the past reflect the way he would end up. â€Å"Being named homecoming king was a powerful symbol to him that his past had not defined him nor deterred him from success,† (244). He finished high school and later went to Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia for business. Willie did not let what his mother did or the lack of authority affect his success in going to college and quitting the cycle of his parents. From the beatings her mother gave her to going AWOL after hating foster homes, Olivia’s life was far from perfect. When Olivia was a teenager she was a ward of the county, hopping from one group home to another. Other girls would steal her clothes and chase her around with a hot iron. She went AWOL shortly after that, living in her own apartment, having a crazy work schedule, that was just her life. Whenever she had financial issues she would return to her social worker and yet again be put into a foster home. One time she went AWOL though and couldn’t afford rent anymore, she was going to drop out of high school, when her counselor, Braxton, convinced her otherwise. â€Å"I don’t think God make you do good, or the devil makes you do evil. In the end it’s up to you,† Olivia said one day in English class (Corwin 43). Unfortunately, Olivia didn’t always make the right choices. She was caught forging a check, but because she does not have any parents she was sent to jail to serve time. This all happened during Olivia’s senior year so she couldn’t take her AP exam but was allowed to finish high school. She was released from jail in time for college and went. She is now doing extremely well and helping kids in group homes every Saturday morning. Through hard times, good times will shine through. These kids were given such difficult lives and it was their decision to do what that wanted with their lives. It is a lot harder to succeed when you have so much hate around you, but a lot of these students decided to persevere and make a better life for themselves. â€Å"Remember the past. Cherish the present. Conquer the future,† (398). Those were the encouraging words of Danielle, who was the valedictorian, during graduation. If everyone could just remember that saying, it would be a better world and all those hard trials would all be worth it.

Human Intervention

Humans destroy this planted called earth by building things and producing things they make good lovely places look really bad and make the sky's look dark and cloudy by producing smoke and smog into the sky's by the building. Before humans the days were warm, the were mountain and valleys with rivers the flowed though them the grass was green. Greener then what it will be again. There were berry bushes and Trees that had all sorts of fruit on them, like apples, bananas, mangoes and oranges. The rivers were sparkling blue and flowed through the mountains like birds fly though the sky.The sky's had very little clouds and the sun was shining bright. But then the humans came. Animals were the cutest things ever they played around with each other there were zebras', horses, and donkeys eating the grass giraffes eating the leaves from the tallest trees. Clown fish swimming in the rivers. And the turtles slowly making there way around. Dogs and cats got along and played with the fruit that fell from the trees . But then the humans came. Humans came and decided to chop town the trees that birds lived in the giraffes ate from that cats and dogs played with the fruits that use to fall from them.They left the litter on the ground and the zebras, horse and donkeys chock on. And dumped the trash in the waters where the fishes wither dies or had to move away to furan areas. The animals couldn't drink from the rivers because of all the Junk and waste that was being polluted into them. So all the animals had to leave some got captured and get as pets on chains with little food and water. I don't like what the humans did but we can't help that's its already been done. But we could be living in a town that properly use to be a paradise and homes to other living things. The End

An Analysis of the Impact of Decreasing Trees in the Amazon Rain Forest

An Analysis of the Impact of Decreasing Trees in the Amazon Rain Forest Environmental Issue In recent years, there have been concerted efforts by leaders and nations around the world to confront the array of environmental issues currently facing the global community. Whether coming through dedicated promises to scale back on detrimental practices, or taking action in reducing the unsustainable business operations that many undertake, it is clear that we are at a pivotal time in history that will determine the well-being and future of our planet. In doing so, there are a plethora of issues that threaten future generations and environmental stability, with one of the more prominent and wide-reaching being that of deforestation. The concept of deforestation, in a simplistic sense, is that of cutting down trees and natural agricultural life as a means of using the lumber and resources for production purposes. Undoubtedly, trees are a crucial part in providing lumber for a broad range of activities, ranging from papermaking to building homes, and without such natural resources w ould have made it historically impossible to scale and grow civilizations at the rate that they have. However, recent technological advancements have provided new means of producing the very same resources in more sustainable manners, yet major corporations and proponents of deforestation continue to employ practices that are unsustainable. In order to better understand the overarching impacts of deforestation, it is necessary to first analyze the historical background of the issue, and how it has become such a major issue today. In doing so, deforestation has had a long history, dating back more than 500 years, as humans realized the benefits that came with transforming trees into lumber and other raw materials to be used in the production of various goods. As such, the impacts of deforestation and the centuries which it has lasted have left marks on the natural world, providing insight as to how detrimental it has been. Studies provide insight into the various periods throughout human history wherein deforestation occurred, shedding light on how long the practice has truly been around. As such, â€Å"In the classical worldGreek expansion to the eastern Mediterranean and Roman expansion westward led to remarkable deforestation; the consequent soil degradation was a major factor in the decline of the classical world. F or the medieval periodthe ways in which remarkable increases in population, medieval technology of plows and horsepower, cottage industry, shipbuilding, and crusades led to large-scale deforestation.† (Williams, 2008) Although these are only two examples of specific eras where deforestation was witnessed, it is clear that the methodologies existed for much of human history, and have only been magnified at scale in recent years. With the start of the Industrial Revolution throughout Europe, and processes of acquiring these resources became more automated, the world shifted into an era of inordinate unsustainability, one in which the modern community is continuing to undergo. As these actions became more efficient and profitable, it has since led to extensive declines in the forests around the world, with one of the most notable including that of the Amazon rainforest. Before delving into the case of the Amazon rainforest, it is necessary to touch on the impacts that deforestation has on the global community. In doing so, â€Å"the act of deforestation has impacted on the world in term of depreciating the natural environment and wildlife. It has also impacted on humans on the account of changes in environmental support processes such as weather conditionsFor more than one hundred years, the number of trees on the planet has plummeted, resulting in devastating consequences such as biodiversity loss, soil erosion, species extinction, global warming, and interference with the water cycle.† (EarthEclipse) The inevitable and explicit impacts of deforestation are apparent in the continued detriment to the climate, degradation of animal species and biodiversity, and an overall skewing of the Earth’s natural processes. In this regard, deforestation has had some of the most significant impacts on human lifestyles and the planet as a whole, beg ging the question as to why new methodologies have yet to be implemented. When it comes to the Amazon rainforest, this region is renown for its lush and vibrant ecology, the abundance of animal and insect species that find their homes in the area, and unfortunately, is one of the few remaining thriving rainforests left in the global community. With a plethora of resources available for commercial reasons, corporations began to take advantage of the benefits the region would provide them, setting up their operations in close proximity in order to maximize their profits. Specifically so, â€Å"forests in the Amazon were cleared faster than ever before in the late 1970s through the mid-2000s. Vast areas of rainforest were felled for cattle pasture and soy farms, drowned for dams, dug up for minerals, and bulldozed for towns and colonization projects. At the same time, the proliferation of roads opened previously inaccessible forests to settlement by poor farmers, illegal logging, and land speculators.† (Butler, 2017) With productions processes growing more and more efficient, large corporations opted out of changing their strategies towards sustainability, and rather continued to use detrimental practices to fuel their revenues and bottom line. The impact that these large corporations have had on the Amazon rainforest is breathtakingly disastrous, and manifest themselves in various ways. This includes the degradation of ecosystems and animal life, leading to extinctions of species, increased fires as a result of selective logging, natural droughts, record-breaking pollution levels found in the air, as well as natural disasters such as landslides that have directly cost human lives. These are just a few of the overt and explicit effects that deforestation has had on the Amazon rainforest, as such effects continue to worsen without any meaningful reform taking place. Understandably so, the issues that are debated on both sides have created chatter in the public sphere, making it clear that there must be some extent of resolution fo und to alleviate the concerns of both sides. However, thus far, attempts to implement such policies have been futile, despite the capabilities that advancements have provided to reduce reliance on natural resources derived from deforestation. Stakeholder Groups In understanding the various stakeholder groups which exist in regards to the deforestation issue, it can be found that these people include the heads of corporations that find their industry reliant upon these resources, environmentalists that believe reform can be made to allow for more sustainable productions, as well as public policy officials that aim to appease both of the aforementioned stakeholders to remain popular and be reelected. These three groups all of differing intentions and arguments when it comes to deforestation, and providing a cohesive resolution for all sides is the only way to reduce the level of forest clearing that has run rampant in recent years. First and foremost, it is crucial to understand the arguments and claims made by corporate individuals, as they look to increase their profits and ensure their companies continue to thrive. One of the primary arguments made by proponents of deforestation is that it provides a greater area to be inhabited by people, especially considering the burgeoning population issue that is currently taking place. In doing so, their claims state that, â€Å"with 10 billion people expected to be on the planet by 2050 and the never-ending growth explosion in sight, space has become more of a premium necessity on Earth. When there are forests on lands that could be utilized for habitation, then removing them can create more livable space. Commercial establishments and homes will also be built using the products that have been removed from the biome.† (GreenGarage) This point, which is valid in and of itself, then is backed up by another argument, that the resources derived from deforestation c an be used to better the lives of individuals who use those resources. Whether lumber for homes, or the plants and parts used to make paper and napkins, corporate executives can make the argument that deforestation provides the resources and goods that people purchase around the world. Another common claim that is made by proponents of deforestation is that it provides much needed economic support to the nations in which the practice occurs. Due to the fact that many of the major forests, especially the Amazons, are present in underdeveloped and impoverished countries, companies claim that deforestation allows them to establish operations in these countries, providing jobs for the locals who desperately need them. In this sense, the proposed establishments will bring about a win-win situation, both due to the affordable labor and acquisition to resources for the major companies, as well as providing wages and means of subsistence for people who live within close proximity of the forests and factories in question. According to proponents, deforestation creates job opportunities, given that â€Å"as deforestation increases demand from the lumber, manufacture, transportation, and construction industries, more people will be needed to get the job done, thus an increas e in employment opportunities.† (FutureofWorking, 2016) Although this is undoubtedly a reasonable claim to make, the fact of the matter is that such jobs and employment have not benefitted those who are living in the area. Rather, any employment opportunities have been meager and detrimental to the laborers, as their wages are immensely subpar and working conditions can be dangerous. When it comes to the environmentalist viewpoint on deforestation, it is clear why so many eco-conscious and environmentally-friendly individuals have denounced the clearing of rainforests. In doing so, there are many arguments that are made in terms of the sustainability and capability to keep up these practices, and the overarching impacts that they have on the natural world. In doing so, one of the foremost claims regarding deforestation made by environmentalists is that such practices can lead to permanent and negligent outcomes for the planet, and the climate which is present throughout it. As such, â€Å"excessive clearing or thinning of forests can destabilize the world’s climate by releasing into the atmosphere millions of tons of greenhouse gasses normally stored in wood in the form of carbon. This can damage the atmosphere and lead to global warming and eventually climate change. By storing carbon, forests provide a major environmental benefit by reducing global warm ing.† (CIFOR) This is a claim not only echoed by opponents of deforestation, but similarly the world community, as the impacts and consequences of climate change are becoming ever more prevalent throughout the world, and measures are being taken to combat this issue. If deforestation remains such a prominent practice in the corporate and commercial world, it can lead to detrimental impacts of releasing more greenhouse gasses into the environment, which has already been scientifically proven to dramatically alter the climate and weather of the planet. This is a relevant and valid argument against deforestation, as the consequences that are apparent have a far more detrimental outcome than the positives that are proposed. Furthermore, another reason why environmentalists are so severely against the concept of deforestation, is due to the fact that it has disastrous effects on the biodiversity and ecosystems of the abundant plant and animal life that find their homes in the Amazon rainforest. In doing so, â€Å"most of the planet’s valuable biodiversity is within forests, particularly tropical ones. Moist tropical forests such as the Amazon have the greatest concentrations of animal and plant species of any terrestrial ecosystem; perhaps two-thirds of Earth’s species live only in these forests. As deforestation proceeds, it has the potential to cause the extinction of increasing numbers of these species.† (Pimm, 2016) With more animal species becoming extinct what seems like on a daily basis, it is clear that the impact of human’s has had an unnatural effect on the animals and other living creatures that are on the planet as well. These different species similarly have impor tant roles in the global community, and the eradication of their kind can lead to imbalance and unwanted consequences in the future if not confronted. This is a valid claim made by many environmentalists in regards to the results of deforestation, and provides insight as to how unsustainable practices can be detrimental to the Earth, and to our own species in terms of the lifestyles that are currently lived. The final group of stakeholders in this regard is that of policymakers around the world, but more specifically and importantly, those in the United States. It is apparent in the global community that many follow the lead established by US politicians, and the actions taken by them can make meaningful impacts when done in the right way. In regards to their interests and needs, these policymakers are primarily focused on catering to the interests of their constituents so as to be reelected, as well as the whim of corporate lobby groups, from whom they receive immense amounts of funding and campaign contributions to be reelected at all. This has created an interesting and difficult dichotomy between the interests of people and corporations, with the latter emerging victorious for the most part. This is primarily due to the fact that the general constituency is less aware of the environmental matters at hand, and do not have the funding to make it a widespread issue come election time. N onetheless, it is these people that have the capabilities and power to implement policy reforms that will benefit the environmental world, and without their leadership, no such changes can be made. Policy Approaches and Analysis The current policy in regards to deforestation is quite lax and nonexistent to begin with. Corporations have the ability to reach out to foreign governments, such as the ones in Brazil, and establish partnerships by which the company can establish their manufacturing plants in prime locations with close proximity to the rainforests, and on the other end the government is paid out quite handsomely by these corporate executives. Although the Brazilian government has become far more protective about their rainforests, the reality is that the United States has done little-to-nothing to dissuade corporations that are already established in the country to implement new and more sustainable processes. This, as a result, has led to no decrease in the purchase of raw materials coming out of the Amazon, and rather incentivized corporations to continue their destructive behavior. One of the potential policy options that can be implemented to combat deforestation is that of corporate establishments. In doing so, â€Å"one of the most profitable and ecologically sound alternatives to mass deforestation in the Amazon is to attract not only responsible logging companies but entice these companies to build production facilities within the nations that they are logging from. Most of the logging industry cuts down the timber and immediately ships it to foreign countries where their factories process the wood into timber and other wood products.† (Blahnik, 2002) The fact is, that even though companies claim they are bringing jobs into the country, they are simultaneously doing everything they can to pay as little as possible for the finished goods. Given the restrictions on some forms of timber and logging, corporations ship out their products immediately so that they are not tracked or cause concern for conservationist groups in the country. By enforcing law s that would ensure these companies set up their production facilities in the home country in which they get their resources, it would not only decrease the amount of deforestation that occurs, but furthermore provide the jobs that they claim to want to provide. A second way to ensure that deforestation can be better regulated and decreased in the global community, is through an incentive or punishment type of policy that can be levied by world governments. In doing so, â€Å"financial incentives created by REDD+ can also change business practices. The success of ‘payments for environmental services’ in such countries as Costa Rica and Mexico and the work of Brazilian ranchers and nongovernmental organizations to develop sustainable agriculture standards show how this can be done. Economic incentives combined with political activism offer a powerful lever for promoting development without deforestation.† (UCSUSA, 2010) The benefit of this is that companies can be provided incentives monetarily if they fit certain standards, and implement practices that would offset their negative impact on the environment. On the other hand, there can also be a punishment if there is an unwillingness to implement such operations. In doin g so, major countries that purchase from these companies, namely the United States, can levy higher tariffs and taxes on imports of these goods and the corporation as a whole, which will reduce the desire to practice unsustainably. Essentially, this will allow corporations the option to adopt the more ethical and conscious practices as a means of not only reducing their environmental footprint, but being able to sell their goods at a more effective and efficient manner Conclusion Overall, when looking at the concept of deforestation, and the widespread detriment it has caused to the environmental world, it is clear that we are reaching a point in history, where our actions will have long-term, perhaps permanent, effects and consequences on the planet. With deforestation ramping up as a result of technological advancements and innovations, it is even more important that these progressions are used for positive means, and not destructive ones. By implementing new policies and reforms that will empower corporations to be more sustainable, while punishing the ones who forgo the needs of the natural environment, it will reduce the level of unsustainable deforestation in the global community, while ensuring that the benefits and advantages of such regions remain intact for years to come.

Globalization and development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Globalization and development - Essay Example For example, the government liberalized agriculture at the margin, such that farmers were only allowed to sell their surplus freely at prices determined by the forces of demand and supply if they met their state obligation. Guthrie attributes the increase in economic growth in China to the process of market reformation in the country. The transition from planned to market economy, lies in the political reforms that have been taking place in the country, from communism to capitalism. However, according to Rodrik, the Republic of China is still mostly communist since the government controls most of the people’s resources. This is however advantageous, as according to both authors, privatization is not necessary in market reformation, though it is advised. Control by the government has ensured a form of direction and regulation in the economy, making it steady. However, the development of China is somewhat of a paradox since economists predict that there will be future consequences to the entire international market. For instance, since it is the most populous country in the world, the fact that its food reserves are inadequate to cope with the rising population will lead to crippling of the grain market by the year 2030. Also, China is the second largest consumer of oil in the world, due to its high demand; the prices of oil have been constantly on the increase creating artificial shortage in the international market (Guthrie, 2006). Developing countries can learn a lot from China, which took 25 years to do what others would have taken 30 years or more. The source of its success according to the two authors is the fact that there has to be government involvement in the process of growth. Countries should not adopt reforms from the Washington Consensus without taking to regard the uniqueness of their own economies (Rodrik, 2007). Those having planned economies should also consider the adaptation of

Developmental Psychology Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Developmental Psychology - Case Study Example These issues will be tied to the Freudian theories addressing repression, defense mechanisms, and division of the mind. Since this project is of a scholarly nature, only academic-quality resources were used in putting it together. The works were from academic scholars and were located utilizing an online search engine. The idea was to first develop the questionnaire, interview the mother of the child at the topic of discussion, and then to relate what was learned in the survey to the academic literature, which reflected the works of Freud and his ideas. The first of Freud's theories that was analyzed was that of repression. According to Stevenson (1996, pg. 1), "Freud's conception of the mind is characterized by primarily by dynamism, seen in the distribution of psychic energy, the interplay between the different levels of consciousness, and the interaction between the various functions of the mind. The single function of the mind which brings together these various aspects is repression, the maintenance of what is and what isn't appropriately retained in the conscious mind." It is believed that the child of this discussion is experiencing the strong symptoms of repression, most likely due to the childhood loss of her little sister. Stevenson (1996, pg. ... fundamental, usually unconscious function of the ego, maintains equilibrium in the individual by repressing inappropriate, unfeasible, or guilt-causing urges, memories and wishes (all usually of the id) to the level of the unconscious, where they will be out of sight, if not out of mind. The ability to repress dangerous or unsettling thoughts turns out to be vital to the individual's ability to negotiate his way through life." Of course, a healthy level of repression is to be expected of a child. A child who cannot repress guilty urges is doomed to a life of crime and punishment. However, if a child is overly repressed, it can seriously interfere with his or her life. One way in which it can manifest itself is in the form of anxiety, and it can be seen on the questionnaire that the child in question is experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. It can also show up in the form of repressed anger, where the child holds a grudge against someone and then suddenly explodes or is irritable, and it can be seen on the questionnaire that the child in question is having issues regarding anger and irritability (Breger, 2000; Gay, 1996; and Petocz, 1999). The next level of Freudian theory that was examined was that of defense mechanisms. According to Stevenson (1996, pg. 1), "As a part of the never-ending interplay between the id, ego, and superego, the mind (in particular the ego) must constantly repress anxiety-causing impulses or memories. This repression, though, is often tenuous and difficult to maintain. In order to sustain this repression and fend off anxiety, often in the face of constant reminders of the repressed item, the ego additionally employs several defense mechanisms. These mechanisms help to maintain the stability and sanity of the individual, though they sap

Impact of Financial Losses for GM Auto Manufacturers Essay

Impact of Financial Losses for GM Auto Manufacturers - Essay Example By mid-century, the automobile was a necessity in every U. S. household, and GM led the way with Ford and Chrysler close behind. The Big Three controlled the industry from Detroit, Michigan. According to Wikipedia, the period from 1960-1985 was perhaps the "greatest in GM's history, as it eventually held slightly over 50% of the U.S. Market" (General Motors, 2006, 2.3). At the time, it was all about status, having the most popular brand. Unfortunately, in the mid 1990s, a downward spiral began, which has yet to be resolved for American car makers. It could have been predicted in 1984 when a joint venture between GM and Toyota gave Toyota an opportunity to establish a base in the United States and avoid newly established tariff on foreign pick-up trucks. Toyota's growth has accelerated ever since, with a $4.1 billion dollar gain in 2005 compared with GM's $10.6 billion dollar loss ( Solman, 2006). In a recent PBS interview, GM CEO Rich Wagoner noted that restructuring is taking place in the company in an effort to "compete in the global auto industry and global economy" (Solman, 2006, par. 12). He claims that the company is launching new products, and accelerating the application of biofuels E85. Wagoner also mentions a "breakthrough" health care deal with United Auto Workers (UAW) and the major restructuring of GMAC. With attrition and plant closings, he is optimistic that the company will be more streamlined and better able to compete globally. What sounds like positive action, however, definitely has its down side, with employees about to be faced with increased co-pay for health care and pharmacy and heavy job losses as plants close down. The company's "failure to foresee drop in demand for gas-guzzling SUVs, slow entry into hybrid market and Toyota's reputation for high quality" puts them behind in the race for market share (Kellar, 2006, par. 2). Micheline Maynard, Detroit bureau chief for The New York Times, claims in her book, The End of Detroit (2003) that by focusing on high-profit light trucks, American automakers, including General Motors, turned its back on people wanting to own cars rather than trucks and opened the door to Toyota, Honda and Hyundai. Consumers retaliated by turning their backs on trucks and purchasing foreign-brand cars. General Motors obviously does not look beyond present trends to what the future might bring. Krolicki's Reuters article (2006) is only one of several news stories (Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, CNW) reporting the bankruptcy of Delphi, one of GM's most important suppliers, which, along with GMAC filing errors, brought about even more losses in 2005 than had been previously noted. In keeping with General Motors' short-term goals to increase market share, Associated Press writer Dee-Ann Durbin recently announced the company's gas-price

Community Corrections and Re-entry Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Community Corrections and Re-entry - Article Example The article identifies the two crucial labels of community corrections as parole and probation.  As one reads through the article, he,  or she gets to know that parole originated in Europe while probation originated in America in the mid-19th century.  However, these community-based sanctions became assimilated in the U.S. criminal justice system, in the  early  20th century, thanks to the medical model in correctional discourse. Despite all the criticisms, parole and  probation  became rooted in the  country’s correctional system, and by the end of the 20th century, their  growth  was  immeasurable. The failure of the rehabilitation  concept  did not go unnoticed because it  was followed  by the introduction of the new  penal  policy. This  penal  policy contributed to  low  performance  of community corrections  thus, an increase in prison capacity ant the need to reinvent community corrections. Finally, the authors of the articl e took a look at the future of community corrections and the prison  influence  with regards to serving all aspects of community needs and their relationship with  prison  institutions. Questions 1. What is the relationship between prisons and community corrections and how does this relationship influence community corrections? 2. ... However, no  recognizable  attempts  are being made  to reduce prison populations; or rather decarceration is still virgin territory. This article focuses on ways in which prison population in California can be reduced. As such, it concentrates on research on the causes of increased imprisonment during the last 30 years, and recent discussions of and efforts to reduce  imprisonment  in other states. There was a time when California’s prison population reduced. This was in the last two years of  governor  Reagan’s first  term, and the first two years of his second term(1968-1972). During this time, the rate of  imprisonment  in the rest the U.S. increased while that of California dropped. The authors of the  article  came up with  contemporary  explanations of the  imprisonment  reduction which included; the Reagan factor, and  multiple  factors (probation subsidies and changes in parole procedures). To explain the causes of the Reag an-Era Reduction in Imprisonment, they insisted on a drop in crime rates, a  reduction  in arrests, sending offenders to jail and not  prison, fewer admissions to prison, more releases from prison, and fewer parole suspensions. With the increasing population in prisons, the authors delve on the possibility that California can reduce its prison population  again. They  come  up with some of the reasons that make it  hard  for decarceration and they include; impediments to reform, the disappearing public  purse, the reduction in state-level authority, the perils of high visibility, the vanishing  influence  of governmental expertise and the growing influence of direct democracy, and the belief in the efficacy of imprisonment. The article also mentions

Understand business objectives from an ethical perspective Essay

Understand business objectives from an ethical perspective - Essay Example business objectives are important things that owners can share with their company staff, they are statements that comprise of specific, realistic and measurable goals, which have certain periods that any business has to strive to stick to. In order to achieve its objectives rightly, there are important measures a business has to refer to in its quest to achieve set objectives, these are the business ethics. Business ethics refers to a certain kind of applied or professional ethics, whose role in business is to make an examination of the manner in which moral values are followed in the business environment (Audi 2009 67). It is important that a business, having set its objectives, devise ethical values to govern the manner in which it conducts its internal and external activities in achieving its set objectives. Business ethics defines the manner in which a business treats its staff, manages their affairs and responds to arising issues satisfactorily. At the same time, business ethics plays an important role in the way a business relates with its external environment, it ensures that competition is done in the best interest of all players in the industry. If a business fails to observe business ethics, then it is bound to affect its internal and external business operations including a possible confrontation with its stakeholders. Pfizer being a global company; it has a global vision of researching, manufacturing and delivering medicines for all people around the world. In this understanding, the company has created a statement upon which it operates, that is, â€Å"good health is vital† to all people. It has a major corporate objective of producing medicines that can prevent several diseases, currently; the company is working extensively to produce medicines that can cure and prevent some of the world’s most terminal diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer among others. Following the need to fulfill a wide range of health needs for people across the world,

Hamlet's Mental Disorder Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Hamlet's Mental Disorder - Essay Example He broods about a lot of things and he has enough reasons to do so. When he comes after knowing that his father died, he finds his mother Gertrude and Uncle Claudius married within months after his father's death (Act I, scene ii (129-158). To make matters worse, instead of confronting his mother and demanding for an explanation, he just keeps his miserable feelings and doubts to himself. He seeks for justification but does not let it out so he becomes all the more burdened with so many questions and no answers. In addition, he also feels antagonism towards his mother and his uncle's decision to let him stay in Denmark. It was in these depressing moments that he first thinks of committing suicide In the foregoing scenarios, Hamlet appears to be suffering from bipolar disorder. His continued melancholy and depression that even leads to his thinking of committing suicide are the major characteristics of the mental illness. The very familiar line, "To be, or not to be: that is the question," speaks of Hamlet's reflection on whether he would choose to live (to be) or to commit suicide (not to be). To die means to end one's sufferings and pains on earth: He likens death to sleep which means inactivity and rest. ... In the foregoing scenarios, Hamlet appears to be suffering from bipolar disorder. His continued melancholy and depression that even leads to his thinking of committing suicide are the major characteristics of the mental illness. The most famous soliloquy of Hamlet in Act III, scene i (58-90) displays his mental confusion and indecision. The very familiar line, "To be, or not to be: that is the question," speaks of Hamlet's reflection on whether he would choose to live (to be) or to commit suicide (not to be). To die means to end one's sufferings and pains on earth: Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them-To die,-to sleep,- No more; and by a sleep to say we end The heartache, and the thousand natural shocks That flesh is heir to,-'tis a consummation He likens death to sleep which means inactivity and rest. By dying, he perceives that he would be freed from all the difficulties that living entails. In this manner he is showing his loss of interest or pleasure, which is stated to be the second major symptom of bipolar disorder. In thinking of death as an escape, he pauses to remember the possible consequences of dying. He thinks of what kind of dream that he would have when he sleeps or the things that await him in the after-death Devoutly to be wish'd. To die,-to sleep;- To sleep: perchance to dream:-ay, there's the rub; For in that sleep of death what dreams may come, Even in the possible dreams that would lie in death's sleep, he feels more depressed for he does not know what lies ahead. He seems to be afraid that the after-death experience may not be better than the present life, how ever unbearable it may seem.

Fermentation Kinetics of Different Sugars Essay

Fermentation Kinetics of Different Sugars - Essay Example The findings achieved through the experiment showed an increased rate of fermentation in tubes with glucose and sucrose as the substrate while lactose showed a massively decreased rate of fermentation. The addition of sodium fluoride also caused a decreased rate of fermentation. Analysis of the complete data suggested that the carbohydrates used by Saccharomyces cerevisiae for fermentation play a great role in the final rate of fermentation. Keywords: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, fermentation, carbohydrates, magnesium Fermentation Cells and tissues irrespective of belonging to animal or plant have a minimum requirement of energy. Different processes such as synthesis of molecules, transportation, DNA replication and cell repairs have varying requirements of energy. To successfully complete these processes cells undertake many metabolic processes to achieve their supply of energy. Glucose being the most important carbohydrate and the end product of almost all food sources is the beginnin g point of these metabolic processes. Energy conversion starts from the process of glycolysis. As explained by Agrimi et al., (2011) glycolysis begins with the entry of a single glucose molecule and terminates with the production of two pyruvate molecules. The process immediately yields four ATP molecules. However, with the consumption of two ATP molecules at two different steps in the cycle, the net production via substrate level phosphorylation turns out to be two. Although the process itself is not affected by the presence or absence of oxygen, the final production of the ATPs is hugely affected under hypoxic conditions as only 2 ATP molecules per glucose are produced instead of 36 ATP molecules per every glucose molecule. Depending on the availability of oxygen the pyruvates produced at the end of glycolysis are either shuttled into either cellular respiration / Krebs cycle or they are used in the process of fermentation. Fermentation has been derived from a Latin word ‘fe ver’ meaning to ferment.

King control Essay Example for Free

King control Essay After 400 AD, there was no central power in the West, but a central ecclesiastical power, which claimed primacy from the earliest times. The barbarian invasions and the ensuing anarchy resulted in a tremendous growth in the power of the papacy. With the appearance of strong political powers in Europe, a struggle between the papacy and the kings started to grow. The principal disagreement was the proper distribution of power; the king was believed to be the ruler by divine right. Should the King control church as well, contrary to the belief of pope as vicar of God on earth? It was in these circumstances that, Pope Boniface VII appeared on the religious scene in Europe. As Papacy was congested with internal wrangling of war of succession, it is believed that Pope Benedict VI (973-974) was strangled to death. For Boniface VII, papacy was a secular issue, rather than a divine mission, which had to be acquired by all means. After his accession, with in a month, he was forced to leave the Constantinople, but he did not hesitate to steal a large sum of money from the Vatican treasury. After nine years of exile, he returned with an army to depose his successor Pope John XIV (983-984). All these deeds earned him the name of Antipope. According to historians Boniface VII sitting in Peters chair was at the lowest point in the papal history. This decline and corruption in church was visible at the time of Gregory VII accession to the papacy. He laments the unhappy state of the Church in the following words, â€Å"Wherever I turn my eyesto the west, to the north, or to the south, I find bishops who have obtained their office in irregular ways†. Gregory made efforts to stamp out the Church from major evils, for him the Bishop of Rome was not simply the court of last appeal, but the pope was to govern the universal Church as a vicar of St Peter. The medieval kingdoms were religious states and king as the head of people was the supreme authority in religious, as well as in political matters. The spiritual governance was now in the hands of the bishops and pope, kingship had to be understood differently and new foundations laid for the political authority of the state. The state deprived of its spiritual authority was forced to conceive itself as a corporate body independent of the Church. Gregory knew that the customs prevailing in the Church and society had no foundation in ancient Christian tradition. According to him faithfulness did not mean slavish obedience to the rituals, but faith required deeper understanding of the religion. Gregory began his great work of purifying the Church by a reformation of the clergy and enacted a number of decrees, such as banning the office of sacred orders by payment, baring guilty priests from exercising ministries, and rejection of the clerics who failed to obey these injunctions. These decrees were met with vigorous resistance, but were partially successful. Pope Boniface VII and Gregory VII had the same ambitions, but with different point of views. According to Pope Boniface VII, Church cannot not be separated from the state, there had to be balance for this co-existence. Gregory VII, on the contrary de-sacralized the authority of the king, and separated the spiritual world from politics. As a result, the Church became a sovereign body with its own head, administrative structure, body of law, and courts, which eventually gave rise to the modern state. Source: Ullmann. W (1962), The Growth of Papal Government in the Middle Ages: A Study in the Ideological Relation of Clerical to Lay Power, Methuen London. Catholic Encyclopedia, Pope St. Gregory VII (8 Nov. 2005), http://www. newadvent. org/cathen/06791c. htm

Cross-Cultural Communications Essay Example for Free

Cross-Cultural Communications Essay Setting standards and guidelines, such as the Florida Department of Education’s Subject Area Competencies for ESOL K-12, makes for a goal-oriented curriculum or educational program. Competencies, in all aspects, are the unique sets of â€Å"knowledge, skills, or attitudes† (CePH, 2006) that people from different fields of learning or work should accomplish or possess in order for them to meet the standards or expectations of education or work. For this reason, setting competencies in all fields of learning or work is extremely important because it provides directions or guidelines to people for them to accomplish success. In the field of education alone, setting competencies not only motivates students to acquire adequate knowledge, skills, or attitudes to achieve learning goals and objectives, but also helps in improving the quality of education by qualifying learning content and how educators should plan and carry out the teaching process, which are all based on what the students need to learn. Thus, setting learning competencies, just as creating learning goals and objectives, serve as precursors to other aspects of learning, including the selection of teaching strategies or approaches, instructional design, lesson planning, execution, the creation of assessment or evaluation tests, and so on. (Spector, 2007; Richards Rodgers, 2001) Consequently, it paves way to the development or progress of learning and education because it primarily makes the educational process precise or scrupulous and pertinent, and directs learning to the right path. Due to the perceived significance of learning competencies, the remainder of this discussion will explore how setting competencies affects the process of education specifically. This objective will be achieved by analyzing one of the Florida Department of Education’s Subject Area Competencies for ESOL K-12 and how it directly relates to education and the teaching and learning process. The Florida Department of Education’s Subject Area Competencies for ESOL K-12 The Subject Area Competencies for ESOL K-12 set by the Florida Department of Education contains the knowledge, skills, or attitudes that students in K-12 should exhibit or possess, which are specific to different subject areas under the English to Speakers of Other Languages learning programs in various schools in Florida. Since the basic learning necessities of ESOL students are distinct as compared to the learning program for a regular classroom setting, the competencies are constrained to the learning of English across various disciplines. From the 11 skills or competencies identified by the Florida Department of Education for ESOL K-12, only one will be considered for exploration and analysis. For this discussion, the underlying concepts and issues of the third competency will be used to explore learning and education in ESOL K-12. The third competency requires the student to display â€Å"Knowledge of sociolinguistic, cultural, ethnic, and sociopolitical issues. † Under this competency, there are nine sub-competencies that specify issues concerning sociolinguistic diversity, government policies, political and social trends, culture, cultural adjustment and adaptation, student involvement, and multicultural sensitivity. (Florida Department of Education, 2006) By and large, this third competency is concerned with the knowledge, skills, and values or attitudes that English Language Learners (ELLs) should acquire or exhibit in terms of the relevance of learning English in the present social, cultural, and political landscape of society. Exploring the Subject Area Competencies ESOL entails many difficulties and challenges especially since the learning goals and objectives vary from the regular classroom setting. Challenges and difficulties arise from the complex aims of ESOL. The program is not merely focused on teaching the English language to non-English speakers but also on how the learning process is relevant or correlated with other disciplines such as Science, History, Mathematics, and so on, and how it matches current social and political situations and addresses various cultural as well. The complex structure of the ESOL program is best illustrated by the Fourth Touchstone that makes up the foundations of All Language Teaching or ALL curriculum. The Fourth Touchstone reflects how communication, which is the medium and goal of language learning are intertwined with four other principles. The four principles include socio-cultural aspect of language learning, learning how-to-learn, language and cultural awareness, and general knowledge. (Vale Scarino, 2000) (Vale Scarino, 2000, p. 33) The integration of the other four principles establish the idea that language learning programs, including ESOL, are not simply concerned with language acquisition. Since these kinds of programs are adapted into a standard classroom setup such as K-12, the forerunners of language teaching and learning thought it best for these kinds of programs to be relevant and practical. At this point, language teaching and learning have evolved into the use or purpose of learning the English language. Thus, the goals and competencies prescribed for language learning programs, such as ESOL, include the acquisition of adequate knowledge, skills, and attitudes of ELLs that will enable them to communicate through the English language properly with the awareness of how it fits well with social landscapes, cultures, and politics. (Vale Scarino, 2000) These concepts and ideas match with the third competency included in the Florida Department of Education Subject Area Competencies for ESOL K-12. Sociolinguistic diversity refers to the different ways by which language is used and interpreted, based on social factors including culture, race or ethnicity, beliefs or ideologies, norms and mores, sex or gender, religion, contextual and connotative meaning, and so on. (Corson, 2001) This means that the practical use and interpretation of language shift due to the influences of various societal factors. For instance, the phrase â€Å"grab a bite† is a colloquial speech known to mean, â€Å"to eat,† for native speakers of English. However, for non-native speakers of English who are learning the language, the phrase maybe most likely interpreted literally losing the actual meaning of the colloquial phrase. In religion, ELLs may also find it hard to understand the meaning of English terms. One example would be the use of the word â€Å"Anaphora. † In language and literature, the term â€Å"anaphora† refers to a figure of speech. However, in Catholicism, â€Å"anaphora† is a prayer read during mass that conveys celebration. In addition, there are many varieties of English, American and British being two of the most widely used, thus the use and interpretation of English differ between these varieties, making language learning complex. (Pope, 2002) This only means that culture is very much tied with language structure. In terms of culture, ELLs should be aware of how cultural diversity affects the use and interpretation of the English language because their knowledge will depend on how they will communicate or interact with other people from various cultures later on. It will become easier for ELLs to understand other people from other cultures, and relate to cultural television shows, films, music, customs, and so on, if they learn how culture diversifies language. The confusion that arises due to differences on how the English language is used and interpreted, especially between native and non-native speakers of the language, requires that ELLs understand the concept of sociolinguistic diversity and how it influences the learning process – how the language is used and interpreted in different settings. When ELLs become aware of sociolinguistic diversity, they will be able to use and distinguish the English language comprehensively such that their knowledge and understanding of the language expands from the literal context to the connotative, colloquial, and even metaphorical contexts or meanings. Consequently, ELLs gain the skills and self-confidence to use the English language properly in real life situations. For these reasons, learning content and instruction in terms of sociolinguistic diversity cover how the language is used in diverse settings. Apart from sociolinguistic diversity and aspects of culture, government policies and political trends on educational programs for ELL affect the learning process. Although English language learning was not recognized until the 1970s in the United States (The Education Alliance, 2006), the educational policies being implemented by the federal and state governments today support English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. This is in line with the growing population of U. S. residents with no or limited knowledge of the English language. Some of these people are also enrolled in several public schools in the country. By conducting surveys, the U. S. government learned that the students’ lack of ability in applying the English language was significantly affecting their academic performances. (EPE Research Center, 2004) Thus, educational policies in the country instigate the development of learning programs developed with the ultimate purpose of improving English proficiency and academic performance among students. Perhaps the most significant policy is the No Child Left Behind Act implemented in 2001 that includes guidelines on language learning. This policy mandates that all school evaluate the English language competencies of students, and students who will not meet set standards will undergo fast track educational programs that will help them learn adequately and cope with their peers. (EPE Research Center, 2004) By and large, the entire point of the issue is that government policies concerning language education affects the success and achievement of ELLs. A government that supports bilingual education helps ELLs to obtain access to quality education and emerge successful from their undertakings. Changes in political and social trends influence the learning content of ESOL programs simply because the practical use of the English language by ELLs in the real world requires that they are also aware of current social and political issues. Their awareness of social and political trends allow them to not only use the English language but to use the language to relate with other people, especially since societal and political issues are two of the most common topics of conversation. At present time, for instance, most people use the Internet for socialization through social networking sites such as Facebook. To familiarize ELLs with social networking, learning content should include English terms used in cyberspace or in Facebook for that matter, so that they would be able to participate in the online community. In terms of student factors, the cultural backgrounds of ELLs may significantly influence their ability to adjust, learn, and participate in the ESOL program. There are various stages in cultural adjustment wherein one initially experiences feelings of enthusiasm and elation. When an individual begins to realize the great differences between the old and new culture and has trouble of coping or adjusting to unfamiliar cultures, he experiences hostility and loneliness. Through time, an individual learns to adjust until he finally adapts to and accepts the new culture. At times, people undergo re-entry when they climb down to their old ways or culture. (Hernandez-Gantes Blank, 2008) For ELLs, it is extremely important to understand these four stages of cultural adjustment in the beginning of the ESOL program in order for them to become aware of what they will come to experience as time passes. In doing so, ELLs know the challenges and difficulties that lie ahead and thus, are prepared to handle and overcome them. Consequently, language learning becomes less stressful or complex. However, cultural adjustment, as well as student participation and learning involvement of ELLs, are influenced by their beliefs, ideologies, values, attitudes, etc. as dictated by their culture. For example, ELLs who belong to cultures that value family ties and tradition may experience difficulties in adjusting to a new culture and thus, affect how their participate in class and adapt to the learning process. This is especially the case for ELLs who go to other countries to learn the English language. The distance between them and their families may become a source of distraction due to loneliness and depression that ELLs might feel, disabling them to focus on their studies, learning, and adapting to a new culture. For ELLs, understanding the roles of culture in cultural adjustment, student participation, and learning, enables them to assess or evaluate what part of their culture interferes with their learning of English. In doing so, they will be able to realize the importance of setting aside cultural differences and prioritize their personal learning goals and objectives. The last sub-competency requires ELLs to determine strategies and methods to increase their multicultural sensitivity. Multicultural sensitivity refers to an individual’s responsiveness to cultural differences, allowing him to understand that change and diversity are unalterable. This also allows him to understand his own culture in relation to other cultures as a means to reconcile differences. (Dana, 2005) By and large, multicultural sensitivity influences the achievement of other competencies already mentioned. When an individual learns to understand, accept, and respect other cultures, it will allow him to appreciate his own culture, adapt to a new culture that speeds up cultural adjustment, and ultimately, embrace his learning tasks and responsibilities increasing his student participation, learning, and chances for success. Furthermore, it is also important that in discussing issues in multicultural sensitivity in an ESOL class, the topics of universal ethics and human rights should be discussed to enrich the learning process by means of making it globally relevant and practical. Conclusion Ultimately, the competency and sub-competencies previously discussed covers the social, cultural, and political aspects of ESOL due to their roles in making English language learning relevant, efficient, practical, and purposeful. These competency and sub-competencies do not dwell too much on the technical aspects of learning the English language but on its practical uses as a means to express and communicate with other people, and understand current global or local issues and situations that are affecting the state of the people. Although these competency and sub-competencies were intended for the accomplishment of ELLs, these are also important pieces of information that the teachers and educational institutions should be aware of. These competencies not only ensure that ELLs will be able to achieve learning goals and objectives of ESOL but also ascertain that the teaching process designed, including the learning content, instructional design, teaching strategies and approaches, and so on, are in line with the competencies in order to directly help students in accomplishing them. References Corson, D. (2001). Language Diversity and Education. Hoboken, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. CePH. (2006). Competencies and Learning Objectives. Retrieved from Council on Education for Public Health, 1 Aug 2009. http://www. ceph. org/files/public/Competencies. pdf Dana, R. H. (2005). Multicultural Assessment: Principles, Applications, and Examples. New York, NY: Routledge. The Education Alliance. (2006). Linking Language Policy to Practice for English Language Learners. Retrieved from The Educational Alliance, 02 Aug 2009. http://www. alliance. brown. edu/tdl/policy/index. shtml EPE Research Center. (2004). English-Language Learners. Retrieved from Editorial Projects in Education, 02 Aug 2009. http://www. edweek. org/rc/issues/english-language-learners/ Florida Department of Education. (2006). Test Preparation Guide for English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) K-12. Retrieved from State Florida Department of State, 02 Aug 2009. http://www. collier. k12. fl. us/hr/certification/studyguides/ESOL%20K-12. pdf Hernandez-Gantes, V. M. and Blank, W. (2008). Teaching English Language Learners in Career and Technical Education Programs. New York, NY: Taylor Francis. Pope, R. (2002). The English Studies Book: An Introduction to Language, Literature and Culture, 2nd Ed. New York, NY: Routledge. Richards, J. C. and Rodgers, T. S. (2001). Approaches and Methods in Language Teaching, 2nd Ed. Cambridge University Press. Spector, J. M. (2007). Handbook of Research on Educational Communications and Technology, 3rd Ed. New York, NY: Taylor Francis. Vale, D. and Scarino, A. (2000). Pocket ALL: A User’s Guide to the Teaching of Languages and ESL. VIC, Australia: Curriculum Corporation.

Security Threats to Banking

Security Threats to Banking INTRODUCTION The research project was undertaken to discover security threats and vulnerabilities experienced in First National Bank Botswana organization and how they mitigate them, this was carried out with the intention of making better and appropriate recommendations to combat them in the future and strengthen their information system and innovate some of their services for better competitive advantage and customer satisfaction. FIRST NATIONAL BANK BOTSWANA BACKGROUND First National Bank Botswana was registered in 1991, as a wholly owned subsidiary of First National Bank Holdings (Botswana). Various acquisitions led to the bank becoming a listed entity on the Botswana Stock Exchange in 1993. Today, they have shifted from being a bank with a predominantly retail focus to one that also successfully services the commercial and corporate market. Today products and services of First National Bank Botswana cover the requirements of everyone, from large corporate companies to small businesses and the individual. As at January 2008, we operate with a network of 17 branches and a total of 89 ATMs around the country. A strong customer focused culture ensures that our products are correctly packaged and accessible to all. https://www.fnbbotswana.co.bw/aboutus/index.html accessed on the 30 March 2010. MISSION To be recognised by all as the most well respected and most profitable leading financial services institution of first choice, building enduring and rewarding relationships with all our customers and amongst all stakeholders through the provision of exceptional customer service well skilled professionalism, reliable and efficient innovative products and solutions by our high achieving, motivated, proud and committed team, enabling us to get and keep customers. VISION We collaborate, support and empower each other through the consistent application of our aligned strategies and shared values, delivering maximum value to our customers and sharing the customer so as to add further value to them. Through this, we get and keep customers. CURRENT MARKET SITUATION ANALYSIS Currently the world was going through recession each and every organization across the globe felt the impact of the economic meltdown. Despite global recession and tough competition from competitors like Barclays bank, Standard chartered, Stabic bank and Bank Gaborone etc, First National Bank Botswana proved to be the most innovative bank in Botswana and it made profit unlike Barclays bank sales which had gone down, this shows that FNBB had increase in sales and market share. According to Imara report, September 2009, FNBB had a growth in turnover; the bank posted a strong set of results despite operating in a challenging business environment. Net interest income grew by 30.6% to P522.90 million (FY08: P400.25 million) mainly driven by a 17.0% increase in loans and advances. Profit before tax and profit after tax increased by 19.5% to P536.90 million and 8.7% to P406.72 million respectively. SIGNIFICANT MARKET SHARE According to Analyst Setlhabi P, 2009 FNBB is one of the leading banks in Botswana with the largest market share in terms of deposits (29.7%) and 2nd largest in terms of loans and advances (27.3%) after Barclays Bank Botswana. The pie chart above shows that FNBB has more market share in Botswana compared to other banks in Botswana. In terms of technology advancement and Information system FNBB is the most innovative bank, it was the first bank to provide internet and cell phone banking in Botswana to customers and it is currently the only listed bank providing cell phone banking services. In a bid to reach the unbanked market, First National Bank of Botswana has launched its new cell phone banking service, enabling banking activities such as balance enquiries, statement requests and the ability to make payments to third parties. Due to advancement in technology and Information system its market share has grown tremendously. FNBB SWOT ANALYSIS Below is a table showing the swot analysis of the First National Bank Botswana, from the table it shows that the bank has more strength, good opportunities than weakness and threats which is really good. PREVIOUS SYSTEM The previous system was manual based before introducing this advanced system, though they had computers nothing was automated customers had to go to the physical bank to deposit money, pay the bills and some of the important information was recorded on papers which can get lost or stolen easily. The system was costly to the bank because they had to use a lot of materials e.g. papers to record information and print the bank statement for customers and you would find that there will be long queues at the bank during the week. Customers could not dream buying items online, they manual system was time consuming and somehow hindered the growth of the FNBB market share. Customers who wanted to open accounts with the bank had to fill the application form, submit and wait for seven working days for their application to be processed and account to be opened. There was nothing like transferring the fund to third party account or interbank transfer the customer had to do it manual at the bank teller or cashier counter. CURRENT SYSTEM (S) The bank has several current information systems in place which has enhanced its performance and productivity resulting in customer satisfaction and convenience hence customer loyalty to FNBB. According to Mr. Edwin M FNBB have the following information systems in use. Online Banking Customers can access the bank account anywhere, anytime as long they have internet access where there are, and they can do any transaction; paying bills, buy online, view balance, bank statement and transfer funds to third party. Cell Phone Banking Now with cell phone banking in place customer do not need to be behind a computer doing transaction, they can access their funds/ bank account by using their mobile phones which is more convenient, fast and user friendly. Its new cell phone banking service, enabling banking activities such as balance enquiries, statement requests and the ability to make payments to third parties. The service is accessible through any handset in Botswana and uses SMS or a menu-based technology for customers to complete their banking transactions, increasing mass market reach and adding functionality to First National Bank of Botswanas (FNBB) offerings. The new FNB Cell phone banking offering is a natural extension from the pioneering beginnings of the in Contact service, said Yolisa Lejowa, FNBB head of electronic banking. Initially the service will only be available on the Mascom network but we envisage activating FNB Cell phone banking on the Orange network as well, shortly. By introducing these systems the bank has saved a lot of money which would be used for stationery in the manual system and the bank saw a great positive impact on their daily activities, long queues is the thing of the past, productivity, efficiency and market share has increased. New customers can even apply for bank accounts online without going to the bank as long as they provide valid details; everything will be processed within a short period of time. Now customers have the bank virtual bank with them wherever they go. Some of the Information systems are; Transaction Processing system Human resource Management system Executive management system INFORMATION RESOURCE AND CONTROL According www.datamonitor.com head of electronic banking (chief information officer) at FNBB has a critical role and responsible for the entire security of the organization, plan and implement technology advancement and innovations to ensure that FNBB stays atop of the market in the banking industry in Botswana. The Electronic bank head critical evaluate the security systems ability to protect bank and customer data. According to Eddie M in interviews response stated that chief information officer overlook the entire organization information system, to ensure that all resources are utilized within the budget and enforce higher security in the system to ensure business continuity. This is achieved by defining, updating, implementing IT strategy and align IT objectives and programs to enterprise objectives and strategies. By applying the above critical roles result in data privacy and confidentially, data integrity, authentication, non-repudiation. The head of electronic banking of FNBB set security privileges in the organization to ensure that certain areas and information is only accessed by authorized personnel or user. He carries out and enforces comprehensive security policy in the organization. According to www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/1999/FIL9968b.doc A comprehensive information security policy should outline a proactive and ongoing program incorporating three components; Prevention Detection Response E-banking services must be delivered on a consistent and timely basis in accordance with high customer expectations for a constant and rapid availability and potential high transaction demand. The bank must be able to deliver online banking services to all end-users and be able to maintain such availability in all circumstances. ORGANISATION SECURITY SYSTEM RISK System risk is a potential problem, situation that if it materializes, may adversely affect the business operation or system operation. http://www.pathways.cu.edu.eg/ . According to Eddie M 26 March 2010 Interviews. The use of information system which is online banking and cell phone banking has brought some risks and threats which are as follows; information theft, hacking of the system, System Failure due to hardware problem or power failure even software crushing, backup gets corrupted sometimes. The above table summarizes the system risks that exist with the use of information system; some of the risks are intentional were the user or unauthorized person get to do some modification in the system database/ some system components which will compromise availability or integrity of the data produced, processed. Some of the threats are accidental where by the user discloses his/her online banking details leading to account hacking and money theft. Network malfunction/ interruption is one of the major threats, sometimes network hardware components fails leading to break of data transfer between computers and servers leading to online system been unable to function normal (down). Electricity blackout its a major concern in Botswana because it happens more often resulting in online banking and cell phone banking being inaccessible during the period, as cell phone network goes down during electricity blackout and some electronics components tends to fails as well leading to system failure as information systems are comprised of different electronics components. All the above mentioned system risks and threats are the main faced by First National Bank Botswana. SYSTEM RISK MITIGATION To mitigate risks and threats board of directors and the head of electronic banking must ensure that appropriate security control processes are in place for online banking. (FNBB Report, 2009). To deal with this risks authorization privileges and authentication measures, logical and physical access control, adequate infrastructure security to maintain appropriate boundaries and restriction on both external user activities and data integrity of transactions, record and information should be implemented in the bank. http://www.bis.org/publ/bcbs98.htm. SECURITY CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION (CCTV) CCTV is used to capture and monitor all customer and employee activities inside and outside the bank building for security reasons. Youll find CCTVcameras sweeping the perimeter and parking areas, lobbies, drive-up windows and ATMS. Almost everyone who has worked in the banking industry and many customers has used CCTV to prevent and/or identify illegal activity at banking facilities. Video tapes and digital recordings capture the faces and activities of everyone using bank properties. (Pirraglia W). The captured recordings are archived bydate, so prior recordings can be located and used to solve problems and help apprehend perpetrators of illegal bank activity. Most of the banks around the world have cctv installed in their buildings and around ATM terminals, so FNBB use CCTV for the same purpose as explained above, all of their building are monitored by CCTV.

Is Jay Gatsby Tragic? :: essays research papers

The Tragic Jay Gatsby   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many characters in novels may be considered to be tragic. These characters are considered tragic because of one character trait they possess that leads to their eventual demise. Jay Gatsby is a tragic character in a unique way. That is, he has many negative traits, but only one of these traits leads to his eventual downfall. Of all the character traits that Jay Gatsby possessed, his excessiveness in everything he did was what led him to his ultimate downfall.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jay Gatsby was excessive in every spectrum of his life. One example of his excessive lifestyle is his view of the â€Å"good life†. Gatsby’s parties were frequent, humongous, and extravagant. â€Å" Every Friday five crates of oranges and lemons arrived from a fruiter in New York†¦ every Monday these same oranges and lemons left his back door in a pyramid of pulp less halves†¦ By seven o’clock the orchestra has arrived. No thin five piece affair, but a whole pit full of oboes and trombones and saxophones and violas and†¦Ã¢â‚¬  These examples are only a little slice of the essentials for a â€Å"Gatsby† party. All of this excessiveness is way beyond rational, and reason. Another example of his excessive parties is the fact that people would be so trashed that in one event, a couple guests are in a car accident and do not even realize it. After it happens, they just walk away looking for another drink. The simple fact is that if any serious injuries or accidents occurred during his parties, Gatsby would not have to worry about liability. His extreme wealth permitted him the option of purchasing a â€Å"get out of jail free† card. Gatsby’s biggest concerns were about his guests having a good time. Gatsby is so rich that the penalties or fines that could be imposed for this behavior would not affect him in any way. This kind of wealth allows for the imagination to run wild and excessively spend time, and money in unimportant ways.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Gatsby did not only excessively spend his money on parties. He also spent a myriad of money on clothing, cars, and a plethora of other toys. â€Å"†¦He opened for us two hulking patent cabinets which held his massed suits and dressing gowns and ties, and shirts piled like bricks in stacks a dozen high. ‘I’ve got a man in England who buys me clothes. Is Jay Gatsby Tragic? :: essays research papers The Tragic Jay Gatsby   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many characters in novels may be considered to be tragic. These characters are considered tragic because of one character trait they possess that leads to their eventual demise. Jay Gatsby is a tragic character in a unique way. That is, he has many negative traits, but only one of these traits leads to his eventual downfall. Of all the character traits that Jay Gatsby possessed, his excessiveness in everything he did was what led him to his ultimate downfall.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Jay Gatsby was excessive in every spectrum of his life. One example of his excessive lifestyle is his view of the â€Å"good life†. Gatsby’s parties were frequent, humongous, and extravagant. â€Å" Every Friday five crates of oranges and lemons arrived from a fruiter in New York†¦ every Monday these same oranges and lemons left his back door in a pyramid of pulp less halves†¦ By seven o’clock the orchestra has arrived. No thin five piece affair, but a whole pit full of oboes and trombones and saxophones and violas and†¦Ã¢â‚¬  These examples are only a little slice of the essentials for a â€Å"Gatsby† party. All of this excessiveness is way beyond rational, and reason. Another example of his excessive parties is the fact that people would be so trashed that in one event, a couple guests are in a car accident and do not even realize it. After it happens, they just walk away looking for another drink. The simple fact is that if any serious injuries or accidents occurred during his parties, Gatsby would not have to worry about liability. His extreme wealth permitted him the option of purchasing a â€Å"get out of jail free† card. Gatsby’s biggest concerns were about his guests having a good time. Gatsby is so rich that the penalties or fines that could be imposed for this behavior would not affect him in any way. This kind of wealth allows for the imagination to run wild and excessively spend time, and money in unimportant ways.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Gatsby did not only excessively spend his money on parties. He also spent a myriad of money on clothing, cars, and a plethora of other toys. â€Å"†¦He opened for us two hulking patent cabinets which held his massed suits and dressing gowns and ties, and shirts piled like bricks in stacks a dozen high. ‘I’ve got a man in England who buys me clothes.

The Chrysalids - Utopia or Dystopia ? :: Chrysalids

The Chrysalids – Utopia or Dystopia ? One could describe the novel "The Chrysalids" as a dystopian novel as apposed to utopian. The town in which David and the rest of shape-thinkers live is deffinatly not a utopia as well as the new land to which they move, Sealand. The dictionary definition of utopia is an imaginary island with perfect social & political system, social and political paradise. Waknuk is not an island, so it is deffinatly not a utopia, but Sealand has the characteristics of a utopia. It is an island, but it does not have a perfect social and political system. Perfect social system means equal rights and treatment for all. David, Rachel, Michael and Rosalind are not treated as equals by the Sealanders compared to the way Petra is treated. The Sealand woman came to their aid not because she wanted to help them, but because she was interested in seeing whom this little girl was that had such strong communication skills. She arrived and was very eager to put Petra in the space ship and take her home with her and she was obliged to take Michael, Rosalind and David. When Michael mentioned that his girlfriend was stuck in Waknuk and that he would like to go and fetch her she made no effort. She simply said that there was not enough fuel to fetch her and that they could only leave her behind. When Michael told her about the problem getting home she was disinterested. Michael was forced to stay behind so that he could go to Waknuk and be with his girlfriend. When David described the Sealand woman he described her as the image of perfection. His description of her was so perfect that it described her flaws. She was too perfect, as though artificial. She communicates on a higher level as him so that he can’t understand and does not worry about his troubles. Sealand may not be a utopia but it is deffinatly not a dystopia. The Chrysalids are free to use their gifts and feel more comfortable using them.

Should I Use an e-Business Broker When I Buy a Website? :: Sell Websites Buy Web Sites

Should I Use an e-Business Broker When I Buy a Website? Reprinted with permission of VotanWeb.com A website broker is similar to a real estate broker to the extent that they try to put buyers and sellers together. Instead of real estate being sold, they focus on websites. The criteria to become a website broker vary from state to state and their individual training, history, specialty and area of expertise are things that you must investigate. Some website brokers work independently while others work for a website brokerage company. Website Brokers work on commission and if you do not ultimately buy a business then any work that they have done for you is not compensated. If you hire a website broker, it is critical that you hire the right one. A website Broker may be able to provide you with access to websites that are available for sale that you would never be able to find on your own. They can narrow the search for you to websites that fit your criteria and they can help you avoid a lot of wasted time. The one thing that brokers cannot do is to find a website that is right for you. This is something that only you can do. Brokers clearly prefer to work with knowledgeable buyers and if they have to spend their time educating you then they cannot make money. They can be an effective tool for you to use if you can provide them with a clear mandate of what it is that you are looking to buy. Avoid generalities; explain your strengths, weaknesses and objectives and never mislead them. Ninety percent of the potential buyers that brokers work with never buy a business. While this is part of the risk involved in their chosen profession, this does not give you the right to waste their time. Accordingly, they may be somewhat hesitant when working with new clients until you demonstrate your sincerity and commitment to buying a website. There is no doubt that if you are a serious and educated buyer then a good broker will go above and beyond the call of duty to service your needs. Be respectful of their time and realize that they have to make a living. If at any time you decide to drop out of the hunt to buy a website then let them know immediately. Conversely, if you do not feel that they are extending their best efforts on your behalf then find another one.

Chapter 11 Problems

I. Payback period computation; even cash flows Compute the payback period for each of the following two separate investments (round the payback period to two decimals): 1. A new operating system for an existing machine is expected to cost $260,000 and have a useful life of five years. The system yields an incremental after-tax income of $75,000 each year after deducting its straight-line depreciation. The predicted salvage value of the system is $10,000. Payback period=Cost of investment/ Annual net cash flow =$260,000/ $125,000 =2. 08 years Annual depreciation= $260,000 -$10,000 / 5 = $50,000 Annual after tax income $75,000 Depreciation 50,000 Annual net cash flow$125,000 2. A machine costs $190,000, has a $10,000 salvage value, is expected to last nine years, and will generate an after-tax income of $30,000 per year after straight-line depreciation. Payback period=Cost of investment/ Annual net cash flow =$190,000/ $50,000 =3. 8 years Annual depreciation= $190,000 -$10,000 / 9 = $2 0,000 Annual after tax income $30,000 + Depreciation 20,000 Annual net cash flow$50,000 II. Payback period computation; uneven cash flows Wenro Company is considering the purchase of an asset for $90,000. It is expected to produce the following net cash flows.The cash flows occur evenly throughout each year. Compute the payback period for this investment. Part of year= Amount paid back in year 4/ Net cash flows in year 4 = $10,000 / $60,000 = 0. 167 Payback period=3 + 0. 167 = 3. 1367 years = 3yrs 2 mos. III. Accounting Rate of Return A machine costs $500,000 and is expected to yield an after-tax net income of $15,000 each year. Management predicts this machine has a 10-year service life and a $100,000 salvage value, and it uses straight-line depreciation. Compute this machine’s accounting rate of return. Average investment=$500,000 + $100,000 / 2 $300,000 Accounting rate of return=$15,000 / $300,000 = 5% IV. Computing Net Present Value K2B Company is considering the purchase of equipment that would allow the company to add a new product to its line. The equipment is expected to cost $240,000 with a 12-year life and no salvage value. It will be depreciated on a straight-line basis. The company expects to sell 96,000 units of the equipment’s product each year. The expected annual income related to this equipment follows. K2B concludes that the investment must earn at least an 8% return. Compute the net present value of this investment. Round the net present value to the nearest dollar. ) Net cash flows from net income 1. Payback period=$240,000 / $44,500 = 5. 39 years 2. Accounting rate of return=$24,500 / $120,000 = 20. 42% V. Net Present Value Interstate Manufacturing is considering either replacing one of its old machines with a new machine or having the old machine overhauled. Information about the two alternatives follows. Management requires a 10% rate of return on its investments. Alternative 1: Keep the old machine and have it overhauled. If the old machine is overhauled, it will be kept for another five years and then sold for its salvage value. 1.Determine the net present value of alternative 1. Keep the old machine and have it overhauled Alternative 2: Sell the old machine and buy a new one. The new machine is more efficient and will yield substantial operating cost savings with more products being produced and sold. 2. Determine the net present value of alternative 2. Sell the old machine and buy a new one 3. Which alternative do you recommend that management select? Explain. Interstate should keep the old machine and overhaul it. The cost savings and additional revenue generated on the new machine are not enough to overcome the high initial cost of the new machine.

Grievance Redress Mechanism in Government

mark reparation apparatus IN GOVERNMENT GRIEVANCE regaining 1. 1 score recompense Mechanism is part and parcel of the machinery of some(prenominal) judiciary. No organization can rent to be accountable, responsive and user-friendly unless it has open up an streamlined and rigive iniquity counterbalance machine. In fact, the unfairness remunerate utensil of an establishment is the gauge to measure its cogency and impellingness as it provides important feedback on the blending of the administration. I. (A) STRUCTURE OF GRIEVANCE REDRESS MACHINERY AT APEX LEVEL The grades of macrocosm be legitimate at non-homogeneous points in the political relation of India .thither atomic enactment 18 chiefly two designated nodal agencies in the key authorities intervention these marks. These agencies ar- (i) department of administrative Reforms and state-supported scotchs, Ministry of Personnel, man sexual conquests & Pensions (ii)board of directors of humanki nd Grievances, Cabinet Secretariat section of administrative Reforms & national Grievances 2. 1 discussion section of administrative Reforms & humankind Grievances is the nodal chest in honour of policy initiatives on human beings grudges right mechanism and citizen centric initiatives.The type of discussion section of administrative Reforms and Public Grievances consists primarily to proceed much(prenominal)(prenominal) citizen-centric initiatives in the fields of administration reforms and ordinary musical scores in the Government so as to alter the Government machinery to mouth attribute common head armed utilitys to the citizen in a hassle-free modal value and eliminate the f bes of grudge. 2. 2The grievances current by the department atomic number 18 forwarded to the touch Ministries/Departments/State Governments/UTs, who be relations with the substantive function linked with the grievance for curative under intimation to the complainant.The Depa rtment regainings up round 1000 grievances both year depending upon the seriousness of the grievance and follows them on a regular terms till their final disposal. This enables the Department to measure the effectiveness of the grievance slump machinery of the concerned governing body agency. 2. 3On the basis of the grievances received, Department identifies the problem atomic number 18as in Government which are complaint-pr unmatchable. These problem areas are past subjected to studies and sanative measures are suggested to the Department/ organic law concerned. directorate of Public Grievances (DPG) . 1 wee on the re compute of the ordinary grievances return machinery in Government of India carried out in 1987, the Directorate of Public Grievances was set up in the Cabinet Secretariat with effect from 01. 04. 88. This Directorate was set up initi in ally to look into individualistic complaints pertaining to four Central Government Departments which were more prone to public complaints. Subsequently, more Departments having larger public interface were added to its pur muckle and pre displacely this Directorate is handling grievances pertaining to 16 Central Government organic laws. . 2The Directorate was envisaged as an appellate trunk investigating grievances selectively and particularly those where the complainant had failed to get counterbalance at the trifle force of inborn machinery and the hierarchical authorities. Un alike the Department of AR&PG, Directorate of Public Grievances has been authorise to call for the files and policemans for discussion to see that grievance handling has been done in a fair, documental and meet manner.Wherever the Directorate is nearly-off that the grievance has non been dealt in such a manner, it desexualises suitable recommendations for consideration and toleration by the concerned Ministry/Department which are required to be implemented deep down a period of one month. 3. 3The empowered and enlightened citizenry of now is far more demanding and the presidential term, wherefore, has to develop, evolve and enable itself to meet the evolving demands of the society that it has to serve. The society o twenty-four hour period is yearning with the old system of governance which is non coming up to its expectations. To them, a government employee is perceived as insensitive, aloof, corrupt and general the administrative system as autocratic, glaucous and with no cut back culture 3. 4This requires a paradigm shift in governance to a system where the citizen is in the center and he is consulted at various(a) stages of preparation and effectuation of public policy. To secure this objective, India needs a public proceeds which is capable, innovative and forward looking.The traditional position of civil run which was of administrator, service provider and controller of development activities has to restrain expressive style for the new roles of facilitator and regulator so as to create best environment and conditions in the country for building a province of excellence. 3. 5Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances is the nodal agency in Government of India for formulation and implementation of such policies and strategic initiatives so as to enable and equip the government machinery to meet the challenges mingled in achieving this objective. . 6Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances is the control engine of reforms in administration and governance. The Department proposes to introduce and lead Change to establish a public service of tone of voice, ability, right and effectiveness and modernize the public service. It is the nodal agency in government for facilitating administrative improvements and reengineering of processes crossways the government. Citizens Charter initiative, Public Grievance Policy, Quality Management in Government, e-Governance, canvass of Administrative Laws and so onDocum entation and Dissemination of Best Practices, administration & Methods, education & Facilitation Counters, Civil Services Reforms are some of the areas under the ambit of Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances. 3. 7 spare- term activity are the necessary conditions for successful implementation of any reforms agenda Political authorization Committed and strong executive Willingness and efficacy to murder on vested interests in the system II. (A) PUBLIC GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM IN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES/ DEPARTMENTS/ ORGANISATIONS 4. The Public Grievance insurance Mechanism functions in Government of India on a change basis. The Central Government Ministries/Departments, their devoted and pendant offices and the main(a) bodies dealing with substantive functions as per Allocations of Business Rules, 1961 arrest their respective grievance cure machinery. An officer of the aim of colligation deposit is required to be designated as Director of Gr ievances of the Ministry/Department/Organisation. The role and functions of Directors of Grievances are given in Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances O.M. no. 1/PLCY/PG-88(7) go out 01. 03. 1988. This inter alia empowers the Directors of Grievances to call for files/reports and bundle decisions or look backward decisions already interpreted, in computer address with Secretary/HOD tear down in those areas which do not fall deep down his/her worldly concern/charge. 4. 2The functioning of Public Grievance even out Machineries in various Ministries/Departments/Organisations is regularly re dis trailed by a Standing deputation of Secretaries under the Chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary with redundant Secretary Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances as member-secretary. . 3With a view to ensure prompt and effective even up to the grievances, a number of book of instructions retain been outputd by Department of AR&PG from beat to s equence which, inter alia intromit- (a) light upon each Wednes day snip as a meetingless day in the Central Secretariat Offices when all the officers above a specified level should be available their desks from 1000hrs. to 1300hrs. to receive and ensure public grievances. Field level offices having fulfill with the public drop withal to advance one day in the calendar week as a meetingless day. b)Designate a Joint Secretary level officer as Director of Grievances including in autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings. (c)Deal with all(prenominal) grievance in a fair, objective and just manner and issue reason out speaking rejoinder for all grievance rejected. (d)Analyse public grievances received to supporter identification of the problem areas in which modifications of policies and surgical processs could be undertaken with a view to making the economy of function easier and more expeditious. e)Issue booklets/pamphlets about the schemes/services available to the public indicating the procedure and manner in which these can be availed and the right power to be contacted for service as also the grievance redress authority. (f)Pick up grievances appearing in newspaper columns which relate to them and take remedial action on them in a time bound manner. Issue rejoinders to newspapers by and by investigation in cases which are base to be baseless and/or damaging to the image of the Organisation. g)Strengthen the machinery for redress of public grievance through, strictly observing meetingless day, displaying hit designation, room number, forebode number and so forth of Director of Grievances at the reception and new(prenominal) convenient places, placing locked complaint box at reception. (h)Set up ply Grievance Redress Machinery and designate a Staff Grievance Officer. (i)Include the public grievances work and receipt/disposal statistics relating to redress of public grievances in the Annual Action stick out and Annual Administrat ive Report of the Ministries/Departments. j) assign time limits for disposal of work relating to public grievances and staff grievances and strictly adhere to them. (k) greet each grievance petition within three days of receipt, indicating the name, designation and telephone number of the official who is processing the case. The time frame in which a result result be sent should also be indicated. (l) discover out Lok Adalats/Staff Adalats, if not already constituted, and hold them every draw and quarter for quicker disposal of public as healthful as staff grievances and pensioners grievances. m)Constitute a Social Audit display board or such other machinery, if not already constituted, for examining areas of public interface with a view to recommending essential changes in procedures to make the organization more people-friendly. (n)Establish a single window system at points of public contact, wherever possible to expedite disposal of applications. (o)Indicating telephone/fa x number of the officer whose sig reputation over a communication regarding the decision/reply is to issue to the petitioner. p) supervise of grievances in geological formations under Ministries/Departments on a monthly basis. (q)Publicising the grievance redress mechanism through the print and electronic media. (r) brushup of receipt and disposal of grievances by Secretaries of Ministries/Departments in the weekly meetings taken by them. (B) TYPES OF PUBLIC GRIEVANCES 5. 1An analysis of grievances received in Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances and Directorate of Public Grievances has revealed that the major(ip)ity of grievances associate to inordinate tally in aking decisions, extending from some(prenominal) months to several years and refusal/in big businessman to make speaking replies/disclose basic breeding to the petitioners to enable them to examine whether their cases have been justly decided. It is observed that, had the concerned organizations e xpeditiously and suitably dealt with the grievances in the for the first time instance, the complainants would not have approached Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances/Directorate of Public Grievances. (C) SYSTEMIC PROBLEM AREAS 6. There are rules, regulations, instructions which are crude and aimed at shifting the work towards citizens. thoughtlessness in administration, low morale of the services, subjective inertia, absence of incentives, lack of proper authority and accountability are the delay-breeders and the delay is the major factor that generates the grievances. These factors need to be tackled correctly through systematic changes. Prevention is dampen than cure. On these lines, the best method to redress a grievance is not to drop by the wayside the grievance to arise at the first instance.Even the redress of a grievance, that arose on account of delay, is also retard as is revealed by the analysis of grievances according to which on a average six months are taken to redress a grievance. 6. 2 umteen a times Departments/Organisations are prime to avoid taking usurp decisions by resorting to rejection without application of mind, not taking appropriate interest in functioning of supplemental offices/linked autonomous organizations, and emphasize on disposal and not on the quality disposal.Decisions taken earlier are reiterated without subjecting the cases of free lance examination. There is an inertia to review decisions taken by down-the-line functionaries. In many cases Departments/Organisations unloosen the delay and unfold with their inability to take decisions by putting the onus on other(prenominal) agency or on the petitioner. Many a times, the actual cause of grievance lay in familiar inefficiency of the system and reverse to discover frank systemic solutions. It is also observed that the time norms set by Departments for providing services were not being adhered to in many cases. . 3There is no doubt th at grievances continue to arise because of a gamey systemic tolerance for delay, poor work quality and non-accountability in every day proceeding of functions. Failure to review archaic, redundant and mismated rules, policies and procedures and to initiate simple, workable systemic changes is another cause for grievance generation. However, Departments and Organisations, which work with policies and procedures on a day-to-day basis, do not appear to have developed the ability to continually look within and identify deficiencies.All these factors have ensured that grievances, once arisen, many a time do not get resolved in normal runway and need intervention at the highest administrative level. 6. 4Slackness in efficient functioning of Directors of Grievances is identify as one of the prime cause for continuing delay in redress of grievances. Poor work quality, non-accountability in everyday comeance of functions and failure to systemically review policies/procedures and suggest systemic changes are other important causes.In most Ministries, Departments and Organisations, the mechanism of Director of Grievances is not functioning as per the mandate prescribed. (D) Focus Areas 7. 1In this context, it is the need of the time that the Government should review its pledge of providing hassle-free public services to the citizens by focusing on systemic changes to asperse the grievances in Government domain. In pitch to accomplish this objective in a focused manner, it is necessary to evolve a multi-pronged strategy to be implemented in a time-bound and effective manner.Keeping in view the various factors involved in grievance redress issue, following areas need focused attention 7. 2 Performance Review Foreseeing areas of dissatisfaction (a)To review processes, functions etc. in the organization and to cast them pro-actively in a manner that would foresee areas of dissatisfaction, identify activities where transparency, equity, prudence and propriety are c ompromised, interventions that can help achieve better outcomes, improve satisfaction of internal and external stakeholders. b)An annual review of laws, rules, regulations, instructions and procedures be carried out with a view to simplify the procedure making the administration more transparent, accountable and citizen-friendly. Information engineering should be employed in re-engineering of political processes in order to improve efficiency and effectiveness and ensuring transparency and accountability. 7. 3 credit of Grievance Prone Areas and Analysis (a) come out areas susceptible to corruption and/or grievance generation and address work analyse of such areas.In addition, consider external/ hearty audit in areas of very high public interface, with the aim of identifying wrong doers and meliorate processes and systems. Involve NGOs in the exercise. (b)Analyse the nature and causes of grievances with the aim of identifying systemic deficiencies in laws, rules, regulations, p olicies, instructions, work practices and procedures, and effecting systemic changes to remove/correct these deficiencies. The Directors of Grievances be the nodal officers for such purpose. The analysis should be conducted in the month of April every year and studies of identified grievance prone areas be undertaken.Recommendations make in the studies should be implemented by December of that year so as to bring systemic changes and remove the Causes of grievances. (c) rectify responsibility in each and every case of delay, default or delinquency in performance of every day duties on failure to deliver services, and take disciplinary action to avoid recurrence. This will send a clear manifestation that in the event of failure to perform duties or deal appropriately with grievances within the time frame norms prescribed, a substantial possibility of having responsibility fixed on ones shoulder exists.Consider the feasibleness of prescribing specific punishment clauses in such ca ses. 7. 4 Citizens Charter conceptualization and effective implementation of Citizens Charters, which should, inter-alia, include disclosure of time norms for providing various services to the citizens/clients and details of all levels of grievance redress machinery that may be approached. 7. 5 Information & Facilitation Counters (IFC) Setting up and effective operationalisation of IFCs civic society may be involved in the functioning of IFCs to make them citizen- friendly and effective. 7. 6 On transmission line Registration of GrievancesMake Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (PGRAMS) software, operational with every Director of Grievances. This shall enable the Director of Grievances to this instant place the details of grievances received in a database (efficient dak management) as well as record the fact whether he intends to monitor its progress, identify the section/ air division where it is being sent, etc. , generate the time taken in dealing with the grieva nce, enable review of pending grievances in the organisation or across the organisations, generate acknowledgements to complainants, conduct analysis etc.The system should also have the facility of on-line registration of grievances by the citizens and access to information on the place of his/her grievances. 7. 7 Prompt and Effective Redress of Grievances (a)ll grievances should be necessarily acknowledged, with an interim reply within 3 days of receipt and redressed within 3 months of receipt in the Organisation. The same time limit should keep back even if co-ordination with subsidiary offices or another Department/Organisation is involved. In such instances special efforts, to be suo moto disclosed when reports are called, should be made. b)No grievance is to be rejected without having been independently examined. At a minimum, this means that an officer superior, to the one who delayed taking the original decision or took the original decision that is cause for grievance, sho uld very examine the case as well as the reply, intended to be sent to the grievance holder. (c)Make the Director of Grievances effective through the following inter-related steps (i)Secretaries/Organisational Heads ensuring that Directors of Grievances are fully empowered in pact with instructions to perform their role. ii)All grievance representations received in the Department/Organisation, either by mail, fax, e-mail to be incessantly routed through Director of Grievances before they go to concerned sections/divisions. At this stage, Office of the Director of Grievances shall go through the representations and come to a prima-facie view regarding the gravity of the matter involved and decide whether it shall monitor the case or allow down-the-line functionaries to independently deal with it.Directors of Grievances should monitor and follow up at least 3 to 5 percent of grievances received to enable them to assess the efficacy of grievance redress mechanism. (iii)Fix responsib ility in each case of delay, default and dereliction of duty, identified by Director of Grievances, and take appropriate action against concerned personnel. In addition, consider feasibility of prescribing specific penalty clauses for such failures. 7. 8 Review and Monitoring of Grievance Redress MechanismEnsure meaningful review of the performance of grievance redress machinery of the Ministry/Organisation as well as that of attached/ subordinate organization by Secretary/ Head of the Department on a monthly basis. Review should also cover action against defaulters. III. ROLE OF REGULATORS, OMBUDSMAN AND LIKE BODIES 8. 1An explosive issue today in context of public grievance redress is the pace and phasing of the movement towards open markets after the gradual abandonment of centralized grooming model.The Government is today withdrawing from various service sectors traditionally monopolosized by it and mystic enterprisingness is moving in. This may lead to a scenario where the G overnment monopolies are replaced by even more vicious private monopolies or cartels in the absence of adequate regulation, enforcement and repair to grievance redress. 8. 2This has significant implications for the role of Government. The Government can not just abandon the interests of citizens to be taken pull off of by the market forces in areas of service delivery covered by the private sector.In the open market scenario, it is often the major stakeholders and players which define the cost, quality and mechanism etc. of service delivery. 8. 3The Government therefore needs to put in place appropriate mechanisms in the regulatory authorities, ombudsmen and like bodies in such sectors so that the concerns of individual citizens are also accorded equal immensity and weightage and are appropriately and effectively addressed. They should sentry duty the interests of the common citizens and ensure that the grievances of the citizens are tended to(p) to promptly and effectively.