Plot Analysis for “A Rose for Emily”

Plot analysis of â€Å"A Rose For Emily† William Faulkner’s, â€Å"A Rose for Emily† is a story with a southern gothic style. The tragic story is told to readers through an anonymous narrator that speaks on behalf of the town’s people, but is not close to Emily, the protagonist, personally. This narration helps sustain a level of curiosity about Emily since readers cannot gain personal insight into her life and psyche. It is commonly expressed that the two things of certainty in life are death and taxes, death being one of the main themes that runs throughout the story.There is a time when Emily seems to be above human certainty in the way of taxes. This aversion to one certainty seems to amplify the other in her life, because the rest of the story contains nothing but death; the death of people, beauty, ideals, everything that once guarded Emily from the rest of the world. Even though it is in vain, the protagonist’s motivation behind everything sh e does is to make time stand still, thus trying to avoid the other human certainty, death.As a result of the story beginning with Emily’s funeral, readers are introduced to Miss Emily’s struggle with her antagonist, time, through the setting she lives in. Miss Emily represents a bi-gone era, one that she veils her life of seclusion in, refusing to face the passage of time around her. Her house is in a state of decay just like her body, both marking their loss to time. It was a house that, â€Å"had once been white, decorated with cupolas and spires and scrolled balconies†¦set on what had once been our most select street†(91).The house’s description seems to mimic Emily’s life because at one time she is described as a, â€Å"slender figure in white†(93) and it is said that â€Å"None of the young men were quite good enough for Miss Emily†(93). It’s as if the house’s once desirable location imitates Emily’s one time desirability among suitors. This symbolism is used again when the house is described as, â€Å"lifting it’s stubborn and coquettish decay above the cotton wagons and the gasoline pumps†(91). The house is more of an out-of-date nuisance than an object of admiration, as Emily herself was before her death.Faulkner’s use of the word coquette, points to his intention for readers to see the symbolism of Emily’s and the house’s battle with time, because a coquette is a woman who endeavors without sincere affection to gain the admiration of men. Since Emily at one time had the admiration of men, she continues to behave as if time has not taken a toll on her desirable appearance before men, thus making her act as if she is still above their law. The town’s mayor, Colonel Sartoris, promotes this thinking by remitting Emily’s taxes after her father’s death.The colonel spins a tale to explain, saying that the tax remittance is to pay back her father for money he loaned the town. A story no one believes according to the author, except a woman. The author says, â€Å"When the next generation, with its more modern ideas, became mayors and aldermen, this arrangement created some little dissatisfaction†(91). When the new mayor personally writes Emily to inform her she must pay taxes like the rest of the community, the author describes Emily’s reply as representing the forgotten past.The story says the mayor, â€Å"received in reply a note on paper of an archaic shape, in a thin, flowing calligraphy in faded ink, to the effect that she no longer went out at all. The tax notice was also enclosed, without comment†(91). Emily does everything as if no time has passed. As a result of Emily realizing she cannot stop time, she chooses to shut out the passage of time in the world around her, by living a secluded life. The narrator says, â€Å"After her father’s death she went out very little; aft er her sweetheart went away, people hardly saw her at all†(92).It’s at this time that the narrator informs readers about a strange smell emanating from Emily’s house, a smell that the passage of time produces to betray her. Because Emily represents a time where people are limited by the role of class and gender in society, this limiting mind-set is what the towns people use as an excuse for the troubling smell. The author says, â€Å"the only sign of life about the place was the Negro man-a young man then-going in and out with a market basket. â€Å"Just as if a man-any man-could keep a kitchen properly,† the ladies said; so they were not surprised when the smell developed†(92).This same limiting mindset re-emerges when the Aldermen of the town meet to discuss a solution to the rising complaint of the gross smell. When the young man in the group of Aldermen, who represents the rising generation, suggests what he believes to be a simple solution of c onfronting Emily about the smell, he is quickly rebuked. The judge cuts him off by saying, â€Å"Dammit sir,†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"will you accuse a lady to her face of smelling bad† (93)? Similar to Emily, the older men restrict their decisions based on tradition, thus denying the evidence that time produced to bring her to justice.In the end, it is the passage of time that plays the role of Emily’s antagonist. Despite her efforts of seclusion and refusal to change, time has its way with Emily and everything she clings to. One passage refers to a gold chain she wears with the end tucked in her waist; on the end of the chain is a watch. Emily carries her antagonist with her as if she believes its closeness will keep it from sneaking up on her; as if her own stubborn will set beside it, could stop the cursed mechanism from ticking forth its unpleasant reminder.

Go Tell It on the Mountain

Twenty years after the book, John views on racism, religion, society, personal relationships, and sex will be different from twenty years before. John gains more experiences and knowledge, so he will have better understanding of these issues. Most organizations and movements are form in the 1950s. John will become a civil rights activist to fight for equal rights. He will also be fighting for gay rights. The religion awakening occurs in the 1950s. John might form his own religion or becomes agnostic.He will form organizations and charities to help African American communities. He will rebuild relationships with those that he hates in the past. Racism in 1950s still remained strong, but this issue was heating up. There were many civil unrest at that time. It was the beginning of civil rights movement. Blacks were frustrated the fact that they still haven’t got the equal rights the government promise. John’s past experiences will guide to him the forefront of the movement . In the past, He thought the blacks were inherently inferior than the whites.For example, he was happy when the white school principle told him that he was a very bright boy, but when his colored neighbor told him he would be a great leader, he was unmoved. If he was able to enroll into college after the book, he probably changed views on blacks. The knowledge that he gain and personal experiences should helped him to piece everything together. In his 34th birthday, he is no longer ignorant. He knows that his race is not inferior than the whites. Poverty, lack of education, limited rights and other obstacles are what stop blacks from moving on and be successful.This will motivate him to become a civil rights activist to fight for equality. In the book, he didn’t seem to have any negative feelings against his whites. As he grows older, he might develop hatred for whites, because he will suffer more prejudice and racism from whites when he starts to work in the outside world. Religion becomes popular again in the 1950s. Interest in religion was suddenly so high that, a new awakening was born. According to the book, John seems to have interest in religion. He falls asleep and does not concentrate on his religious studies.He doesn’t want to be a preacher like his dad, Gabriel. He questions the church, because it does things that contradict the ideal beliefs. For example Gabriel is Christian, but he beats his own wife and children. He even stole money from his wife. He’s a hypocrite just like the other ministers in church. During the twenty-four elders meeting revival meeting, the ministers are well-dress, well-fed, and full of themselves more than the holy spirit. The ministers are supposed to be messengers of god that forsaken worldly pleasures to serve the god and people. They even mocked Deborah of her rape.John will most likely become agnostic, or form his own religion that base on ideal beliefs. Agnosticism is a view that humans currentl y do not have enough knowledge to justify if beliefs of deities exist or not. If John has kids, he will teach his kids the knowledge of religion, but he will give them the choice to believe it or not. He will not force his kids to believe it like Gabriel did to John. Many religious parents are like Gabriel that only give their kids one-sided views and brainwash them when they are young. They constantly say terms, such as â€Å"Christian child†, â€Å"Muslim child† or whatever child.Those child are just kids, of course they will just listen to their parents blindly. The parents already make the decisions for them. John will give his kids the best resources, spent time with each of them, and put all his heart to raise them. Even though he hates his dad, but he will respect some qualities of his dad. He will forgive him, because he realizes that the environment is what creates the monster inside his dad. Gabriel spent his lifetime full with hate, hostility, unfulfilled am bitions and dreams, unrealized hopes and expectations, heartbreak, humiliation, and being demeaned and devalued.All these factors created all those negative traits. Gabriel could have been successful, but his path was paved by the white authorities and systems. John will visit his dad, and build a better relationship with his dad. Many blacks are in similar situations like John. They are poor, live in ghetto, don’t have enough food, have to deal with whites and many other problems. John will form organizations and charities to donate resources to black communities or other colored communities. He will set up schools for colored people too. He encourages kids to go to school, be who they want to be.He knows blacks need education in order for them to break the system and pull themselves out of poverty. They can’t change the system if they don’t know how the system works. Schools strengthen the new generations on fighting for equal rights. John wants students to de cide who they want to be, instead of letting their parents make the choices for them. Programs will be set up to teach parents how to deal with their kids efficiently and prevent child abuse. LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender community) rights movements were the most notable in 1950s. It took place all over the world, not just America.John acknowledges himself as a homosexual, but may not openly admit it. He didn’t accept his homosexual feelings when he was young. The society caused him to be ashamed of his homosexual feelings. Homosexual was forbidden in communities all over America regardless of what community you live in except gay communities. Discrimination against homosexuals is heating up in 1950s similar to civil rights movement. John may not able to join the gay organizations, because homosexual whites may not accept him. He will form his own colored gay organizations. He loved Elisha; he masturbated in school lavatories thinking of Elisha and older boys.He m ight confess his love for him even though he knows Elisha is not gay. John’s life revolves around a society that is full with racism, sexism, and other types of discrimination. He has to go though one of the crucial times of US history. The fact that he is black and gay already has a huge impact on his life during 1950s. The 50s were the time of minorities, such as colored people, and LGBT communities dealing with issues that US government ignored before that time period. He will be at the center of the movement guiding those that are in the similar situations as him.

EVALUATING CHILDHOOD OBESITY IN THE LONDON BOROUGH OF WESTMINSTER THE Essay

EVALUATING CHILDHOOD OBESITY IN THE LONDON BOROUGH OF WESTMINSTER THE MOST AFFECTED AREAS ARE THE SOUTH AND THE NORTHERN PART - Essay Example Although the borough is the third most prosperous, it has specific parts that are most affected by poverty and deprivation. High deprivation levels have been associated with high levels of obesity, and in Westminster, there is severe deprivation in the south and North West. The lower layer super output areas, which are about 14% of its neighbourhoods, are in the top 10% most deprived. Half of the population ho are classified as deprived come from Churchill, estbourne, Harrow Road, Queen’s Park, and Church Street. 24% of the children in Westminster live in severe poverty. This is due to various social and economic inequalities (Findlay, Yeowart & Kail, 2012). Westminster has the highest levels of obesity compared to all other boroughs with a level of 39.4%. This paper is an evaluation of childhood obesity in Westminster. It has described the determinants of childhood obesity in an urban setting which reflects the determinants in Westminster, the consequences of the condition, and strategies and interventions of management. Information obtained for the strategies and intervention in relation to determinants’ section informs the conclusion and recommendation. In 2006, the level of obesity in Westminster was already high. A third of the children were obese or overweight. 39 out of 40 primary schools in Westminster were assessed to find out the level of obesity among five-six year olds, and nine-ten year olds. Results showed that 18% of these children were obese; 32% were either overweight or obese, and 14% were overweight. The level of obesity was highest among children of six years, and that obesity level was still going up. Because of such findings schools initiated programs that were to ensure reduced obesity levels. These were; healthy eating and physical activity programs (GP News, 2006). In 2011, the obesity rates had gone up, with the boys being at a higher risk. Westminster had a

Financial Crisis The Great Depression Coursework

Financial Crisis The Great Depression - Coursework Example They perceived to have transferred the risks by practising dependency on unregulated investors through mechanisms like Special Purpose Vehicles and Special Investment Vehicles (SPVs & SIVs). The current economic crisis thus occurred as the result of exposure to Market Risks due to such risk transfer mechanisms that caused many loopholes in the Credit & Liquidity Risk Management. The entire disaster happened in the lending to Sub-Prime customers in home mortgage markets, which are individuals or companies not having clean credit history or regular source of income. The banks lend loans to Sub-Prime customers to avail the benefits of higher interest rates and used the mechanism of "Securitization" to secure themselves that essentially is the mechanism of distributing the risk of the lending to the investors outside the Banking system through a process called "Conduiting". The process of "Securitization" gave confidence to banks in this risky business and hence resulted in the boom of C redit Derivative Market. The money was believed to be flowing through these "conduits" directly from "investors to the borrowers" through the SPV and SIV system. The risk assessors never imagined that the underlying collaterals (houses) will face a crash in prices to a global level that would be uncontrollable by even the governments. Even the external rating agencies couldn't predict the Sub-Prime crisis because the Securitization Process was extremely complex and the dependency of valuations was upon scattered and unreliable data inside as well as outside the core banking system. This system expanded uncontrollably and the market competitiveness increasing exponentially resulting in banks sanctioning loans bypassing essential procedures as if there was "no time for risk management". The actual risks got covered under hyped data and fair valuation became a matter of joke to be cracked. [Schmitz, Michael. C and Forray, Susan J. pp28-30; Clerc, Laurent. 2008. pp1-7] Objective of the Research The following are the main objectives of my research: 1. Find out what the cause/s of the current financial crisis is/are; 2. Find out what effect the crisis is having on the United Kingdom, for example in terms of monetary power, and; 3. How individuals and businesses are affected; 4. Conclude what is being done, and what can be done about our current

Balance of Power between Football Players and Football Case Study

Balance of Power between Football Players and Football - Case Study Example Moreover, it is a natural follow-up on my project proposal which I made. Through this work, I intend to lay a firm foundation for my research project and ensure that I fulfill the need of the players and ensure that necessary suggestions and prescriptions are keenly laid out to enhance the constant improvement and enjoyment of football as a game, a profession and as a leisure activity to the fans, players and the clubs’ managerial bodies and owners at large. Luton, a locally pronounced town and a unitary authority of Bedfordshire is a relatively small town in England with a population of about two hundred and thirty thousand people. It is the home of the non-league Luton Town football club. Previously, the club was in the top flight of the English league as well as an in the football league cup triumph (Bailey, 1997). In Luton, England and in other parts of the world, football has become one of the major sporting activities. The latest development has seen the sporting activit y rise from the sports’ perspective to Knute Rockne; foot has become ‘a game played with arms, legs, head, and shoulders but mostly the neck up’. In London, the game has massive support with the major premier league clubs attracting large crowds and thus gaining financially. Despite all the efforts that have been made to ensure that the quality of the game continues to improve, the world over, one key area seems to have been forgotten – the need to fully balance between the football players and the football clubs.... It is the home of the non-league Luton Town football club. Previously, the club was in the top flight of the English league as well as a in the football league cup triumph (Bailey, 1997). In Luton, England and in other parts of the world, football has become one of the major sporting activities. The latest development has seen the sporting activity rise from the sports' perspective to Knute Rockne; foot has become 'a game played with arms, legs, head, and shoulders but mostly the neck up'. This clearly explains the vital role that the game plays in the world today. In London, the game has massive support with the major premier league clubs attracting large crowds and thus gaining financially. Despite all the efforts that have been made to ensure that the quality of the game continues to improve, the world over, one key area seems to have been forgotten - the need to fully balance between the football players and the football clubs. In this research paper, the intent is to research on the topic and examine the actual balance that exists in which there is a need to exist between the football players and their respective clubs both within and outside the premier league sector (Bailey, 2005). I also intend to give some brief definition, history and necessary information regarding the player power. There is also a look at some aspects of the gender imbalance and the overall welfare of the players in the football game, gender not withstanding. The issues that relate to the player hiring process, their countries and the contract basis will also be analyzed in this research paper. Indeed there exist a number of consequences of freedom of movement for both, football clubs and cont emporary football markets and the emerging

How does the Pentagon currently try to influence the content of Essay - 1

How does the Pentagon currently try to influence the content of Hollywood movies - Essay Example The relationship between Hollywood and Pentagon is not entirely a new phenomenon, or something dubious. The Pentagon would claim that it evolved out of a historic necessity, during the World War I when the State very much needed domestic support for the war. Pentagon in fact won with this logical premise to get license to interfere in the media industry. But now the relationship has matured and the interference has become mandatory to preserve and protect the image of the US Army, Marines and the Air Force, particularly in the wake of the US military operations after the Cold War. ‘Pentagon today sees the film business as an important part of public relations.’ Military depictions have become more of a commercial for them. Pentagon’s objectives Pentagon is not alone, many organisations like the CIA have their liaison offices in the Hollywood to influence the content of the film. But no doubt the biggest influence i that of the Pentagon’s ‘which exercises control over the films in which military are involved by providing soldiers and equipment or by refusing them.’ The Pentagon has three main objectives in trying to control the entertainment industry. The first is to teach history to the world as the United States sees it, or you can say an American version of the occurrences around the world, something like embedded reporting or embedded journalism. A real propaganda of the American policies. The second is to create a good image for the military. This includes recommendations to use sober, spruced up language, (no foul language!), no use of drugs or other unnatural or offensive behaviour.

Ethics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Ethics - Assignment Example These are complex theories because nothing is white or black but has shades of grey. Thus killing for extortion is wrong but killing in self defense is right. Interestingly in a civil society, law and ethics often clash because while law deals with the wrong doings of people, it also reserves its judgment on the evidences of those acts, ethics primarily relies on the intangible guidelines of good and bad actions which are universally accepted. Thus, what could be legally wrong could also be construed as ethically correct behavior. For example, in some places, euthanasia is legal but many think that it is ethically wrong because killing in any form is wrong. In the contemporary environment of advancing technology and globalization, ethical consideration in personal and professional lives has become important because technology has provided people with strong tool to exploit others. Piracy and plagiarism are unlawful and unethical activities that have become easy with internet. Hence, accountability of actions and responsible behavior that takes into account the interests of others is highly desirable ethical conduct. (words: 270)

A fiction short story Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

A fiction short story - Essay Example At 19, Gregg was 2 months the senior of Cynthia. Having just spent her birthday with her boyfriend of 6 months, Cynthia longed for the day in which they would not have to part and could continue to spend each and every moment together in the bliss she was certain must await the couple. Although neither of the two were especially well versed in life or the complexities which it presented, they felt the zeal and courage that is oftentimes so indicative of individuals their age. The past few days had been spent as it were – magically. Gregg had prepared, organized, and facilitated a weekend away for the couple that involved camping out in a state park within the foothills of the Carolinas. Even though the scenery was of seemingly little value to the star crossed pair, they spent the time they had hiking the footpaths, enjoying each other’s company around the campfire, and generally soaking up the sylvan landscape. As such, the time passed all too quickly and the pair found itself on the way back home to the realities that had driven them to leave in the first place. Along the bumpy of ill-repaired state road that led down from the mountain side, Cynthia let out an audible sigh. Turning to her in between keeping a careful eye on the road, Gregg said, â€Å"Yes babe – what is it?† Instead of turning to look into his eyes, Cynthia stared outwards onto the valleys, and silver lined rivers that glistened in the warm glow of the setting sun. Eventually after what seemed to Gregg like far too long a time for a positive answer to the question he asked, Cynthia said, â€Å"I just – don’t know how much longer we will be able to do this†. Visibly dismayed by such a response, Gregg continued leading his old and beaten down SUV around the narrow twists and turns that led down the mountain. After what seemed to Cynthia as a jarringly short amount of time, Gregg responded by asking â€Å"What do you mean†? This seemed as un necessarily annoying to Cynthia since it was obvious to her that Gregg knew full and well what she meant by such a loaded statement. However, rather than responding in a quick or offensive manner, Cynthia took another deep breath, remembering the perfection that the pair had experienced in the hours before, she thought better of such a snarky response. Instead, she reached for his hand in the empty seat that separated them at the moment. This time, turning from the window, she looked lovingly towards him and said – â€Å"Gregg, you know what I mean. I would love to continue this forever; but you must realize that if we are to do it, we cannot continue to live apart and will need to risk it all to be together†. Without giving her much of a chance to take a breath or to add anything additional to this thought, Gregg blurted out â€Å"But we will – I told you I just have to get a better job so that we will have a way to† She interrupted before he could finis h. â€Å"When will that be? You can’t imagine how hard it is for me to continue to survive the pain and criticism that we are both getting from both sides of our friends and family.† Visibly shaken by her response, Gregg decided that the best way to formulate any further response would be to thoughtfully consider her needs as well as their own prior to answering. Along this line of thought the two passed in silence as the miles passed by beneath their tires. Finally, and almost imperceptibly, Gregg looked to her and said, â€Å"I’m so sorry – I never intended it to be like with us – ya know?† â€Å"Of course I do†

IBM Research Topic Essay Example for Free

IBM Research Topic Essay Mission Statement-Suitability for IBM The mission statement of IBM is suitable for the organization, and that not only because it sufficiently refers to the features a mission statement must have, but also because it expresses a spirit of success, teamwork and customer consideration, a spirit that only big companies can generate. Mission Statement-Strengths and weaknesses Though much important a mission stetement is, it can develop some strengths and weaknesses regarding mostly the customers of a company, the workforce and its shareholders. These three groups of people constitute a larger framework of groups, which has a legitimate interest in the fortunes of a company, the stakeholders of a company. Customers-Strengths In the market of information technology, customers will expect the most advance information technology from a company in order to fulfill their needs. Customers will also demand a flexible range of products and services (after sales service) to suit their needs. By reading the mission statement of IBM it is more than visible that the company fulfills these demands and provides strengths to its customers (â€Å"we strive to lead in the creation and manufacture of the industry’s most advance information technologies†, â€Å"we translate these advance technologies into value for our customers through our professional solutions and services worldwide†). Generally the mission statement of IBM expresses a spirit of marketing orientation, and customer devotiation. Customers-Weaknesses It is extremeny difficult to pinpoint any weaknesses regarding customers generated from the mission statement of IBM, since the company’s mission statement expresses a spirit of marketing orientation and customer service (â€Å"we translate these advanced technologies into value for our customers through our professional solutions and services worldwide†). However one could say that extremely high technology and development might create such a specialisation that may lead to non-user friendly products, which would not sufficiently serve the needs of the customers. This could be encountered as a weakness. Workforce-Strengths The workforce of a company will expect to operate in a friendly and teamwork enviroement, in which opportunities for training and career development will be given. The mission statement of IBM complies with these expectations, and so provides strengths to the workforce. Since the product line of IBM is highly technologically advanced (â€Å"development and manufacture of the industry’s most advance information technologies) the workforce of IBM will have the opportunity of being trained and having developed their career in the future. Apart from this, the mission statement itself expresses the team spirit that exist in IBM and is being expected from the workforce (â€Å"At IBM, we strive to lead in creation†¦.†. Workforce-Weaknesses Apart from the strengths that are generated from the mission statement of IBM a few weaknesses can also arise. By reading the mission statement of IBM you can easily observe the tense the company has to invest in the development of the company (technology, services) in order to lead in creation, development and manufacture of the industry’s most advance information technologies and so to serve by a more fruitfull way the needs of its customers. This however can have a negative impact on some expectations of the workforce. Employees might expect some profits of the company to be given for the use of raising wages rather than investing for the development of the company. Employees might expect shorter working hours and more standardised products and services. The non-confrontation of these expectations can be considered as weaknesses.

Herman Miller Inc Essay Example for Free

Herman Miller Inc Essay From the headquarters of Herman Miller Inc. , Curt Pullen talks amid the unmistakable pounding sounds and commotion associated with a construction work site about his companys plan to rebound from the recession. Pullen, the firms executive vice president and president of North America, says the workers are installing new lower-height Herman Miller workstations designed to accommodate a growing trend in offices toward more open, collaborative environments. The new product, called Canvas, is part of the companys market-shift strategy after the demand for office furniture fell hard during the economic downturn. The plan also involves diversifying into the health care and academic furniture markets and more emphasis on emerging economies. The plan appears to be paying off. For the first time in nearly four years the company reported two consecutive quarters of double-digit percentage sales growth after releasing its second-quarter earnings statement on Dec 15th. Orders in the second quarter rose 34% to $462 million. CEO Brian Walker noted the companys expanded market reach as a contributing factor to growth. Significant increases occurred in international markets where sales rose 33%. In 2010 the company acquired UK-based ergonomic workstation manufacturer Colebrook Bosson Saunders and purchased assets from Australian furniture maker Living Edge Group. In 2008, the company announced a partnership with Chinas Posh Office Systems Ltd. to expand in the Asia-Pacific region. The company attributed a year-end surge to gains in its international, health care, learning and retail vertical markets. The expanding health care industry has become one of the companys key growth targets. One of the more recent expansions into the health care field came on Jan. 31 when Herman Miller completed its acquisition of health care furniture manufacturer Nemschoff Chairs LLC based in Sheboygan, Wis. Herman Miller designed the Canvas workstation at a lower height than traditional workstations to facilitate a workplace trend toward more collaborative environments. The design also allows more light into work areas and saves space, the company says. Including sinks and headwalls, to be reconfigured to meet patient needs. 2. Business Strategy: Broad Differentiation Strategies This strategy pursues the buyer’s needs and preference to make them satisfied with the product. And to be different from other rivals, the product must have unique product attributes that a wide range of buyers find appealing and worth paying for. The strategy achieves its aim when an attractively large numbers of buyers find the customer buyer value proposition. Herman miller is pursuing this strategy as we refer to the case study that their products are based on the design which is designed according to the people who use the furniture. Like the president of Herman Miller said: ‘people are important not the furniture. Furniture should be useful’. Besides, this company emphasizes on product design and environmental friendly, these are two basic things that they have been practicing for many decades. Furthermore, they also invest more in research and development for product innovation. Take an example of office design product, Herman Miller’s Insight and Exploration team observed various workplaces to analyze how people collaborate and the ways in which their interactions vary over the course of a day, and throughout the life of a project by differentiating the subtleties of how, when, where, and why people connect independent of content or industry. Senior Researcher Shilpi Kumar notes that, â€Å"outlining these collaborative work behaviors will empower designers and decision makers with a greater understanding for how people really work, and will enable more informed choices in regards to office spaces. Herman Miller takes advantage of the growing desire for green products to create a better world and increase ergonomic furniture, because the consumers are willing to pay a premium for such quality and social responsible product. Since the designer of Herman Miller emphasized quality, excellence, and the continual improvement of their products, obviously one of their product which is designed by Charles and Ray Eames since its launch in 1950 had developed from plastic chair to wood chair in 2000. She also confirmed that this wood chair is 100 times recyclable since Herman Miller is concerned about environmental friendly, and Eames Molded Wood Side Chair earns Gold award at NeoCon 2013 in the Guest Seating category. 3. Functional strategy: Research and Development (RD) This category focuses on strategy that is concerned with the actions in managing particular functions within a business especially in RD. In terms of Herman Miller RD, they invested in research and development (RD) financially. Although there was downturn in financial, Herman Miller still invested tens of millions of dollars in RD. The investment in RD was code named Purple. A result of investment in RD was an outgrowth of project Purple. The goal of this project was to spread beyond the boundaries of normal business. Herman miller created a special team called the accessories team in which the team-identified a potential growth area. This team is made to recruit people with different disciplines needed to support that goal. In addition, this team focuses on contributing ideas to the success of the team from all resources and also to develop a particular product as it goes through that piece of work. This project is in line with functional strategy of RD in which a company’s product development represents the plan for keeping the company’s product in accordance with what buyers are looking for (Thompson et al, 2014). In the case of Herman Miller Inc, they began with research in every real design solution in which the exploitation and insights of the best research leads to human-centered design and problem solving. Herman Miller Inc is doing many things for RD in the case of education, sustainability, performance, healthcare, manufacturing, architectures design and ergonomics. Herman Miller Inc has its major RD activities and projects, i. e. its way to support and develop a company’s product. According to Herman Miller’s financial statement for fiscal years 2006-2011, there was a decline in design and research in 2009 due to the ongoing economic downturn. Figure 1. 1: Spending on Design and research So far, they have done some research projects regarding education such as; student’s research work behaviors behind innovation spaces. In the fall 2012, there was a project Herman Miller funded as a way of investing in the next generation of workers by giving students the chance to apply what hey learn in a real-world setting. Herman Miller wanted them to look at the business objective of the company. Besides Herman Miller providing the funds, the employees of the company also participated in the project. After the field research, the goal of this project was that the students shared what they had learned from going to the company for a workshop. The company also wanted to discover more about places that encourage creativity and the places of creative people. Besides Herman Miller providing the funds, the employee of the company also participated in the project. In regarding with the research in technology, the research starts by understanding which technological trends are creating new behaviors in the workplace. So from that, they can produce new design solution. Over the last three years, a group of designers, engineers, and researchers, the Insight Herman Miller and Exploration Team (I E) has focused on emerging technologies and how they alter social behavior in the workplace. Herman Miller’s goal is to identify the technology trends that are relevant to the office and also understanding new behaviors that allow the designers, architects and manufacturers to bring new workplace design. For healthcare, Herman Miller Healthcare saw the opportunity to study and analyze by doing the research from the discussion of Bluewater health in which prior to design development and also the satisfaction and safety of patients and staff members. Herman Miller Healthcare is sponsoring a research project that will explore how changes in the built environment have affected staff in three important areas: Ambulatory Care, Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Department. 3 4. Functional Strategies: Marketing Marketing is one of the strategies used under functional strategy. First and foremost, Herman Miller products were sold internationally through wholly owned subsidiaries in countries including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Australia, Singapore, China, India, and the Netherlands. Hence, they use the international strategy to compete its products in each country. In other words, they use the foreign subsidiary strategies because it seemed that they prefer to have a direct control over all aspects of operating in a foreign country that is the reason why they established wholly owned subsidiaries. As a result, this strategy was successful as their brand was recognized by customers and increased customer base spreading over 100 countries. Moreover, they used green marketing strategy to sell their products. This is because they mainly focus on environmental friendly such as Mirra chair, one of their products which was made of 45 percent recycled materials, and 96 percent of its material were recyclable. Therefore, the chairs used 100 percent renewable energy. Due to this strategy used, Mirra chair was recorded as one of the Top 10 Green Products by Architectural Record and Environmental Building News. Hence, this can indicate the success of using this strategy. In addition, Herman Miller engaged in cooperating advertising with strategic partners. As the example of Hilton Garden Inns which they equipped the Mirra chair in some room and on the desk in the room, was a card that explain how to adjust the chair while also providing the advertisement of Herman Miller’s website, how to purchase the products. Likewise, this is one of the advertising used to promote their products by using the strategic partner. As a result, they can reduce the advertising cost and gain more brand awareness. . Operating Strategy: Lean Production Initially, at Spring Lake, Herman Miller had invested in a giant robot assembly that welded supports inside file cabinet housings, including a tractor-trailer-length automated welding line with 1,000 sensors to drive labor completely out of the process. Unfortunately, big customers like Hewlett-Packard and ATT were pulling their orders of 100 instead of 500 and some wanted file cabinets in two weeks instead of six with much higher quality. The Spring Lake plant could not deliver, and certainly not for the lower prices customers demanded. 995, they adapted Toyota’s leading-edge formula for plant-floor management into an approach they called the Herman Miller Performance System (Boozco. , 2010, para 20). Based on the above quote, it depicted that Herman Miller’s decision to employ Herman Miller Performance System (HMPS); lean production, was to maintain efficiencies and cost savings by minimizing the amount of inventory on hand through a just-in-time process. To ensure a fluid flow on the order – driven production, Herman Miller collaborated with reliable and strategic suppliers. HMPS created competitive advantage through large assembly – manufacturing based. For example, direct materials and components purchased as needed to meet the demand and some suppliers delivered parts to Herman Miller production facilities five or six times per day. This resulted in a standard lead time of 10 to 20 days for majority of the products and low inventories on hand. Interestingly, HMPS managed to increase the variable costs rather than fixed costs while retaining proprietary control over manufacturing process. It was reported that â€Å"the plant managers across Herman Miller have learned that the best-run plants rely on people, not machines. Only people can solve problems to make assembly lines go faster, run cheaper, and deliver higher quality† (Boozco. , 2010, para 25). Therefore, it can be concluded that labor intensive approach tend to outperform machine intensive approach especially when the products demand further customization with limited time and the majority of industry products are built to each customers unique order. Question 2: Culture at HMI: healthy and largely supportive of good strategy execution. Herman Miller had codified its long-practiced organizational values, intended as a basic for uniting all employees, building relationship, and contributing to society. Herman Miller started in 1905 with the Star Furniture Company and created the Herman Miller furniture company with his son in law named Dirk Jan De Pree. From the beginning, De Pree committed himself to treating all workers as individuals with specials talents and potential. This was part of Herman Miller’s corporate culture which continued to generate respect for all employees and take advantage of the diversity of skills possessed by all. This is one of the functional strategies in corporate culture in Herman Miller Inc in which included the company’s approach to people management, procedures and operating practices that provide the guidelines for the behavior of the company. The impact of this culture became one of the competitive advantages that make strong management and employee satisfaction in the company. The business principles and ethical standard of Herman Miller are the management practices as the key of company’s culture. Herman Miller was one of the furniture company named to Fast Company’s â€Å"Most Innovative Companies† in both 2008 and 2010. Herman Miller had pursued a path of reinvention and renewal. Herman Miller has many ways to develop their products and its culture is also unique. Through the growing of the company, Herman Miller maintains the relationship with the employees. Herman Miller’s commitment to innovation included sharing ideas and opinions from the employees. On January 1979, Herman Miller established new organization structures that included all employees were to be given the opportunity to discuss new plan in small group settings. In addition, Herman Miller also established a plan in which all employees became shareholders. Herman Miller Inc. also focuses on more efficient and environmentally friendly by taking a major initiative in 1981. It is in line with a better world value which is pursuing sustainability and environmental policy. They established environmental quality action team whose goal was to coordinate environmental programs worldwide that involves many employees. A Herman Miller’s culture is grounded in and resides to certain core value and some sets for ethical behavior. Herman Miller had long practiced organizational values that were still used in 2012. The values are as basis for uniting all employees, building relationship, adapt the implied attitude, behaviors and work practices. The company adopted inclusiveness which means they include all the expressions of human talent and potential that society offers. As mentioned before, Herman Miller corporate culture continued to create respect to all employees and looking for and utilizing the skills possessed by anyone. The second value is design in which it is important to Herman Miller Inc. in order to make innovative products. It is the way for them for looking at the world and how it can work. The results of this value are Herman Miller established many innovative products and designs. In 1971 and 1984, they introduced products based on ergonomics principles such as the Ergon chair and Equa chair. For another groundbreaking design, it introduced the Aeron chair which was almost added to New York Museum of Modern Art’s permanent design collection in 1990. Other important values are based on Herman Miller’s best performance that focuses on enriching the lives of employees, customers and create value for the shareholders. The result of this value has made Herman Miller share the gains and pains with the employees especially about the compensation. All employees received a base pay and they also participated in a profit sharing program where they received stock in accordance to the company’s financial performance. The company also offered to the employees the employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), retirement income plan, offered annual bonus to all employees based on company’s performance, and in regard to profit sharing both the employees and executives have same calculation of bonus potential. High performance culture In Herman Miller Inc. there is a strong sense of involvement on the part of company personnel and emphasis on individual initiative and creativity. Two of the greatest strengths lie behind our heritage of research-driven design. Respecting and encouraging risks, exploring new ideas and freedom of speech. Owners actively committed to the life of the community called Herman Miller, pride in doing things right, sharing in its success and risks. The strengths and payoff really comes in when engaging in people’s own problems, solutions and behavior. Performance is required at the highest level possible. Herman Miller enriches employees’ lives, delight its customers, and create value for its shareholders. Herman Miller includes all the express human talent and potential, everyone should have a chance to realize his or her potential regardless of color, gender, age, sexual orientation. It believes that skill; different educational background could bring the company uniqueness. Adaptive Culture Herman Miller always keep innovating its products to serve their customers better. Herman Miller’s corporate culture, which continued to generate respect for all employees, had fueled the quest to tap the diversity of gifts and skill held by all. The company designs products according to what people want the most, and it is a way of looking at the world and how it works or does not. To design a solution, rather than simply devising one, required research, thought sometime starting over, listening and humility. Manager and employees support each other in dealing with working environment. Herman Miller designed the Canvas workstation, at a lower height than traditional workstations to facilitate a workplace trend toward more collaborative environments. The design also allows more light into work areas and saves space, the company says. Additionally, the company also keeps changing its production designs from time to time according to the needs of the people and follow ergonomic system. Herman Miller hired much expertise to design its furniture, and it is costly to spend on R;D but company the company was willing to take risks on new innovation. Financial performance Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 Revenue ($ millions) $ 2,012. 1 $1,630. 0 $1,318. 8 $1,649. 2 R;D to Sales Ratio R;D/Sale 51. 2 / 2,012. 1 = 2. 5 % 45. 7 / 1,630. 0 = 2. 8 % 40. 5 / 1,318. 8 = 3. 1 % 45. 8 / 1,649. 2 = 2. 8 % Table 2. : HMI’s Revenues and R;D to Sales ratio from 2008 to 2011 Figure 2. 1: Research and development (R;D) to Sales ratio from 2008 to 2011 The above graph shows the trend of R;D sales ratio which increases from year 2008 until 2010. However, it decreased slightly in 2011 due to low R;D investment because of recession. However, it is not clear whether measuring the R;D ratio is a good metric to represent its efficiency towards a company. This is because it takes into consideration the R;D expenses rather than R;D investment thus it is easy to manipulate the number by lowering the R;D expenditure. Even, in the balance sheet of Herman Miller, the R;D investment is not disclosed under assets. If R;D is capitalized as asset, then it depicts the efficiency of R;D towards business revenues. In brief, due to that constraint, we assume that at least the R;D sales ratio increases and contributes positively towards Herman Miller’s business structure as Herman Miller invests heavily in R;D to create the furniture. Figure 2. 2: HMI’s Revenues from 2008 to 2011 The above graph illustrates that the trend of sales revenue decreases from year 2008 until 2010. However, it started to increase in year 2011. Thus, in brief, Herman Miller is improving in their sales through investment in Research and Development and produces competitive design. Question 3: HMI’s Financial situation: prior years and its competitors 1. HMI’s financial situation In order to measure the financial performance of Herman Miller Inc, we have used different ratios, such as liquidity, profitability, leverage and activity ratios. Besides, we also compare the financial performance of HMI in relation to its competitors – HNI and Steelcase Inc from 2008 until 2012 based on the above mention ratios. For our case, we have used the current ratio to measure the extent to which the three companies (HMI, HNI and Steelcase) can meet their short term obligations as shown in the figure below. Figure 3. 1: HMI’s current ratio versus its competitors’ ratio The figure above shows the current ratios for the three manufacturers’ of office furniture and equipment for five consecutive years. In the case of Herman Miller Inc. , their current ratio showed some slight increase of about 1 percent from 2008 to 2009. However, a drop of about 21 percent was xperienced in 2010 but they were still able to maintain a current ratio of greater than 1. In the year 2011 and 2012, there had been a tremendous increase in their current ratio to 1. 76 and 1. 81 respectively. This current ratio of greater than 1 provides additional cushion against unforeseeable contingencies that may arise in the short term. In the case of HNI, their current ratio showed a moderate increase of about 7 percen t from 2008 to 2009. However, for the subsequent years, HNI experienced a decrease in their current ratio of approximately 10 percent from 2010 all the way to 2012. Nonetheless, they were able to maintain a current ratio of at least 1 to ensure that the value of their current assets covers at least the amount of their short term obligations. As for Steelcase, their current ratio showed a moderate increase of about 8 percent from 2008 to 2010. On the other hand, the company experienced a decrease of roughly 8 percent in the year 2011 but they were still able to maintain a current ratio of greater than 1. However, Steelcase managed to have an increase in their current ratio from 1. 37 in 2011 to 1. 52 in 2012. Overall, Herman Miller Inc. as shown a significant increasing trend in their current ratio as compared to the other two companies. This may suggest improved liquidity of the company or a more conservative approach to working capital management. ii. Profitability ratios: Profitability ratios measure management’s overall effectiveness as shown by the returns generated on sales and investment. There are a number of ratios under profitability but for our case, we have used the Return on Assets (ROA) to measure the after-tax profits per dollar of assets and Gross Profit Margin which measures the total margin available to cover operating expenses and yield a profit. These two ratios have been used to evaluate the three companies (HMI, HNI and Steelcase). Figure 3. 2. 1: HMI’s return on asset ratio versus its competitors’ ratio The figure above shows the Return on Assets for the three manufacturers’ of office furniture and equipment for five consecutive years. In the case of Herman Miller Inc. , there has been a decreasing trend of ROA in the year 2008 to 2010 from 19 percent to 4 percent respectively. This shows that the profitability of the company is deteriorating. Nevertheless, rom the year 2010 to the year 2012, the company has shown some slight increasing trend of ROA from 4 percent to 9 percent respectively. This indicates that the company’s profitability is quite improving over the years. When it comes to HNI, it has also shown a high decreasing trend of ROA in the year 2008 to 2011 from 5 percent to -0. 6 percent respectively. This shows that the profitability of the company is extremely deteriorating. However , in the year 2012, there was an increase of about 4 percent as compared to the previous year. The company was able to move from -0. 6 percent to 3. 8 percent. This signifies that the company’s profitability is slightly improving. Lastly for Steelcase, there has also been a high decreasing trend of ROA from the year 2008 to 2010 with about 6 percent and -0. 8 percent respectively. This shows that the profitability of the company is extremely deteriorating. However, there was a slight increasing trend of ROA in 2011 and 2012 of 1. 02 percent and 3. 33 percent respectively. This means that the company’s profitability is somewhat improving. Overall, Herman Miller Inc. has shown a considerable increasing trend in their ROA over the years as compared to the other two companies. This may imply effective use of assets and creation of high margins by the company as well as gauging how well the company uses its financing from borrowing and bonds. Figure 3. 2. 2: HMI’s gross profit ratio versus its competitors’ ratio The figure above shows the Gross Profit Margin for the three manufacturers’ of office furniture and equipment for five consecutive years. In the case of Herman Miller Inc. , there has been a slight decrease of the Gross Profit Margin in the year 2008 to 2009 from 34. 72 percent to 32. 37 percent respectively. However, from the year 2010 to the year 2012, the company has shown some slight increase in their Gross Profit Margin from 32. 49 percent to 34. 26 percent respectively. This indicates that the company can make a reasonable profit. For HNI, there has been an increasing trend of the Gross Profit Margin from the year 2008 to 2011 with about 33. 66 percent and 34. 6 percent respectively. However, in the year 2012, there was a slight decrease of about 1. 3 percent as compared to the previous year. The company’s Gross Profit Margin moved from 34. 86 percent to 34. 39 percent. This also signifies that the company can make a reasonable profit. Lastly for Steelcase, it has shown a slight decreasing trend of Gross Profit Margin from the year 2008 to 2010 with 32. 12 percent and 28. 35 percent respectively. However, there was a slight increasing trend of Gross Profit Margin in the subsequent years amounting to 29. 5 percent in 2012. This means that the company can still make a reasonable profit. Overall, HNI has shown a steady increasing trend in their Gross Profit Margin over the years as compared to the other two companies. This may indicate how efficiently the company is using its materials and labor in the production process and gives an indication of the pricing, cost structure, and production efficiency of the company. iii. Leverage ratios This ratio is used to determine the companies’ financing methods, or the ability to meet the obligations. There are many ratios to calculate leverage but the important factors include debt, interest expenses, equity and assets. In this section, we will examine two ratios which are debt to assets and debt to equity ratios. Figure 3. 3. 1: HMI’s debt to asset ratio versus its competitors’ ratio The debt to asset ratio gives us a quick measure of the amount of debt that the company has on its balance sheets compared to its assets. In general, the debt to asset ratio for Herman Miller fluctuated over the years as compared to its competitors – HNI and Steel case. In 2008, the debt to equity ratio for Herman Miller was above 80 percent and rose approximately to 100 percent in 2009, whereas this ratio was just about 61 percent and 57 percent for HNI and Steel case respectively in 2008; and about 58 percent in 2009 for both competitors. This indicated that almost 100 percent of Herman Miller’s assets were financed by debt or creditors which implied that the Company has high level of leverage and risk, while its competitors had roughly 50 percent of their assets financed by the owners. However, Herman Miller’s ratio significantly dropped in 2010 to about 40 percent which was below its competitors who almost maintained their position over the years. In 2012, 70 percent of Herman Miller’s assets were financed by debt. In general, although the company debt to assets ratio is still high in relation to its competitors, the financial performance of the company is improving after the financial crisis. However, the Company needs to further reduce the amount of debt resulting to the reduction of risk; this is because it may affect the company’s survival in the long-run. Figure 3. 3. 2: HMI’s debt to equity ratio versus its competitors’ ratio A debt-to-equity ratio measures the amount of debt a company uses to fund its business for every dollar of equity it has. In other words, it is a measure of a companys ability to repay its obligations. Generally companies with less debt equity ratio are less risky than the companies with high ratios. As we can see from the graphs, Herman Miller Inc. has the highest ratio over the year in relation to the other companies. For instance, its ratio fluctuated significantly over the years which were at 32. 7 and 94. 91 in 2008 and 2009 respectively. This might be due to the effect of the financial crisis, which caused the company to increase its debt financing heavily. Also, this indicates that the company had substantial high amount of debt as compared to equity which can endanger the long term survival of the firm since the company may not be able to generate enough cash to satisfy its debt obligations . Meanwhile, debt to equity ratio for HNI and Steel case was roughly lower than 2, which was acceptable for large public companies. For Herman Miller, however, this ratio sharply dropped over the next years to just about 8. 62 in 2010 and 2. 37 in 2012. In contrast, its competitors still can maintain their ratio below two over the next years. In order to improve this ratio, Herman Miller had sold its common stock and tried to lower the mount debt financing, this can be seen by the amount of long-term debt decreasing. This implies that the company’s financial performance has been improving after the financial crisis. In terms of leverage, overall, it can be said that the performance of the company has been improving over the years and regaining its position in the furniture market after the economic downturn. Although it may not do well as compared to its competitors in terms of financing the debt and equity, there is a sign of improvement and effort in positioning its self in the market industry in U. S. iv. Activity Ratios Figure 3. 4. 1: HMI’s Inventory turnover ratio versus its competitors’ ratio The inventory turnover is commonly used to measure the operational efficiency in managing its assets. Based on the figure 4. 1 illustrated above, in 2009, Herman Miller Inc. has the highest ratio compared to other years. This high ratio could indicate two conditions, such as; whether the company has strong sales during the year or it has an ineffective buying activity. However, it is perceived that the company did have strong sales proven from the lowest level of inventory and high sales revenue which are seen in the annual report during the year. While in 2010, Herman Miller Inc. ’s turnover ratio drops significantly compared to the other years. Its cost of sales for the year has the lowest and showed a decrement of 24% from previous year which simultaneously contribute to low ratio as well as indicating the lack of effectiveness particularly in turning its inventory into sales. One of the reasons is that it could be due to the recession which highly affected the company, and hence making them to reduce the cost of sales. However, Herman Miller Inc is getting better in turning its inventory into sales proven from the increment of its ratio by year. Additionally, compared to competitors, the position of the ratio shown for Herman Miller Inc. is located somewhat in the middle. Steelcase is somewhat faster in turning their inventory into sales compared to others. In contrast, HNI has the lowest rate. This proves that Steelcase is more effective in managing its operational assets. Figure 3. 4. 2: HMI’s Average collection period versus its competitors’ ratio Average collection period is the number of days it takes a company to collect its account receivables. As illustrated from the figure 4. 2 above, Herman Miller is getting better in obtaining its receivables shown by the average days taken which was from 58 days in 2008 and 34 days in 2012. This demonstrates that Herman miller Inc. onstantly improve its credit policy effectiveness confirmed by a dramatic slump by years. Comparing to other competitors, originally HNI was the most effective company in managing its credit term policy, as the company only took 38 days in collecting its account receivables compared to Steelcase or Herman Miller. However, the company ended up to be the highest rate at 2012 showing that it is not effective in evaluating company’s credit policy. As a result, when a company possesses a lower average collection period, it is seen as optimal as it indicates that the company does not take very long to turn its receivables into cash. . HMI’s current strategies: an issues of need to change its strategies during poor economic conditions The current Herman Miller strategy which focuses on growth strategy, through innovative products and related diversification made the company to survive the Great Depression early in its history, multiple recessions in 20th century and in early 21st century the company recovered from the dot-com bust and was able to continue expanding overseas. The furniture industry is an economically volatile industry. The office furniture segment of the industry was hit hard by the recession. Industry sales decreased 26. 5 percent during the 2009 economic downturn. However, because of the innovative and diversification, Herman Miller was able to outperform its competitors in terms of sales and profitability, during that time Herman Mill’s sales dropped by 19% which is relatively low in comparison with its competitors HNI Corporation and Steelcase which had dropped by 33 percent and 28% respectively. The furniture industry is at its maturity stage, thus Innovation is crucial to the company’s survival. If Herman Miller continues to successfully innovate, it will enable them to compete in the market strongly. The industry had been negatively impacted telecommunication which had reduced the need office furniture. Yet, more employees were spending more hours in front of the computer screens than ever before. Because of Herman Miller’s effective innovation, they were able to respond to the need of ergonomically correct office furniture that had helped to decrease fatigue and injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. In summary, the company does not need to radically alter its main strategy which focuses more on innovation and diversification as it’s the reason they were not dramatically hit by recessions and competitions among the rivals. 3. Recommendation: i. Reduced current benefit and incentive schemes There are several incentives that had been eliminated by Herman Miller’s management due to the economic downturn in 2009. The suspend of 401(k) contribution plans (saving contribution plan), cut-off 15 percent of current workforce and 10 percent reduction in salary for remaining workforce had been implemented during the crisis. However the pay cuts was discontinued because of Herman Miller’s quick turnaround. The company was stable starting the year 2011, but the selling, general, and administrative were the highest contribution of the operating expenses. Specifically, â€Å"†¦$3. million and $16. 6 million of additional operating expenses during fiscal 2011 due to the reinstatement of all of our employee benefits and employee incentive expenses† (Herman Miller’s Annual Report, 2011). The company believed that the large benefit and incentives had created motivated and skilful employees which are the key of its competitive advantage. Even though the company has increased in sales as compared to the year 2010, it is important to cut the costs by eliminating some of the less important incentives schemes and benefits such as $100 rebate on a bike purchase, concierge services and one-site services to name a few. Previously, the company had eliminated the 401(k) contribution plan so that they could stop providing some percentage on the employees’ contribution. It is crucial since it could allow the company to save a significant amount of money in the long run (Richardson, 2009). It can be done by communicating the problems and issues which need to be addressed to the staff before they get out of hand. Address the problems proportionately and regular communication could make the staff be aware on their role to support the company throughout the economy downturn. By having it, the staff might accept the decision positively and provide effort to help the company to fully recover after the recession (‘Recession Business Cost Cutting†, 2013). ii. Reduction in company’s cost of sales According to Herman Miller’s Annual Report (2011), the increase in cost of sales for the year 2011 was due to the increase in sales volume that was driven primarily by cost leverage on higher production, which was partially offset by deeper discounting, higher employee benefit and incentive costs, and higher costs of key direct materials, most notably steel and steel components. Besides that, the cost of direct material increased as compared to previous years which there was increase in the cost of commodities and the increase in discounting, which has the effect of reducing net sales The costs of certain manufacturing materials used in producing finished products are sensitive to the volatility of commodity market price. The cost of direct labor and overhead were increased due to increase in product volume while the cost of freight expenses had increased during the year because of increase in product volume as well as increase in fuel costs in 2011. First recommendation to cut the cost of sales in terms of direct material is substituting lower cost material where possible to replace the expensive one and each angle should be considered for better decision. For example, the substitution of carbon steel to replace expensive stainless steel could reduce the cost but the corrosion protection might not last longer. This method should be applied if only the benefit from the substitution is higher than the cost of reduction in quality (Lewis, n. d. ). Second recommendation is by eliminating unnecessary product features to reduce cost. The company should produce a product that really suits customers’ preferences in buying their products. For example, the company should identify whether customers are purchasing its products because of their unique looks, lower price or high quality. If customers buy the products because of their lower price, unique features may not be needed (Lewis, n. d. ). Third recommendation which is the most effective one is by hedging the price of the steel through futures contract. According to Herman Miller’s Annual Report (2011): The company believes market prices for commodities in the near term may move higher and acknowledges that over time increases on its key direct materials and assembly components are likely. Consequently, it views the prospect of such increases as an outlook risk to the business† (p. 34). By locking the price in the contract, it could eliminate any risk of price volatility (â€Å"Hedging in Practice†, 2013). For example, if there is a huge possibility that the price of steel will increase in a certain period of time. Due to that, the company will engage in future contract and lock-in the price for a specific period in the future. Regardless of increase in steel price, the company is eligible to buy the commodity at a lower lock-in price as stated in the agreed future contract. Conclusion Herman Miller Inc. has implemented different strategies in order to improve its performance and expand its self in furniture market, such as diversified strategy, broad differentiation strategy, green marketing, product development and innovation. In addition, besides focusing on those strategies to achieve the business goals, the company also concerns about how it communicates and treat its employees. â€Å"All workers as individuals ith special talents and potential† can be considered as one of the healthy culture at Herman Miller since 1927 and the Company continued to generate respect for all employees and fueled the quest to tap diversity of gifts and skills held by all. According to one of the verse in chapter 42 of the Qur’an: â€Å"Those who hearken to their Lord, and establish regular Prayer; who (cond uct) their affairs by mutual Consultation; who spend out of what We bestow on them for Sustenance† (Quran 42:38) The verse above explains the importance of mutual consent in making a decision. Islam encourages Muslims to decide their affairs by consulting with those who will be affected by the decision. Thus, in the case of Herman Miller, it empowers its employees and nurture participative decision making so that the employees feel as part of the company. Surviving in matured furniture industry and the economic volatility such as recession, demand full cooperation from the whole organization. It is not easy to integrate the diverse nature of employees with different backgrounds and behaviors to achieve goal congruence. Thus, Herman Miller’s healthy culture leads to its employee’s readiness to accept any relevant decision by Herman Miller such as cutting their salaries as the employees work with Herman Miller and not just work for it. Furthermore, in term of design value, the designer team of Herman Miller always emphasized on quality, excellence, and the continual improvement of their products. â€Å"At Herman Miller the products we made decade ago are still sold after today, and products we make today we will do for a decade to come. † All in all, Herman Miller should pursue its current strategies and continue to expand those strategies such as product innovation, diversification and so on. We believe that these strategies have made and will make Herman Miller one of an outstanding and award winning Company. They will continue to provide the Company with the ability to renew and reinvent itself in the furniture market and outperform its rivals in the future. From the explanation above, it gives us a broad view of how the company’s long-term strategy and objective affects all their business: from product design to decision-making process to the culture of the Company.

Examining the impact of the Enron Corporate Scandal

Examining the impact of the Enron Corporate Scandal Enron is an energy-based company in Houston, Texas that deals with the energy trade on international and domestic based. Enron Corp. Is one of the worlds largest energy, commodities and Services Company was created out of merger of two major gas pipe line in 1985. Enron was created by merge between Houston Natural Gas and Internorth. Houstons gass CEO Kenneth lay headed the merger of the two companies. After that Kenneth lay become the CEO of Enron. Earlier Enron was Enron was solely involved with the distribution and transmission of electricity and gas of United States. In merger, Enron incurred a large amount of debt, and which resulted deregulation, after this Enron was no longer had the rights of its pipelines. The company had to find a way to generate profits and cash flow. Kenneth lay hired Jeffrey Skilling to work for Enron as an accountant. Skilling suggested the practice of buying gas from a network of suppliers and selling it to it consumers at the fixed price with a contract. Enron was interested in the expansion, building, and operation of the pipelines, power plants, and other infrastructure. After just a year of operation Enron merged with a company called spectrum seven, a company whose chairman and CEO is the former president of United States, George W. Bush After just a year of operation. In 1999, Enron tried to expand their company by creating the Azurix Corporation, a water utility company. Overall the Azurix Corporation proved unsuccessful financially. The Azurix Corporation, due to their failure to make an entrance into the market, went under. Enron allegedly became successful, trading over eight hundred different products worldwide. Enron was named Americas Most Innovative Company by Fortune magazine from 1996 to 2001. Enron was on Fortunes 100 Best Companies to work for In America in 2000. The companys future appeared to be bright and promising continued success. Enron faced many accusations of building links to political power. The companys connection to George W. Bush, and Houstons local politics has received much attention in recent past. In 1986, Enron was involved with Bushs company in joint drilling for oil. There are reports that Kenneth Lay and George W. Bush even shared friendship. Kenneth lay has employed politicians who have worked under George W. Bush also signed off on a law that deregulated Texass electrical markets, which coincidentally resulted in large profits for Enron. The company also had political links that reached outside of the United States. Enron created a massive and highly expensive power plant in India, even though many Indian citizens and the World Bank strenuously objected. Allegedly protesters in India were beaten up and arrested. The United States ambassador to India, who opposed the plant eventually, joined the board of Enron oil and gas The screws came loose in August 2001, when Jeffrey Skilling, the CEO resigned from office for unknown reasons. By October 2001, Enron experienced its first quarter where they did not report a profit. On November 8th, 2001 Enron told the SEC it was restating its earnings since 1997, reducing income by $. ENRON SCANDAL In Enrons original natural gas business, the accounting had been fairly straightforward in each time period, the company listed actual costs of supplying the gas and actual revenues received from selling it. However, when skilling joined the company, he demanded that the trading business adopt mark- to -market accounting, citing that it would reflect true economic value. Enron became the first non-financial company to use the method to account for its complex long- term contracts. Mark-to-market accounting requires that once a long-term contract was signed, income be estimated as the present value of net future cash flows. Often, the viability of these contracts and their related costs were difficult to judge .Due to large discrepancies of attempting to match profits and cash, investors were typically given false or misleading reports. While using the method, income from projects could be recorded, which increased financial earnings. However, in future years, the profits could not be included, so new and additional income had to be included from more projects to develop additional growth to appease investors. However, Enron later expanded its use to other areas in company to help it meet Wall Street projections. Here are some detailed frauds in the Enrons financial statement: Enrons auditor applied reckless standards in their audit, which was showing conflict between interests. Enron financial statement showed the booking costs of cancelled projects as assets, with the rationale that to no official letter had stated that the project was cancelled. This method was known as the snowball, and although it was initially dictated that stay under $90 million, it was later extended to $200 million where all found strange transactions. Like erratic cash flow and huge debt. Enron was estimated to have about $23billion in liabilities, both debt outstanding and guaranteed loans. Citigroup and JP Morgan Chase in particular appeared to have significant amounts to lose with Enrons fall. Additionally, many of Enrons major assets were pledged to lenders in order to secured loans, throwing into doubt what if anything unsecured creditors and eventually stockholders might receive in bankruptcy proceedings. IMPACT The collapse of Enron, the largest bankruptcy in U.S history, which led to thousands of employees losing their jobs and their life saving plans tied to the companys stock, which was calculated as 401(k). Reputation of Andersen, Enrons auditing firm, is damaged after company official admitted that thousands of Enron documents were destroyed. Those events lead to flurry of probes, including a criminal investigation by the U.S justice department of Enron .The SEC and the Labor department as well as six congressional committees-is also investigating the companys collapse. Enron officials have donated millions of dollars to Republicans and Democrats alike. At the heart of Enrons troubles were numerous outside partnerships, set up to keep debt off its books, which were reviewed by Andersen. In addition, it was revealed that Enron has paid no income taxes in four of the last five years, using almost 900 subsidiaries in tax-haven countries and other techniques. A major issue brought to light by the scandal is Andersen dual role as Enrons auditor and consultant, which critics claim is a serious conflict of interest. Andersen has been accused of over looking the huge sums of money kept off Enrons books because Enron represented a potential $100 million -a- year in fees to the auditor. Enron fired Andersen as the feuding corporations both came under growing scrutiny for their roles in the collapse of the worlds largest energy trading company. REFEENCES http://www.lawyershop.com/practice-areas/criminal-law/white-collar-crimes/securities-fraud/lawsuits/enron/ http://whatreallyhappened.com/WRHARTICLES/enron.html http://www.freeinfosociety.com/site.php?postnum=2308 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enron_scandal

Indigenous People Essay -- Politics Social Issues

What does the future hold for the indigenous peoples around the world? There is no clear answer, to this question. Each and every government must review the past treatment and the current conditions to determine what should [could] be done, to improve the lives of their indigenous peoples. The issues of the past are vast in number and unique to each government. The issues include: political power, education, environment, land [territory], intellectual property, poverty and the list goes on. According to, Gillette Hall and Harry Anthony Patrinos â€Å"the United Nations proclaimed 1995-2004 the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous Peoples† (76). Today, there are still unresolved issues that confront the very existence of the future of indigenous peoples around the world. In order, to move forward it is still necessary to look back and review the processes that have improved the livelihood of the indigenous and what have been the setbacks. If there is to be a change for the improvement of all indigenous peoples; the entire international society around the world should make an agenda to commit to enforcing the rights of indigenous peoples. First, the issue of proper representation in the body that makes decisions for the rights of indigenous peoples needs to be addressed, to ensure the needs and the needs of the indigenous peoples are met. The Human Rights Council which it the forum that the indigenous peoples have the possibility to report their experience of the marginalization, discrimination and human rights abuses; must gain a louder voice to ensure that the issues are resolved when report. If issues remain unresolved there must be legislation that will punish the governments involved in the wrong acts. Accordingly, t... ...197. Print Lutz, Ellen. â€Å"Indigenous Peoples Around the World Must Have Water Rights.† Global Viewpoints: Indigenous Peoples. Ed. Diane Andrews Henningfeld. Detroit – New York – San Francisco – New Haven, Conn. – Waterville, Maine – London: Greenhaven Press. 2009. 125-134. Print O’Grady, Anthony. â€Å"Australian Aborigines Must Protect Their Ownership of Art Culture.† â€Å"Global Viewpoints: Indigenous Peoples. Ed. Diane Andrews Henningfeld. Detroit – New York – San Francisco – New Haven, Conn. – Waterville, Maine – London: Greenhaven Press. 2009. 198-207. Print Woodman, Jo, Sophie Grig. â€Å"The Loss of Land Leads to Damage Health for Indigenous Peoples.† Global Viewpoints: Indigenous Peoples. Ed. Diane Andrews Henningfeld. Detroit – New York – San Francisco – New Haven, Conn. – Waterville, Maine – London: Greenhaven Press. 2009. 135-146. Print

Lincoln - Douglas Debate :: essays research papers

Affirmative Case Introduction- "We must use every tool of diplomacy and law we have available, while maintaining both the capacity and the resolve to defend freedom. We must have the vision to explore new avenues when familiar ones seem closed. And we must go forward with a will as great as our goal – to build a practical peace that will endure through the remaining years of this century and far into the next.† Because I believe so strongly in the words of U.S. Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, when she spoke at the Stimson Center Event, June 10, 1998, that I ask you to affirm today’s resolution, â€Å"Resolved: The use of economic sanctions to achieve U.S. Foreign Policy goals is moral.† Before I go on, I feel it necessary to define some key phrases in this resolution: ? Economic sanctions- the deliberate, government inspired withdrawal, or threat of withdrawal, of customary trade or financial relations. "Customary" does not mean "contractual"; it simply means levels of trade and financial activity that would probably have occurred in the absence of sanctions. ? To achieve- to fulfill ? U.S. Foreign Policy goals- to encompass changes expressly sought by the sender state in the political behavior of the target state. ? Moral- capable of right and wrong action or of being governed by a sense of right; subject to the law of duty. I ask you to affirm this resolution in order to achieve my all-important value premise of societal welfare. To make my position clear, I will define societal welfare as the United States government’s duty to act in the nation’s best interest. This also refers to what the majority of the citizens want. To achieve societal welfare, I shall utilize the criterion of national security. I will define national security as the government’s obligation to protect its citizens. It is in this way that the United States government must proceed to achieve its greatest goal of societal welfare by exercising the security of our nation. Now on to the core of the affirmative case: My first contention in this debate is that sanctions aim to modify behavior, not punish. Sanctions do not exist to ostracize or punish, but rather they encourage a change of policy that leads to compliance with standards of international law. One of our goals is to change or destabilize the target’s government, which means to change its policies that involve human rights, terrorism, and nuclear nonproliferation. Others are to disrupt a relatively minor military adventure and to change the policies of the target in a major way, such as, to surrender a territory. Our goals are NOT to go

Performance Management Essay

Q: 1 ————————————————- Be able to identify and agree performance objective 1.1 Explain link between individual team and organizational objective Link between organizational objective and the team is very important for the progress of an organization. Organizational objective are set in order to achieve the goal of an organization. Every organization has an aim to achieve so until every single member of staff not know the objective of the organization it’s difficult to achieve that goal. In an organization there are certain groups and each group has different teams. Every individual team has different task to do but all these different tasks are linked to the main objective of the organization and all the individual team tasks are support the objective of organization to fulfill. If the organizational objective is clear to the every individual team member than it’s easy to achieve team task. Principal behind the link between individual team and organizational objective is that if the individual team knows the organizational objective than they can play better role to achieve objective and can easily complete their individual task which support to achieve organizational objective. 1.2 Identify the selection of and agree individual and team objectives Team is group of people which work together to achieve goal every team member has different task which related to the objective of the team. Agreeing team objective is more difficult to agreeing individual objective because there are more people involved mean more skill, experience and handling problem with different ways. So than one should be more carefully deal when agreeing the team objective. Identifying and selection of and agree individual and team objective has very important for achieving the main objective of organization. If we selected right persons for achieving the individual objectives then it’s easy to achieve the team objective as well as organizational. Every team has its own team leader and he has an objective to achieve to complete that objective he has to complete different task to complete he has to select right person from his team to fulfill that task .for different tasks he has to select different people from his team to achieve that task which support to complete the overall team objective. When  team leader give task (individual objective) to his team member he should give him step by step training to achieve his goal. On other hand each team member should know the team objective as well to achieve their goal. Every individual and team objective should be SMART 1.3 Identify and agree area of individual and team responsibility in achieving objective Every individual and team should to understand his responsibility and try his best to agree with his responsibilities. Successful team can be responsible of different tasks and team objective which support the organizational objective the main responsibility of team is to achieve his team objective. Help each individual to complete his task. Every team should follow the planned the assignment which set by the director of the organization because every team objective is linked to organizational objective. Team should inform the project manager of task status and any problem arisen. Every team should select right person having right skill and knowledge to compete the task. Every individual should also try his best to achieve his goal because it’s important to achieve the team objective as well as organizational objective. Every team member should make real effort to build strong relational ship with each other. Each team member should give support feedback and gaudiness to other team member to achieve goal. Each staff member expresses loyalty and motivates other to work. If team and all individual are fulfil their responsibilities then it’s easy to achieve the organizational goal. 1.4 Identify the need to create an environment of trust and support with other Environment of trust and support in team member and organization is very useful to achieving the organizational goal If the entire individual in team has good relationship then they support each other give them feedback and gaudiness as well by this it’s easy to achieve goal for them. As we know that’s individuals objective supports to achieve team as well as organizational objective. So that as manger one should build following things to make environment pleasant * Increasing relation between staff member * Decreasing clashes to the neutral * Try to convert neutral to good and leading to excellence Advantages of Trusting * Staff member are more willing to share idea and work sincerely * Staff member are more willing to help each other and try their best to achieve the goal. * Saving of recourses (physical and financial) * More motivated for working * Sincere with organization ————————————————- Q2: Be able to assess performance and provide feedback 2.1: Evaluate and assess individual and team performance against objectives Assessing performance of individual and team performance against objective is very important for overall performance of the organization because it’s related to the overall performance of the organization. Best team and individual performance is which support the organization performance. Identifying objective Easy way to assess the performance is to split the objective in different tasks and give each task to the team and further to the individuals. Assessing performance Balanced analysis of performance beside designed objectives, taking all applicable factors into account. After doing that one have to check the results of the each task giving to the team and individuals as well. If they achieve than they can build success to achieving the main objective of the organization and if they cannot achieve the desirable performance then organization should think about the problems which prevent them to achieve desirable performance. Then first thing is to take in account is that the team at least understands the objective of the organization because without understanding the objective no one can achieve goal. There are also many other factor which can be affect the performance of the individual and the team like No enough support and training, Unsuitable environment and Financial problems etc. These are some factor which should be taken in to account to improve the performance to the desirable level. 2.2 Identify the  method to providing feedback to individual and team on performance Feedback can be define as process in which the effect or output of an action is returned to modify the next action Feed back is actually comments about something with which you have any type relation. Feed back is of two types positive or negative Positive feedback is good to improve yourself and identify your weakness and you can improve it if you want. Negative feedback is destructive and base on fact and reality which cause of angry and disturbance Usually feedback is taken from website, monthly or yearly review, survey or customer etc. There are many Methods to provide the feedback Sandwich method7 (expect a negative comment after praise). BOOST Method †¢ Balanced – contain together decent and beneficial points †¢ Observed – only give samples of what you have seen the somebody say or do †¢ Objective – feedback should be truthful and not an spasm on someone’s character †¢ Specific – always use exact patterns †¢ Timely – feedback should be given as near to the occasion as possible. EEC model8 †¢ Example – what performance you have detected †¢ Effect – on the viewers, on you, on your examination †¢ Change – what change in performance do you expect Feedback should be taken from serious personality Feedback should be taken after event soon Find someone private for feedback Give enough time to give feed back Take good care of privacy and honesty while taking feedback After taking feed back its very sensitive mater to provide the feedback so it should be handle very carefully. The purpose of providing feedback to the team and individual should be basis of maintenance, improving performance. While providing feedback to team or the individuals something should be keep in mind Positive points should be first to reduce conflict. It should be like information sharing. It should be not over loaded or in detail. During providing feedback it required ability of patient. Language should be expressive of specific behaviours rather than general remarks representing value judgments. All comments should be based upon visible performance and not assumed motives. 2.3 Identify the cause of conflict and describe strategies to minimize or prevent conflict Business dictionary define conflict as friction or opposition resulting from actual or perceived differences or incompatibilities. 2 Conflict may be positive or negative. There are many cause of conflict Personal factor Lack of information If any staff member is unconscious about information of any event, reformation or any other happening in the organization cause conflict. Skill deficits Lack of skill and knowledge also cause conflict. Personality and style differences Everybody in the organization has different style and personality that’s also cause of conflict in the organization. Substance abuse and Family problems also cause of conflict in the organization. Organizational factor There are some organizational factor are also cause of conflict in the organization like Leadership If the leadership is not leading his organization properly than it’s the big cause of conflict. Management Lack Managing qualities in organizational managing team cause conflict among its members Budget Insufficient budget and improper distribution cause conflict in organization. Poor communication among the leadership, management and the staff member cause of conflict in the organization. Different values of different staff member, personality clashes and poor performance also the cause of conflict  in the organization. Solution Solution of conflict in the organization is hidden in following factors Minimizing authorities By the minimizing authorities conflicts decrease. Improving polices By improving polices of organization to decreasing conflict Communication Communication among staff member is solution of conflict. Due to poor communication they can say nothing to the higher authorities and cause conflict between them. By Providing support to the staff member also reduce conflict. Injustices in rewarding staff member or injustices in any other matter are also cause conflict so that justice in every matter is a solution of conflict as well. If there is conflict between any of the staff member of the organization then one should take following steps Step 1: Intervene Where conflict exist one should involved his self in the problem and let know about people involved in it. Step 2: Listen and discuss By allowing every person to give their views and opinions you will have the opportunity to hear what each person thinks, and they will have the chance to hear what the others involved think, too. Step 3: Make your position clear You have to make your position clear which is acceptable by every involved parties or individual Step 4: Negotiate a win/win outcome One should make his position neutral in the situation and make agree everyone on the same opinion which is acceptable to every one Step 5: Monitor the situation After the you have to arrange some formal and informal meeting to monitor situation A formal follow-up meeting attended by all interested parties and Informal meetings just to check how things are going. 2.4 Explain recording system for performance assessment for individual or team The accomplishment of a given task measured against present  known standards of accuracy, completeness, cost, and speed. In a contract, performance is deemed to be the fulfilment of an obligation, in a manner that releases the performer from all liabilities under the contract. 5 The maintenance of a history of one’s activities, as financial dealings, by entering data in ledgers or journals, putting documents in files4, etc. is known as recording system. Recording system for any organization is very necessary to improve itself and to achieve desirable performance. There should be recording system in organization for performance assessment for every team and individual. There should be link between team and individual previous performance with current performance. By this we can check its progress and taking step against poor performance is easy. Recording system of performance of individuals and team are very important for the maintenance and improving performance. If the recording system of performance is exist in the organization then it’s easy to compare the performance of any individual and team and can easily obtain their progress report. Other advantage of the performance recording system is that all the individual and teams try to improve their performance to keep their record good for good reputation in the organization. So there should be a proper system in the organization for keep record of performance of the team and the individuals. All monthly and the annuals performance reports should keep in record. If some individual or team perform well or make a big mistake should also keep in record for basics of appreciation and maintenance. Q3 Be able to understand performance support for improvement. 3.1 Explain performance improvement cycle Performance improvement cycle is a cycle of development. If someone has poor performance then one should has to be pass through the improvement cycle to develop his abilities to show better performance. There are following steps of improvement cycle Identify In this step you have to identify his weakness and reason of his weakness. This is very important step of the improvement cycle because without correct identification diagnose of problem is not possible. After identify problem  you have to identify its reason also. Opportunities After identify the problem and its reason than you have to look at all the opportunities available to improve its weakness. Agree plan of action After look at all opportunities you have to decided that which one are more opportunities suit you to improve his weakness and then you have to act upon his plan. Review After that you have monitor to monitor performance. If everything is going as you want and agreed then you will be able to encourage the team member. If the things are not going well then you have to sit again to argue the trouble and find the key. 3.2 Discuss the indicator of poor performance Poor performance is define as when member of your team performing less than your hope. There are many reasons behind the poor performance that’s why it’s not an easy job to find out the reason of poor performance. But to find out the reason of the poor performance is very important because without indicating any problem cure of problem is difficult. There is some common reason of the poor performance. * Targets and goals are out of reach. * Team member of staff is insincere * Quantity of work * Team members’ ability is not appropriate * Team member is slow in taking decisions * Team member is not experiences and skilled. * Lack of knowledge * Lack of motivation These are main factor which are main cause of the poor performance by improve these you can easily improve performance. You can set the stander of performance By written job description By clearing Objective of organization and out come to member Competence of statement EVALUATING METHODS THAT SUPPORT PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT To improve the poor performance of the organization is very important to  achieve the goal .there are few steps which are use to improve poor performance of the organization. Counseling If individual staff member is not performing well that you have to look at his life out of work may be he cannot performing well due to some family or personal problems. You should try to solve problem if possible. Training or coaching If the staff member or not performing well then maybe they need training and coaching to doing that job. After giving them proper training about their job and then monitor them if you got desirable result then they can support to achieve objective of organization. Performance improvement plan Performance improvement plan is a written formal plan to improve the poor performance. There are following steps in it * Identify the problem and its reason * Opportunities * Agree plan of action * Review By this plan one can easily improve his self. Disciplinary That is last step to improving poor performance. Some time employees improve their self when they get last warring. After that if one never improves his self than one dismiss from job. ————————————————- Q4 BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND ORGANIZATION’S DISCIPLINARY AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE. 4.1 Discus the organization’s disciplinary and grievance procedures Every organization has its own rule and regulation but some of the rules linked with the citizen rights and human rights. Especially in United Kingdom any organization cannot dismiss any employee for job without any reason or sold proof so that if any organization does this then the organization has to answer in court. To dismiss any employee the following thing should take in to account * You have to give approx. three warnings 1. Informal warning 2. Formal warning 3. Written last warning * The contract with employee and organization should expired * Organization should have sold proof of his poor performance After that you can dismiss any employee without this if you dismiss any employee due to some personal or family problem than you have to answer in court and may be you have to pay plenty. Grievance allows the individual to compliant to their management. Due to the grievance individual never do uninformed action. Due to this the communication between the employee and management increase and reduce conflict between them as well. Due to complain of employee you can identify many problems to improving performance. Role of manager in disciplinary and grievance procedure Role of manger in the disciplinary procedure a manger should have good relationship between employees. So that he can reach to the real situation of the problem. He should know about that problem seriousness. If problem is serious. Than in this case employee has to dismiss. That’s dark point of management. Following thing a manger should take in to account? The problem should genuine There should not personal problem or family problem There should be witness There should be documentary proof After this a manger can dismissing the employee Grievance is problems or complains that employee lift up against their employers. The role of manager in this situation is very important. He should arrange meeting with the employer and employees. Responsibility of the manager is in this situation is to listen all complains and problem very carefully and attentively with non-judgment condition. So that employees can speak freely. If some think is not clear then manger should ask it again. Manger should understand all complains and his understanding should be same as employer. In this entire situation the manger should be fair. 4.3 Summaries the key aspect of legislation that applies to an  organization’s disciplinary and grievance procedure The act or process of making laws; enactment is known as legislation5 All the employees should be aware of the organizational disciplinary and grievance procedure. When the employee entre to organization. He/she should know about disciplinary and grievance procedure. If organization wants change in procedure they should call meeting. Key aspect of the disciplinary and grievance procedure is below Disciplinary * Keys to handling disciplinary issues in the workplace * Establish the facts of each case * Inform the employee of the problem * Hold a meeting with the employee to discuss the problem * Allow the employee to be accompanied at the meeting * Decide on appropriate action * Provide employees with an opportunity to appeal * Special cases Grievance There is an Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures . It sets out principles that you and your employer should follow to achieve a reasonable standard of behaviour in handling grievances.9 * Let the employer know the nature of the grievance * Hold a meeting with the employee to discuss the grievance * Allow the employee to be accompanied at the meeting * Decide on appropriate action * Allow the employee to take the grievance further if not resolved * Overlapping grievance and disciplinary case * Collective grievances Legislation is define as a law or set of laws suggested by a government and made official 4 Key aspect of legislation of organization’s disciplinary and grievance procedures are above mention if theses key aspect use to solve the disciplinary and grievance scenario in the organization then it’s good for both employer and employee and they will not be not face and legislation act. But if employee or employer not follows the proper way as describe to  solve grievance and disciplinary then they have to face the court. 1. Business dictionary.www.bussinessdictionary.com (accessed date 02/01/2012) 2. BusinessdictionaryAvailablehttp://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/conflict.html (accessed date 04/01/2012) 3. CambridgedictionaryAvailable:dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/legislation (Accessed date 08/01/2012 ) 4. DictionaryreferenceAvailable:dictionary.reference.com/browse/recordkeeping( Accessed date 09/12/2011 ) 5. Dictionary referenceDictionary.reference.com (Accessed date 07/01/2012) 6. Business dictionary www.bussinessdictionary.com {Accessed date 06/01/2012} 7. LondonDeaneryAvailablewww.faculty.londondeanery.ac.uk (Accessed date 08/02/2012) . 9. DirectGov.Available:http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/ResolvingWorkplaceDisputes/Grievanceprocedures/DG_10027992 (accessed date 01/01/2012)