Core Values

Marco Aurelien Period 1st Mr. Hill British Lit Beowolf: To leave or not to leave In many ways the ancient Greek and Roman of Beowulf times are intertwined with the modern lives that all of us lead today. These antiquities affect us beyond the obvious government, theatrical, and social practices. The core values of this era mirror and shape our modern core values and morals of today. Pietas – loyalty, gravitas – seriousness, and dignitas – respect are all things that were seen as important at this time period just as they are seen as important in todays world.It is easy to talk about the obvious positive traits that characters have shown in the epic novels or poems we have read but it is more interesting to look at the shadows on grey in a person to show the realism within. The more difficult way of comparing these different eras is to look at the morals and core values that the citizens lived by. Pietas, gravitas, and dignitas, are three general core values that every one in society must show and live by on a daily basis. In Beowulf, he had the task to going up against what seemed to be an undefeatable and despised monster that could ultimately lead to his demise.Most would say that Beowulf should a large amount of bravery and Gravitas to go and venture to Denmark to defeat Grendel. Another vantage point is that in actuality Beowulf lacked Pietas to his nation in leaving to fight a battle that was not his own. Though his father had left him in debt of a favor to King Hrothgar, it was his own choice to follow in his father’s footsteps as a warrior. Beowulf was an exemplary example of Dignitas in all aspect of his life, as a role model and giving and commanding respect from everyone. These core values still surround us in modern times everyday and are necessary in order to succeed in life.A student must exhibit all of these things if they are attempting to become a well-rounded scalar and human being. If everyone demonstrates pietas, o r loyalty, towards his or her community and school they will have a strong support system around them allowing them to reach their true potential. Students should have a certain level of gravitas, or seriousness, in order to create a safe and effective learning environment for not only his or herself but for everyone around them. While it is important for students to have pietas and gravitas is even more important that that student had dignitas, or respect, for others and for themselves.Everyone may believe that Beowulf exhibited the core values at all times but it can be proven that he did not. These ancient values are as relevant as possible in the modern day world. We may have been able to do without theater or even a democratic political system but if people began living without pietas, dignitas, and gravitas society would fall apart. The modern citizen must exhibit all of these core values if they expect to be successful and if they do they are eventually going to do well in li fe. Core Values Marco Aurelien Period 1st Mr. Hill British Lit Beowolf: To leave or not to leave In many ways the ancient Greek and Roman of Beowulf times are intertwined with the modern lives that all of us lead today. These antiquities affect us beyond the obvious government, theatrical, and social practices. The core values of this era mirror and shape our modern core values and morals of today. Pietas – loyalty, gravitas – seriousness, and dignitas – respect are all things that were seen as important at this time period just as they are seen as important in todays world.It is easy to talk about the obvious positive traits that characters have shown in the epic novels or poems we have read but it is more interesting to look at the shadows on grey in a person to show the realism within. The more difficult way of comparing these different eras is to look at the morals and core values that the citizens lived by. Pietas, gravitas, and dignitas, are three general core values that every one in society must show and live by on a daily basis. In Beowulf, he had the task to going up against what seemed to be an undefeatable and despised monster that could ultimately lead to his demise.Most would say that Beowulf should a large amount of bravery and Gravitas to go and venture to Denmark to defeat Grendel. Another vantage point is that in actuality Beowulf lacked Pietas to his nation in leaving to fight a battle that was not his own. Though his father had left him in debt of a favor to King Hrothgar, it was his own choice to follow in his father’s footsteps as a warrior. Beowulf was an exemplary example of Dignitas in all aspect of his life, as a role model and giving and commanding respect from everyone. These core values still surround us in modern times everyday and are necessary in order to succeed in life.A student must exhibit all of these things if they are attempting to become a well-rounded scalar and human being. If everyone demonstrates pietas, o r loyalty, towards his or her community and school they will have a strong support system around them allowing them to reach their true potential. Students should have a certain level of gravitas, or seriousness, in order to create a safe and effective learning environment for not only his or herself but for everyone around them. While it is important for students to have pietas and gravitas is even more important that that student had dignitas, or respect, for others and for themselves.Everyone may believe that Beowulf exhibited the core values at all times but it can be proven that he did not. These ancient values are as relevant as possible in the modern day world. We may have been able to do without theater or even a democratic political system but if people began living without pietas, dignitas, and gravitas society would fall apart. The modern citizen must exhibit all of these core values if they expect to be successful and if they do they are eventually going to do well in li fe.

Professional judgment framework Essay

Background Jameson Family Farms (JFF), a family owned business, grows, processes and packages a range of fruits and vegetables, but primarily specializes in growing and selling peanuts. The company has a niche for selling their particular salted and unsalted peanuts to grocery stores and baseball stadiums in the southeastern region of the US. The product offerings have been stable over the last five years, but the company began internet sales in 2010, which increased sales by about $19 million in 2010 over 2009. The commodity business for peanuts, however, is very competitive and seven to eight major companies vie for US sales. JFF’s has annual audits for lending requirements and for family purposes. The family members are paid a modest salary. Prior to 2012, JFF management was composed mainly of closely related family members who started the business more than 30 years ago. Over the last two years, as internet sales have increased, a number of these family members have been voicing the notion of retiring from the business through either an initial public offering (IPO) or private sale of the company. In late 2011, given the age of these family members, other younger, extended family members were considered for the senior management ranks. As a result, in early 2012, the family brought in a distant cousin, Larry Marshall, to fill the role of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Marshall has prior experience working with and growing food commodity companies and preparing such companies for IPOs. Before joining JFF, Marshall was out of work for almost a year and, prior to that, he worked for three different companies over a five-year period. The CEO’s compensation and year-end bonus are based on yearly pretax income as well as non-monetary measures related to meeting IPO filing requirements. Marshall hired a former fellow employee as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Gwen Thomas, and gave Thomas the overall responsibility for the Accounting Department and related financial reporting. Thomas, in turn, hired two individuals in the Accounting Department who worked with her and Marshall at previous companies. Thomas also has her compensation and year-end bonus based on JFF’s yearly pretax income. The audit firm, Fairly Stated, LLP, has been  auditing JFF for over 15 years. The audit partner, Robert Williams, has been on the account for five years and as the audit partner for the last three years. Williams is friends with Harvey Jameson, the patriarch of the family, but Williams does not know Larry Marshall or Gwen Thomas. The company has a new CEO, Larry Marshall, a distant family member. There is a new CFO, Gwen Thomas, who has worked with Marshall over the last five years. Two new accountants have joined the Accounting department, both worked with Thomas over the last five years. The Jameson family decided to retain the new CEO in order to position the company for either an IPO or a private sale, as a number of family members would like to be cashed out of their equity positions. Harvey Jameson has some reservations about some of the actions of Larry Marshall including the reduction in some detailed financial information provided to family members and also the tone at the top. Some of the sales representatives may be feeling pressure to increase sales. Operations The initial analytical review for the nine-month operations through September 30, 2012, with a forecast for the fourth quarter of 2012, indicates an approximate 9% increase in gross sales, which is consistent with management expectations but unusual given the competitive nature of the peanut processing and sales business. Additionally, there are decreases in the sales returns and allowances (53%); a decrease in the percentage of the cost of goods sold (1%); and a small decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses (1%). The cost of goods sold category has actually increased in amount, due to increased sales, but as a percentage of sales it is down, reflecting management’s plan to run more efficiently. Selling,  general and administrative expenses are down due to a slight reduction in head count. From a balance sheet standpoint, there has been an increase in accounts receivable (45%), and a small increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts (7%). Cash and short-term investments are down by more than $2.1 million at September 30, 2012, compared to December 31, 2011. The cash flow statement reflects the increase in accounts receivable, an increase in inventory as well as an investment of $3.0 million in new machinery. Net borrowings under the long-term debt arrangement have increased by $530,000. JFF was recently in the unusual position of being overdrawn in its main operating checking account. This may be due in part to the increase in accounts receivable and the purchases of the new machinery. Determination of materiality In 2011, it was determined that the amount considered to be a material misstatement for financial reporting purposes was equal to or exceeded 2% of net income, or $25,000. With the increased size of operations for 2012, the amount considered to be a material misstatement for financial reporting purposes will still be 2%, but the amount will be $50,000 based on the forecasted results of operations for the year. The 2% amount is still considered appropriate for JFF as the family likes to be aware of all larger items that can impact the operations of the company and, accordingly, we believe this is an appropriate percentage to use. Follow-up actions The audit team determined, as a result of this meeting, to do the following: 1. Obtain more financial information and analytical data to evaluate the operations of JFF through discussions with Larry Marshall and Robert Williams, especially the data related to new sales, cost of goods sold expenses, S,G and A expenses and the customer credit extension and collection procedures, as well as the reasons for the reduction in the cash and short-term investment position. 2. Complete the analytical review analysis (draft attached) based on these discussions. Assess the possibility of material misstatement due to fraud as specified by AU Section 316, paragraph 19b. 3. Assess the possibility of fraud due to material misstatement based on the identification of risk factors as specified by AU Section 316, paragraph 19c and those identified in paragraph 85 of the  appendix. 4. Obtain a better level of understanding of the extent of control testing performed by internal audit that could impact the extent of our procedures. Subsequent to completion of the above procedures, an additional planning meeting will be held to develop an overall risk assessment of the company as well as specific risk assessments for the various audit areas. At this meeting, a preliminary audit approach will be developed, including the extent of control testing, compliance audit procedures, substantive audit procedures and the extent of reliance on internal audit. Video 4 – Meeting between the CEO and the Audit Partner Link: http://bcove.me/72vf104b Note: to turn on closed captioning, click the CC button Required Form a group of at least five students to work as the audit team to complete Parts A and B. Your instructor will tell you whether Part C should be done individually or as a team. Part A: AU Section 316, paragraph 19b instructs auditors to perform analytical procedures when planning an audit to identify areas where auditors should be extra vigilant. Paragraph 19c requires auditors to specifically consider whether fraud risk exists. The Guidance Table on the following pages quotes AU Section 316, paragraphs 19b and 19c. Consider these paragraphs when completing Part A of this assignment. The assignment for Part A is to: Complete the â€Å"Information available† column using the information provided in this case. Complete the â€Å"Analysis† column by determining the implications of the information you document. Include in your analysis whether there is a fraud risk factor present. Review the spreadsheet containing the preliminary analytical review performed to provide inf ormation needed to complete this assignment. Part B: Complete the professional judgment framework application template (provided separately) to document your judgment about the possibility of material misstatement due to fraud. In completing the professional judgment framework application template, keep the following in mind: The application template step â€Å"Considerations to gather the facts† requires answering the question, â€Å"What is the applicable guidance?† For purposes of this case, disregard any fraud risk factors you identify for which you do not have adequate information to address. Because the applicable guidance was documented in Part A of this  assignment, it is sufficient to write â€Å"See the application guidance table† when completing the application template step of â€Å"How does the guidance apply to the issue?† Part C: Using the information you documented regarding the overarching considerations and specific considerations for each process step in the framework, prepare a final memorandum regarding your professional judgment of the possibility of material misstatement due to fraud. Be sure that you are able to address the following considerations: Is the documentation sufficient to support your judgment? Can another professional understand how you reached your conclusion (including why reasonable outcomes and possible alternatives identified were not selected)? Tool to document the judgment Overall memorandum Issue: Facts: Analysis: Judgment: AU Section 316 guidance 19b â€Å"Consider any unusual or unexpected relationships that have been identified in performing analytical procedures in planning the audit. (See paragraphs .28 through .30.) â€Å".28 Section 329, Analytical Procedures, paragraphs .04 and .06, requires that analytical procedures be performed in planning the audit with an objective of identifying the existence of unusual transactions or events, and amounts, ratios, and trends that might indicate matters that have financial statement and audit planning implications. In performing analytical procedures in planning the audit, the auditor develops expectations about plausible relationships that are reasonably expected to exist, based on the auditor’s understanding of the entity and its environment. When comparison of those expectations with recorded amounts or ratios developed from recorded amounts yields unusual or unexpected relationships, the auditor should consider those results in identifying the risks of material missta tement due to fraud. â€Å".29 In planning the audit, the auditor also should perform analytical procedures relating to revenue with the objective of identifying unusual or unexpected relationships involving revenue accounts that may indicate a material misstatement due to  fraudulent financial reporting. An example of such an analytical procedure that addresses this objective is a comparison of sales volume, as determined from recorded revenue amounts, with production capacity. An excess of sales volume over production capacity may be indicative of recording fictitious sales. As another example, a trend analysis of revenues by month and sales returns by month during and shortly after the reporting period may indicate the existence of undisclosed side agreements with customers to return goods that would preclude revenue recognition. â€Å".30 Analytical procedures performed during planning may be helpful in identifying the risks of material misstatement due to fraud. However, because such analytical procedures generally use data aggregated at a high level, the results of those analytical procedures provide only a broad initial indication about whether a material misstatement of the financial statements may exist. Accordingly, the results of analytical procedures performed during planning should be considered along with other information gathered by the auditor in identifying the risks of material misstatement due to fraud.† Information available Analysis AU Section 316 guidance â€Å"19c Consider whether one or more fraud risk factors exist. (See paragraphs .31 through .33, and the Appendix [paragraph .85].) â€Å".31 Because fraud is usually concealed, material misstatements due to fraud are difficult to detect. Nevertheless, the auditor may identify events or conditions that indicate incentives/pressures to perpetrate fraud, opportunities to carry out the fraud, or attitudes/rationalizations to justify a fraudulent action. Such events or conditions are referred to as â€Å"fraud risk factors.† Fraud risk factors do not necessarily indicate the existence of fraud; however, they often are present in circumstances where fraud exists. â€Å".32 When obtaining information about the entity and its environment, the auditor should consider whether the information indicates that one or more fraud risk factors are present. The auditor should use professional judgment in determining whether a risk factor is present and should be considered in identifying a nd assessing the risks of material misstatement due to fraud. â€Å".33 Examples of fraud risk factors related to fraudulent financial reporting and misappropriation of assets are presented in the Appendix [paragraph .85]. These illustrative risk factors are classified based on the three conditions generally present when fraud exists: incentive/pressure to perpetrate fraud, an opportunity to carry out the fraud, and attitude/rationalization to justify the fraudulent action. Although the risk factors cover a broad range of situations, they are only examples and, accordingly, the auditor may wish to consider additional or different risk factors. Not all of these examples are relevant in all circumstances, and some may be of greater or lesser significance in entities of different size or with different ownership characteristics or circumstances. Also, the order of the examples of risk factors provided is not intended to reflect their relative importance or frequency of occurrence.† AU Section 316 guidance – Appendix paragraph 85 Information Analysis Incentives/Pressures a. Financial stability or profitability is threatened by economic, industry or entity operating conditions, such as (or as indicated by): High degree of competition or market saturation, accompanied by declining margins. There is a very high level of competition and market saturation. A cause for this is the increase in foreign companies that are coming into the market. This is causing U.S. companies to streamline their operations. With the increased competition JFF is being forced, along with other U.S. companies to streamline efforts. This may have affect on health and safety concerns down the road. The pressure to increase efficiency and profitability is very high. High vulnerability to rapid changes, such as changes in technology, product obsolescence or interest rates. There have been a lot of changes in operations this past year at JFF. Some of the rapid changes in 2012 include year-end bonus incentive plan, decreased head-count in SGA, new employees in accounting department, decreased profitability of local investments, shortened exchange rate, credit review standards for new customers, and management. These changes have seemed to have important roles in 2012. Year-end Bonus Incentive plan has increased net sales 10% from 2011 to 2012. May increase the amount of pressure placed on sales department. Decreased head count in SGA has caused for the internal auditors to be understaffed and may result in compliance issues. New Employees in the accounting department may cause a increase in misstatements due to unfamiliarity. The decreased profitability of investments is causing a loss that have decreased invest in cash flows. The decreased return/exchange window from 14-days to 5-days will decrease the chances of the firms returns and will allow for a decrease percentage of allowance for returns The increased credit review standards for new customers will help decrease the chance of uncollectable amounts and ultimately decrease accounts receivable. Management changes may cause a increase in chance of error and bad judgment due to the inexperience management has with this company. Significant declines in customer demand and increasing business failures in either the industry or overall economy. Operating losses, making the threat of bankruptcy, foreclosure or hostile takeover imminent. Recurring negative cash flows from operations and an inability to generate cash flows from operations while reporting earnings and earnings growth. Rapid growth or unusual profitability, especially compared to that of other companies in the same industry. New accounting, statutory or regulatory requirements. b. Excessive pressure exists for management to meet the requirements or expectations of third parties due to the following: Profitability or trend level expectations of investment analysts, institutional investors, significant creditors or other external parties (particularly expectations that are unduly aggressive or unrealistic), including expectations created by management in, for example, overly optimistic press releases or annual report messages. Need to obtain additional debt or equity financing to stay competitive —  including financing of major research and development or capital expenditures. Marginal ability to meet exchange listing requirements or debt repayment or other debt covenant requirements. Perceived or real adverse effects of reporting poor financial results on significant pending transactions, such as business combinations or contract awards. c. Information available indicates that management’s or those charged with governance’s personal financial situation is threatened by the entity’s financial performance arising from the following: Significant financial interests in the entity. Significant portions of their compensation (for example, bonuses, stock options and earn-out arrangements) being contingent upon achieving aggressive targets for stock price, operating results, financial position or cash flow. Personal guarantees of debts of the entity d. There is excessive pressure on management or operating personnel to meet financial targets set up by those charged with governance or management, including sales or profitability incentive goals. Opportunities a. The nature of the industry or the entity’s operations provides opportunities to engage in fraudulent financial reporting that can arise from the following: Significant related-party transactions not in the ordinary course of business or with related entities not audited or audited by another firm Information not available A strong financial presence or ability to dominate a certain industry sector that allows the entity to dictate terms or conditions to suppliers or  customers that may result in inappropriate or non-arm’s-length transactions. None They were targeting customers where they haven’t done much business in the past, such as public facilities, movie theaters and other types of retail facilities. Assets, liabilities, revenues or expenses based on significant estimates that involve subjective judgments or uncertainties that are difficult to corroborate. No. The overall result is that as a percentage of net sales, their gross profit has gone from about 15% to about 16% or maybe a little more in 2012. Significant, unusual or highly complex transactions, especially those close to period-end that pose difficult â€Å"substance over form† questions. Information not available Significant operations located or conducted across international borders in jurisdictions where differing business environments and cultures exist. The information did not mention operations conducted across international borders. They may not consider conduct across international right now. Significant bank accounts or subsidiary or branch operations in tax-haven jurisdictions for which there appears to be no clear business justification. No. The company got a call from the bank saying they were over drawn in the main operational account Since ample amounts of money are held in the reserve account the bank authorized the checks they issued b. There is ineffective monitoring of management as a result of the following: Domination of management by a single person or small group (in a non-owner-managed business) without compensating controls. Larry and Gwen have worked together for about five years and have known each other for about eight years. They are familiar with each other. They may move from company to company together. Ineffective oversight over the financial reporting process and internal control by those charged with governance. The internal financial information not as detailed as normal. Thomas claims it is easier for the family members to concentrate on the big picture. c. There is a complex or unstable organizational structure, as evidenced by the following: Difficulty in determining the organization or individuals that  have controlling interest in the entity. No Overly complex organizational structure involving unusual legal entities or managerial lines of authority. No High turnover of senior management, counsel or board members. No. However, Gwen brought two accountants who worked for Gwen for about five years and they make everything flow smoothly. The bonuses are determined by senior management based on the individual sales representative’s increase in sales and a number of other factors such as teamwork and customer feedback. d. Internal control components are deficient as a result of the following: Inadequate monitoring of controls, including automated controls and controls over interim financial reporting (where external reporting is required). The internal financial information was not as detailed as normal. Thomas and new accountants have revised the internal financial information, they distribute to present operations at a much higher level with not so much detailed financial information High turnover rates or employment of ineffective accounting, internal audit, or information technology staff. The company focused more on internet sales. They also reduce some leased office space they had. Improvements in certain operating techniques that would reduce costs, such as electricity management. Ineffective accounting and information systems, including situations involving significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in internal control. Not as detailed as normal. Thomas and new accountants have revised the internal financial information, they distribute to present operations at a much higher level with not so much detailed financial information. Thomas claims it is easier for the family members to concentrate on the big picture. In some respects it is true that very detailed financial information can lead to focusing on the little things rather than looking at the bigger picture. Attitudes/rationalizations Risk factors reflective of attitudes/rationalizations by those charged with governance, management or employees that allow them to engage in and/or justify fraudulent financial reporting may not be susceptible to observation by the auditor. Nevertheless, the auditor who becomes aware of the existence  of such information should consider it in identifying the risks of material misstatement arising from fraudulent financial reporting. For example, auditors may become aware of the following information that may indicate a risk factor: a. Ineffective communication, implementation, support or enforcement of the entity’s values or ethical standards by management or the communication of inappropriate values or ethical standards b. Non-financial management’s excessive participation in or preoccupation with the selection of accounting principles or the determination of significant estimates c. Known history of violations of securities laws or other laws and regulations, or claims against the entity, its senior management or board members alleging fraud or violations of laws and regulations d. Excessive interest by management in maintaining or increasing the entity’s stock price or earnings trend e. A practice by management of committing to analysts, creditors and other third parties to achieve aggressive or unrealistic forecasts f. Management failing to correct known significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in internal control on a timely basis g. An interest by management in employing inappropriate means to minimize reported earnings for tax-motivated reasons h. Recurring attempts by management to justify marginal or inappropriate accounting on the basis of materiality i. The relationship between management and the current or predecessor auditor is strained, as exhibited by the following: a. Frequent disputes with the current or predecessor auditor on accounting, auditing or reporting matters b. Unreasonable demands on the auditor, such as unreasonable time constraints regarding the completion of the audit or the issuance of the  auditor’s report c. Formal or informal restrictions on the auditor that inappropriately limit access to people or information or the ability to communicate effectively with those charged with governance d. Domineering management behavior in dealing with the auditor, especially involving attempts to influence the scope of the auditor’s work or the selection or continuance of personnel assigned to or consulted on the audit engagement.

Final Paper African Americans Essay

Through out history there has been a struggle for African Americans to be accepted in our society. An African American endures many more disadvantages than most white people. The media and other sources have made blacks to look the same and has portrayed them in a certain light that may not be fitting to all blacks. There are many misconceptions that people have of blacks. Many people and organizations have had a part in bringing equality and fighting for equal rights for black people. African Americans have been at a huge disadvantage in America from the beginning. Unlike many other minority groups in America, African Americans in many cases were brought here by force and not by there own will. (000000) The first African Americans came to America in the seventeenth century and were immediately forced to work for Whites. After much turmoil and even a civil war Blacks were finally given there freedom with the Emancipation proclamation signed and ratified in 1863. Even after the proclamation some blacks were still enslaved and freed blacks had little to no opportunity. The struggle continued into the next century as blacks finally received the right to vote with the ratification in of the 15th amendment. The 20th century contained a world filled by a segregated America between whites and blacks through jim crow laws that existed that restricted blacks from interacting with whites. With a history like that it is no wonder that African Americans still have disadvantages in our modern day. America today is known as the country of opportunity. Although there are many opportunities out there it seems that there are more opportunities for some groups more than others. Many companies and corporations still use race as a indicator for hiring employees. In one study done by the National Bureau of Economic Research, people with common black names were less likely to be called back for an interview based on there application alone then black people with common white sounding names. Job applicants with white sounding names needed to send out ten applications to get one call back while applications with common black names needed to send out about fifteen to get one reply. (Francis, www. nber. org/digest.com). The research was done withe resumes of the same qualifications. It is easy to see that Black people are constantly bombarded by inequality in the work force. If there were inequalities just based on names of applicants just imagine the inequality when employers actually see the race of the applicants. Black Americans have been stereotyped for years and continue to be today. The media is one great source of portraying African Americans in certain roles. African Americans are portrayed as criminals, drug dealers and sex offenders in many instances. Many Africans are outraged at how they are portrayed in the media. Protest groups such as the Young African Americans Against Media Stereotypes have done what they can to show there stance on stereotypical media portrayal. â€Å"Majority of the time you see a young African-American male in the media he is singing, rapping, scoring a touchdown, dunking a basketball or committing a crime†( http://www. yaaams. com/) Many stereotypes about black people are incredibly false. Many people still think that black people are only good at certain things like music and sports. This is a very false belief and black people have contributed heavily to all different sorts of fields. Many vital inventions that we use on an everyday bases were invented by black people. The dust mop, pencil sharpener, typewriter, and elevator were all invented by black people. (http://www. black-network. com) Our society would not be what it is if it were not for Garret Morgan, the young Black man who invented the traffic light. http://www. infoplease. com/spot/bhmcensus1. html.

Corporate Culture and Corporate Identity Case Study

Corporate Culture and Corporate Identity - Case Study Example Also, corporate structure is an accessory for inducing the aligned motivation as well as emotions which are often interpreted by corporate identity or firm allegiance. According to Koch and Godden, a number of advocated of management's termination have suggested that the organizations are evolving from an outmoded bureaucratic appearance (Koch and Godden, 1996). Like Tajfeel suggested, Hold ups for the corporate culture hypothesis appears to be facilitated by the experimentations that implement a minimal group paradigm (Tajfeel, 1970: 98). Despite of this, there are some artificial ways of unscrambling one commune of participants from another to be sufficient enough of inducing in-group preferences and extrinsic prejudices. The emotional as well as recognized associations and knots of corporate culture appear to be much authoritative than those which are entirely a result of the labels. As a consequence of such bonding, the members of other organization would generally do what they construe as the agreed-upon job of the corporation. As a matter of fact, this pays no attention to the requirement of coordinating behavior to some restraints, however, can bestow formal rules unnecessarily. With appropriate consideration to the Corporate Identity of a particular firm, one comes across the agency intricacies. In Holmstrom and Tirole's view-point, even though the principal-agent hypothesis presumes without the payment of incentives, many scholars prove the contrary, although, there is enough space for opportunists (Holmstrom and Tirole, 1989). In point of fact, the principal-agent investigations delineate that the trust of principals as well as the cooperation of the agents by working and not neglecting, can prove to be as efficacious as or even more efficacious than the schemes in association with the incentives. Nevertheless, it transforms with experience. With appropriate significance, the principal-agent hypothesis aches from a critical drawback in the negligence of hiring competition for its silhouette. The intend for this study is to analyze as well as determine the factors associated with the corporate culture and corporate identity with regards to the hotel industry with meticulous orientation towards the Hotel Restaurant Erbprinz in Ettingen, Germany. The aspects that are associated with Corporate Identity as well as Corporate Culture can be efficaciously determined through the insight of the members of this organization, keeping in mind the restrained scope of the analysis, albeit a detailed study can be brought in to existence by making an assessment with the customers. Erbprinz Restaurant is a part of the Hotel Erbprinz in the

Critical Thinking Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Critical Thinking - Assignment Example The key question that was asked was very simple: Why? As the commission said in the report, â€Å"Why did they do this? How was the attack planned and conceived? How did the U.S. Government fail to anticipate and prevent it? What can we do in the future to prevent similar acts of terrorism?† Much like the public on September 11, 2001, the parties involved in this report were also in a state of shock, asking themselves how and why such a thing could come to pass on American soil. Much of what the committee needed to put together their report was already in evidence, gathered by various agencies as soon as possible after the actual events of September 11, 2001. The committee in the report was very mindful that they were writing â€Å"with the benefit and handicap of hindsight†, meaning that in looking back, there were various events and actions, such as â€Å"not discovering false statements on visa applications, or not recognizing passports manipulated in a fraudulent manner†, as well as reports delivered to the United States government from around the world, that had they been linked together in any way would have probably led them to realize that the real threat of the attacks did not lay abroad in another part of the world, as they had originally thought, but right on American soil. One of the biggest concerns of the 9/11 Commission was the lack of centralized response system to the emergency situation once the attacks were underway. The report specifically states that â€Å"the defense of the U.S. airspace depended on close interaction between two Federal agencies: the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).† However, there were fundamental problems even in the communication between the two agencies, as there was no protocol in place or procedure to follow in the case of a hijacked airplane being used as a weapon,

System architecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

System architecture - Essay Example Dependant upon particular needs that the client inquired. Just like the colonel’s point of view on leadership features, Mr. Siegel requires the organization to promote real customer interactions, motivating staff to be able to each turn into a chief and be able to function separate, though right at the end to be able to integrate and act as a team. Mr. Siegel’s model helps bring about carrying out items correct initially (Evans, 2014). The particular colonel deals with the likelihood regarding chance concerning his / her company while using the expression â€Å"If that isn’t shattered, don’t repair it. † Given that they monitor the matter and maintain that wouldn’t certainly be an issue. Also the colonel emphasis on having excellent listening skills when involved with resolving conflicts among employees or dealing with customers needs. He supports the notion of leaders who also trust their employees. Also, good leaders should have the capability to delegate and empower others in the organization while still maintaining control of everything in the system. Also, the Colonel has his head continually â€Å"looking below the surface† in order to pinpoint situations that do not meet the leader’s standards. Mr. Siegel furthermore says the significance associated with splendid, crystal clear connect skills as well as the ability to focus on fine detail; often through jamming or watching. Moreover, Mr. Siegel’s builder emphasizes that will software has its disorders and this right supervision by itself will not always resolve the look issues (Evans, 2014). Evans, R. K., Hill, G. M., NASA Glenn Research Center,, & United States. (2014). Data acquisition system architecture and capabilities at NASA GRC Plum Brook Stations space environment test

Reading response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 33

Reading response - Essay Example A Thousand Plateaus is the main writing from which pleasures of philosophy are found where the main article is molded in terms of the different settings where a reader can read any article or plateau. There is no systematic order of the reading to come up with a clear meaning, although the plateaus do not give the final words (Massumi, 17). A plateau can be defined as an orchestration of crushing bricks extracted from a variety of disciplinary edifices where it carry’s traces of its former emplacement which gives it a spin defining the arc of its vector (Massumi, 19). This shows the dependence and interdependency of the plateaus that makes the notes seem like repetition, whereas they are also melodic in nature, where one only reads what he wants to read or what is interesting to him. This notion is what Brian termed, as the pleasures of philosophy since he noted that philosophy is complex and when it is not understood, it is boring thus, the different nature of the plateaus ensures each reader is able to at least understand and embrace one of the plateaus. The different plateaus that have a common spin portray the unity even in the real nature where people have different understanding and embrace different things, although their objectives may be similar (Massumi, 27). Pleasures of Philosophy being a plateau within A Thousand Plateaus talks more about ticks, quilts, fuzzy subsets, neurology and political economy. This unrelated subject makes it difficult to understand as the plateau is dedicated to music and animal behavior. It uses a difficult technical expression retrieved from different disciplines used in the humanities, mathematics, and the sciences, but whose authors recommend that you read it as you would listen to a record. This complexity ensures that each reader is able to come up with a sovereign judgment of the issues discussed in the plateau. The exercise to ensure one is able to give a good judgment is essential, even in the

Economic of Race and Gender Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Economic of Race and Gender - Essay Example Although such legislation was needed to ensure equal access to employment for all Americans, it also served the purpose of defining diversity by symbolizing what characteristics of American workers should be preserved in the workplace. In this regard, organizations have relied on policies, such as the 4/5ths rule, for ensuring that selection tools do not unfairly discriminate against minority applicants. From the critical perspective, societies themselves made a rational justification for diversity, revealing through their practices that diversification of the workplace in economics is a necessity for increasing workplace innovation and creativity (Cox & Blake, 1991). This rational argument of economic necessity for diversity has been vividly articulated during the United States Supreme Court case of Gratz v.Bollinger (2003). In this case the University of Michigan’s admissions practices were challenged for automatically awarding minority applicants â€Å"diversity points† that were not available for non-minority applicants. A number of organizations filed briefs supporting the University of Michigan’s policies because promoting diversity in higher education would increase the pool of highly qualified applicants for future workforce. Arguments raised in the briefs were that students educated around diversity (1) are more adept at facilitating unique and creative approaches to problem solving; (2) are better able to develop products that appeal to a wide variety of consumers; (3) are better equipped for working with diverse business partners, employees, and clientele and; (4) will contribute to a positive work environment through decreasing incidents of discrimination and stereotyping (3M et al., 2003). Cox and Blake (1991) argued that attitudes, cognition, behaviors, and beliefs are distributed differently across ages, races, and genders, therefore, such heterogeneity, can foster creativity and innovations.

Imagine you are a columnist or have been contracted to write an Assignment

Imagine you are a columnist or have been contracted to write an opinion piece, for a quality publication such as The Economist o - Assignment Example A good example is what is being witnessed in Greece where the economy has been observed to decrease by 5% every year. Governments should adapt to the idea of spending to boost the economy and also concentrate on balancing the books as the private sector facilitates the economy rise. It is strange how the people who believe in austerity see this as an impossible move and believe that you can not spend when you got a debt. Keynes Theory The stimulus vs. austerity argument arises the debate about if the money supply should be increased or reduced. The difference between function one and function three views of money brings up a big debate. Also the creditors and debtors have a conflict of interest here. Creditors prefer the level three. They are more concerned with the store of value and want their money to increase value and be worth something when they are paid back. Debtors propose to earn the less money and pay back real terms. Multiplier The battle between austerity and stimulus ma inly bases around money as a vital factor that greatly determines there strength. Money functions are sub-divided into three which include: a medium of exchange, a unit of account and a measure store of value. These three functions bring out the difference between the stimulus and austerity. ... 10) Money also functions as a unit of account where it is basically used as a common unit for measuring the difference in value between two commodities or more. For example in barter trade economy, you can exchange two sheep for three goats whereas in the money economy you can value the goats for six shillings. Money functions as a unit of account in that it tells what things are worth. For example a sheep is worth three shillings and a goat at two shillings. The other function of money is as a store of value, in this sense, money is attributed by the fact that it cannot be spend immediately it is gained. The view of money as a physical medium of exchange improves the economy positively. An increase in physical exchanges increases the level of trade thus leads to quick economy growth. If money is perceived as a store of value then it will negatively contribute to the economy .The less the amount of money stored, the more valuable it becomes. Restriction on the amount of money in supp ly increases its value. Problems of Applying A Keynesian Stimulus Everyone would agree with the fact that we are facing an economic crisis. Some people believe that this situation is caused by the government giving promises it can not deliver in the long run and the best way to solve this remedy is by austerity. Whereas other people think that it is due to the private sector inability to create jobs and growth and prefer stimulus .The stimulus folks point to Europe to indicate that austerity has failed. This did not only cure economic problems but it was also rejected at the polls. On the other hand austerity switches blame to the United States and argue that stimulus was disguised. It is strange with

Understanding and interpreting financial data Coursework

Understanding and interpreting financial data - Coursework Example The vast competition and globalization that businesses face today means necessary steps to ensure continuous growth must be put in place. One method of doing this is the analysis of financial ratios. In this case, Bravo Ltd can obtain financial ratios using their latest financial statements and comparing the results with a competing business within the same industry. Alternatively, a business with the best business practice and a good track record is chosen as a benchmark for Bravo Ltd's improvement.It is a tool for interpreting the financial statements to assess financial and management performance. There are several types of financial ratios available that will benefit Bravo Ltd: Liquidity Ratios, Asset Management Ratios, Profitability Ratios and Gearing Ratios. Each ratio is measured differently and used according to the necessary analysis needed. This measures the ability of Bravo Ltd to meet its short-term financial liabilities as they fall due. It is of particular interest if Bravo Ltd wishes to extend its short-term credit facilities. There are two kinds of Liquidity Ratio - Current Ratio and Quick Ratio.Stocks are excluded in the calculation because stocks may include items that have uncertain liquidation values. Ideally, a ratio of 2 is considered safe for the former while a ratio below 1 is recommended for the latter.This measures how well Bravo Ltd utilizes its assets for the benefit of its business. Having a sound ratio will ensure that Bravo Ltd is better received by would-be investors. We will look at Inventory Turnover, Receivables Turnover, Average Collection Period and Fixed Asset Turnover. Inventory Turnover = Cost of Goods Sold / Inventory Receivables Turnover = Credit Sales / Accounts Receivables Average Collection Period = 365 / Receivables Turnover Fixed Asset Turnover = Sales / Fixed Assets Generally, a high turnover ratio is preferred. 2.3 Profitability Ratio There are several ratios available that can measure the ability of Bravo Ltd to generate profits from its sales. These include Gross Profit Margin, Return on Assets and Return on Equity. Gross Profit Margin = (Sales - Cost of Goods Sold) / Sales Return on Assets = Net Income / Total Assets Return on Equity = Net Income / Shareholders' Equity A good profit margin is essential in any form of business to ensure there is always enough cash to run its operations. Thus, it is also important that receivables are collected on a timely basis. 2.4 Gearing Ratio This assesses the financial risk of Bravo Ltd. A high gearing ratio poses risks if Bravo Ltd is unable to meet its financial obligations as this can very well lead to bankruptcy. Therefore, it is important that this is constantly monitored. The ratio is used is Debt to Equity Ratio. 3 FINDINGS RATIO 2007 ('000) 2008 ('000) Working Result Working Result Current Ratio 1770 / 560 3.16 2490 / 840 2.96 Quick Ratio 1770 - 930 / 560 1.50 2490 - 1250 / 840 1.48 Inventory Turnover 3020 / 1770 1.71 4550 / 2490 1.83 Receivables Turnover 4940 / 820 6.02 6850 / 1230 5.57 Average Collection Period 365 / 6.02 60 Days 365 / 5.57 66 Days Fixed Asset Turnover 4940 / 2600 1.90 6850 / 3210 2.13 Gross Profit Margin 1920 / 4940 39% 2300 / 6850 34% Return on Assets 460 / 4370 11% 450 / 5700 8% Return on Equity 460 / 3810 12% 450 / 4860 9% Debt to Equity 560 / 3810 15% 840 / 4860 17% Our findings show that Bravo Ltd has a good Liquidity Ratio. Its Current Ratio is 2.96 (3.16 in 2007) and its Quick Ratio is 1.48 (1.50 in 2007). This means Bravo Ltd is more than able to generate enough cash to settle its short-term liabilities. There has only been a slight change in its Liquidity Ratio over two years. As a guide, a current

Analysis of the 2nd Chapter of The Aesthetics of the Natural Essay

Analysis of the 2nd Chapter of The Aesthetics of the Natural Environments - Essay Example During the past ages the nature of the environment was quite comforting as it portrayed a particular unique beauty. According to the information from this chapter, the appreciation of the authentic environment is much different from the past centuries, and the nature of the environment is being transformed and replaced by art. Authentically it is said that the structures being constructed on the natural environment were initially meant to be helpful to the human beings and they were supposed to be constructed without much interference of the natural structure of the location of the constructions (Carson & Berleant, 2007). The chapter also explains how in countries such as the United States of America, so many constructions have been erected by the architectures and the building are no longer serving their purpose because it has reached an extent where people are now very uncomfortable living in those particular structures. The chapter also explains that some of the constructions bein g put up in the present century are being exaggerated in such a way that a person may fail to tell from far whether the building is a church, a mall or a house. It is explained in the chapter that today's buildings are constructed in a way that portrays a different picture of what the building is meant to represent. According to the author of this book, constructions should be designed to match its purpose and that the design features should be able to go together with its use. There are several considerations that should be looked into also before the constructions and these include the space, the lighting, the sounding system, and the construction surfaces among other thing (Carson & Berleant, 2007). This chapter also explains how the environment is closely related to human beings, and wants to make the reader understand that the environment is very compatible with the human being. It goes on to explain the relationship between the environment’s nature and the human beings. That the environment has many positive impacts on human life and the way it can have negative impacts too depending on how they associate with each other. The environment has everything to do with human beings and, therefore, whatever is constructed in it will always be because of them. For that reason, then it is explained in the chapter how constructions should be put up after investigations have been made which ensure how comfortable the environment is. Therefore, the environment is constructed by architectures according to their desired designs to attract and please the eyes of the users and at the same time the environment where the construction is taking place should be checked carefully and considerations made to ensure the comfort of the users. The chapters are all about the constructions being put up in the natural environment and how they should be done selectively. That the surroundings of the people living within it or inside the constructions must be conducive (Carson & Berleant, 2007). However, the constructions being built anywhere should also be made in such ways that they do not interfere harshly with the environment. This is because the people who are to occupy the buildings will still need those natural resources within the environment. Constructions easily pollute and destroy the

Media Portrayal of Women in Sports Essay Example for Free

Media Portrayal of Women in Sports Essay The mass media and all its components have always played an essential role in shaping the way society views and thinks about certain issues and events. The type influence, which television shows, radio shows and other mediums of mass media have on their audiences, go widely unchecked by the professionals involved in that field and by society in general. The effects could be damaging and entirely maladaptive and yet only a few organizations and individuals take on the role of serving as the counterchecking department of the products of this industry. One of the many fields into which mass media have dipped their fingers into is the field of sports. What little attention is given to the effects of mass media on society is focused on children’s shows, violence-related topics and religion-based issues. The field of sports has been relatively untouched by those who monitor the mass media. The public has mainly stood by and accepted the information and manner of presentation that mass media has taken with regards to sports. This type of attitude has proven to be increasingly damaging to women in particular. Sports has become a highly gender-based field. Despite efforts to assimilate women into the various games and competitions, it has become increasingly evident, despite the lack of monitoring organizations, that mass media has not gone beyond the days of bias towards women in sports. There are still many issues that need to be addressed in terms of how television, radio, magazines, newspapers, and other such media have come to portray women professionals in the field of sports. How does mass media affect the way their audiences perceive women athletes and other female sports professionals? What steps can be taken to correct wrong practices in this field? This paper aims to answer these questions as well as to specifically understand the way mass media has shown females involved in various sports activities and whether there truly is reason for these women to be concerned. Television Coverage of Women in Sports   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Of all the instruments of mass media available today, the television set is perhaps the most successful and most popular. It has invaded the living spaces of almost all homes worldwide and is able to communicate to its audience in much more modalities than that offered by other instruments of mass media. It also allows for coverage of events at the exact moment the said event occurs.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Research regarding how women have been portrayed through the medium of television has been much more numerous as opposed to research on portrayal via other mediums. The literature regarding this research has shown that women in sports have been greatly marginalized and stereotyped. The following section will delve deeper into this aspect of mass media coverage in sports.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The most encompassing research done on television coverage of women in sports may be that of Higgs Weiller (1994). They conducted a research to assess gender bias in the television coverage of the 1992 Olympic games. The two researchers found much to disappoint the many women athletes involved in the said games as well as all other women who were just as concerned about women’s rights, equality of the sexes, and politically correct representation of males and females in different fields.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Commentators of the different events in the Olympic games were noted to most commonly use terms such as â€Å"girl† â€Å"babe† and â€Å"sweetheart† to refer to the women competitors whereas none of the male competitors were referred to as â€Å"boy† even when the contestant was obviously of a very young age. Also, strength and weakness descriptions and allusions were clearly gender-biased. Men in swimming were lauded for their strokes whereas female swimmers would receive comments such as â€Å"a powerhouse of a stroke from a 16-year old girl†. There were clearly ways by which the commentators were able to inject their own prejudiced views of the genders of the competitors.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There were also findings pointing to the fact that events wherein males competed were aired for longer times than those where females competed. Time differentials were noted for each event and there was a noted significant difference for each. This was applicable for such sports as basketball, volleyball, and the likes. Although individual events such as gymnastics were prone to have more airtime dedicated to women athletes, these were highly edited and sometimes even spliced together.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Each broadcast was also done with use of narratives. This was to draw the audience deeper into the mood of the game. However, researchers found that games with men contestants were broadcast with narratives of competition and strength. Women contestants, on the other hand, were often accompanied by emotional narratives pertaining to the athletes aspirations and the achievement of these with their success in the particular event they were entered in. If emotional narratives were not used by the television broadcasters, none at all were provided. It was either emotional or not at all.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is therefore, a well-known fact that ambivalence in reporting of women’s sports on television exists. There is   a denial of power for women in this particular type of mass media. Although women athletes are equally as capable and equally as competent as their male counterparts, this is not credited by professionals reporting their games. Where women have been noted for their involvement in sports, negative allegations and prejudiced reporting have served to undermine the efforts of these athletes. Radio Coverage of Women in Sports   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Radio coverage of women in sports has also been one of the more devastating instruments of undermining women’s efforts and women participation in various sports activities. The radio set, however, is less of a weapon of the mass media at present than the television set. The radio set does not cater to the visual modality of its audiences and as such may prove less of a weapon. However, it is also advantageous because reporting of the sporting event can occur at the same time that the actual event occurs. This means that up-to-the-minute, live coverage is possible.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, airing time on the radio set is significantly less for sports events than that on television sets. The large percentage of non-recognition that goes on in television broadcasting of women participation in sports is thus multiplied by great factors on the radio set. Only limited numbers of sports are chosen to be reported and reviewed over the radio and most, if not all, of these are male-dominated sports. Sporting events that are not action-packed, that do not provide the reporter with a message full of strength, adrenaline, and passion are not marketable on the radio waves. And because of the trend and well-established fad of reporting male events and male athletes with narratives involving competition, strength, and passion, these are the events that radio broadcasters and radio networks focus on. Women-dominated sports and women athletes prove to be less of a popular choice of broadcasting for professionals in the radio industry as these gives them, to their perception, with a softer story that is not full of the characteristics they look for in reportable stories and which audiences will not much favor or listen to. Thus the perception that male athletes and male-dominated sporting events will have more popularity than their counterparts. Publication Coverage of Women in Sports   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another instrument used in mass media are magazines and other similar published sources. These cater only to the audiences visual modalities and are not able to give audio feedback. Also, publications such as newspapers and magazines are only able to give a reporting of the event after a period of time has elapsed. It cannot be given during the time the actual event occurs. A processing time for writers, photographers, layout artists, editors, publishers and other personnel involved in the production process is required. Thus newspapers come one day after the events have occurred and magazines are released at particular time intervals within the year – monthly, quarterly, annually, and the like.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A study by Hardin et al (2005) showed that women were often portrayed as sexually different even in sports magazines. Sexually different in sports can mean the portrayal of women as dissimilar. This can be shown through the presentation of sport type in the said magazine or given publication. This could be shown in a manner such that women, who participate in sporting events wherein women are not usually included as competitors, are either excluded or represented as masculine.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, it has been seen that certain sporting magazines have been very generous to the female component of sporting activities. However, this balance is only present in magazines that have been produce through the efforts of staff that were consciously aware of the disparity in gender reporting of sports events. These magazines are, more commonly, actively fighting for women’s equality in this field. As such, they are few and not representative in the publishing industry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It should be acknowledged, however, that such magazines were launched and that these were successful in their goals. Perhaps this will provide the much needed gender-equality into the field of sports and mass media. Although these types of magazines form the minority in published mass media, they offer hope and raise out a cry of challenge to their colleagues, a cry for gender-equality and female liberation from the marginalization and disempowerment occurring in their field. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The large discrepancies in sports portrayals of women athletes has been seen to be significant in all mediums of mass media specifically that of the television set, the radio set, and published sources. Women have been marginalized, stereotyped, and stripped of power through the way these mass media instruments have been used to represent their participation in sports activities.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, no matter how anyone looks at it, this type of portrayal is unwarranted and unnecessary. Women have just as much talent, skill and capability as their male counterparts. The efforts they exert in order to actively and competently engage in their given sporting event is equally similar to that which males exert. The strain and stress they undergo during training and during the actual competition are just as nerve-wracking and exhausting as that which male athletes experience. In all respects, female athletes should be considered and hailed as equal to male athletes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, this has not been the case. Mass media, whether through television, radio, or magazines, has proven to be unforgiving and thoughtless in bringing justice to the efforts of women athletes. There is a great need for change and renewal in the way mass media portrays females.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One of the best first steps towards a better and more fair portrayal of women in sports is by actively disseminating information about the marginalization and disempowerment that is occurring. Most audiences and most reporters are perhaps so tied down to the hegemony of sports and mass media that they are no longer aware when stereotypical remarks are made on air. Knowledge of the fact that sports is for both females and males and that both sexes are equally capable of succeeding in this field must be spread. Without awareness, there is no chance for gender issues to be resolved in this field.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It would, perhaps, also be constructive for organizations and bodies to be set up that would monitor the violations to women’s rights that occur during broadcasting of sporting events. This would help to check the prejudiced actions and comments of those involved in the mass media industry. This would also make other individuals aware that what is currently going on is not acceptable and that there is a growing need for better treatment and appreciation of women athletes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There is still much improvement that can be done to the way mass media portray women. Mass media has come to influence the way society thinks in that women themselves have congregated around socially acceptable sports. Only the few who are not afraid of being dubbed masculine are able to compete in the sports where the male sex has dominated. There should be adequate measures taken to ensure that future biased and stereotyped thoughts will no longer exist. Women portrayal in sports still has hope to become much more fair and with this hope comes the assurance thaw women participation in sports will also become less prejudiced and stereotyped. Reference Higgs, C., Weiller, K. (1994). Gender bias and the 1992 summer Olympic games: an analysis of television coverage. Journal of Sport and Social Issues, 18,   234-246 Hardin, M., Lynn, S., Walsdorf, K. (2005). Challenge and conformity on â€Å"contested terrain†: images of women in four women’s sport/fitness magazines. Sex Roles, 53(1), 105-117

The Uses Of Bernoullis Principle Engineering Essay

The Uses Of Bernoullis Principle Engineering Essay Airplanes experience a lift force on their wings, keeping them up in the air, if they are moving at a sufficient high speed relative to the air and the wing is tilted upward at a small angle, the angle of attack. The upward tilt, as well as the rounded upper surface of the wing, causes the streamlines to be forced upward and to be crowded together above the wing. The area of air flow between any two streamlines is reduced as the streamlines are squished together. Because the air speed is greater above the wing than below it, the pressure above the wing is less than the pressure below the wing, which is Bernoullis principle. Hence, there is a net upward force on the wing called dynamic lift. Experiments show that the speed of air above the wing can even be double the speed of the air below it. Friction between the air and wings exerts a drag force, toward the rear, which must be over come by the planes engines. A flat wing, or the one with symmetric cross section, will experience lift as long as the fron of the wing is tilted even if the attack angle is zero, because the rounded upper surface deflects air up, squeezing the streamlines together. Airplanes Baseball Curve Why a spinning pitched baseball (or tennis ball) curves can also be explained using Bernoullis principle. It is simplest if we put ourselves in the reference frame of the ball, with the air rushing by. Suppose the ball is rotating counterclockwise. A thin layer of air is being dragged around by the ball. We are looking down in the ba Lack of blood to the brain In medicine, one of many applications of Bernoullis principle is to explain a TIA, a transient ischemic attack (meaning a temporary lack of blood supply to the brain). A person suffering a TIA may experience symptoms such as dizziness, double vision, headache and a weakness of the limbs. A TIA can occur as follows. Blood normally flows up to the brain at the back of the head via the two vertebral arteries one going up each side of the neck which meet to form the basilar artery just below the brain. The vertebral arteries issue from the subclavian arteries before the latter pass to the arms. When as arm is exercised vigorously, blood flow increases to meet the needs of the arms muscles. If the subclavian artery on one side of the body is partial blocked, however, as in arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), the blood velocity will have to be higher on that side to supply the needed blood. The increase blood velocity past the opening to the vertebral artery results in lower pr essure (Bernoullis principle). Thus, blood rising in the vertebral artery on the good side at normal pressure can be diverted down into the other vertebral artery because of the low pressure on that side, instead of passing upward to the brain. Hence the blood supply to the brain is reduced. Other Applications A venture tube is essentially a pipe with a narrow constriction (the throat). The flowing air speeds up as it passes through this constriction, so the pressure is lower in the throat. A venturi meter, is used to measure the flow speed f gases and liquids, including blood velocity in arteries. Why does smoke go up a chimney? Its partly because hot air rises (its less dense and therefore buoyant). But Bernoullis principle also plays a role. When wind blows across the top of the chimney, the pressure is less there than inside the house. Hence, air and smoke are pushed up the chimney by the higher indoor pressure. Even on an apparently still night there is usually enough ambient air flow at the top of a chimney to assist upward flow of smoke. If gophers, prairie Bernoullis principle, physical principle formulated by Daniel Bernoulli that states that as the speed of a moving fluid (liquid or gas) increases, the pressure within the fluid decreases. The phenomenon described by Bernoullis principle has many practical applications; it is employed in the carburetor and the atomizer, in which air is the moving fluid, and in the aspirator, in which water is the moving fluid. In the first two devices air moving through a tube passes through a constriction, which causes an increase in speed and a corresponding reduction in pressure. As a result, liquid is forced up into the air stream (through a narrow tube that leads from the body of the liquid to the constriction) by the greater atmospheric pressure on the surface of the liquid. In the aspirator air is drawn into a stream of water as the water flows through a constriction. Bernoullis principle can be explained in terms of the law of conservation of energy (see conservation laws, in physics). As a fl uid moves from a wider pipe into a narrower pipe or a constriction, a corresponding volume must move a greater distance forward in the narrower pipe and thus have a greater speed. At the same time, the work done by corresponding volumes in the wider and narrower pipes will be expressed by the product of the pressure and the volume. Since the speed is greater in the narrower pipe, the kinetic energy of that volume is greater. Then, by the law of conservation of energy, this increase in kinetic energy must be balanced by a decrease in the pressure-volume product, or, since the volumes are equal, by a decrease in pressure. Daniel Bernoulli formulated a principle that states that as the velocity of moving fluid or gas is increased, the pressure within the fluid or gas is decreased. Bernoullis principle has in fact many practical applications; it is applied in the carburetor and the atomizer, in which air acts as the moving fluid, and in the aspirator, water is acting as the moving fluid. In the carburetor and atomizer, air travelling through a tube goes through a constriction, which causes an increase in the velocity, and a decrease in the pressure. As a result, the liquid is forced up into the air stream (through a narrow tube that leads from the body of the liquid to the constriction) by the greater atmospheric pressure acting on the liquid. In modern everyday life there are many observations that can be successfully explained by application of Bernoullis principle, even though no real fluid is entirely inviscid [19] and a small viscosity often has a large effect on the flow. Bernoullis Principle can be used to calculate the lift force on an airfoil if you know the behavior of the fluid flow in the vicinity of the foil. For example, if the air flowing past the top surface of an aircraft wing is moving faster than the air flowing past the bottom surface then Bernoullis principle implies that the pressure on the surfaces of the wing will be lower above than below. This pressure difference results in an upwards lift force.[nb 1]HYPERLINK #cite_note-20[20] Whenever the distribution of speed past the top and bottom surfaces of a wing is known, the lift forces can be calculated (to a good approximation) using Bernoullis equations[21] established by Bernoulli over a century before the first man-made wings were used for the purpose of flight. Bernoullis principle does not explain why the air flows faster past the top of the wing and slower past the underside. To understand why, it is helpful to understand circulation, the Kutta condition, and the Kutta-Joukowski theorem. The carburetor used in many reciprocating engines contains a venturi to create a region of low pressure to draw fuel into the carburetor and mix it thoroughly with the incoming air. The low pressure in the throat of a venturi can be explained by Bernoullis principle; in the narrow throat, the air is moving at its fastest speed and therefore it is at its lowest pressure. The Pitot tube and static port on an aircraft are used to determine the airspeed of the aircraft. These two devices are connected to the airspeed indicator which determines the dynamic pressure of the airflow past the aircraft. Dynamic pressure is the difference between stagnation pressure and static pressure. Bernoullis principle is used to calibrate the airspeed indicator so that it displays the indicated airspeed appropriate to the dynamic pressure.[22] The flow speed of a fluid can be measured using a device such as a Venturi meter or an orifice plate, which can be placed into a pipeline to reduce the diameter of the flow. For a horizontal device, the continuity equation shows that for an incompressible fluid, the reduction in diameter will cause an increase in the fluid flow speed. Subsequently Bernoullis principle then shows that there must be a decrease in the pressure in the reduced diameter region. This phenomenon is known as the Venturi effect. The maximum possible drain rate for a tank with a hole or tap at the base can be calculated directly from Bernoullis equation, and is found to be proportional to the square root of the height of the fluid in the tank. This is TorricelliHYPERLINK http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torricellis_lawHYPERLINK http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torricellis_laws law, showing that Torricellis law is compatible with Bernoullis principle. Viscosity lowers this drain rate. This is reflected in the discharge coefficient which is a function of the Reynolds number and the shape of the orifice.[23] In open-channel hydraulics, a detailed analysis of the Bernoulli theorem and its extension were recently developed.[24] It was proved that the depth-averaged specific energy reaches a minimum in converging accelerating free-surface flow over weirs and flumes (also [25]HYPERLINK #cite_note-Chanson2006-26[26]). Further, in general, a channel control with minimum specific energy in curvilinear flow is not isolated from water waves, as customary state in open-channel hydraulics. The principle also makes it possible for sail-powered craft to travel faster than the wind that propels them (if friction can be sufficiently reduced). If the wind passing in front of the sail is fast enough to experience a significant reduction in pressure, the sail is pulled forward, in addition to being pushed from behind. Although boats in water must contend with the friction of the water along the hull, ice sailing and land sailing vehicles can travel faster than the wind.[27]HYPERLINK #cite_note-28[28] Bernoullis Principle

The Philosophy Of Friendship Philosophy Essay

The Philosophy Of Friendship Philosophy Essay and its meaning through the eyes of Aristotle. Walking into this class back in the start of September I thought about the concept of love very narrow-mindedly and often reserved my interpretation to a singular entity defined simply as one person strongly caring for another. Never in my right mind did I believe one emotion could be separated into several forms. While it was obvious to me that the admiration I had for my favorite jeans was not quite the same as in how I care about my Mother, it was not until I took my first Philosophy class did I begin to expand my perspective of love and the types of love existent in human nature. While the majority of people seem to think of love in the popularized all-for-nothing, go to the end of world and back sense, what strikes me as more intriguing is the idea of friendship. From this course I have learned that friendship, which stems from the word philia meaning love in Greek is the highest kind of love/relationship. It is a way of loving that can be sought for with many, but sometimes found to be lasting in only a select few. To me, the way to understanding love starts with friendship and not with romance. Although both are closely linked, romance is flexible and arbitrary while friendships are deeply rooted and fixed in nature. Companionship through friends is essential to loving and loving and can create and strengthen our ethnics and morals. To understand love, more specifically friendship it is important to know that we as human are social beings. We enclose ourselves with many different people, and those especially close to our hearts and minds are called our friends. It is in our nature to be social, for we learn about ourselves and evolve through our relations with others. Because of this, we [as humans] are constantly trying to broaden the boundary of our circle of friends. Aristotle understood the importance of friendship and wrote highly of this type of relationship. A modernized view of friendship can be defined as, one joined to another in intimacy and mutual benevolence independently of sexual or family love (Merriam-Webster). Aristotles view on friendship is much more enlightened and expansive than this; however, his assertions are certainly not perfect. In this essay I will outline Aristotles stance about friendship, show both the pros and cons of his arguments and share my personal beliefs on the subject. Friendship for Aristotle (and Greeks in general) is much broader than the dictionary definition. Aristotle regards both less-intimate bonds as well as deeper, loving connections as ways of practicing friendship. Relationships between couples, parents and their children, neighbors, business partners, teammates, teacher and student, etc. would all be seen as friendships in Aristotles eyes. However, he does make it a point to distinguish between different types of friendship and loves role within these relations. Friendships for Aristotle can be divided into three main categories: Friendships of utility. These friendships are based on people who are useful to each other. This is the sole reason behind them being friends. A good example of a friendship of utility might be the relationship between a salesman and a customer. The store clerk needs the buyer because (s)he has to make a living and the buyer needs the clerk because he needs a particular item. Both have something the other wants. Such friendships are only temporary and do not last very long as once the customer is no longer useful to the salesman, or visa versa, the connection is severed and the friendship ceases to exist. Friendships of utility are common among older people, for in old age people pursue the functional rather than the enjoyable. Friendships of pleasure. These types of relationships are based on the amount of pleasure the people get from being in the relationship itself. People who go out together, or enjoy the same activities might be in this type of relationship. They are friends for their own sake, because the friendship brings them pleasure and enjoyment, not for their friends sake. Friendships of pleasure are common among young people. Young people quickly start and end friendships because what pleasures and satisfies them undergoes constant change. Friendships of virtue. Unlike friendships of utility and pleasure which can include a circle of friends, friendships of virtue are strictly one-on-one relationships. They are monogamous in nature and such a friendship can only occur between two people of the same (or closely similar) values and ideals, and both persons have to be virtuous. According to Aristotle, one can only become virtuous through wisdom and age. Therefore friendships of virtue are rarely found among young people. It is a relationship of mutual respect and love. The persons in this type of relationship are not in it because they gain something from the relationship, they are not friends because they find each other useful or bring each other pleasure, but because they see virtues in each other that they see in themselves. Such love has roots in altruism and agape love and rest on the idea of wanting the best for someone else for their friends sake. It is not surprising that such relationships are uncommon according to the philosopher. Aristotle says that a friend of virtue is another oneself in a sense, describing them as soulmates. A friend of virtue is a key part to self-sufficiency. Virtuous friends spend time with each other and make the same choices as each other. One persons happiness influences anothers happiness and visa versa. The friend, in the Aristotelian scheme, becomes an extension of the individual. In a sociological perspective, the other friend becomes the social relative mirror (Marxist term) in which you define yourself meaning, you only know yourself in relation to your external, transfigured Other. It can be argued that Aristotle is wrong when he distinguishes between friendships of utility or pleasure and friendships of virtue. Are we, as human beings, capable of doing a completely unselfish act? Can we truthfully say that we are friends with someone not for our own sake but for the sake of the friends? It may be a harsh reality to some, but I personally disagree with Aristotle on this. Take the example of gift giving Does someone give a friend a gift because they know he/she will like it, or to make a good impression on the person, or for the idea that you only give a gift to get something greater in return? There can be any number of reasons why someone would give a gift, but in my opinion the most feasible reasons would be ones where the gift-giver expects to get some form of repayment, even if it is as simple as being liked or appreciated. Altruism is rare to find in modern-day Western culture, and no act is completely selfless. Another example could be helping an elder woman across the road. Would you help her because she needs help or because you would feel a great deal of self-satisfaction by helping her? In my opinion, even if only a small part of the reason why you would help her relates back to self-satisfaction, it would mean that you are not helping her without receiving some form of incentive. We are inherently selfish beings. There is always a degree o f self-interest. Therefore Aristotles definition of friendship of virtue is wrong, in my opinion, or at least too exclusive. One of the books studied in this course, The Meanings of Love by Robert Wagoner identified six types of defined loves present in Western culture. The author illustrates his claims by defining and presenting definitions of six expressions of love. His fourth idea of love moral love is based on the inner principles of moral uprightness, stability, faithfulness and integrity. The characteristics of respect and rationality determine the credibility of a moral love relationship. Moral love in my opinion was one of the most intriguing loves I have learned about because it deals with love not in the highly romanticized sense, but targets the basic foundations of human nature and our social interactions. Using Wagoners definition of Moral love, I related his ideals to principle and came to conceptualize friendship in a much more broadened sense. Wagoner reference to Immanuel Kant, an 18th century German philosopher who stated that the legitimacy behind moral love is found in our rational nature which influences our experiences. Kant says that our ability to apply rational principles is what makes moral experience possible (70). In order to form a moral love we must live consistently by two principles of rational nature. First, the same respect and regard we hold to ourselves must be given to all equally. And secondly, our actions must not be self-regarding but instead our relations should be based on the idea that they can be universalized. If carried out correctly, it is the gratification of mutual rationality and strong sense of moral obligation to each other that unite people to love. Moral love is highly rational and is subject to scrutiny reason in order to achieve integrity. In a moral loving relationship, the lover is not so much committed to the beloved as he/she is committed to the relationship itself, because it de fines the individual. The notion of sexuality in moral love threatens its very nature. Kant states, To truly love others is to care for them as whole persons, that is, as rational and moral sovereigns and not merely as sexual creatures (80). Friendship could evolve into a greater love, which could result in a union such as marriage which holds importance in moral love; for any sexual relation outside of this strictly shows utilitarianism. It is the difference between the good and the right, and in this case of moral love, sexual relations only seek to use the other as a thing which is immoral in nature. Moral love can be best defined as a labor of love where an individual is consistently trying to change themselves into universal beings rooted in moral uprightness. Such a relationship could be described as Aristotles friendship of virtue. However, the counter-argument can also be made. Kant differs with Aristotles definition of friendship. Kant believed that an act could only have moral value if and only if you were not the primary beneficiary of the act. According to Kant with Aristotles theory of friendship it seems the friendship can not be a moral goal. A friendship is morally neutral. He goes on to assert that it does not say, or show anything about your moral character. Of course Aristotle would disagree; he would say having a friend of virtue is a goal that every moral person should strive for. Kant believes that people dont seek friendship for friendships sake but to satisfy needs (friendship of utility). Kant sees true friendship as two people taking care of the others needs. If I take care of my friends needs he/she will take care of my needs. Friendship was based on reciprocity. Kant believes that a truly virtuous man is friends with everyone and should not limit himself to a select few friends, as this would be being exclusive. He should love everyone equally. However, friendships by definition are exclusive, and as a result one is forced to play favoritism. According to Kant friendships are the have of people of lesser virtues blocking out the world. Aristotle would disagree; he would say friendships are the way into the world. Kant has a somewhat negative view of friendship whereas Aristotle thinks friendship is good and therefore sought by everyone. Aristotles basic idea of dividing friendship into sections, utility, pleasure and virtue, is good but it can be said that his ideals are too high. Can he be right in saying that only virtuous people can have true friendships? The rest of us with lesser virtues are left with friendships of utility and friendships of pleasure, as only a select few can be truly virtuous. Many would be offended by this and many would believe that although they may not have friendships of virtue as Aristotle meant it they are not inferior and are true friendships all the same. It would be more beneficial to all if Aristotle made it clear that it is possible for everyone to experience true friendship and not limited it to virtuous people. If virtue is attained by age and wisdom does that not mean that everyone is potentially virtuous and therefore everyone can potentially be in a virtuous friendship? Subjectively speaking, I find many flaws in Aristotles views on friendship. The main ones being that he is too elitist, too exclusive when it comes down to defining true friendship and is far too inclusive when it comes to friendships of utility. Aristotle does however make many good arguments, and does a good job with dividing up friendship into categories. It allows us to look at friendship in a more structured way and lets us evaluate different friendships in our life.

The Terror Management Theory Essay -- Psychology, Fear of Death

Many may agree with the old saying that â€Å"beauty is only skin deep,† but does beauty come in a particular shade of color? This question is very debatable for many, but the fact of the matter is that human beings are born in array of skin tones. These differences in skin tone are used to categorize people into different ethnic groups. Lopez proposes thatâ€Å"ethnic identity is a type of group identity that is related to a better outcome because it provides a sense of belonging or cultural embeddedness.†(p.102) Dr. Ronald Hall (2006) suggests that in America minorities or people of color are called black in relative terms to the majority who are of European descent i.e. white. Some studies have discovered that a more â€Å"ethnic appearance† is usually assessed by a darker skin color i.e, black and is associated with a worse outcome in life (Lopez, 2008) In contrast, beauty, wealth and overall appeal are associated with physiological proximity to the white p ower structure i.e., light skin. (Hall, 2006) It appears as though desirable skin complexions are culturally relative. The terror management theory is a motivational theory which speculates that human beings have an underlying fear of death. These feelings are managed within that person by developing or maintaining a two- part cultural anxiety buffer; an individual worldview and a sense of self value or self-esteem. (Pyszczynski,Greenberg, & Solomon, 1997) According to the theory, high self-esteem reflects the successful participation in and internalization of meaningful cultural worldview. (Schmeichel, Gailliot, Filardo, MrGregor, Gitter, &Baumeister 2009) Goldenberg and Shakelford (2005) suggested that â€Å"the need for self-esteem is often seen as the master motive that underlies much o... ...ive. Those who engage themselves in processes such as tanning or skin bleaching do so to help boost their self-esteem. From the perspective of the terror management theory, individuals are motivated to live up to cultural standards because doing so grants self-esteem. The boost in self-esteem acts as a buffer for potential anxiety relative to awareness of personal immortality. (Cox et al., 2009) TMT determines that people aim to live up to social standards in order deal with personal insecurities about dying. If a psychological structure provides protection from thoughts about death, then reminding people of death will increase the need for that structure. (Goldenberg, Pyzszcsynski, Greenberg,Solomon, Kluck, &Cornwall, 2001) Within terms of this study, it is speculated that as mortality salience increases, so does an individual’s need to alter his own skin color.

Feedback Stress: Does Auditory Feedback Negatively Affect Performance o

The Stroop Effect In his historic study, Stroop found that reading names of colors interfered with individuals’ ability to name the ink color the word was printed in when the two differed (i.e., the word â€Å"BLUE† written in red ink) (1935). However, the basis of this phenomenon can be traced back to Cattell who found that naming colors and pictures took twice as long to accomplish than reading the word these colors or pictures represented (1886). He concluded that this was due to reading being an automatic process while identifying colors or pictures requires a conscious effort (Cattell, 1886). MacLeod (1991) reflects that it was Cattell’s work which strongly influenced future psychologist including Stroop. In his experiment, Stroop investigated how the reaction time to name colors increased when it conflicted with the automatic process of reading. He broke down his experiment into three parts. In the first, he tested how reading the name of a color printed in a different ink color (i.e., BLUE) differed from reading the name of a color printed in black ink (i.e., BLUE). The difference between the name of the color and the ink color it was printed in caused a slight interference resulting in an increased reaction time of 2.3 seconds (Stroop, 1935). In the second part of his experiment, Stroop (1935) looked at reaction time differences between naming the color of solid blocks (i.e., ââ€"   ââ€"   ââ€"   ââ€"   ââ€"  ) versus naming the color of the ink not the name of the color (i.e., responding â€Å"RED† for BLUE). He found that participants required 74% more time to name the color of the ink when it did not agree with the name of the color (Stroop, 1935). Stroop concluded that it was the interference between the automatic process of reading the na... ...a preliminary feedback intervention theory. Psychological Bulletin, 119(2), 254-284. doi: 10.1037/0033-2909.119.2.254 MacLeod, C. M. (1991). Half a century of research on the Stroop Effect: An integrative review. Psychological Bulletin, 109(2), 163-203. doi: 10.1037/0033-2909.109.2.163 Richards, A., French, C. C., Johnson, W. Naparstek, J., & Williams, J. (1992). Effects of mood manipulation and anxiety on performance of an emotional Stroop task. British Journal of Psychology, 83(4), 479-491. Shor, R. E. (1975). An auditory analog of the Stroop test. Journal of General Psychology, 93(2), 281-288. Stroop, J. R. (1935). Studies of interference in serial verbal reactions. Journal of Experimental Psychology, 18(6), 643-662. Thorndike, E. L. (1913). Educational psychology, volume ii: The psychology of learning. New York, NY: Teachers College, Columbia University.

Performance Management Essay

Overview Welcome to Module 1. If you have not already done so, read the Program Manual located in the Reference Material section of the CMA Canada Professional Programs website. It provides you with important introductory information about the program. In Module 1 of the program, candidates are exposed to many functional competencies from the CMA Competency Map that involve decision making regarding performance management, performance measurement, risk management and governance, and financial reporting. For assistance when doing their assignments in these areas, candidates are expected to draw on many of their intermediate and advanced management and financial accounting concepts they learned in their university courses and/or in the Accelerated Program. For instance, in this assignment, one of the concepts involves Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) analysis. In these types of analysis, candidates may be asked to look at how profits and costs change with a change in volume, or a change in such factors as variable costs, fixed costs, selling prices, and mix of products sold. By studying the relationships of costs, sales and net income, management is better able to cope with many planning decisions. Candidates who have difficulty doing this assignment or future assignments regarding CVP are encouraged to review Chapters 11 and 12 from the Horngren et al. required reading mentioned below. As candidates gain more work experience, they will be exposed to a number of organizational concerns in the topic areas outlined above. For instance, candidates may be asked to provide analysis on such items as: 1. Preparing reports on a product or geographic segment to determine where the organization generates cash and profits; 2. Evaluating strategic alternatives in one’s organization using cost-benefit and scenario/sensitivity analysis; 3. Determining the effectiveness of costing systems for their appropriateness for an organization; Â © 2012 The Society of Management Accountants of Canada. All rights reserved. Â ®/â„ ¢ Registered Trade-Marks/Trade-Marks are owned by The Society of Management Accountants of Canada. No part of this document may be reproduced in any form without the permission of the copyright holder. 4. Introducing the main concepts of strategy to facilitate an understanding of the big picture; 5. Constructing and analyzing a cash flow statement to determine cash needs; 6. Looking at different short-term investment strategies as a means to effectively utilize excess cash; 7. Examining the effectiveness of internal control systems within an organization; 8. Reporting results using GAAP or a disclosed basis of accounting; and 9. Analyzing a company’s various product lines. Management accountants are often called upon to provide the analysis required for pricing decisions, such as cost-volume-profit, product costing, expected value, break even, contribution margin, and sensitivity analyses. Proper and accurate analysis is critical if management is to make well-informed decisions. Using the Right Financial Analysis Tool Candidates will oftentimes find themselves constrained by space (word/page limits) and/or time when doing their assignments. A critical outcome of analyzing cases is learning to use financial analysis tools under the appropriate circumstances. Selecting the right tool has the effect of demonstrating both good judgement (in terms of the candidate’s ability to select an appropriate tool) and conciseness (in presenting the information in a professional manner without burdening the reader with non-important information). Below are some examples that help to demonstrate how selecting the right tool for the right circumstance is critical to complete assignments in a quick and efficient manner. While the examples demonstrate the use of one tool, note that other tools may be just as effective. Given two scenarios and asked to provide an analysis between them, candidates could analyze them by forecasting the full income statement for both. While this is a valid approach, it takes a significant amount of time and requires the use of valuable report space that could be better used with the selection of a different tool. It may be more appropriate under these circumstances to identify only those relevant revenues and costs and compare those. For a more in-depth discussion of the differences between the two approaches, see pages 422-423 in Chapter 11 of Cost Accounting: A Managerial Emphasis (Required Readings listed below). Specifically, Exhibit 11-2 on page 423 demonstrates the visual difference between the two approaches. Oftentimes contribution margin calculations can be used to drastically reduce both the time it takes to analyze a problem and the space required to show the analysis. This type of analysis may apply to analyze individual products, divisions or customer groups. This tool can allow one to present the analysis information in a much more concise way. Discounting is another tool that can be used to analyze various scenarios. Again, one could prepare a financial forecast for both scenarios and discount those accordingly. However, a more efficient method would be to select only the relevant revenues and/or costs for preparation and discounting. This tool is particularly useful when looking at scenarios that create different multi-year impacts or that need to be evaluated over a period of time. Candidates are encouraged to review Chapters 11 and 12 in Horngren et al. (Required Readings listed below) for more examples on tool selection. Learning to identify the relevant information can drastically reduce both the time spent on the analysis and the space required to report it. In this assignment, candidates are specifically directed to do only certain steps of the Steps for Approaching Business and Corporate Strategy. This case-solving approach was first introduced to candidates at the Orientation Session. As mentioned at the Orientation, these steps provide candidates with a systematic approach for addressing a case involving business-level and corporate-level strategic issues. The first three modules (Development Phase) of the CMA Canada Professional Programs prepare candidates for the Case Examination and focus on the business-level strategic issues. Applying this approach effectively is one of the important competencies that candidates will learn in the Professional Programs. Reference Documents To assist candidates with case analysis, a series of reference documents have been created and can be found in the Reference Material section of the Professional Programs website. The most important documents include: 1. 2. 3. 4. Steps for Approaching Business and Corporate Strategy General Assessment Guide Business Report Guidelines Format Specifications There are other documents such as Situational Analysis Tools, Developing an Implementation Plan and Pro Forma Financial Statements. Candidates should find these documents very useful throughout the program. Learning Outcomes By the end of the assignment, candidates will be able to recommend strategies and tactics to a company that is in a downturn scenario. Due Date Please refer to the Schedule accessed from the left navigation menu.