Saturday, August 31, 2019

African American art

NNamdi Collection of African- American Art is composed of musical art, literary works and other artistic works that expressed African American ideas for freedom. To speak of African American evoked many negative ideas during the human rights activism against slavery. Such ideas as post colonialism, transnational, ethnicity, race and racism, Black Nationalism and many other terms emerged during this period. According to Tololyan, 1996, the African Diaspora, as African Americans were referred to, became the paradigmatic case towards the end of the 20th century.The continued experience of the racial experience became crucial in the emergence of transnational identities of the African Americans due to their background as sons and daughters of slaves. The emergence of music as an art of expressing grievances by the African Americans in the 20th century has a relationship with the emergence of African American sensibilities. An essay, Travelling Music and musicians, the author explores the globalization of African Americans plights using music with special; focus on the exchange between African America, Europe, and the Black combined in the opposition to racial subjugation.The racial tribulations faced by the blacks brought the idea of unified black musical ethos. This consequently brought the forging of collective identity through opposition to common enemy. This brought out the ease with which the complexities of the African Americans dissolved into a binary opposition between Blacks and whites. According to Faye Harrison (1998: 617), the construct has become nearly impossible to uproot, even though currently there is an increasing multicolored and multicultural society where racial barriers are continuously sealed with interracial marriage. The contest is still on the whiteness or blackness of an individual.Faye continue to state that the unending structural quality of racism with its set of economic political, ideological as well as color hierarchies continuously places blacks at the bottom of the ladder and this consequently is the cause of ultimate contest that reinforces the tendency of binarism. Claims of ‘Africanness’ as idealized and articulated through music is more or less similar to the nationalists’ assertions of an opposite political valence in the 20th century (Potter 1998). According to Pamela Potter, German sense of superiority in music was principally used to uphold the racial superiority ideologies.According to her study, she revealed that claims of music’s attachments to the collective attachments to people’s characters ca never be separated from the political and historical use to which such claims are upheld. African America’s literature is celebrated musically, spiritually, and emotionally as a sign of remembrance to the past role of art in the common struggle against social in justice. It is also important to remember that German National Socialists in the early 20th century too claimed to be musical people, considering their passionate depth and spiritual transcendence through the work of art (Potter 1998: 200-234).Potter clarifies that this should not be used to suggest that African Americans assertions of the centrality of the music can be equated to those of National Socialists, but should be used to underscore the importance of placing the spiritual and emotional dimensions in the context of solid historical as well as social practice. This article therefore links music, cultural identities, historical and political forces, and globalized economies in the 20th century with crucial and larger projects of analyzing the African American musical sensibilities.This rejects the idea of static African American essence of favoring more continuous redefined and negotiated sense of culture that springs up from generation to generation in response larger majority white race. Black Atlantic- Paul Gilroy (1993) In his book, critical Atlantic, Paul Gilroy is critica l of the debate on the African American cultural studies and arguing for the centrality of the music for the construction and maintenance of the interethnic identities.Gilroy’s arguments centers on the multiplicity of the cultural flow between the African Americans, Caribbean, Britons, and North Americans. In his work, ships were chosen because of their symbolic middle age passage to invoke and provide his visual image for the transatlantic interaction. However, his continued work dwells in music is significant in making his point. He identifies three principles that regard relationship between race and culture. These three principle positions are: ethnic absolutism, anti-essentialism, and anti-antiessentialism.In his description of positions of black music, he believes that the music is divided between those who see the music as a source of political charge towards enhancing the blackness identity and those who would dispute the existence of such a unifying factor in any pol itical environment. According to his views, anti-essentialism is a social constructionist and ideological view of race that is often ‘insufficiently alive to the lingering power of specifically racialised forms of power and subordination’ (Gilroy 1998: 32).Gilroy expresses his displeasure by describing it as tantamount to forsaking the mass of black people in the societal system of governance. He elaborates his ideology by stating that he takes an exception to the idea that racial identity is simply an ideological effect. For Gilroy, even though he is against the idea of essentialism, race is not an imagined community, something that can be deconstructed so as to neutralize the importance of black homology.The ability of music to link several expressive styles like language, dance and clothing as well as presenting idealized ethical and social sensibilities is central in the symbolic presentation of African American settings. In understanding the spiritual and ethical a spect of the Jazz performance, the combination requires several combination of voice, the ability to play with multiple musical parameters during performance and well as understanding the cultural foundation of the music. This gives the ethical goal of the music that it eventually makes sense such that a particular group of people can identify with.Gilroy argues that this deep sense of belonging is not an escape but deep involvement of the art of music for the African Americans. This provides means of cultural integration with coping strategies for racism. In his book, ‘’Communities Style’’, Veit Erlmann analyses the song ‘The Lion Sleep Tonight’. This song was done by South African Zulu migrant workers lead by Solomon Linda and was recorded at various diasporic locations. Here Erlmann is specifically interested in the way this music was altered as it was revived and re interpreted by a succession of groups like the Weavers in 1952 and the Tok ens in 1961.These two groups were all American groups. Other versions came from the collaborations between Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the Mint Juleps in 1990. On all these versions of the song, at stake here was the construction of the African American identity through music. Erlmann described this as ‘Endotropic performance’ to emphasize the interracial construction of identity through similar styles. These forms of identities have emerged under this increasingly globalized social life. He describes this scenario as strange because a persons understanding of him or herself in the social world is no longer coinciding with the widely dispersed locations.Jerome Harris n his essay, ‘Jazz on the Global Stage’ , Jerome Harris provides an insiders analysis of the globalization of Jazz, based on his professional involvement for more than twenty years as a guitarist and bassist on a research he together with promoters, editors, journalists, other musicians and man agers. He calls his work‘Ecology of jazz’. This is a web of interrelations between art makers, art users and mediators. Harris provides a very rich portrait of jazz in terms of performance and reception, especially in Europe (Bob Thompson, 1962:221). More importantly is his approach to jazz music as a tool of identity and aesthetic.He asks two main questions, who owns jazz? And what is the appropriate aesthetic for the jazz music. He tries to delineate the tension between African Americans sense of ownership of the music and the increasing participation of the non African Americans both as musicians and consumers. According to his views, he suggests that the reason why many African Americans have believed that they own the origin and aesthetic value of jazz is because of the collective loss of identity that was threatening to dismantle the cohesive black communities in the post-civil rights era.This belief wa also held by many non-African Americans. In his views, Harris identifies two basic principle of coping with the dilemmas of who owns jazz. He chooses the classic dichotomies of tradition/innovation and mainstream/avant-garde. Both sides of his debate is respecting tradition and putting emphases on innovation. While other artists work tend to ward off the outside influence on the jazz music, some emphasizes the importance of accepting the necessary changes that may come with globalization of jazz music as a sign of identity by a particular group of people in their own way (Charles W, 1945: 33).At the end, Harris concludes that the globalization and the hybridization of jazz music pose a painful experience of identity as well as cultural ownership for African Americans. At the same time, he sees it as offering new interesting possibilities when players interact with the rest of the world’s music. Conclusion From the three works of art discussed above on the music as a sign of identity, it is clear that both artists agree that music has b een the defining link for cultural identities.In some of the African Americans views on the ownership and identity of the music, it has been grossly affected by the modernization and the globalization of the world where the different aspects of arts have been diluted. This is the conflict between tradition and modernity which has been said to be dominating the debates. In Europe the, the visual art seems to dominate the tribal art category where the sculpture was used to express the feelings of particular social response in the art scene (Alma Thomas et al 1973: 123)These arts explore the popular feelings of the people and to some extent the other group of people does not understand the con text of the grievances when responding to such complains. This was the dilemma of the music as an art in the early years of social uprising in the American society. Here western critics mostly devoted most of their attention to their culture and ways of thinking giving little attention to the exp ressions of these arts. The American cultural studies has shown emergence of arguments about the centrality of the music for the construction and maintenance of the interethnic identities.Such arguments centers on the multiplicity of the cultural flow between the African Americans, Caribbean, Britons, and North Americans. In most of this art work, ships were chosen due to their symbolic middle age passage to invoke and provide the visual image for the transatlantic interaction. However, most of the works of different artists continued to dwell in passing the message of discomfort. This identifies different principles that regard and guide relationship between different races and culture. BibliographyTololyan S, 1996: The African Diaspora-An African American perspective, Chicago, Chicago University Press Gilroy P, 1998: critical Atlantic-Movement of art, Martin Puryear, Lever Veit Erlmann, 1993: Communities Style, an art of expression, New York, Captive printers Faye Harrison, 1998: The slum Gardens, Gift of the Sandra and Charles Gilman, Jr. Foundation in memory of Dorothea L. Leonhard Alma Thomas et al, 1973: Red Rose Cantata, Denver, Colorado, acrylic on canvas Charles W, 1945: Mother and Awaiting His Return, New York, Gift of Jacob Kainen

Friday, August 30, 2019

Planning for Management Information System

The biggest challenge and most critical success factor in reengineering projects are persuading the people within the organization to cooperate. When you begin to computerize a legacy system considers the advantages; reduced clerical cost, quicker processing time and improved customer service. Everyone knows that the computer capabilities alone make life a lot easier for all managers. The advantage of time and accuracy spread over the lifespan of the information system means improved long-term vision and focus for top, middle and lower managers. A management information system (MIS) focus is on information that management needs to prepare its job. This task becomes much more difficult when the major players have a tradition of high independence, are often confrontational to management, and are irreplaceable independent contractors. CIO's in major business organizations face exactly this situation; further complicated by the fact that the reengineering effort is crucial to the continued existence of the organization. Such discussion has driven the software industry to focus attention on software specifically designed to support the team approach essential to most service and customer oriented organizations. The importance of teamwork can not be over emphasize in achieving overall organizational goals, and the need to capture and manage an organization's knowledge base remain crucial. This teamwork enables the organization to achieve and sustain competitive advantage in their business. In considering the framework for an information system (IS) each level operational, tactical and strategic planning requires different IS. At the operational planning system, the IS collect, validate and record transactional data relating to acquisition or disbursement of resources. The data for account receivable and payables, payrolls, inventory level, shipping data, printed invoice and cash receipts recorded as they occur. The operational-level IS characteristic are repetitive, predictable, emphasizes the past and detailed in nature just to name a few. The focus of the operational system is the daily tasks performed at the user level. The operational level manager uses this data to check every day tasks, i. e. ordering, shipping, inventory control, the essence of the business processes. The second level in the framework is the tactical system. This system provide middle-level managers with information to monitor and control operation while allocating their resources efficiently. The data is summarized, aggregated, or analyzed with a wide range of reports, i. e. , summary, exception and ah hoc reports. The tactical information system differs from operational information system in the basic purpose: operational support the execution of tasks and a tactical information system supports a manager control over those tasks under their area of supervision as well as the allocation of resources to meet the company objectives set by top management. The data input and the information produced as outputs differ from the type of data involved, tactical characteristics are periodic in nature, with unexpected findings, comparative in nature with both internal and external sources. The tactical information system purpose and the regularity of report produced within the information system are drastically different from an operational system. The third level in the framework is strategic planning, designed to provide top managers with information that assist them in making long-range planning decisions for the business. The different in strategic and tactical are not always clear, because both types of information systems may use some of the same data, you might say that the systems sometimes overlap with the difference being in the data that the system uses. Typically, top management uses strategic planning system to forecast long-range company objectives. The characteristics are ah hoc basis, unstructured format, external source, and subjectivity, summary and predictive in nature. A MIS provides information for effective planning and tactical decision making, which is the foundation of operational level data system. A tactical planning system provides middle-level management with the ability to monitor and control resources. The tactical information system does not support the execution of operational tasks, but allow managers visibility over the operation. Information systems are costly, to deploy and maintain, yet the maximization of economic value of IS in the long-run balance out over the initial set-up cost. The right software products enable teams of people to integrate their knowledge, work processes and applications to achieve improved business effectiveness. It has been suggested that the implementation of such technologies is more difficult and yields more unintended consequences than is typically acknowledged. First, how such technologies are used reflect the effects. Second, how these technologies are likely used when alternative tools co-exist, meaning predictability is difficult from technological characteristics. Third, because people use groupware with other people, one person's choices about how to use groupware may have consequences for other group members, user satisfaction. The measurement for an effective MIS must be the users; usage and satisfaction have a strong correlation. Obvious, the effectiveness of MIS depends upon the use of the system and if the employees accept it. The information system department, managers and users together make the MIS process successful. The managers implement the MIS, their behavior and motivation play an important part in the variables for the system to be effective. Each designed MIS produce information for decision making throughout the organization. Let†s examine several case studies with the implementation of MIS as seen in three distinct companies, an insurance company, a food marketing company and a social service agency. The insurance company normal routine consisted of tons of policy paperwork generated daily to accomplish the company objectives. The company started on line systems supporting policy screening, creation and issuance in the 70†³s. An employee could key in new application information at his or her computer terminal, after the compilation of information an underwriter can evaluate the insurability of potential customers. After the approval process, the information system produces a policy data sheet. This business process makes it possible to handle inquiries from individual policyholders and sales agents seeking personal data information about policyholders. The home office linked to all locations of their sales agencies allowing sales agents to inquire on-line about policies with the capability to edit application information at their site. The home office can still update policies as well. Yes, this service provides the agencies with a competitive advantage in product marketing and customer service. The home office outsourced and purchased software that enable the sales agents to analyze alternative companies† product and service options, resulting in winning the customers† loyalty and a quicker sales. The company continues to grasp the future for innovations and anticipating their customers† needs in the future. This approach along ensures valuable information for the senior-level management to plan as well as reduce overhead cost with improved productivity and better decision-making ability. Next, let look at the food industry and view how information system improved their process. The MIS geared toward physical distribution at the operational level, where update orders and invoices sent to the distribution centers and the system updates the account receivable and associate system files. The system prints invoices at the origin and destination location, resulting in reduced cost and faster payments equal more cash flow. The food company produced numerous reports that enabled the managers to conduct on-line credit checks from their account receivable status report, and identify delinquent accounts, before shipping the merchandise to the distribution centers. The customer services personnel have immediate access to open account allowing for immediate visibility and response to customer inquiries about deliveries and shipments, similarly cash payments received automatically applied to customers† on-line account. Let us not forget to look at the marketing advantages with MIS as well. Sales analysis reports reflect the customers† history product information file; this data generates report by product line in each territory each month for middle-level managers to forecast demands for any specific product item. Normally, this begs the question about production and if the company can continue to support the demands of the customers. At this junction, the IS gives managers additional insight about demand and the need to forecast for future buys. The company established a bill-of-material file, which computerized the ingredients for each product line and created batch size for all products. This process minimized the work process and improved the manufacturing ordering process for each customer batch orders. The product specification file served as the database of reference information enabling the manager the ability to print text on all purchase orders. The text file produced a finished goods inventory, which is transferred to the branch warehouse stockroom in various locations; this information is based on sales analysis report (demand). In the finance and administration department, the updated account receivables correlates with customers' billing and cash receipts. A monthly exception report generated from the aged balances spits out a collection letter automatically to the respective recipients at specified intervals. The MIS enabled the food marketing company to process orders more timely, manage inventories more efficiently and organize their production section. Bottom line cost savings of MIS results in more revenue and a better customer relationship and senior-level managers focusing their attention on emerging trends in the market. A social service department utilizes MIS in the public sector by providing financial assistance to the residences, i. . medical assistance, food stamps, facilitate foster home and adoption, day care, school service, family planning, housing and legal services. The MIS processes new applications and payments. The applicant applies and become eligible then the system creates an on-line record for them. The system automatically prints an identification card for the payroll master file that entitles the recipient to service for which the bill goes to the social service department. An on-line inquiry and update of the applicant record are also possible. The payroll master file sorts, generates the welfare check, and lists them on the payroll register, which generates historical report for managers. In all three case studies, the information systems support transactional processing. The user involvement in each of the project selection ensures the effectiveness of the information system and its acceptability. How do you measure utilization and performance in MIS? The term utilization is the extent that the intended users use the information system (IS) for its intended purpose. The term performance measures the improvement of the business process that supports the IS implementation. These measurements observed through business records, visual or electronic inspections and take the personal opinions and attitudes out of the decision-making loop. The multiple variables sometimes are difficult to identify, but the IS department must be impartial if the true value is realized of a successful IS project. A successful IS project can be measure best with psychometric tests of attitude, interests, and opinions such as user information satisfaction in the broadest sense. The performance measures of the business determine the effectiveness of the MIS. You can see that information technology give companies a competitive edge, once an information based service enters other company either catch up or eliminate the original innovator competitive advantage thus raising the stake for those participating in the marketplace. Today, company can link its customer to its order entry system, thus improving efficiency and improve business performance. Sure, an effective information system, if efficient reduces needless paperwork and allows the customer access to available stock information before committing to the purchase of goods and services. Let not forget about effective too, the information system provide better service to its customers, for instance, i. e. the creation of electronic travel supermarket through on-line reservation system, i. e. www. priceline. com or www. Travelocity. com, which is transforming the basis of competition within this marketplace. To compete efficiently in this world, companies must establish information partnership as an integral part of successful business processes.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

How Many AP Classes Does the Ivy League Want?

Getting into the Ivy League is no easy task. In fact, with acceptance rates stooping well into the single digits, simply getting top test scores and a perfect GPA isn’t enough to guarantee admissions. So, it’s no wonder that we often hear from students wondering just what it takes to get in. One question we hear a lot has to do with course load. Just how many AP classes are enough for these extremely selective universities? Will taking more increase your shot at acceptance? To learn more about how many AP classes you need to take to get into the Ivy League, don’t miss this post. Like with most questions about elite college admissions, this one is hard to pin down. There’s no secret formula to getting into the Ivy League (believe us, if there were, we’d know about it!). Instead, the answer depends on a number of different factors. Basically, the Ivy League and other highly selective colleges look for students who make the most of their opportunities. This means that if some AP classes are available at your school, you should take them. If none are available, it won’t be held against you. If many are available, your choice becomes a little more complex. Ultimately, if endless AP options exist at your high school, you should aim to take between 7-12. You should start slowly during your freshman year. Think of this as the time to test the waters with a high-interest but lower-key course offering, like psychology or human geography. Once you’re accustomed to the AP workload, you can add another course or two during sophomore year. By junior and senior year you should be looking to take three or four AP classes. No matter how many AP options exist at your high school, keep in mind that you need to take the most challenging load possible if you want to be eligible for Ivy League schools. You’ll want   to talk to your counselor if you aren’t sure how to work out your schedule. Finally, remember that college admissions aren’t just selective—they’re competitive. You will be compared to other students, and specifically to other students from your high school, if they’ve applied to the same colleges. You need to make sure that your course load is as impressive, if not more so, than the students you’re up against. While no Ivy Leagues offer a specific AP course requirement, they do generally all agree that they are looking for students who challenge themselves and maximize their opportunities. We consider it a promising sign when students challenge themselves with advanced courses in high school. We understand that not all secondary schools offer the same range of advanced courses, but our strongest candidates have taken full advantage of the academic opportunities available to them in their high schools. Columbia’s stance is less specific but has the same gist, noting â€Å"We hope to see that a student is avidly pursuing intellectual growth  with a rigorous course load.† Dartmouth too offers no specific guidelines about AP classes, but does state, â€Å"We have no set requirements for high school courses completed. We look for students who have taken the most challenging curriculum available to them.† Our Early Advising Program helps students in 9th and 10th grade discover their passions and build strong academic and extracurricular profiles to succeed in high school. There are two factors to prioritize when picking AP classes. First, choose courses that highlight your strengths, in areas that might be the focus of a future major or career. If you apply to a specific program, colleges will look for evidence that you are capable of a high level of work in that field. AP classes are a simple way of establishing your prowess in specific areas of study. Second, choose classes that are genuinely interesting to you. It isn’t common to find high school courses in psychology or music theory, so if these topics seem interesting, AP classes are a great way to explore them in-depth. Plus, if you’re interested in something, you’ll be more motivated to master the material. This being said, Ivy League admissions committees sometimes prefer to see AP classes in the core course areas, as these are more common areas of future study. By looking at how much credit the Ivies award for certain AP classes, you can see which ones might look more impressive on your transcript. Take Harvard, for example, where a score of five on the European History or Chemistry AP will earn you eight credits, whereas a score of five on the Comparative Government and Politics AP will not earn you any credit at all. You can see the entire table of Harvard credit for AP classes on their Advanced Placement Exams page for current students . AP classes that align with core curriculum may be viewed as more valuable by some admissions committees. If your high school doesn’t offer AP courses, you aren’t completely out of luck. There are still some great options available that will highlight your ability to tackle college-level work and show off your willingness to take initiative. First of all, it is possible to take AP exams without formally enrolling in AP classes. This is called self-studying, and it is a common approach for students who either don’t have access to AP classes, or who want to take more extensive AP classes than their school provides. To learn more about self-studying, check out our post The Ultimate Guide to Self-Studying AP Exams . Another option is to enroll in online or local college courses. Taking college classes while you’re still in high school shows off your areas of strength and makes it clear that you’re capable of college-level academics. Learn more about this option in our post Should I Take College Classes Over the Summer? Ultimately, AP classes are just one of many ways that you can set yourself apart during the college admissions process. Choose your course load carefully and you’re more apt to stand above the rest of the applicant pool.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Enterprise Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Enterprise Project - Essay Example Throughout the period of undertaking the project, I hope to learn several aspects from fellow colleagues. While in a leadership position, I wish to learn how to engage and empower people. Leadership by fear that arises from the traditional management system is flawed, and its productivity may be in doubt. I will also learn particular insights on how technology can influence the activities of the group. Finally, I will learn to embrace vulnerability through developing courage to be seen. I developed a major cash flow report for the group, which is very vital in tracking the fiscal progress of the enterprise. I have certain weaknesses of being a perfect debater who has a passion for work. I tend to question everything, and this slows down the execution processes. However, I have a particular skill to counter the weaknesses. I am a self-motivated, determined, success-oriented, and hardworking natural leader. The combination of these qualities may not make up a perfect profile, but they will guarantee success in the enterprise

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Current Events and the U.S Diplomacy Assignment - 3

Current Events and the U.S Diplomacy - Assignment Example An emphasis on United States foreign policy after it discovered that there was Oil in the Persian Gulf, but other threats such as the Soviet Union using their troops were attempting to secure the region. As such, the doctrine stipulates that the United States had already declared its interest in the region (Carlsnaes, Risse-Kappen & Simmons 2013). According to Barfield (2010), the relationship between the United States and Afghanistan dates back to the 18th century although it was officially sealed in 1921 when a treaty was signed to confirm the diplomatic relations that had begun gaining ground. However, the relations between these two countries became much stronger during the Cold War, after the then President Turman declared that the diplomatic relations that had already started growing were going to be strengthened by the fact that senior diplomats from Afghanistan would be placed in each capital in the United States. Between 1948 and 1953, the two countries exchanged numerous diplomatic visits which greatly improved their relations. As a result, the United States began giving Afghanistan economic support in order to build infrastructure especially in major cities since the country had been rated as one of the poorest among the third world countries. Once the economic aspect had begun improving, the United States gave further support on the technical aspect, which was meant to develop skills that would later lead to a modern economy. Nevertheless, the United States declined to give Afghanistan any defense cooperation at the time. In a general sense, the end of the cold war relation between the two countries was characterized by the invasion of educated people from the United States who took over the hospitals, schools and other economic related aspects (Bacevich, 2002). Interestingly, the current relationship between the U.S and Afghanistan is quite complicated especially after the United States was boomed in 2001 by Osama Bin Laden.

Monday, August 26, 2019

Software Systems Choices - Amazon.com Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Software Systems Choices - Amazon.com - Essay Example In the beginning, amazon.com was just an online book store. However, as time went by, it grew to be more than that. Today, it has diversified its markets and now sells DVD’s; MP3 downloads, CDs, video games, software, electronics, food, furniture, apparel, and toys. In the countries where it operates in, it also offers shipping; internationally, for selected products it sells. This has really made it popular in so many quarters of its customer base. Bezos founded the online retailer back in 1995, motivated by what he has always referred to as ‘regret minimization framework’. This was his way of saying that he felt regret for not taking part in online business at a time when the internet was growing at an annual rate of 2300 percent. His idea of an online book store really picked up quickly because it had great potential to grow. There was no limit to its size because it depended on nothing but the internet and online servers. No physical stores or warehouse were r equired to store the books. When starting Amazon.com, Bezos wanted to build a phenomenon that was unique in style and in the way it was operating and in its name as well. He settled for the name ‘Amazon’ because it starts with ‘A’ and ends with ‘Z’ to signify that customers would find anything and everything they ever wanted in terms of books. In addition to this, the logo for the retailer forms some kind of a smile to show that customers can always get satisfied with the products and services the store provides. The name ‘Amazon’ was also used to signify the size of the company, or at least what he projected his startup would grow into; a very large company. He borrowed the name from the largest river in the world, the Amazon River that flows across borders, and is exotic and different from the other rivers. Amazon.com has a mission of changing how people buy books using the internet into an experience that is easy, fast, and most of all enjoyable to all its customers. Bezos incorporated his company in 1994 in Washington State. The store started its services in July of 1995; that is when it sold its first book. By the end of the year 1996, the online retailer had grown so tremendously to become one of the most successful and most formidable web retailers. By then, its revenues clocked $15.6 million. In the shortest time possible, Amazon grew to become the most successful online retailer for books in this wide world of ours. Presently, it no longer sells books alone. The bulk of its products have grown into 34 other categories. Anything you want online is available for sale via the web retailer. Every year since its launch, amazon has continued to expand its customer base. With the increasing number in customers and clients world-wide, revenues have rising as well. By the year 2000, revenue had climbed up from $15.6 million in the year 1996, to $2.76 billion at the turn of the year 2000. Over 29 million peopl e in 160 countries are buying items listed on Amazon.com. This makes it the leading retailer on the World Wide Web by a margin that other retailers cannot match. Amazon’s growth can be attributed to so many reasons, among them convenience in shopping. Over the years, Amazon has acquired about 11 other companies in its bid to expand into newer markets. This number is as of late 2011. Other processes that have led to

Events surrounding Royal Bank of Scotland acquisition of NatWest Dissertation

Events surrounding Royal Bank of Scotland acquisition of NatWest - Dissertation Example The analysis of the paper shows that the motives behind mergers and acquisitions of NatWest or other business consolidation across Europe are the synergies and various integrative benefits that can be derived in banking industry. Major impact of macroeconomic factors motivating such practices were domestic deregulation, lower interests rates leading to sliding interest income margin and rising growth. Moreover, the 1990s financial dominance was shifted from Eastern financial institutions to the Western banks and technological development especially in terms of IT, changes in corporate thinking and increasing importance of corporate governance practices and shareholder wealth creation were other major factors that motivated the banks to look for possible acquisitions. Therefore, costs reduction, revenue augmentation and NatWest’s wide presence attracted a much smaller banks like RBS to bid and acquire Britain’s one of the oldest banking institutions. The analysis of RBS annual reports provides valuable insight in to whether this has increased RBS’ shareholders’ wealth. The results show that there have been more than expected revenues and costs savings in post acquisition period while the net interest income, total income, and EPS have all increased in absolute terms. However, the comparison of RBS and NatWest with the market returns shows that no value is created for the shareholders in post acquisition period. The reason could have been that RBS continued its acquisition spree without consideration of shareholders, which shows poor governance practices in RBS Group.... Drivers of NatWest Acquisition 13 2.1.5 Structure of Global Banking Industry in 1990s 15 2.1.6 Impetus of Mergers in UK Banking Industry 16 2.1.7 Impact of Consolidation on Firms’ Efficiency 20 3. Chapter 3 22 3.1 Critical Evaluation and Analysis 22 4. Chapter 4 35 4.1 Conclusion and Recommendation 35 Reference List 37 Bibliography 44 1. Chapter 1 1.1 Project Background & Introduction The expansion of world trade as evident from financial and economic globalisation has provided substantial benefits to the countries. Much of these benefits have been a result of the mergers and acquisition activities that has taken place around the world in every sector. Improvement in cost to income ratio is one of the major reasons for merger and acquisition. At the same time, acquisition has another broad aspect. This helps in increasing market share and reducing competition significantly, which enhance firm’s presence and bargaining power over not only consumers but also suppliers. Th is paper is a critical analysis of one of these acquisitions that took place between RBS and NatWest at the turn of 21st century in UK. This project is outlined in four sections. The first section provides the research aim and objectives. The second section is the literature review, which encompasses the definitions of merger and acquisition, background of NatWest and RBS, drivers of NatWest acquisition, structure of global banking industry, and the impetus for consolidation in general and in UK banking industry and finally, the impact such consolidation has had on the structure and efficiency of the merged banks. The third section is the critical evaluation of the theories in the light of the acquisition’s effects on both the banks. And lastly, the fourth section concludes the paper. 1.2 Project

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Summer Trip in Florida Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Summer Trip in Florida - Essay Example The main reason being, the state is usually less crowded. One may choose to go by airplane or by road which-though less fast- it would be more exciting. There are several options of enjoying oneself while on a summer vacation in Florida. To start with, one may plan to do water based activities such as kayaking down a river or even around the barrier islands, swimming with Dolphins, Sea Turtles as well as swimming with Manatees. In addition to these, one would get an opportunity do fishing either in the deep sea or top bass fishing. Diving is also found in Florida especially in Miami Beach's Underwater Wrecks among other renowned beaches. One may also get a chance to do canoeing in Florida especially in places like Florida Marinas, Dockside Dining where one would ride a canoe across Econlockhatchee River. There are also very luxury cruises found in Florida and still spice up ones trip. There are varieties of cruises that range from casino, dinner and themed cruises. Secondly, one may also have an option of seeing some wildlife and watching birds of the air as they sing their melodious songs. Despite the fact that there are not so many birds in the summer season, one may watch out for them with their infantile plumage only viewable during the summer seasons.

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Narrative, genre, script Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Narrative, genre, script - Essay Example In the Goblet of fire, the audience follows the life of Harry Potter in his fourth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (Janice, 2013, p67). The book concentrates on the efforts the death eaters; lead by He Who shall not Be Named, to kill Harry during the Triwizard tournament. The books, with those that precede and follow it, all belong to the genre that is speculative fiction. Speculative fiction encompasses all forms of fantastical fiction in literature and arts. The books together with the films target the youth especially children (Victoria, 2011, p38). This is because the characters in the books are all children who later grow up to become adults. Throughout these series, the author narrates the challenges that Harry Potter encounters while growing up to become a wizard (Heilman, 2008, 21). The stories of his friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, are also intertwined with his. This book is halfway in the series and is key in the development of Harry Potter as the main character in the story. The book shows us the first glimpse of Harry as a growing adult who now has responsibilities (Janice, 2013, 73). In film, the characters that play Harry, Ron and Hermione have all grown up since the first instalment of this series. This essay will try to summarize and at the same time criticize this book, which is over seven hundred pages, to try to see if it fulfils the expectation of its alleged genre. Harry Potter, in all essence, is an unlikely hero. This is because of his stature, he has a skinny frame and wears spectacles, together with the fact that he learned about the wizarding world quite late in his life (Heilman, 2008, p93). Furthermore, Harry’s relatives do not appreciate him and often undervalue his prowess as a wizard. The Dursleys, his only surviving family members, mistreat Harry and they are wary of his abilities. The odds stacked against Harry are insurmountable from the beginning of the

Friday, August 23, 2019

Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 24

Personal Statement Example This is what I am interested in and this is what I would like to pursue my studying with. I find business administration important as it helps to manages business operations, make right decisions for the effectiveness of the certain organization or firm. It also refers to such management functions as finance and personnel, which I find extremely important for the development of any business. Since business management is a field I am greatly interested in, I would like to learn more about it. Despite the fact that I have a broad range of interests, I have always been attracted by business management as I open many exciting opportunities of the business environment with its demands and challenges. In addition, the thing that excites me the most about business administration is that it can directly and indirectly influence people’s lives. I am ambitious person with the ability to set traits for the effective business management. I am capable to work collaboratively because I have strong team-working skills. However, I also succeed in achieving great results while working individually. My organisational skills helped me to achieve more through my academic work and personal experience. I find my key strengths are the ability to make analytical judgements and make decisions after assessing different business situations. I also am able to identify important points in order to target the key audience. I am capable to attract and retain people by preparing well thought out and informative presentations as for individuals as for groups. Currently I am studying in the Into City University Foundation, located in London, UK with the main subject in International Foundation in Business and Economics with Accounting. I should mention that the more I study this subject, the more my interest grows with it and I have also opened to myself that it is more than management, the main idea that customers attitude, whether it is god or bad, is the exceptional. Serving people

Thursday, August 22, 2019

The Critical Period (1781 - 1789) Essay Example for Free

The Critical Period (1781 1789) Essay The time period between 1781 and 1789 is often referred to as the Critical Period, and with a good reason. As a newly formed country America had a lot to lose if it did not survive and prove its self to the world as well as the citizens. Going into the critical period the United States was run under the Articles of Confederation but the lack of a centralized government soon proved the articles to be inept. The Problems with the Articles appeared almost upon completion. The fact that full state approval was needed to pass any official proclamation meant that congress never had any real power. Such was the case when in 1783 the Rhode Island Assembly refused to place any taxes on imported goods. Because congress wasnt given any power to enforce the laws only suggest states enforce them the economy as well as national unity suffered. The power to tax was crucial power needed by the government. Under the Articles of Confederation the US economy was extremely fragile having just emerged from depression. The market value would jump thousands of dollars one year and fall the next. The power to tax was needed to help stabilize the volatile market. The government also needed to be centralized in order to prove to other countries they were united. Proving to be unified would allow them more leverage when dealing with foreign policies. In a speech made to congress John Jay told of negotiations with Spains Minister, Diego de Gardoqui in which Spain denied the US navigation of the Mississippi River because he didnt see the US as unified and knew there was nothing the US could do about it. The government also needed the power to create treaties and alliances, this was extremely important in the survival of the country. The United States was weakened by the war and needed alliances for protection incase of an invasion. When evaluation these documents it becomes obvious that while not completely ineffective, the Articles of Confederation were ultimately ineffective. Had the United States continued to operate under the articles it would have most assuredly fallen to economic and political problems.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Knots in My Yo-yo String Essay Example for Free

Knots in My Yo-yo String Essay Knots in my Yo-yo string is an autobiography written by Jerry Spinelli. Jerry Spinelli describes his childhood in first person which allows the reader to feel like he or she is there. To describe the book, the author has written this book to be about his childhood. The community in which the author lived in had impacted his life from being an ordinary Pennsylvania boy to a Newbery Medalist Author. Even the people in his life have helped him reach his career as a writer. I think that the community that the author lived in had some changes on his life. Some of the people that helped affect some changes in the authors life was the authors friends. The authors friends helped him a lot by hoping for him to win the election for president in his school. I also think that his parents had a lot to do with affecting some of the things in the authors life. For example, the author probably would not have his bike that he got for Christmas if his parents did not sacrifice going to the movies or going bowling, so that they could make sure their kids had most of the things they wanted. This is how the authors community had an affect on the authors life. The fact that he was naturally talented gave him an advantage when becoming a writer. Some other reasons why he is such a good writer was because he was not the average kid, he was the kind of kid that paid attention in class, when all the other kids were fooling around. He was very dedicated to his school work. Further more he had a great imagination, and an even better writing ability to have the reader in suspense. Some similarities when writing a book and playing sports is that you always have to be focused.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Advantages Of Outsourcing To Multiple Providers Information Technology Essay

Advantages Of Outsourcing To Multiple Providers Information Technology Essay Globalisation involves higher competition resulting in companies looking for gaining competitive advantages over others. The globalisation vs. localisation discussion is linked to the question of outsourcing vs. insourcing (appendix A.1). Outsourcing consists of nearshore outsourcing and offshore outsourcing. The latter will be applied in this paper. For some companies, outsourcing may be a possibility to achieve competitive advantages. For other companies insourcing could be the better solution. Furthermore, companies, when coming to the decision to outsource, have to face the paradox whether to outsource to a single service provider or to multiple. Firstly, outsourcing and insourcing are presented generally in order to facilitate important information about outsourcing to a single supplier. Then outsourcing to multiple suppliers is explained with advantages, disadvantages as well as governance and finally IT outsourcing is demonstrated. This is shown in a practical example, a case study: Shell Outsourcing Deal 2008. Shell outsourced its IT to three service providers. This example merges outsourcing to multiple suppliers with IT outsourcing and reveals the theoretically explained aspects in practice and why Shell decided to outsource its IT to multiple suppliers. Outsourcing generally describes the transfer of goods and services, which were performed with own means by the company, to a third party (Online Lehrbuch S. 2). The service provider , generally one, takes over the complete responsibility for the outsourced field. Offshore outsourcing is linked to the transfer of companys activities to wholly owned subsidiaries or service providers to other countries from the customers location (Oshri et al., 2009, p.15). These countries have enormous and easily accessible resources which offer competitive advantages to the outsourcing company (Offshore Outsourcing, 2011). Are the companys activities transferred to a neighboring country, this is called nearshoring. Benefits of nearshoring are e.g. the connection in regard to the geographical, temporal, cultural, linguistic, economic, political, and historical (Oshri et al., 2009, p.46) situation. Outsourcing to a single provider offers companies several advantages in a globalising world to obtain the increasing competition. Advantages of outsourcing Disadvantages of outsourcing Cost advantages as special knowledge saves time, costs for personnel and investments are broken up on several companies and fixed capital can be utilised elsewhere as well as the the liquidity of the company can be increased In reality costs often rise when outsourcing potentials are not used sufficiently or specific outsourcing costs were not considered in the planning, fixed costs are insufficiently reduced, costs for the service provider can be higher than own costs as many companies miscalculate own costs Higher strategic flexibility in regard to market changes Performance risks as knowledge and know-how wander off Investments undertaken by supplier Additional entrepreneurial load as higher security is necessary Access to external know-how Possible resistance in the workforce Increase of possibilities for innovation due to collaboration Dependence on the service provider and excessive demands Smaller companies can adapt to current standards and achieve requirements Suffering of quality due to weak communication, shortage in resource or capacity and capability of service provider Discharge for companies in areas, which do not belong to their core competencies Langauge and culture barrier risk to communication Fig.1: Advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing (Expertscolumn, 2009; OnlineLehrbuch, 2011). By managing and minimising the above mentioned risks due diligence plays an important role (Reed, 2011). Moreover, it is important to understand the risks companies face when outsourcing as those can also enhance due to the geographical distance between the company and the service provider. To avoid the emergence of any of the mentioned risks the partners should keep a risk register which distinguishes and lists all possible risks connected to the outsourced service. This should be then maintained over the whole period of operations. 2.1.2 Insourcing in general Insourcing describes the reintegration of processes, belonging to the core competencies of a company, which possibly have been outsourced before (Gabler Wirtschaftslexikon, 2011). Advantages of insourcing Disadvantages of insourcing Transparency and comparability of costs for particular goods and services Higher costs due to initial costs, labour costs and costs for materials Decrease of dependence on suppliers Training period for employees Increase in scope for actions Foundation of a new department (potentially) Integration of goods and services in the company processes Creation and determination of tools for controlling the work flow Encouragement of internal competencies Arising of synergy effects Consistency in the data Fig.2: Advantages and disadvantages of insourcing (Active Sourcing AG, 2011; Leads Stà ¼rmer, 2011) 2.2 Outsourcing to multiple suppliers Today, many companies outsource not only to one service provider but to multiple as this offers them even more competitive advantages (Siemens, 2011). The main point for the success of outsourcing is to outsource the correct task to the correct supplier using the correct contracts and a powerful governance process. Various business conditions favour using multiple suppliers than just one. Firstly, business complexity: Companies have different levels of business complexity. Generally, industries which change slower have easier manageable environments, constant processes and accountable needs. For these companies long-term outsourcing to one service provider offers great options. However, many companies do not have the environment mentioned above. For these organisations long-term outsourcing to a single service provider is risky as they have varying support needs and dynamic operations and generally no single service provider can offer the technical and geographical expertise to fulfill their needs. For these companies, which show a higher level of business complexity, outsourcing to multiple suppliers might be a more effective approach considering that they have the internal abilities and governance structures to manage this approach. The independence of separate business units in a company can vary in regard to budgets and decisions about service providers and support. Separate business units often work out individual business applications. The higher the level of independence of business units, the greater the challenge of creating controlled and managed support. Therefore many companies, having a high level of independence, prefer outsourcing to multiple suppliers as their business units have the liberty to choose individually according their needs. Nevertheless, the central departments can keep control. 2.2.1 Advantages of outsourcing to multiple providers Outsourcing to multiple providers exists in various kinds (Siemens, 2011). Diverse suppliers can be chosen to support e.g. diverse business units or business lines. Companies can also choose suppliers by reason of their expertise or geographic location and coverage. Fig. 3: Overview of outsourcing to multiple providers (Practical Law Company, 2007) Advantages of outsourcing to multiple suppliers Disadvantages of outsourcing to multiple suppliers Better levels of control and management Management of several suppliers Flexibility to decide on providers which meet particular needs (e.g. shorter durations for companies rethinking and reorganising promptly) Ensurement of a good level of cooperation amongst suppliers responsiibility is doubled (organisation and suppliers) Improvement of service delivery Interdependencies can complicate and obstruct activites Stimulation of competition between the suppliers, e.g. dependence Service providers working in alike sectors may be careful regarding sharing information when cooperating Reduction of risks generated when outsourcing to a single provider Fig.4: Advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing to multiple suppliers (Siemens, 2011) These aspects show that single service providers are generally not able to solve all outsourcing and service needs. The skills necessary to support distributed infrastructure are most likely distinctive to those supporting particular business applications. 2.2.2 Governance of outsourcing to multiple service providers Being successful in any outsourcing involvement is based on various points (Oshri, et al., 2009, p.112). Setting up an outsourcing governance in the company can enhance a possible success. Therewith companies introduce a higher complexity of the outsourcing relationships, an internal team, best practices and instruments to assure an advantageous management. Most companies use a three-tier structure when designing the governance (Oshri, et al., 2009, p.113). This includes executive-to-executive relationships concentrated on relationship management and on joined goals. An outsourcing management operates between executives, business units as well as outsourcing project teams. The operational management is concerned with day-to-day issues. Important is that companies do not reduce the management concentrating on the actions. To achieve the benefits, outsourcing offers, governance plays an important role. 2.3 IT outsourcing Reasons to introduce outsourcing in the area of IT vary from one company to another (Dibbern et al., 2004). However, a few reasons explain the decision to outsource in general: The managers interest in reducing costs or outsourcing as a possibility to establish a new department, when the former failed. Some companies, which main competence is not IT outsource its IT department to assign time-consuming issues to other companies. This can be especially advantageous for companies whose actions can change significantly from one period to another. 2.3.1 IT outsourcing lifecycle Fig.5: IT outsourcing lifecycle (Oshri et al., 2009). The IT outsourcing lifecycle, established in 2005, consists of four phases: architect, engage, operate and regenerate (Oshri et al., 2009, p.94). These phases are subdivided in 9 blocks. Each phase and the attached blocks design the way for the next phase. This means that the success of each block depends on the previous ones. The architect phase incorporates four blocks and builds the basis for outsourcing ventures (Oshri et al., 2009, p.96). The first block is named investigation and aims to replace ideological beliefs with goals. Therefore the company gathers information. The second block target is set out to identify in which areas outsourcing would be advantageous. For that reason goals are matched to an appropriate outsourcing model. Moreover, criteria for possible service providers and the scope of outsourcing are determined. Strategy is geared towards the planning to ensure effective decision making for the rest of the lifecycle (Oshri, et al., p.97). Thats why a decision about the rollout approach takes place .The last block in this phase design concludes the architect phase with a definition of the planned configuration. The engage phase consists of two blocks. Firstly select, here the best vendor for the company is supposed to be found. In this block the content of the outsourced work is planned, the most appropriate evaluation team is identified along with the evaluating criteria and interactive evaluation techniques (Oshri et al, 2009. p.98). Negotiate aims to conclude a good contract. Therefore an appropriate negotiation strategy is set and a negotiation team is put together. The operate phase includes two blocks, transition and manage. In the transition block the aim is to ensure an effective and smooth hand over of the IT services to the provider. Therefore, plans are finalised, the impact on the staff and the staff transfer is managed as well as knowledge retention and transfer as well as governance structures are set up (Oshri et al., 2009, p.99). Manage is set out to manage the outsourcing relationship properly. Key activities are investing in the relationship and continuous examination of the relationship. The last phase, regenerate phase, consists of the block refresh and aims to support the client on deciding whether to reappoint in further contracts with the service provider. Outcomes and future requirements are assessed. In the last phase the outsourcing starts again, depending on the decision whether to re-tender, re-negotiate or back-source (Oshri et al., 2009, p.100). 2.3.2 Critique The IT lifecycle offers companies an accurate plan for their outsourcing concerns. It is a relatively new model, which on the one hand ensures up-to-dateness, but on the other hand does not offer a long-term view. However, I would critique that all blocks are arranged consecutively, meaning if something goes wrong in one block that might involve issues in following blocks. Also, I think, problems may arise in defining in which phase and block the outsourcing operations are at a particular moment or if the operations are ready to move to the next phase or block. There is no set duration as this varies from one company to another. Additionally, I would like to mention, that the IT outsourcing lifecycle is a model, which means that certain aspects are left out. Every company should examine this and consider additional aspects. I would suggest that companies, considering to use the IT outsourcing lifecycle walk-through the lifecycle before going on. This could e.g. take place in the arch itect phase, then the persons responsible would be aware of the complete lifecycle. Nevertheless, I evaluate outsourcing as more successful when it is proceeded as a lifecycle than in a one-off transaction. 3 Shell Outsourcing Deal 2008 3.1 Background In 2008 the mineral oil group Shell signed a five-year outsourcing contract with three suppliers responsible for the IT infrastructure (see appendix A.2 for a company description). These were T-Systems, EDS and ATT (Computerwoche, 2008) (see appendix A.3 for more background information). Shell kept strategic control and some specialist services. This is called Outtasking/Managed Services (Appendix A.4 for information on IT outsourcing models) (TPI, 2009). This was one of the largest and most complex business transformations. 3.2 Reasons for Shell to outsource to multiple service providers As times get more and more turbulent and companies face a highly competitive environment Shell decided to outsource to multiple service providers as they believe that competition leads to a successful future and wanted to carry on developing its strategy More Upstream, Profitable Downstream (TPI, 2009). That means to expand companys hydrocarbon reserves as well as production along with the ensurement of manufaction, marketing and distribution in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Additionally, Shell aims for innovation, which they believe the three service provider can offer when collaborating well to develop new goods for them and therefore also for Shell (Rosenthal, 2009). According to Rosenthal (2009) Shell wanted to reduce the risk in case one service provider is not able to perform. Lastly, an important reason for Shell to outsource its IT to multiple suppliers is the ability of working with foreign markets. Here, T-Systems, a German company, can ensure a working relationshi p with countries, which do not favour American workmen. Shells general aim was to encourage higher efficiency and performance, however no detailed aims were announced. Originally, Rosenthal (2009) explains, Shell made the decision to outsource IT as the company missed a commercial accuracy and operational discipline. The IT department could not meet the companys overall requirement. When making the outsourcing decision Shell had in mind to focus on strategic issues, the skill to respond quickly and being agile as well as sustainable, meaning the ability to serve in 20 countries (TPI, 2009). Moreover, Shell wanted to: Pay attention to companys needs and IT opportunities Expand the value from suppliers involved in the IT infrastructure Be more flexibel in service capacity to manage peaks as well as troughs Manage expanding costs of maintaining existing IT infrastructue and developing new Shell decided to outsource the greatest part of its IT infrastructure as the company itself had difficulties managing this (Rosenthal, 2009). When facing the paradox of outsourcing to a single supplier or to multiple suppliers, Shell aimed for outsourcing to multiple suppliers as this approach offered the company competitive advantages in regard to being able to serve in 20 countries, to keep better control as the company kept the strategic control as well as the belief that competition leads to success. 3.3 The IT lifecycle at Shell Architect phase: Investigate: Shell gathered insights and rephrased ideological beliefs into goals (TPI, 2009): Seperate responsibilities for business needs and strategic control Expand service reliability as well as performance Assure access top talents and innovation Decrease costs and turn fixed into variable costs. Target: Shell decided to outsource most of its IT, but to hold strategic control and few specialist services. Strategise: Shell determined to outsource not only to one service providers but to multiple. Design: Shell considered the following when designing the programme: Agree on the mission statement and business targets Create and spread the plan Establish a high-performance team Organise governance Develop diversity in the team Prioritise change and communication management Engage phase: Select: Shell selected appropriate suppliers for their outsourcing programme. Negotiate: With these suppliers Shell negotiated contracts and could conclude efficient contracts with EDS, ATT and T-Systems. The service providers signed a so-called Operating Level Agreement to guarantee a high level of collaboration. Operate phase: Transition: Shell handed over the IT infrastructure in a sensible manner (Rosenthal, 2009). All in all, 3,500 IT employees were transfered from Shell. This gave employees the better career possibilities and knowledge transfer opportunities. A detailed investigation of six months gave the service providers the possibility to develop the necessary solutions for the implementation. Manage: As Shell still keeps the strategic control, the company helds good relationships to their suppliers and monitors them regularly. Regenerate phase: Refresh: As the contracts are laid out for five years no information about the regenerate phase are available yet. 3.4 Governance Shell delegated governance and therefore several roles emerged, e.g. a Shell executive commitee, an executive tender board or commercial deal teams (TPI, 2009). The most important one is the programme management office to develop and maintain the implementation plan as well as to monitor and report the progress and deliverables. 3.5 Early benefits Shells IT infrastructure costs dropped by double digits (Rosenthal, 2009) and the service increased clearly and became more reliable. Rosenthal (2009) views that outsourcing made Shell more efficient and the team concentrates on up-to-date IT solutions to meet Shells needs. Rosenthal (2009) mentions that the three solutions providers convey projects and run systems better than Shell did formerly. 3.6 Problems In the beginning the approach with three suppliers was not working out well (Rosenthal, 2009). They firstly had to get to know each other and to learn working together effectively. Today however, the collaboration between the companies occurs in a flawless mannner. Generally, it has to be mentioned; according to Rosenthal (2009) that the service providers underestimated Shells complexity as Shell is a globally acting company and their approach was more regional. Eventhough early benefits of the outsourcing deal could be identified problems arose. T-Systems, one of the suppliers, had many problems when handling the IT of Shell (Inside-IT, 2010). This was due to the insufficient experience with deals of this size. Moreover, T-Systems also has not achieved the savings it was supposed to manage (Louven and Hofer, 2010). Louven and Hofer (2010) explain this with T-Systems being an affiliate of the German telecommunication company Telekom and therefore stuck in their complex structures. 3.7 Critique on Shells approach Due to the extensive research I found out that Shell did not perform the lT lifecycle in a preferable manner, as Shell did not extensively prepare for the lifecycle and also did not name additional aspects. This could have led to the above explained problems, eventhough these were more on service providers side. However, Shell managed the transition phase extremely well and set up an extensive governance structure. Also, only 3 of the planned 5 years passed, therefore no final evaluation can occur. 4 Overall conclusion Various advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing and its opposite insourcing were recognised. Nowadays more companies choose outsourcing to multiple suppliers instead of its paradox, outsourcing to a single supplier, when deciding to outsource. Therefore outsourcing to multiple suppliers was presented with advantages and disadvantages as well as the necessary governance, The explained IT lifecycle made the connection to the case study: Shell Outsourcing Deal 2008. A background offered important information about the companies Shell, EDS, ATT and T-Systems in regard to the outsourcing deal. Several reasons were explained why Shell outsourced its IT in 2008 and why the company decided to use a multiple suppliers approach. Moreover, the IT lifecycle in connection to this particular outsourcing deal was analysed and the governance was pointed out. Finally, early benefits of the outsourcing deal for Shell alongside problems which occured, were pointed out and a critique on Shells appro ach was undertaken. 5 Reference List Active Sourcing AG (2011) Outsourcing Vorteile aus der Sicht des CFO. [online]. Available from: http://www.active-sourcing.com/pdf_files/AS_Publication_Nr_2004-02.pdf [Accessed 15 March 2011]. Computerwoche (2008) Shell beschert Outsourcern Riesenauftrà ¤ge. [online]. Available from: http://www.computerwoche.de/management/it-services/1859663/ [Accessed 5 March 2011]. De Wit, B. and Meyer, R. (2005) Strategy Synthesis Resolving Strategy Paradoxes to Create Competitive Advantage. London: Thompson. Dibbern, J., Goles, T., Hirschheim, R. and Jayatilaka, B. (2004) Information system outsourcing: a survey and analysis of the literature. [online]. Available from: http://portal.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=1035236 [Accessed 12 March 2011]. Expertscolumn (2009) Outsourcing Criticism And Risk Factors. [online]. Available from: http://expertscolumn.com/content/outsourcing-%E2%80%93-criticism-and-risk-factors [Accessed 9 March 2011]. Gabler Wirtschaftslexikon (2011) Insourcing. [online]. Available from: http://wirtschaftslexikon.gabler.de/Definition/insourcing.html [Accessed 14 March 2011]. Gala (2011) What is localization? [online]. Available from: http://www.gala-global.org/what-localization [Accessed 14 March 2011]. Hines, C. (2003) Time to Replace Globalization with Localization. Global Environmental Politics, 3 (3), pp.1-7. Inside-IT (2010) T-Systems Probleme beim Outsourcing Megadeal. [online]. Available from: http://www.inside-it.ch/frontend/insideit?_d=_articlesite=iinews .id=23569 [Accessed 25 March 2011]. Johnson, D. and Turner, C. (2004) International Business: Themes and issues in the modern global economy. London: Routledge. Leads Stà ¼rmer (2011) Insourcing vs. Outsourcing. [online]. Available from: http://www.leads-stuermer.de/index.php?id=36 [Accessed 15 March 2011]. Offshore Outsourcing (2011) Enhancing your business with offshore outsourcing. [online]. Available from: http://www.offshoreoutsourcing.org/ [Accessed 8 March 2011]. Oshri, I., Kotlarsky, J., Willcocks, L. P. (2009) The handbook of global outsourcing and offshoring. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. Louven, S. and Hofer, J. (2010) T-Systems verà ¤rgert die Großkunden. [online]. Available from: http://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/it-medien/t-systems-veraergert-die-grosskunden/3744382.html?p3744382=all [Accessed 25 March 2011]. Online Lehrbuch (2011) Eigenherstellung/Fremdbezug Insourcing/Outsourcing Betreibermodelle. [online]. Available from: www.economics.phil.uni-erlangen.de/bwl//outsour.pdf. [Accessed 5 March 2011]. Practical Law Company (2007) Single and multi-sourcing models. [online]. Available from: http://www.mofo.com/docs/pdf/PLCCrossBorderOutsourcing_2008SourcingMo dels.pdf [Accessed 20 March 2011]. Reed, S. (2011) Managing Risk in Outsourcing The Basics. [online]. Available from: http://www.sourcingmag.com/content/c051017a.asp [Accessed 14 March 2011]. Rosenthal, B. E. (2009) Why Shell created an ecosystem of three suppliers when it outsourced its IT infrastructure. [online]. Available from: http://www.outsourcing-center.com/2009-10-why-shell-created-an-ecosystem-of-three-suppliers-when-it-outsourced-its-it-infrastructure-article-37440.html [Accessed 6 March 2011]. Rosmanitz, K. (2011) Globalization Advantages and Disadvantages. [online]. Available from: http://ezinearticles.com/?GlobalizationAdvantages-and-Disadvantagesid=4451556. [Accessed 4 March 2011]. Siemens (2011) Selective Outsourcing with Multiple Providers: A Growing Trend. [online]. Available from: www.it-solutions.siemens.com/b2b/it/en/us//Selective-Outsourcing-WP.pdf [Accessed 10 March 2011]. TPI (2009) Shell Case Study. [online]. Available from: http://www.tpi.net/pdf/success/Shell-Case-Study.pdf. [Accessed 23 March 2011].

Monday, August 19, 2019

Government Essay examples -- Analysis, Locke, Mill

According to Hobbes the need to create a form of government arises from fulfilling the need of security. In order for government to provide this security, it is necessary for government to be able to use its authority in any way it pleases. Locke and Mill on the other hand believe that government should be able to provide security for its citizens, but in order to do this government does not need to be large rather it should be limited. Thus, the question arises of how limited government should be in order to provide security. In this case, should government be able to use its authority in any way it pleases as Hobbes argues or should there be a limit placed on governmental power as argued by Locke and Mill? I believe that a powerful government can exist and provide its citizens with the necessary security while being limited. There is no need for government to be large in order to achieve this. Although both Locke and Mill have a just understanding of what the limits of government s hould be, I find Locke’s understanding more persuasive. Locke writes that while government should restrict our freedom in order for us to avoid returning to the state of nature , the amount of restriction should be limited. For Locke, we are all in the State of Nature before any form of government is created (289). And since humans have a tendency to live in groups as well as desire to avoid the State of War, humans subject to a common power creating a common government and giving up natural power. Therefore, once this contract is created it is only then that we step out of the State of Nature. Hobbes, on the other hand, writes that the sovereign should have as much authority as possible to govern as needed. Nevertheless, Hobbes just as Locke belie... ... to be than just this. Mill has the right idea of balancing freedom and limits but that is not enough. Hobbes, on the other hand proposes a well though out government. However, the fact that he believes that in order for government to work it needs to be huge makes me think of a monarchy right away. I believe the people should have the right to speak up for what they believe in as well as have the right to go against government if and when they feel the laws being imposed by government are not moral. However, if we were to subdue to Hobbes form of government we give up any right whatsoever to disagree with the sovereign. Therefore, Locke’s governmental proposal is a balance between that of Hobbes’s and Mill’s. After all, when a man steps out of the State of Nature it is not to create absolute monarchy, as Hobbes believe but to create o form of civil government.

Roman Architecture :: essays research papers

The Romans gained much of their engineering skill from the Etruscans and drew on Etruscan and Asian models for the semicircular arch. From them, the Romans learned the use of the keystone arch, which enabled them to build extremely strong and durable structures. Many of these engineering and architectural projects are still standing. Some are still in use after two thousand years like this bridge in Spain. Early Roman architects were influenced by Greek post-and-lintel construction. But the Greek design was limited in its capabilities to span large distances and being able to bear heavy loads while not falling down of its own weight. Post and lintel construction comprises a flat piece of stone bridging a space between two upright supports. Post and lintel supports have a flaw. When a heavy weight is placed on the middle of the span too much stress may be put on the stone and it can break in the middle. The Romans solved this problem by using a type of construction called voussoir arch with keystone. The engineering principle of the arch is quite simple. The circle is the strongest structural shape. The arch is just half of this perfect form. To create a voussoir arch, tapered stone blocks were cut then arranged like the diagram at the right. It was then stood up on its ends. The ends rested on piers made of stone blocks or bricks mortared together with pozzolana cement in the typical Roman arch bridge. The cement was named after a local mountain that the ingredients of the cement came from. The weight of the stone and concrete of the bridge itself compressed the tapered stones together, making the arch an extremely strong structure. During construction, the voussoir's were supported by a temporary wooden frame until the keystone was inserted. The Roman invention of the arch allowed architects to build larger structures than ever before. The extension of the arch idea lead to the development of domes, alcoves, and soffits. The arches and its derivatives were also employed in Triumphal Arches, aqueducts, bridges, houses, theaters, exedra, nynpheum, basilicas, thermal baths and temples.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

The Influence of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois on the Writings

The Influence of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois on the Writings from the Harlem Renaissance Two of the most influential people in shaping the social and political agenda of African Americans were Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Dubois, both early twentieth century writers. While many of their goals were the same, the two men approached the problems facing African Americans in very different ways. This page is designed to show how these two distinct thinkers and writers shaped one movement, as well as political debate for years afterward. BOOKER T. WASHINGTON BIOGRAPHY Booker T. Washington was considered one of the shrewdest African American leaders of all time. As one commentator stated, Washington was modest but "too dignified to be humble". Nevertheless, Washington had a great influence on various African American writings and his influence can still be seen today. As Washington stated in his book, Up From Slavery, "I am not quite sure of the exact place or exact date of my birth, but at any rate I suspect I must have been born somewhere and at sometime" (29). But, in reality, Booker Taliaferro Washington was born on a slave plantation in Franklin County, Virginia on April 5, 1856, where his mother worked as a cook. Washington's father, who he knew little of, was suspected to be a white man who worked on a near-by plantation. Growing up on the slave plantation, Washington lived in the most destitute surroundings. His "home" was a fourteen by sixteen square foot log cabin that he shared with his mother, brother, and sister. He spent most of his time on the plantation doing odd work, such as cleaning and working at the mill, since he was too small to do much more. After the Civil War and the aboliti... ...o instrumental in making progress. The famous Montgomery bus boycott took almost a year, but finally broke the large white-run service, and gave blacks a sense of how their importance in America could be displayed and proven. As one can see, Washington and DuBois played a tremendous role in creating the atmosphere which took African Americans into the Harlem Renaissance era. Without them, particularly DuBois, the movement for cultural identity would have lacked essential inspiration and foundation. We hope that we have provided our readers with information that shows this. BIBLIOGRAPHY Washington, Booker T.Up From Slavery Hearst Co.:New York,1965. DuBois, W.E.B. The Souls of Black FolkHearst Co.:New York,1965. http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Heights/5881/ http://www.micds.pvt.k12.mo.us/academic/english/eng_11/11_jwh/web/misc/hughes.htm

Saturday, August 17, 2019

A Study on Gardners theories on Intelligence

Intelligence can be defined in many different signifiers. Many theoreticians have non been able to put out the construct of intelligence to an exact definition. However, this is non the instance for certain theoretician. Harmonizing to Gardner, intelligence is â€Å" is a sort of substance, of â€Å" material † , that different people have in different grades, like cholesterin or blood sugar † . Gardner was non the lone theoretician that has laid this construct out. Kowalski and Westen were besides able to specify intelligence in their text edition. Harmonizing to them, intelligence refers to the application of cognitive accomplishments and cognition to larn, solves jobs, and obtains terminals that are valued by an person or civilization. † They besides believed that intelligence plays a major function in civilization, in that, each civilization has its ain patterns that help persons like us recognize which rational qualities are socially accepted ( Kowalski & A ; Westen, 2009, p. 265 ) . Although the many theories about intelligence are present, Gardner has the most effectual and modern one. In the early 1980 ‘s, he introduced his theory of multiple intelligence where his end was to interrupt down the construct of intelligence. Dr. Gardner has written many books about his multiple intelligence theory, nevertheless he placed more attending to one called â€Å" Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences † . In this book he tries to exemplify the fact that people posses eight different intelligences, stating that persons have higher intelligences in some countries and lower intelligences in others. He believed that people can make better when the work that needs to be done is extremely correlated to the country in where persons posses the higher intelligence. The eight intelligences that Gardner provinces are displaced as the followers: â€Å" musical, bodily/kinesthetic ( which is how we control our organic structure motions ) , spacial ( the ability to make mental images ) , lingual or verbal, logical/mathematical, naturalist, intrapersonal ( being able to understand oneself ) , and interpersonal ( 1s behavior in societal state of affairss ) † ( Kowalski & A ; Westen, 2009, p. 279 ) . Identifying the assorted types of Gardner ‘s intelligences has helped me detect that the theory greatly affects my personal success. Not merely is this true for my ain success, but, many of these intelligences can impact everyone ‘s day-to-day lives. For me, the most of import intelligences that have helped me win in the yesteryear are lingual, logical/mathematical, and interpersonal. These intelligences that I posses, I would see them to be my strengths. Bing able to pass on good with others, being able to analyse and theorize thoughts, and playing an important function in certain state of affairss all have played a major function in my ability to win. In the undermentioned analysis of intelligences, we will be speaking about merely three of these eight intelligences and how they can impact my personal success in life. Having these qualities has built a get downing point in my life and it will go on to assist me make my long term ends every bit good as my short ends such as having my Bachelor ‘s grade. The first intelligence that is most of import to me in my ain success in life is the Linguistics. Linguisticss can run anyplace from being able to utilize a linguistic communication decently to complicated grammar. Harmonizing to Gardner, linguistics besides involves being cognizant of speech production and composing a linguistic communication, being able to larn multiple linguistic communications, and the contents of the linguistic communication and being able to use them to existent life state of affairss so one can win. The lingual attack besides states that one should hold the ability to talk efficaciously so that one can show him/herself. Language can besides be used to retrieve certain information and utilize the information for future mentions. Public talkers, attorneys/law enforcement, writers, and other professional linguist, are harmonizing to Gardner, genitive of this type of intelligence at higher degrees than others. Mathematicss and logical thought go manus in manus, in that, both involve abstract thought every bit good as being able to ground both inductively and deductively. Peoples who posses this type of intelligence, like me, normally try to happen logic in about every undertaking that needs to be completed. For illustration, if a professor shows me a math job, I normally look at it a few times and reappraisal in my caput what I have learned so far in how to travel about work outing the job. In this instance I am believing in a logical manner because logics, for me, are being able to interrupt down big constituents to smaller 1s so that one can finish a undertaking easier. This intelligence besides involves how much of a job one can work out, being able to finish mathematical operations, and besides analyzing consequences utilizing scientific attacks. When Gardner talks about this peculiar type of intelligence, he states that one has the ability to see forms and think in a logical mode. Thi s type of intelligence is of import in my personal success because it has helped me, and still does, in being able to go through a math or scientific discipline category without holding to fight. The last type of intelligence that plays a function in accomplishing my ends is intrapersonal. To me, holding this intelligence is a privilege because I enjoy being able to work in groups and doing new friends. When run intoing new people being interpersonal aids me in placing and understand others motivations and intent. It helps me as a pupil because it allows me to work efficaciously with other pupils during group documents or undertakings. It besides helps me understand what the other individual wants and what the cardinal incentive that is maintaining my group together. My personal belief about this peculiar intelligence is that it can avoid differences among a group of persons because they would be able to understand one another and in the occupation industry, particularly these yearss, it is really of import that one learns how to get by with other employees. Peoples working in retail normally have a stronger interpersonal intelligence along with instructors and political figu res. My personal success is my cardinal incentive. Personally my sentiment about Gardner is that he was right about his theory of multiple intelligences because even though he stated each person is different in what type of intelligences he/she possesses, he besides stated that an person ‘s civilization affects our intelligence. Turning up in a society where math and scientific discipline was a large issue, my intelligence in those countries is much higher than it is in something like humanistic disciplines.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Strategic finance issues

This analysis will financially compare Santos Limiter's financial performance for the year ending 31st December 2013 with the previous year's results, by way of ratio analysis. It will also benchmark the latest result with that of Woodside Petroleum for the same period using the same ratio analysis of the 2013 financial statements of each company.A copy of these ratio analysis are attached to this report as appendix 1, which contains a through time comparison for the last two years for Santos Limited ND the across time comparison with Woodside Petroleum for the most recent year. As Basely and Hancock (2013 p. 358) depict there are certain factors relevant to selecting an appropriate benchmark.Woodside Petroleum has been selected as the benchmarking company as Woodside also operates in oil and gas production, focusing operations within the Australian area. While Woodside operations are larger than that of Santos, the relative size of these companies is comparable and both follow the a ccounting policies required by the Corporations Act 2001 , Australian Accounting Standards and other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting standards board.Both companies are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASS) which provides comparative data for the ratios analyzed and presented in Appendix 1 with the following tables; Table 1 – Profitability ratios Table 2 – Efficiency ratios Table 3 – Short-term solvency ratios Table 4 – Long-term solvency ratios and Table 5 – Market-based ratios A copy of Santos Limiter's 2013, 2012 and Woodside petroleum ‘s 2013 Annual reports are attached to this report as Appendix 2, Appendix 3 and Appendix 4 especially, for reference to the findings and suggestions outlined in this review.One limitation of the comparison is that Santos Limited reports their financial data in Australian (ALL'S) dollars, while Woodside Petroleum report their financial data in American (US) dollars. This is o vercome by using ratios for a majority of comparisons and converting the US dollar amounts into ASS dollars when required. 2. 0 Ratio Analysis To look at the relationship between figures presented in the financial statements, this report uses a ratio analysis technique. To fully understand the ratios developed e will look at them in context of other information provided in various reports and the overall goals of the company.From these ratios the report will then compare these against the benchmark and ultimately identify areas for improvement and, if necessary, change. 2. 1 Profitability. As we can see from Table 1 – Profitability ratios, the net profit margin and the gross profit margin fell 1 . 74% and 4. 26% respectively in 2013. While sales increased 1 1 . 76% for the year, the gross profit margin decreased as previously stated which, was the main driver for the decrease in net profit margin for the year as the interest expense o sales remained consistent.There was a sli ght drop in return on assets, however asset turnover remained fairly constant, highlighting that the drop in net profit margin is due to the drop in gross profit margin and not a lower turnover of assets. The reduction in gross profit margin is due to the increase in financing costs like depreciation and depletion (up 1. 5% of sales for 2013) and third party product purchases (up 5. 6% of sales). The reduction in financing income also played a major part in pushing down profits. In comparison Woodside has a higher return on assets Han Santos due to the 16. 8% higher profit margin and they turnover assets more efficiently. Also, Santos' continuing capital growth strategies in projects such as the Papua New Guiana Liquefied Natural Gas (PING LONG) and the Gladstone Liquid Natural Gas (GLEN) transformational projects which are outlined in the 2013 Annual report, are still in the developing phase, therefore not producing to generate sales until the following years. Woodside had a low co mmitment to capital expenditure for the same financial year and after selling off major capital in 2012 their use of debt as far less (shown as the leverage ratio in Table 4).The return on ordinary shareholder's equity (ROE) ratio shows the return for the shareholders who supply equity to the business. The ROE is higher for Woodside due to their higher profit margins however, the higher financial leverage ratio in Table 4 will benefit Santos' shareholders when the return on assets increases compared to the financing costs. This will happen when the above mentioned projects begin production. This is congruent with the statement in a press release by Managing Director (M. D) and Chief Executive Officer (C.E. O) Mr. David Knox on 21st of February 2014. â€Å"In particular, our natural gas reserve and resource base in eastern Australia, combined with our leading infrastructure position, leaves Santos strategically well placed to meet growing market demand,†. 2. 2 Efficiency ratio s For the 2013 fiscal year the sales and also the number of debtors increased. The use of efficiency ratios helps determine whether the increase in debtors is due to the increase in sales alone or that it is caused by the debtors taking longer to pay.These ratios show this by providing statistical relations on how effectively Santos Limited is electing its outstanding owing money and converting the inventory into sales. From Table 2 we see that comparing the last two fiscal years for Santos Limited has made improvements in their debt collection practices. The number of days taken to collect debtors accounts has reduce from 78. 71 to 65. 53 days but is still outside Santos Limiter's standard 30 days for settlement of accounts. The closing balance is showing more debtors accounts being past the 65. 3 day average for 2013 fiscal year. Comparing these figures to Santos' competitor Woodside, whose debtor recovery is loser to the standard 30 days terms at 31. 63 days. An article in the Sy dney Morning Herald depicts that the question has been asked whether there is a gas reservation policy by shareholders, of which Santos Chairman Mr. Board denies. The ratio analysis of days taken to turn inventory into sales shows a possible reason for this question arising as the number of days taken to convert inventory into sales has risen in 2013 from 52. 19 to 53. 62 days.This is only a slight increase and with an expected increase in demand, this slight rise in inventory would be expected to cover n increase in demand. However, when comparing this level to the benchmark, Woodside inventory turnover is far less at 30. 46 days for a higher sales volume. 2. 3 Short-term solvency ratios While the previous ratios focus on performance of the company solvency ratios focus on assisting the company with decisions, short term and long term. Table 3 shows the short-term solvency ratios which assist in the short term decision making.The current ratio is the most basic test as to how liqui d a company is. It expresses a company's ability to meet its short-term liabilities with its short-term assets. A current ratio greater than or equal to one indicates that current assets should be able to satisfy short-term obligations. A ratio less than one indicated an inability to meet short term requirements. The quick ratio calculated for 2013 compared to 2012 shows the company's ability to pay is has reduced to below the 1:1 ratio, expressing that should the company be required to pay all current debts immediately, they could not do so.Due in part to the reduction in cash levels reducing the current assets from 34. 6% to 20. 3% of net assets. Also increases in the amount of short term interest bearing borrowings increases the current liabilities from 13. 6% of net assets to 16. 9%. With the less cover to pay the increase in short-term liabilities, there is a higher financial risk. When comparing these ratios to that of Woodside, Canton's short term debt paying ability is carry ing greater risks, but comparable with this benchmark. While the quick ratio decline to . 3:1 is cause for concern, the Cash flow from operations to current liabilities ratio shows that 94% of current liabilities can be covered with operational cash flow. Compare this to Woodside, which can easily cover rent liabilities with 141% of its current liabilities covered with operational cash flow. 2. 4 Long-term solvency ratios As the short-term financial risk has previously been expressed, the long term decisions can be assisted by the long-term solvency ratios expressed in Table 4. The debt to equity ratio compares the total liabilities of Santos Limited and compares it to the each dollar of shareholder's equity.During 2013 Santos' reliance has risen due to the increased borrowings and interest bearing loans, so for every $1 of shareholder's equity there is $1. 02 worth of debt obligations. This level of debt is double than that of our benchmark, Woodside Petroleum however, the debt to total asset ratio suggests there is enough assets to cover the debt long term. This might put the company under financial risk and indicate high use of debt compared to shareholder's equity and a greater financial risk long term. This increases the cost of interest in operation, effecting negatively on profitability.The interest coverage while currently is below the industry benchmark, there is sufficient coverage to ensure interest payment obligations will be met. The amount contributed to the long term room each $1 of operating cash flow has also been significantly reduced, moving further away from the benchmark company. This will increase interest costs long term however, also effecting profit margins. 2. 5 Market-based ratios The price per earnings ratio shown in Table 5 show how much the market would pay for shares of stock of the company per dollar of reported profit.About. Coma's business finance reporter Rosemary Palaver suggests that the average price to earnings ratio is a round 19 with Santos' ratio higher at 27. 68 and the benchmark, Woodside, ratio marginally lower at 17. 49. Reasons for Santos' higher than average price per earnings ratio would be due to the potential for Santos increase earnings per share in the foreseeable future and investors are trading accordingly. Other reasons for a high ratio are when companies are in a growth phase, which Santos' financial statements suggest it currently is not.A high ratio also suggests that the company has financial risk which was expressed in the short-term and long-term solvency ratios. While the market is willing to pay a higher price for investment in shares per dollar Santos reports as profit, the earnings yield assists in evaluating whether returns on investment compensates the risk adequately. The yield of 3. 61% for 2013 is down on sass's 4. 53% and short of Woodside 5. 72%, which is at a lower risk. Thus, Santos' shares did not perform to the industry benchmark and shareholders are not getting the yield expected for their investments.Dividends are also low, reflecting the company's growth positioning for the coming few years. 3. 0 Recommendations The increase in growing demand as expected by Mr. David Knox in a release and the move into production phase of the PING project will generate extra operating ash, primarily with already obtained assets. Therefore the focus moving forward should be reducing the financing costs involved in the cost of goods sold. This will in turn increase profit margins, giving a greater return on assets due to lower interest costs, moving margins closer to that of the benchmark Woodside Petroleum.The rate at which inventory is used to generate sales should be reviewed as it is slightly behind the benchmark. One suggestion to come from these ratio findings is that debtor control needs to be tightened which in turn will improve operations cash flow. Steps have been taken during the last fiscal year to reduce the number of days to collect outstandi ng debtor accounts, further improvement will also increase operating cash flow which will reduce the financial risk of the company to pay its current liabilities.The inventory level should be reduced to be more comparable to Woodside and increasing the quick assets level used to repay current liabilities. Further to assist in reducing the risk associated with the company's short-term solvency would be a focus on reducing the current interest-bearing loans and borrowings. 4. Conclusion. Through the usage of ratio analysis this report has analyses Santos Limiter's financial performance over the last two years and benchmark it against Australia's largest oil and natural gas producer.There are several other factors influencing position and performance like international economies, competition and major long term growth projects etc. These play a decisive role in the changes in profits, earnings yield and dividend yield. The last two years have seen Santos' profits and stock performances below industry averages but this is large in part to the investment in growth opportunities, which will begin production in the near future. Some findings and recommendations have been made to improve the financial position of the company so the entity and the shareholders that have invested in it can prosper.Although the companies are in the same field, factors like subsidiary companies or having some different end product can create problem in comparing the companies. The economic condition in the different region and the accounting techniques adopted by these companies while computing ratios and financial tenement also decreases the credibility of the calculation (Charles and Patricia, 1983) 5. 0 References Charles H. Gibson & Patricia A. Brush-off. 1983. Z ND Edition. Kent Publishing Company.