Coursework assingment Example

Essays on Coursework assingment Assignment Macroeconomic Analysis of GlaxoSmithKline plc. Brief Company Background GlaxoSmithKline plc (henceforth GSK) is a London-based, â€Å"science-led global healthcare company that researches and develops† products in three primary areas, namely Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines and Consumer Healthcare. For 2011, the company generates annual turnover of â‚ ¤27.4 billion, 68% of which was from Pharmaceuticals, 13% from Vaccines, and 19% from Consumer Healthcare. Pharmaceuticals makes available innovative, patent-protected medicines under established brand names. Its vaccines business is one of the largest in the world, and its consumer health products include over-the-counter medicines, oral healthcare and nutritional health care (GSK Form 20-F, 2011). Demand and supply factors that affect the sales and the profitability of GSK There are a number of demand and supply factors which impact of GSK sales. Primary among them is the successful development of patent-protected medicines to reach market stage. When the medicines address those diseases for which there is the greatest human need, in particular cancer, cardiovascular diseases and HIV/AIDS. Medicines account for up to 60% of increases in survival rates for cancer since 1975. Deaths due to cardiovascular diseases dropped 28% from 1997 to 2007, and the AIDS death rate has fallen 75% since 1995 (PhRMA, 2011). From 2006 to 2010, investment in personalized medicine (PM) grew by 73%, and investment in PM is expected to grow further by another 53% (see figure following). Source: 2011 Profile, Pharmaceutical Industry, p. 2 That demand exists is apparent, and there is little threat on the supply side for patented-protected medicines. Patents last for 20 years, after which the protection is lifted and a new supply factor is added – that of the generic drug producers, who do not undertake research on their own but manufacture those drugs no longer under patent. At this juncture, prices for drugs suddenly drop, and if the high cost of RD has not been recovered by then, the company loses. Market structure of the global pharmaceutical industry The structure of the market is determined by the market players; data for GSK’s direct competitors are shown in the table below (Source of the market data are from Reuters, through YahooFinance.com.) Direct Competitor Comparison    GSK MRK NVS PFE Industry Market Cap: 112.98B 123.27B 132.77B 169.31B 1.40B Employees: 97,389 86,000 124,000 102,500 1.70K Qtrly Rev Growth (yoy): 0.01 0.01 -0.02 -0.07 0.11 Revenue (ttm): 42.91B 48.20B 59.07B 66.33B 2.13B Gross Margin (ttm): 0.74 0.66 0.69 0.79 0.55 EBITDA (ttm): 15.57B 17.55B 17.05B 27.41B 124.00M Operating Margin (ttm): 0.31 0.22 0.21 0.29 0.12 Net Income (ttm): 7.91B 6.95B 8.65B 8.28B N/A EPS (ttm): 3.12 2.24 3.55 1.23 1.12 P/E (ttm): 14.59 18.09 15.46 18.34 15.32 PEG (5 yr expected): 2.01 2.71 2.61 4.20 0.92 P/S (ttm): 2.68 2.53 2.23 2.53 2.14    MRK = Merck Co. Inc. NVS = Novartis AG PFE = Pfizer Inc. Industry = Drug Manufacturers – Major *ttm – trailing twelve months, from 27 June 2012 While GSK lags behind in revenues and market capitalisation, it does have a comparatively strong net income, and exceeds its competitors in operating margin and earnings per share. This means that GSK is able to lower its operating costs and has more efficient cost management than its rivals. Because of greater operating efficiency, the company is more defensive and can better withstand fluctuations in inflation (Datamonitor, 2011). Furthermore, threats of business cycle volatilities due to the 20-year patent limit are reduced by GSK’s entry into the generic drug manufacturing, as shown in the following table against its competitors, led by Watson. Generic Drugmakers Ranked by Sales    Company Symbol Price Change Market Cap P/E Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc. WPI 71.32 0.00 9.09B 33.52 Mylan, Inc. MYL 20.95 0.01 8.98B 16.22 Pfizer Inc. PFE 22.61 0.01 169.31B 18.34 Johnson Johnson JNJ 66.84 0.01 183.57B 18.33 GlaxoSmithKline plc GSK 45.54 -0.01 112.98B 14.59 Sanofi SNY 36.09 0.00 95.55B 12.19 Novartis AG NVS 54.81 0.01 132.77B 15.46 Roche Holding AG RHHBY 42.37 -0.00 143.63B 14.83 AstraZeneca PLC AZN 43.75 0.01 55.74B 6.71    Strategies the company can take to sustain operations in a profitable market environment GSK is faced with market contraction in developed countries due to the slow recovery from the economic recession. There is reduced demand from governments which have switched to generic drugs. Thus, the company should pursue the following strategies: 1. Enter into emerging markets. China, India, Argentina, and Southeast Asia have strong demand for pharmaceuticals, and opening production centres there may lower production costs (PhARMA, 2011, p.6). Furthermore, emerging markets were largely spared by the last crisis (Datamonitor, 2011). 2. Continue research and development into new pharmaceuticals and establish new patents. It takes 10-15 years from concept to market in biotechnology RD (p.2). The faster GSK can patent its new drugs, the more it can secure its future revenues. 3. Collaborate further with smaller research biotech companies to reduce research risk. Many small biotech companies lack capital to pursue their research; GSK can partner with them to supply the capital and eventually market the products, without having to shoulder the high costs of early RD (p. 10). Elasticity concepts that can influence the pricing strategy or competitiveness of GSK GSK’s products have particularly high price elasticity of demand, insofar as patented drugs are concerned because there are few substitutes, the drugs as of great necessity to their users, and therefore demand is not affected by increasing prices. After the patent life, however, price elasticity drops and generic drugs compete on lower prices. Income elasticity of demand is also high for patented drugs because reduction in customers’ income does not reduce quantity demanded as the drugs are necessary. Finally, price elasticity of supply is also high, because for each patented drug, the firm commands a monopoly and thus controls the price (Boldrin Levine, 2008). GSK’s efficiency in the use of its resources As earlier noted, GSK is able to realize a higher profit and higher earnings per share despite comparatively lower revenues than its competitors. It is able to rationalize its expenses throughout its pipeline by having newly developed drugs ready for market just as the patents of its former income-generating drugs mature (i.e., their patent expires). Furthermore, GSK’s leadership in the vaccine sector is capable of supporting its â€Å"aggressive moves to bolster its presence in key markets† (Datamonitor, 2011, p. 6). GSK’s supply chain relies on quality yet reasonably-priced suppliers; despite this, the high cost of basic research threatens the profitability of GSK, since only one in six drug candidates that enter clinic trials is approved by the FDA (PhARMA, 2011, p.10) . Therefore, the company makes strategic acquisition of small biotech companies with strong prospects, or enter into collaborative agreements with them, so that the risk of a failed basic research effort early in the RD of the drug will be shared. The resource efficiency of GSK also lies in its own RD process, wherein projects are systematically evaluated so that poor risks may be discontinued early, rather than carry them to completion only to determine that they fail clinical trials or the FDA review. This screening process is shown in the diagram on the next page. Projects are screened from one stage to the next, and the most promising are identified so that resources may be concentrated on them. Source: PhARMA, 2011, p. 12 References Boldrin, M Levine, D K 2008 Against Intellectual Monopoly. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Datamonitor 2011 GlaxoSmithKline plc Company Profile. Accessed from EBSCO. GlaxoSmithKline plc 2011 Annual Report for Shareholders. Accessed from GSK company website. GlaxoSmithKline plc 2011 Form 20-F, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, March 13, 2012. Accessed from GSK company website. PhRMA 2011 Profile of the Pharmaceutical Industry. Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, Washington D.C. Yahoo Finance 2012 GlaxoSmithKline. Accessed 27 June 2012 from http://finance.yahoo.com/q/co?s=GSK+Competitors

Theoretically Applied Practices Of Public Relations Commerce Essay Free Essays

string(204) " experimental selling via try-out experience ; word of oral cavity selling via persuasion from friends, consumers, booklet, mass media ; rank via telephone or online booking free try-out, booking orders\." McElreath statesthat all public dealingss ( PR ) plan consists of a broad assortment of function and maps ( 1997, p.161 ) . Theoretically, PR is a relatively new subject which converges modern direction, communalisation, administrative technology, sociology, societal psychological science and other scientific disciplines. We will write a custom essay sample on Theoretically Applied Practices Of Public Relations Commerce Essay or any similar topic only for you Order Now In other words, PR can be widely implemented by the authoritiess, concern endeavors, public establishments and societal organisations in the development advancement of modern market state of affairs ( Harlow, 1976, p.36 ) . It has been shown that PR is a comprehensive and effectual tool which facilitates the advancement of an administration ‘s construction. Rehearsing through the platform of PR theory will enable PR practicians have a better and clearer understanding on PR. Therefore, it is advisable and necessary to set the PR theory into pattern. Harmonizing to Kirby ‘s ( 2009, p.33 ) reappraisal, the modern-day public dealingss theories can be categorized into three groups, dwelling of communicating, receiving system response and pattern theories. This essay explores three theories of different groups and identifies three appropriate illustrations of chosen theories in modern-day public dealingss pattern. First, it states the definition and state of affairs of each theory. Second, it chooses a relevant illustration and demonstrates how the chosen PR theory is applied to pattern. In add-on, it discusses the links between the cardinal elements of each theory and its practical illustration. At last, it considers on ethical issues like challenges or benefits and discusses which type of moralss is suited for each illustration. Its intent is to do connexions between three theories and their application in the existent universe. The hierarchy of effects is a typical type of the theories of communicating, concerned with the procedure of communicating. Unlike other type of communicating theories, such as Shannon and Weaver ‘s theoretical account of communicating, situational theory, the populace sphere and systems theory, it is besides a dominant theoretical account for advertisement or recommending with clear presentation. Actually, it is a one-way communicating, highlights the message/ aims ( without complete truth ) through media and values the consequences of the communicating from the receiving systems ( the populace ) ( Kirby, 2009, p.33 ) . Its intent is to propaganda as it is â€Å" manufacturer oriented † ( Kirby, 2009, p.34 ) . In order to recommend the new safe ‘s excellence, a safe house advertised a three-sentence station. In the first sentence, it wrote that looking for the proprietor of a million US dollar. The following two sentences shared the information that there was $ 1,000,000 inside the safe at the exhibition hall ; anyone could take the money off in any agencies without dismaying. The advertizement roared over the metropolis. All kinds of possible proprietors came but left with empty custodies. The major local newspapers reported on this issue freely but significantly. In the terminal, this house ‘s safe won increasing assessment. This illustration reflects on the practical usage of be aftering intelligence event in the PR activity. Its procedure can be structured into two sides: the house and the populace. The house formulates the advertizement by the house and disseminated the advertizement. Thereafter, the mass public receives the message on the advertizement, comprehends the me ssage on the advertizement, comes to seek but in vain and alterations their attitudes and reenforcing the safety of the safe. These six stairss reflect on a hierarchy of effects which leads to larn new behaviors and so it consequences the behaviour alteration ( McElreath 1997, p. 159 ) . There are different agencies through which the transmitter sends the information to the receiving system. Seitel suggests the complex impacts come from by personal prejudices which can be nurtured by a myriad of factors, including stereotypes, symbols, semantics, equal influence and media ( 2007, p. 53 ) . â€Å" New † is the cardinal point for the doing the intelligence, particularly in advancing a new merchandise ( Seitel, 2007, p.54 ) . There is no intelligence value if following others because the populace will lose freshness and involvement. Therefore, several capablenesss of the PR professionals can be learnt from this instance analysis. For this, they unlock the positive head, full drama creativeness and imaginativeness, and take arresting action to win. Quite frequently, it is suggested to measure the aim on the pyramid type. The lower degree purposes that the receiving systems are informed and acquire a general acknowledgment on it. Subsequently, it targets at a highe r degree of responses more clearly. As this instance is a manufacturer oriented autumn into the ethic catalogue of teleology. In PR pattern, teleology is a philosophy explicating phenomena by their terminals or intents. The safe house wins first-class advertisement consequence with no cost. In this procedure, the PR pattern arrives at its end. Therefore, it is a successful pattern, related to the hierarchy of effects theory, which additions the maximal effects by doing intelligence. Maslow ‘s hierarchy of demands theory is a one-way communicating, imputing to the theories of receiving system response. Its group members like behavioral public dealingss theoretical account, societal exchange theory, societal larning theory, agenda puting theory and amplification likeliness theoretical account besides concern the receiving system response. The Maslow theoretical account concerns the receiving systems ‘ response of the communicated message. This theory theoretical account was defined by US psychologist Abraham Maslow ( 1954, p.91 ) when he observed that everyone had a motive of demands. These need have been put in five phases from the lower bed to the upper, including biological and physiological demands, safety demands, belongingness and love demands, esteem demands and self-actualisation. Actually, the hierarchy of demands in PR can be interpreted with personal or organisational motive and the thereby satisfaction. It chiefly involves with issues of op portunism. This is an illustration stating the beginning and being of on-line selling of Daigaku Honyaku Centre ( DHC ) . DHC Corporation specializes in fabricating cosmetics. It bears a good apprehension of the blooming online concern market and cogwheels to utilize this new media to advance its trade name and merchandises. The procedure of DHC ‘s s online selling includes four methods: online virus selling via ad web ; experimental selling via try-out experience ; word of oral cavity selling via persuasion from friends, consumers, booklet, mass media ; rank via telephone or online booking free try-out, booking orders. You read "Theoretically Applied Practices Of Public Relations Commerce Essay" in category "Essay examples" Further, DHC grasps the advantageous of web to cut down marketing cost and increase selling business velocity in the same clip. Through website advertisement brotherhood, DHC invariably strengthens the constructs of its direct trade name selling and addictive-free mer chandises to the possible consumers. In the decorative industry, consumers vary their demands in different degree of Maslow five phases. That is to state, different merchandises cater for different degrees of human demands. Maslow ( 1954, p.92 ) explained that â€Å" self-actualization † was ongoing and carry throughing procedure of the peculiar and individul desire that pushed people to go what they desire. Relatively, cosmetics have the characters of little size but of high monetary value, convience of buying and low perceptual experience of hazard. So they are rather equal to sale on the online promenade and particular shopping web sites. It is widely agreed that the web is the modern-day manner platform for seeking information and amusement. This instance shows that organisations move to the right topographic points where gathers the bulk of consumers. DHC invetigated the consumers ‘ demands and so planed the on-line selling plan. It arranges distribution of decorative try-outs to pull the web visiters and possible consumers. Furthermore, it assures the credibleness and map of its cosmetics. Therefore, it fulfills its purpose to excite the ingestion desire. In the one-way communicating ptocess, receiving system responses are cognitive responses ( thought procedures ) , affectional responses ( feelings and emotions ) and behavioral responses ( actions ) ( Kirby, 2009, p.33 ) .. In the pattern Doctor of Optometry online selling, DHC suffers many challenges. The primary 1 is how to acquire on-line visitants and how to motive the possible consumers to purchase its merchandises. As the online shoppers are untouchable without the connexion of web and computing machines. They prefer clcking the web site to order and pay, instead than shoppping on the noisy streets and crowdy shopping centres. Therefore, the cardinal issues for DHC ‘s online selling is to happen the consumers and derive assurance from them. The DHC instance enlightens that there is non merely the immense powers from the web, but besides a warning that any sorts of advertizements or selling plans should be planned on the premiss of people. Practicaly, there is the being of demand to hold production which is to hold ingestion and the market ; or, it is a must to make demands when there is no demand nowadays. Therefore, the key to the existent selling success lies in homo will and demands. The four theoretical accounts of Grunig and Hunt ( 1984 ) , besides named as the theories of pattern, are used rather frequently in PR pattern. There are press agentry, public information theoretical account, bipartisan asymmetric public dealingss, bipartisan symmetric public relation ; particularlay, the bipartisan symmetric theoretical account is widely applied as the ideal theoretical account of PR. The bipartisan symmetric theoretical account purposes a common apprehension, merely positions of both the populaces and the administration ( Grunig A ; Hunt, 1984, p.22 ) . This attack advocates relationship edifice through duologue, listening and gained common apprehension. Jonson A ; Jonson ( JNJ ) ‘s endurance from the Tara Noel / Tylenol capsule engagement is a instance of crisis PR. Recalled as 1982 Chicago Tylenol slayings, several individuals were ill or died for taking the Tara Noel capsule. Subsequently, the scrutiny of Tylenol capsule showed that it contained cyanide toxics. By the rapid and broad spread of the intelligence, the consumers were striken with terror and the company ‘s image rocked bottom. As a consequence, JNJ suffered a black economic diminution. After a serious of precedures, JNJ endured and survived. The survival procedure of this can be recoginesed as following. Strategically, it applied four facets of crisis public dealingss: foremost, taking enterprises and seting the public foremost ; secondly, reacting and moving with Ssincerity and honestness ; thirdly, taking ain duty foremost ; fourthly, look intoing the truth. In the outside environment, JNJ drew supportaton from the media. It halted all the commercial adv ertizements on the newspapers, maganizes and telecastings. Besides, it issued a national-wide danger warning to infirmaries, physicians and retail merchants. On the behalf of consumers ‘ benefits, JNJ provided information and unfold the truth through the mass media. Tonss of staff were placed to supervise intelligence coverage and the phone so that they could be familiar with the demands of the consumers. Furthermore, JNJ cooperated with the media. All the developing procedure of crisis were exposed to the media. Therefore, it got back a good feeling to some extent and make a cherished preferable public sentiment environment. In the position of rerurning to the market, when the invetigation consequences proved its innocece, JNJ strived many endevours. It put attempts to keep the trade name, promotiong the new medical specialty wadding. Last, it designated several interpreters and held a originative imperativeness conference. There the JNJ direction bed members answered the qustioons from more than five 100 journalists. Meantime, the picture of the new-paking Tara Noel was display at the conference. Subsequently, the affiliates of JNJ called up 1000s of saleapersons to play this Tylenol picture. In this prcocess, most medical tretment groups and community members were informed and got back to buy medical specialties from JNJ. Thus, after one twelvemonth, JNJ regained the consumer ‘s crebibility and took large part in the market. Despite a figure of critics doubting the cogency of all four theoretical accounts and the practicality of the symmetrical theoretical account in peculiar, Pearce ( 2009, para.7 ) intorduced Grunig ‘s theory that about public dealingss, PR practicians and corporates ‘ CEOs do see and use these four theoretical accounts because they entirely describe the effectual communicating among different types of stakeholders or populaces. He salso claimed that symmetricalness communicating in PR pattern is the procedure of â€Å" equilibrating the involvements † of the company and the related consumers ( as cited in Pearce, 2009, para.16 ) . In this instance The JNJ ‘s president -James Burke â€Å" looked in complete control † and took effectual measurings ( as cited in Rehak, 2002, para.5 ) . JNJ carried out crisis managemnt publically collected back all the shelf tablets and held the straightforward spirit of equity. JNJ apologised to the pulic ithout hesitaton. Furthermore, all of theses schemes were perfomed through the assistance of media. In return, consumers got assorted accessible agencies to portion their sentiments and complainments, got compensation regained concsumer ‘s credits. From the above analysis, JNJ examplizes a bipartisan symmetric communicating of public dealingss with the assistance of mass media. Detailedly, every bit shortly as the bad intelligence was informed, the company take three effectual measurings within an hr. They appointed a group of members to retreat and look into the medine, sent crisis directors and public dealingss expertness to the topographic point for the benefits of public, and reported all the relevant ongong information and truth to the populace and media. So it can be defined the company ‘s Kantian doctrine moralss as deontology, a standardalized duty to take the â€Å" right † thing and avoid donging the â€Å" incorrect † things ( Broad, 1930, p.277 ) . JNJ bears the duty, compensates the patients at the forfeit of the house itself. In a word, JNJ pays great attending to corporate ‘s credibleness, patterns with humanitarianism and idolize the populaces and consumers ‘ involvements in the first topographic point. Harmonizing to the applications of the three PR theories, it ‘s non difficult to happen that issues direction, strategic placement, public and media communicating, and repute direction are the cardinal elements of PR theories related to the concern operation schemes ( Wilcox et al. , 2002, p.5 ) . Notably, planetary political relations and economic sciences are progressing rapidlyi?†ºthey do non merely convey waiter challenges to the development of PR, but besides provide a broad development filed. On the other manus, human existences are confronting some planetary jobs, such as the environmental protection, population enlargement, war and peace, international terrorists, smuggling, human rights and liberty, regional economic cooperation and development, resource research and development and so on. The significance of their being and ways to work out are no longer limited to a certain category, state, or state. As this is the really range that the application and pattern o f PR are involved to. Practitioners and professionals will face with the undermentioned common undertaking and challenge: through planetary and trans-cultural to organize communicating, organize a planetary common sense, promote the international coordination and cooperation, and forge to analyze and work out these planetary inquiries. From this point, it is predictable that there will be an increasing attending and application of the multi-functional PR, including consultative, prediction, thesis authorship and crisis direction. At least, this is the microscopic tendency for the development of PR. To reason, this essay has put three modern-day communicating theories into pattern, including Public Relations Hierarchy of Effects Model, Maslow ‘s Hierarchy of Needs, and the Two-way Symmetric Model. It is a critical analysis and manifest of these theories and their possible deductions – separately and in combination – for public dealingss pattern. The chief parts of each theory Begin with a description of a theory as a foundation for what it means and where it focuses. The following subdivision illustrates a elaborate illustration and demonstrates how the old theory is applied in the existent universe context. The concluding parts of these theories bring considerations on the ethical issues. In application of theories, this authorship has provided a comprehensive and sophisticated analysis of the links between all elements of your chosen theories and your practical illustrations, and supply strong justification for your determinations. Understanding of ethical issues, an person and comprehensive treatment of ethical considerations in the three practical illustrations have been fulfilled. However, there are much more sophisticated applications of one or more of PR theories to the administration ‘s direction and behavior in different state of affairss to be discussed in the hereafter survey. How to cite Theoretically Applied Practices Of Public Relations Commerce Essay, Essay examples

Cold Blood Essay Example For Students

Cold Blood Essay ?nd values through emulation of parental conduct (Lickona 21). The moral guidance we offer tothem is added up and imitated by what they see (Coles 7). I believe that morality is the result ofa triad of developmental qualities. Our emotional development makes us feel guilty when we dowrong. We experience social development that results in specific actions toward others and,finally, we gain cognitive development that permits us to empathize. Our morality comes to theforefront early in childhood. In elementary school, a child becomes an intensely moralcreature (Coles 98). We develop a moral imagination, a capacity to reflect upon what is right and wrong with all theemotional and intellectual resources of the human mind (Coles 3). This is where we decidewhat we ought to do or not to do and why (Coles 7). Our moral thinking is also shaped byinfluences outside the home, by class and race, by social events, by cultural forces, and theassumptions that are fostered as a result of these influences (Coles 3). And we cultivate a moralintelligence from our imagination and our thinking. Our moral intelligence is a consequence oflearning to be with others (Coles 5). Children will absorb what they observe (Coles 7). Moralityis not a subject; it is a life put to the test in hundreds of moments. August Aicchorn, a notedpsychoanalyst, believed waywardness of antisocial adolescents is in direct proportion to thepeculiarities of their moral education (Coles 32). I feel we should remember, however, that although we possess these developmental qualitiesthrough emotional, social and cognitive development, there is no guarantee that we will becomea wise, contributing member of society. I think that professed but insincere values are worthless. We must be honest with ourselves, recognizing the difference between pretended, verbalizedvalues and operational, acted upon values. Of course, no one lives up to all of their ideals, weare simply not capable of perfection. Values that only make us look or feel good do not help usact more morally. This is self-serving hypocrisy. In the book, Capote makes you almost sympathetic to Dick and Perry by making you privy tothe thoughts behind their actions. He brings the realization that they, too, are human and somecircumstance(s) in their lives has reshaped them into these monsters capable of this crime. Webegin to wonder why Dick and Perry choose the Clutters, we wonder why they murdered them,instead of simply robbing them. We feel for them because of their physical defects whichCapote details both literally and figuratively in his writing. Although Perry was portrayed as an amateur psychoanalyst (Capote 302), he is viewed asintrospective. He did not seem willing to face his imperfections openly. Even viewing hisbodily imperfections was performed within small closed places (like a cheap hotel room and amens room at the gas station). He did not like even his close friend Dick to discuss his disabilitywith him. He frequently swallowed aspirin, more out of habit than out of need (Capote 53-55),as though the aspirin would cure that which ailed him internally. We can deduce that histwisted, mangled legs represented a part of his inner psyche that also was twisted and mangled. Although premeditated, he, when paired with Dick, could have murdered anyone. Perry needed Dick because he was the planner, the con artist that could defycircumstances, but Perry actually slashed Herb Clutters throat and shot all four of the familymembers in their heads. He resented the all American family, the morality that theyrepresented. The rage of his inability to measure up to this level, to achieve this type of moralityis what permitted him to kill. Dicks background was also a train track to immorality. He grew up in a poor family,experienced family trauma through his divorces and eventually turned to a life of petty crime. He became embittered toward life in general and Capote believed this was even evidentexternally with Dicks disfigured face. Capote felt that even Dicks faade warned us of thebitter sediment that formed the basis for his nature. However, I do not think that Dick wouldhave committed this crime on his own. Dick was viewed as a small-time crook compelled to actout this crime because Perry viewed him as macho. Dick needed Perrys violent nature tocomplete the bond that almost seems to develop into a third person when they were together. .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 , .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .postImageUrl , .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 , .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:hover , .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:visited , .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:active { border:0!important; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:active , .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70 .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uc12674abb4e62761b5243dc14ba21a70:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: How The Other Half Lives Essay Paper SegregationA leading researcher of values, Milton Rokeach, believes that it is often necessary to becomedissatisfied with yourself before you will change your behavior, attitudes, or values. I feel thatthis means that one has to create a problem before you will solve the problem of morals. Forexample, we have to become dissatisfied with our behavior toward others before we will admitthat we should become more considerate of others. Usually, we avoid dealing with these typesof issues because we are unsure exactly what our values and morals are and we may feel that byfacing up to them we will be forced to air our imperfections. Perhaps th is random murder wasDick and Perrys expression of their dissatisfaction with themselves and their lack of moralvalues. Both men exhibited changed behavior at some point in their lives which also lends credence totheir dissatisfaction. Dicks external behavior changed radically after he was discharged fromprison in 1950 (Capote 292). Perrys childhood was marked by brutality, a lack of direction, loveand a fixed sense of moral values (Capote 296). We can reason that their actions were born outof previous and now unconscious, traumatic experiences (Capote 299). I also feel that the elements of the tragedy were beyond control simply because this murder wasthe result of the random chance telling of a fabrication about Herb Clutter by a cellmate (FloydWells) of Dicks. One is given to believe that this type of storytelling within the prison walls iscommonplace. I believe that the randomness at which the parties became involved makes thisbeyond control. Even Floyd didnt think that Dick would do anything to the Clutters and whenhe did realize that they had actually committed the crime, he became their nemesis, he providedthe tip that resulted in their arrest. Upon their incarceration, Perry drew pictures of Jesus,exhibiting his expressive, gentle side. Dick simply did not show emotion or remorse. In prisonthey were separated and that person that was borne of their joining forces could not evolve,could not murder. Separate they were purposeless. Mental health is based on the tensionbetween what you are and what you think you should become. You sho uld be striving forworthy goals. Emotional problems arise from being purposeless (Victor Frankl, 1970). BibliographyCapote, Truman. In Cold Blood. New York: Vintage International, Vintage Books, ADivision of Random House, Inc., 1994. Coles, Robert. The Moral Intelligence of Children. New York: Random House, 1997. Frankl, Victor. Quote of the Day. Comptons Interactive Encyclopedia. 1998 ed. CD-ROM. Cambridge, MA: The Learning Company, Inc., 1998. Lickona, Thomas. Raising Good Children. New York: Bantam Books, 1983. Neumann, Erich. The Child. Boston: Random House, 1990.

Qatar Country Risk

Executive Summary The study entails a critical country risk analysis on Qatar. The purpose of the study is to determine the degree of risk that Exin Global might encounter by entering the Qatari market. The study focuses on different categories of risk. The core categories include the firm-specific risk or the micro risk, country-specific risk and global specific risks. The firm-specific risk identifies the political risks that the firm might encounter in the host country.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Qatar Country Risk specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The likelihood of encountering goal conflict by entering into the target market is minimal because of the support given to foreign investments. The Qatari government promotes foreign investment through the foreign investment law. Moreover, the company’s success in the new market will also arise from the strong cultural and institutional frameworks. For e xample, the legal framework in Qatar promotes investment by enacting intellectual property laws hence protecting innovation. An efficient banking and financial system further characterize the country and it promotes currency convertibility. The high rate of globalization, an increase in environmental concern such as climate change, and cyber crime might affect the firm’s operational efficiency both in the local and foreign markets. Introduction Domestic and international market expansion is one of the most effective ways through which companies can achieve profit and wealth maximization. Exin Global is a multinational corporation established in the UAE’s consumer goods industry. The company specializes in the manufacture of household care products. The company’s Chief Executive Officer is interested in the company’s growth through international market expansion. The CEO is specifically interested in the firm’s expansion into Qatar as one of the eme rging economies. However, some of the firm’s directors are concerned with the business risk exposure that might arise from venturing into some countries. This aspect underscores the importance of understanding the country risk before the firm’s actual market entry. As a member of the company’s Business Development Committee, I have been tasked with the role of providing a broad country risk analysis for the most viable country that the firm should consider entering. PESTLE analysis of Qatar Political and legal environment Qatar has adopted a monarchical system of government. Moreover, the Qatar government identifies investment and international trade as one of the fundamental components in promoting a country’s economic growth. Subsequently, the country is characterized by minimal bureaucracies that hinder foreign investment.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF L earn More The Qatar government through the Ministry of Economy and Commerce has simplified the procedures required for foreign investors to establish a business in Qatar. However, foreign businesses are required to apply for a license from the relevant government departments depending on their intended business activity. Qatar has established strong political relations with foreign countries in the Middle East and North Africa region. Economic environment Qatar has depicted remarkable economic growth over the past decades. The country’s Gross Domestic Product has increased substantially as illustrated by graph 1 below. The growth in GDP is a strong indicator of the country’s positive economic performance. Thus, the consumers’ purchasing power has grown substantially due to growth in the per capita income. Graph 1: GDP in Qatar (â€Å"Trading Economics† par. 3) Social Environment The country’s social structure has changed substantially. The count ry’s society does not have cases of discrimination against foreign companies. For example, the country’s population has increased from 0.97 million in 2006 to 2.27 in 2014. The increase in the population indicates a potential growth in demand for consumer goods. Thus, the company might be able to generate the intended level of sales revenue. Graph 2: Population growth in Qatar (â€Å"Trading Economics† par.5)Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Qatar Country Risk specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Technological environment Qatar is characterized by strong infrastructural development such as transport and communication networks. The developments have remarkably improved the level of efficiency of conducting business in the country. Environment The Qatar government has implemented a strict legislation aimed at curtailing carbon emission. The motive of such legislation is to limit climate change. T herefore, the government is pressuring manufacturing companies to implement effective strategies aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Failure to comply with the law might result in a fine. Country risk analysis Krummel affirms that country risk is comprised of four main environments that include the political, debt manageability, anthropological and the economic risk (27). Subsequently, understanding the country risk analysis is essential determining the probability of multinational enterprises succeeding or failing in the in the international market. Thus, conducting country risk analysis is vital in evaluating a multinational enterprise capacity to generate cash flow. Therefore, country risk analysis is essential to improving the MNCs capacity in making long-term financial or investment decisions. Country risk varies across different countries. Subsequently, evaluating country risk enables MNCs to determine the most feasible foreign market to enter (Madura 439). Political risk The political risk in Qatar can be defined as moderate. First, the government is focused on promoting international trade. Subsequently, the Qatar government has ensured ease of currency convertibility by eliminating foreign exchange controls or restrictions. Therefore, foreign investors in Qatar can easily remit their profits to the parent country without any restrictions. Additionally, foreign investors operating in Qatar are not restricted to convert local currency into foreign currency. Therefore, Exin Global operations in Qatar will not be hindered by external currency inconvertibility. Rochon and Rossi assert that external currency inconvertibility occurs if foreign residents are limited from converting local currency into foreign currency (125). The ease of currency convertibility in the country is further increased by the country’s banking system. Qatar is characterized by an elaborate banking system and regulatory system. Qatar is currently in the process of implementing the Basel Standards to establish a strong banking system.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Financial risk factor One of the essential indicators of a country’s financial risk entails the interest rate. The rate of interest influences the cost of sourcing debt finance from commercial banks. The Qatar government has managed to maintain the rate of interest rate below 10%. In 2014, the World Bank estimated the lending interest rate to be 4.96%, which is substantially low. The graph below illustrates the trend in the country’s rate of interest from 2006 to 2014. Graph 3: Interest rate in Qatar (â€Å"Trading Economics† par. 2) The low rate of interest indicates that the country is likely to experience significant economic growth due to the ease with which businesses access financial credit. Moreover, the country is characterized by a moderate rate of inflation as illustrated by graph 3. The average rate of inflation in Qatar between 2005 and 2015 is estimated to be 3.48%. The country experiences fluctuations in the rate of inflation. In June 2008, the co untry’s rate of inflation reached its highest point at 16.59%. However, Qatar has managed to lower the rate of inflation significantly. By the end of October 2015, the rate of inflation in Qatar was estimated to be 1.7%, which is considerably low. Graph 4: Rate of inflation in Qatar (â€Å"Trading Economics† par. 6) The rate of inflation has a significant effect on the operation of Multinational Corporation. Sharan posits that if a â€Å"multinational company exports its products to countries characterized by high inflation rather than setting up a manufacturing unit in there, the exports are more likely to have a high competitive edge† (214). The low rate of inflation in Qatar is a strong indicator of the enabling economic environment in the country. Subsequently, Exin Global is likely to gain a high competitive edge by establishing a manufacturing unit in the country. In addition to the low cost of manufacturing, Exin Global is likely to benefit from the resu lting low consumer price index because of the low rate inflation. The Qatar economy has been characterized by a marginal change in the consumer price index as illustrated by graph 5 below. Graph 5: Consumer Price Index (â€Å"Trading Economics† par.5) The marginal change in the CPI indicates that the cost of living in Qatar has not increased significantly. Hence, the firm will benefit from the high consumer purchasing power. Consumers in Qatar will be in a position to afford Exin Global products. Therefore, the demand for consumer goods is likely to be stimulated. Similar to other countries in the Gulf region, Qatar has adopted a fixed exchange regime. The rationale behind the adoption of the fixed exchange regime is to ensure the stability of the country’s currency. Currently, the fixed rate of exchange is pegged at QAR 3.64=USD 1. The Qatar government expects the exchange rate to remain stable until the end of 2016 (â€Å"Trading Economics† par.8). By establi shing business operations in Qatar, Exin Global is likely to achieve the desired sales growth in sales. The growth in sales will arise from the stable exchange rate. Assessment of risk factors Macro-assessment of country risk Macro-political risk According to Madura, macro assessment of country risk entails consideration of the diverse variables that are likely to affect country risk (253). Undertaking a macro-assessment of country risk will give Exin Global a broad understanding of the general factors that are likely to affect the company’s operation in the host country. The degree of political risk in a country influences the performance and ease with which multinational corporations conduct business operations in the foreign market. Qatar is located in a region characterized by a significant level of instability and social unrest. One of the notable sources of social unrest relates to the recent Arab Spring that led to the emergence of new political regimes. Moreover, the rate of terrorism in the region is substantially high. The prevalence of these issues in the region might adversely affect investor confidence. Despite the cases of terrorism and social unrest in the MENA region, Qatar is characterized by minimal political unrest (â€Å"AMB Country Risk Report† 3). Therefore, the level of investor confidence in Qatar has not been affected adversely. Due to the minimal cases of social unrests in Qatar, Exin Global is likely to operate smoothly in the host country. Moreover, the likelihood of encountering loss due to social unrest is significantly low. Despite Qatar’s ranking amongst the peaceful countries in the MENA region, the sustainability of the peaceful conditions in the country remains to be a balancing act. The country has enacted foreign policies aimed at supporting the Muslim Brotherhood in the MENA region, specifically in Egypt (Hawser par. 5). The country’s foreign policy position might lead to the emergence of distru st amongst countries in the GCC and MENA regions. This aspect might affect the ability of the subsidiary firm established by Exin Global in Qatar capacity to export its products to the neighboring countries. Macro-financial risk Qatar’s economy is largely dependent on revenue generated from oil production. Qatar is the global leader concerning the production and exportation of liquefied natural gas. Over 90% of the country’s budget is funded using revenue generated from the exportation of oil (Parasie par.4). In spite of past positive economic performance, Qatar’s economy might be affected by fluctuation in global oil prices. A recent evaluation of the country’s economic performance by the International Monetary Fund [IMF] indicates that Qatar might experience budget deficit due to the low oil prices currently being experienced n the oil producing countries. Parasie asserts that the oil generating economies are characterized by booms and bursts (par. 5). The occurrence of a budget deficit might make the Qatari government consider increasing corporate and income taxes to cater for the budget deficit. Increasing the tax rate might adversely affect influence the company’s capacity to generate sales revenue due to a reduction in the consumers’ purchasing power. Micro-assessment The political risk affecting the fast moving consumer goods industry in Qatar is relatively low because of the support offered by the government. The Qatar government has established free economic zones such as the Doha Industrial Estate. The rationale of the Doha Industrial Estate is to promote the establishment of medium and light scale industries. Furthermore, the Qatar government offers investors in the free economic zones a tax holiday depending on the nature of their manufacturing activities. Therefore, Exin Global might benefit from establishing a manufacturing unit within the designated free economic zones. For example, the tax holiday will culminate to a reduction in the cost of operations. Subsequently, the firm will be able to establish operations in Qatar. Techniques for assessing country risk To assess the country risk, it is imperative for the company’s management team to undertake an extensive country risk assessment. First, Exin Global management team should conduct a comprehensive reconnaissance on the new market. The firm can achieve this goal by sending the Business Development Committee members to Qatar to assess the attractiveness of the market. During the inspection visits, the Committee should interview government officials, consumers, and industry executives on the uncertainties that are likely to be encountered in the target country. The firm might conduct a quantitative analysis by evaluating the historical data. This move will play a critical role in determining how the firm is sensitive to risk the risk factors. Moreover, the Business Development Committee should further consider integrating the Delphi technique. Under this technique, the organization should seek the independent opinion of industry analysts or experts regarding the country risk. The Delphi technique is critical to understanding the perceived country risk (Madura 450). Alternatively, the business might consider developing a checklist to be used in rating the risk factors. Based on rating, Qatar can be defined to be relatively stable as illustrated in Table 2 below. The table shows that the overall assessment of the country’s risk is stable as indicated by a comparison between the previous and current rating. Measuring country risk Before making the decision on the most appropriate foreign country to enter, the company’s management may consider comparing country risk rating. Based on this approach, the company’s management team will be able to make a decision on the most attractive country to enter. In this case, a comparison of the risk rating between Qatar and Kuwait shows that Qata r is the most attractive market. The overall assessment of Qatar has remained stable with a rating of B while that of Kuwait has declined from a rating of B to C. Qatar Kuwait Risk ratings Current Current Previous Previous Current Previous Previous Previous Rating Score Rating Score Rating Score Rating Score Overall assessment B 29 B 28 C 41 B 40 Government effectiveness risk C 46 C 46 D 68 D 68 Labor market risk C 43 C 43 C 57 C 57 Legal regulatory risk B 40 B 40 C 55 C 55 Foreign trade payments risk A 11 A 11 B 21 B 21 Labor market risk C 43 C 43 C 57 C 57 Tax policy risk A 19 A 19 B 31 B 31 Financial risk B 33 B 29 B 29 B 29 Security risk A 14 A 11 A 18 A 14 Macroeconomic risk A 15 A 20 B 30 A 20 Table 2: Comparison of country risk (â€Å"Economic Intelligence Unit† par.8) The rating scores range between 1 and 100, where a score of 100=most risky. Similarly, a rating of E represents the riskiest factor. Incorporating country risk in capital budgeting The company should further consider integrating country risk in its capital budgeting process. The rationale of integrating country risk in the capital budgeting process is to assess the likelihood of generating and sustaining positive returns in the long-term. To achieve this goal, the company may consider determining the adjusted cash flow and discount rate. The adjustment of estimated cash flow will enable the company to assess how its cash flows will be affected by the country risk in Qatar. Alternatively, integrating the country risk is also essential in the company’s effort to determine the most appropriate discount rate that the firm should consider in determining project cash flows. Importance of country risk analysis to Exin Global The process of undertaking country risk analysis will play a critical role in the company’s effort to evaluate the capacity to generate sales revenue by entering in Qatar. Understanding the country’s labor market r isk will enable the firm to determine the ease of sourcing and developing a strong human capital from the host country. Moreover, country risk analysis will aid in the determination of the ease of undertaking sales and manufacturing activities in Qatar. The attainment of this goal arises from the determination of different issues such as the degree of corruption, bureaucracy, the host government attitude to foreign investors and blockage of fund transfers. Minimizing country risk Exin Global should consider minimizing country risk by complying with the laws and regulations specified by the host government. Alternatively, the company should consider sourcing human capital from the host country. The company may consider customizing its products to meet the local market needs. This move will aid in ensuring that it products gain a high level of market acceptability. Effect of risk on the firm’s profitability The degree of country risk has a significant effect on the profitabilit y of MNCs. An economy characterized by a high country risk due to cases of security and political unrest means that country might not undertake sales and manufacturing activities without disruptions. Subsequently, the level of profitability might be reduced substantially. Moreover, political unrest might lead to loss of the company’s property hence stalling manufacturing activities. Actions taken by the government to protect the industry The Qatar government promotes foreign investment in the consumer goods industry through the enactment of the Foreign Capital Investment Law. According to the law, foreign companies operating in Qatar are not subject to expropriation. Additionally, the Qatar government does not restrict foreign companies from transferring equity ownership to either local or foreign investors. In addition to the above issues, the Qatar government protects foreign investors by enacting the intellectual property rights. Thus, investors can undertake product inven tion and innovation in the country. Conclusion International market expansion presents one of the most effective strategies that profit-oriented companies can adopt to achieve profit and wealth maximization. However, successful cross-border market expansion depends on how effective business executives understand the host country risk. Country risk analysis is critical in determining the degree of exposure that a multinational enterprise can encounter in the domestic and host country. It provides multinational corporations with a multidimensional view of the international business environment. Suggestions To enter the Qatar market, Exin Global should adopt different techniques in evaluating country risk. One of the most effective techniques entails cross-country rating to identify the most attractive market. Alternatively, the company should further undertake a continuous assessment of the country risk. The continuous assessment will provide the firm with insight on how the country r isks changes. Subsequently, it will be possible for the firm to undertake the necessary adjustments to its risk management processes. Works Cited AMB Country Risk Report: Qatar. 2015. PDF file. 2015. Web. Economic Intelligence Unit: Risk briefing; Qatar 2015. Web. Hawser, Anita. Report; Qatar faces geopolitical risk, 2012. Web. Krummel, Jacob. International banking business, Berlin: Drucker Humbolt, 2007. Print. Madura, Jeff. International financial management, Mason: Cengage, 2009. Print. Parasie, Nicolas. Qatar risks budget deficit in 2016 due to low oil prices, IMF says, 2015. Web. Trading Economics: Qatar 2015. Web. Rochon, Louis, and Sergio Rossi. The encyclopedia of central banking, Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing, 2015. Print. Sharan, Vyuptakesh. International business; concepts, environment and strategy, Delhi: Pearson, 2006. Print. 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The Rise of Dell Computers essays

The Rise of Dell Computers essays In 1984, at the age of 19, Michael Dell founded Dell Computer with a simple vision and business concept that personal computers could be built to order and sold directly to customers. Michael Dell believed his approach to PC manufacturing had two advantages: (1) bypassing distributors and retail dealers eliminated the markups of resellers, and (2) building to order greatly reduced the costs and risks associated with carrying large stocks of parts, components, and finished goods. While Dell Computer sometimes struggled during its early years in trying to refine its strategy, build an adequate infrastructure, and establish market credibility against better-known rivals, its build-to-order and sell-direct approach proved appealing to growing numbers of customers in the mid-1990s as global PC sales rose to record levels. And, just as important, the strategy gave the company a substantial cost and profit margin advantage over rivals that manufactured PCs in volume and kept their distribu tors and retailers stocked with ample inventories. Going into 1998, Dell Computer had a 12 percent share of the PC market in the United States, trailing only Compaq Computer and IBM, which held first and second place in the market, respectively. Worldwide, Dell Computer had nearly a 6 percent market share. The company was gaining market share quickly in all of the world's markets. The company's fastest growing market for the past several quarters was Europe. Even though Asia's economic woes in the first quarter of 1998 resulted in a slight decline in Asian sales of PCs, Dell's sales in Asia rose 35 percent. Dell's sales at its Internet Web site was averaging $5 million a day and was expected to reach $1.5 billion annually by year-end 1998. Since 1990, the company's stock price had exploded from a split-adjusted price of 23 cents per share to $83 per share in May 1998. Dell Computer was the top-performing big company stock so far during...

The New Career Path for Headmasters - Then and Now

The New Career Path for Headmasters - Then and Now The route to the headmasters office has changed. Once upon a time, the headmaster, often referred to as the head of a school, was almost certainly somebody with teaching and administrative experience. Better yet, he or she was an alumnus or an alumna - an old boy or an old girl, well connected and respected within the community. However, in an increasingly competitive marketplace with higher expectations placed on schools, the profile of the head of school is changing. To be sure, its a gradual change. But its a change nonetheless, and its occurring because the challenges facing a head of school these days require experiences and skill sets not usually found in a person who is first and foremost an educator. The Way It Used to Be For years, the way to the top of the private school organization chart was through the hallowed halls of academe. You graduated from college with a degree in your subject. You were engaged as a teacher, coached your team sport, kept your nose clean, married acceptably, raised some children of your own, became dean of students, and after 15 or 20 years you were in the running for head of school. Most of the time that worked just fine. You knew the drill, understood the clientele, accepted the curriculum, made a few changes, tweaked the faculty appointments ever so slightly, steered clear of controversy, and magically, there you were: receiving a nice check and being put out to pasture after 20 years or so as head of school. The Way It Is Now Life got complicated in 90s, however. Years ago, it used to be that the head could run his school simply by looking out his office window and observing what was going on. A periodic look in at the faculty lounge and an occasional meeting with alumni and parents to raise some money - it all was pretty straightforward. Even a bit dull. Not any more. The head of a private school in the new millennium has to have the executive ability of Fortune 1000 executive, the diplomatic skills of Ban Ki-moon and the vision of Bill Gates. S/he has to deal with substance abuse. S/he has to be politically correct. His graduates have to get into the right colleges. He has to raise millions for this project and that. He has to sort through legal issues which would numb the mind of a Philadelphia lawyer. He needs the diplomatic skills of an ambassador to deal with parents. His technology infrastructure costs a fortune and doesnt seem to have improved teaching at all. On top of all this, his admissions department now has to compete for students with several other schools which years ago could hardly be considered the competition if they existed at all. CEO vs Educator Many people first acknowledged this shift in  the summer of 2002, when Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg of New York City surprised the masses by  appointing a lawyer/executive with no formal educational administrative training as Chancellor of the New York City schools. As CEO of the Bertelsmann, Inc. media conglomerate, Joel I. Klein brought vast business experience to that most complicated of assignments. His appointment served as a wake up call to the educational establishment as a whole that new and imaginative approaches to school administration are needed. This was only the first step in what soon became a rapidly changing environment.   Private schools shifted from viewing themselves solely as academic institutions to operating under dual roles: schools and businesses. The academic side of operations continues to grow and flourish with the changing times, often faster than the business side of these elite institutions. However, heads have begun to acknowledge the need for augmented admission offices to recruit students, development offices to raise money to support school operations, and business offices to better manage the daily financial needs of schools and their communities. The need for strong marketing and communications has also become apparent, and continues to grow rapidly, with schools employing large offices of skilled professionals working to develop new target audience.   The new heads role isnt to simply ensure that everything plugs along in terms of day to day tasks. But rather, the new head is responsible for leading a powerful group of professionals who are working to ensure that the school thrives in difficult and at times, downright volatile market conditions. While the head isnt expected to know how to do everything, he or she is expected to provide clear and concise goals and strategic vision.   The biggest, and often hardest change for many to swallow is the need to  see families as customers and not only as parents of students with malleable minds which need solid training, nurturing and direction for success in later life.  Ã‚   Characteristics to Look for Choosing the right head is critical part of moving your school successfully through changing circumstances and financial tough times. Given the large number of constituencies within a school community you will need to find a strategic leader and consensus builder. A good head listens well. S/he understands the widely differing needs of parents, faculty and students, yet demands the partnership and cooperation of all three groups to accomplish his educational goals. S/he is a skilled sales person who has a solid grip on the facts and can articulate them convincingly. Whether s/he is raising money, speaking at a seminar in his area of expertise or addressing a faculty meeting, s/he represents and sells the school to everybody s/he encounters. A good head is a leader and an exemplar. His vision is clear and well thought out. His moral values are above reproach. A good head manages effectively. S/he delegates to others and holds them accountable. A good head doesnt have to prove himself. He knows what is required and accomplishes it. Hire a Search Firm The reality is that to find this person, you may have to spend some money and hire a search firm to identify suitable candidates. Appoint a search committee which can include trustees as well as representatives from your school community such as a student, a faculty member and an administrator. The search committee will vet the applicants and present a candidate for the board of trustees approval. Hiring a new headmaster is a process. It takes time. If you do it right, you have charted a path for success. Get it wrong and the results could be just the opposite.

Children's Listening Skills Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Children's Listening Skills - Essay Example This essay approves that the listening comprehension assessment tests measure the extent to which the child can comprehend information that is listened to. Listening comprehension tasks are usually age and grade appropriate and is directly comparable to reading comprehension assessment. Since there are several factors involving listening, it would be best if all these factors are considered first and come up with an authentic assessment that will address all the concerns to be fair for the child involved. This report makes a conclusion that listening is a very important aspect of child’s development. It may come naturally and automatic at birth as hearing but it must be trained to a higher level which is listening for a purpose. Listening seems to be the basis of other communication skills. A baby needs to listen to the sounds around him or her, and to learn how words are produced and how language may be used. As the child grows up, he or she needs to develop his/her listening skills to acquire more skills such as words meaning, understanding, reading, and comprehension. Through listening, a child can gather several information that he or she may use to his or her advantage. He or she may even come up with his or her idea after synthesizing. Listening is very important, if not the most important, skill a child may learn for him or her to succeed in school, and with her relationships with friends and family. It is appropriate and imperative that the child learn how to develop hi s or her listening skills as soon as possible, guided adults, by research and new technology.