In economic geographic analysis, the ‘firm’ usually is assumed, at least implicitly, as a coherent and unitary economic actor. The WritePass Journal

In economic geographic analysis, the ‘firm’ usually is assumed, at least implicitly, as a coherent and unitary economic actor. Introduction In economic geographic analysis, the ‘firm’ usually is assumed, at least implicitly, as a coherent and unitary economic actor. IntroductionConclusionRelated Introduction In economic geographic analysis the ‘firm’ has an ontological and epistemological privilege (Grabher, 2004). Since 1980s onwards the notion of firm as a ‘black box’ a coherent and unitary factor was challenged. There is an increase in investigation of the relation between firms. The concept of firm as a coherent and unitary economic actor was diminished by the concept of ‘projects’ (Grabher, 2002). This essay aims to discuss the centrality of ‘the firm’ in economic geography, and examine the concept of project that undercut the integrity of firm as a coherent and unitary actor by using the evidence from the recorded music industry. The firm in neoclassic economics is defined as â€Å"the theoretical in which production take place†. This does not take the activities of the real firms or corporate organization into accounts (Williamson 1999: 1089). While market is viewed as the most efficient ways of organizing economic activities, much of neoclassical economic geography simply perceive the firm as â€Å"black box† (Hodgson, 1989) which means that it converts inputs into outputs according to the demand and supply in the market. In the perfect markets, all firms in the industry have an equal opportunity to access to perfect information without the need of human or social interaction (Hirchman, 1982). The firm is considered as ‘self-contained and homogenous’ (Yeung, 2005). Grabher also suggests that in economic geography the ‘firm’ have been unproblematised as coherent and unitary actor. This was evidence in â€Å"geography of enterprise† approach in which primary concerned with a dominant firm, rather than industry or a regions of firm (Yeung, 2000 ).   Much economic geographic analysis was focused only with the role of motivation, location, and individual firm’s behaviour (Krumme, 1969). This was called as pseudo-concrete analysis (Sayer, 1982) because it does not take the complex organizational processes inside the representative firm into accounts. Therefore it reduces organisational structures of firm into simple dichotomies such as single-plant or multi-plant enterprises. However, single-plant firms are difference from multi-plant firms and separate plants within multi-plants firms are much more similar (Yeung, 2000). Hence, the notion of firm as a coherent unitary economic actor usually leads to misrepresentation of spatial organization of production. However, the concept of firm as a ‘black box’ a coherent unitary economic actor was challenged by the practice of project-based organizing. Project is defined as system of productions that constituted by different agents such as economic, social and cultural agents with specialize, difference and complementary skills. They aim to accomplish usually a complicate task in which the task requires cooperation of multidisciplinary skills that it more economically efficient to bring together on a temporary basis (Lorenzen and Frederiksen, 2005 ). In order to coordinate the division of labor, it focuses on the ‘relational proximity’ instead of ‘spatial proximity’ and represents particular forms of temporal and spatial actor-networks (Boggs and Rantisi, 2003). Project organizing diminishes the integrity of firm as a coherent and unitary actor because boundaries of project organization operate and cooperate across different firms (Gann and Salter, 2000). In many project-based businesses, project teams work closely with a variety of difference firms rather than their home base manager (Grabher, 2002). In addition, instead of assuming the firm as a single and coherent actor, projects focus on the role of individuals with in firms, specifically how individuals’ interest coincides with or differs from material interests of the firms (Boggs and Rantisi, 2003 ). Grabher (2001) also illustrates a number of paradoxes that challenge the key assumptions of organizing. Projects often have high complexity, high risk and high stake outcome; however, they could be unorganized and lack formal structure that could coordinate the complexities. Since projects depend on collective knowledge and diverse skills; nevertheless there is little time for individuals to clarify members’ abilities and skills. Furthermore, there is not enough time to develop trust and confidence among the members. However, Grabher (2001) argues that these paradoxes can be partly resolved by including the social context into projects. Networks, localities and institutions supply legitimation and trust that are preconditions for the ‘projectification’ of economic organisation. He further explains that reputation is essential for success in projects. Reputation in project organization is not about certificate; it is about how well we work with other people. In addition, the success of project also depends on inter-personal skills and co-operate attitude. Furthermore, location plays a crucial role in the success of the project.   Grabher (2001) explains that project collaboration often takes place in densely knit clusters. The co-location of project partners reduces transaction costs and increase face-to-face interaction. This also provides a local ‘communities of practice’ that serve as informal educational system for sharing knowledge. Moreover, rather than formal firm contractual networks, it is personal networks that provide the basic social infrastructure for learning. In addition, he argues that since projects are embedded in an institutional context of normative structures that manage complex tasks, it allows the emergence of ‘swift trust’. Swift trust is where actors are viewed from their role instead of their individual personality. For example, engineers are trusted because they are engineers and they believe that engineers are trained to apply their principles. As a result, expectations are more standardised and stable because it is defined in term of tasks than personalities (Grabher, 2001). Nevertheless, since project becomes more popular, it has the impact on the employment.   There will be more self-employ job and freelance labor in the future. There are some disadvantages such as short contact, job insecurity and uncertainty. Grabher (2002) argues that project does not entirely replace the firm, but there are interdependencies between projects and firms as well as the personal relations, localities and corporate networks from which these projects mobilize essential sources; this is called project ecology. He uses example of the project ecology of record music industry. The recorded music industry is characterized by high innovation and task complexity that requires cooperation from difference skills. Recorded music industry illustrates that projects are more likely organized on the market instead of inside the boundaries of firm. However, the localized cluster in the advertising village shares the same basic principles of social organization with the global communication group. In addition, both ‘the village’ and ‘the group’ represents high level of diversity of organizational forms which is crucial in working. In addition the periods of ‘idleness’ in project work mi ght be considered economic inefficient; however period of idleness is a part of the process that give a chance to rest and reflect. Furthermore, the evidence from recorded music industry shows that geographical clustering has a significant role in market organized-project (Lorenzen and Frederiksen, 2005). Recorded music ecologies are often clustered in the world’s major cities (Scott, 1999). This because clustering allows people to interact with each; it creates social trust and allows information to be shared and available to all local firms (Grabher, 2005). Conclusion To conclude, the notion of the firm as a ‘black box’ was challenge by organizational practices which are built instead around ‘projects’’. Project organizing undercuts the integrity of firm as a coherent and unitary actor because boundaries of project organization operate and cooperate across different firms. There are some paradoxes of project such as there are a lack the normative structures, there is no time to clarify member’s ability and develop confidence building. However these paradoxes could be overcome by including the social context into projects. The evidence from record music industry also illustrates that the projects are not completely replace the firm, but there are the interdependencies between projects and firms as well as the personal relations, localities and corporate networks.

International PepsiCo. Company

International PepsiCo. Company Introduction Every organization is expected to undertake strategic analysis to determine its market position as well as its current and anticipated performance. Through the application of different environmental analysis tools, managers are able to determine the strong and weak points of an organization. One of the activities carried out by organizations is scenario analysis.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on International PepsiCo. Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Scenarios are used to map the future based on uncertain and predetermined elements. These elements are explored with the aim of helping an organization to seek solutions to some of the foreseen problems which may have an effect on the company. The purpose of the current essay is to undertake a scenarios analysis and offer their respective strategic responses in respect to PepsiCo Company. The first task involves the development of three future sc enarios and strategic responses for PepsiCo. Scenario one predicts no major future changes scenario in the external environment. Scenario two predicts negative future changes in the external environment. Scenario three predicts positive future changes’ in the external environment. The second task of the essay involves evaluating the contribution of scenario planning to effective management. Introduction to the PepsiCo Company PepsiCo Company is a multinational company whose headquarters are in Purchase, New York (Berch, Montoya Sawayda 2010, p.1). The multinational company operates in the drinks and beverage industry. The company which was formed as a merger between Frito-Lay Inc and Pepsi-Cola is a major competitor of the Coca-Cola Company. PepsiCo has a presence in 200 countries across the globe. Some of the areas where it has subsidiaries include Africa, Asia, Middle East, Europe, and Australia, among others. Globally, the company is second after Coca-Cola in the food and beverage industry. Over the years, the company has undergone several mergers and acquisitions which have promoted its success and presence in the international markets. Through M A, the company has been able to diversify in its areas of production. For example, PepsiCo product base has expanded to increase products like snacks and foods (Berch, Montoya Sawayda 2010, p.1), PepsiCo competes with Kraft Foods.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The company has diversified its product mix where majority of the product mix are foods and the rest are beverages. Both carbonated and un-carbonated beverages are available although the carbonated beverages no longer dominate the market. Despite the success of the company, it has in the recent past been involved in challenging situations like environmental problems such as pollution and disposal of its biodegradable wastes (Berch et al. 2010, p.8) Rationale for its selection PepsiCo Inc is a large US company which controls about thirty six percent of the US’ drinks market (Berch et al. 2010, p.1). The company operates in an industry that is greatly affected by season. For example, most of the drinks are drunk seasonally and more so during summer. As a result, the company has to undertake a scenario analysis in order to determine its current and future operations. Furthermore, the company is normally faced with stiff market competition from Coca Cola, the number one market shareholder. Following the recent global market financial crisis it is imperative to acknowledge that PepsiCo was financially affected by the crisis. According to a case analysis by Berch and colleagues (2010), the operations of PepsiCo in the beverage industry has been faced with a lot of controversies. For example, the company has been accused of engaging in price wars with its main rival Coca Cola, contamination, and false labeling of its products. To remain relevant in the industry, there is need for PepsiCo to undertake a scenario analysis which would assists in strategic management. Scenario Analysis Scenario analysis has been described as the process by which several informed, alternative, plausible and â€Å"imagined alternative future environments in which decisions about the future may be played out, for the purpose of changing current thinking, improving decision making, enhancing human and organization learning and improving performance† (Chermack 2004, p15).Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on International PepsiCo. Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In this case, environmental scanning is an essential process which enables the success of scenario planning or analysis. Different factors in the external environment are considered in the process. To better conduct scenario analysis, SWOT and PESTEL analytical to ols have been adopted. On the one hand, the PESTAL analytical tool looks at the external environment on which the organization operates. Some of the elements analyzed include economic, political, technological, legal, social, and environmental factors that could have an impact on an organization. On the other hand, the SWOT analysis is normally concerned with the future opportunities available to an organization, as well as the threats that such a company may anticipate in the future. Scenario 1: no major future changes Competition in the beverage and drinks industry is not expected to change a lot in the future. Since the inception of the PepsiCo, its major competitor has been the Coca-Cola Company in as far as drinks are concerned (LTONEWC FIASCO 2005, p.34). On the other hand, Kraft Foods has been the major competitor of PepsiCo in the food snacks industry (Marketing Teacher Ltd, 2012). The current competition in these two industries is less likely to intensify hence the trend ca n be classified as stagnant. For instance, a new entrant into the industry would normally be required to have substantial amounts of capital and infrastructure. This creates stronger market entry barriers which prohibits other companies from entering the market. As a result, competition is not expected to increase greatly as the two companies enjoy some kind of monopoly. The company has a strong brand which ensures that the company stays competitive in the market.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Although other companies like Nestle and Groupe Danone may try hard to compete, the brand of PepsiCo is a worldwide brand, well known and diversified brand (Marketing Teacher Ltd, 2012). With more than 60 brands, the company is well placed in the beverage and food industry. As such, other brands from emerging companies are less likely to influence the drinks and the food snacks industry. Scenario 2: negative future changes One of the major negative effects that PepsiCo is expected to encounter in the future is the government regulations and laws. These could either be from the political or the legal environments. In the 21st century, there is an increased awareness on the environmental changes, health and safety issues. In the future, laws and regulations related to the three fields are likely to change, thereby affecting the operations of PepsiCo negatively (Marketing Teacher Ltd 2012). For example, environmentalists and communities have been complaining on the environmental damage s Pepsi has especially in India (Berch et al. 2010, p.6). Pepsi has been accused of using chemicals in its products which jeopardizes the health and the safety of human beings. If the government imposed bans or restrictive measures on Pepsi then the company is likely to lose the second largest market in Asia after China. This will definitely affect the company operations, market share, and sales negatively leading to lose. The changes in laws could also be future changes in taxation requests, tax rates and ecological laws. All these will negatively impact the company. A memorable incidence is when the company was accused of using pesticides in its bottled water drinks (Berch et al. 2010, p.6). As a result, the company was partially banned in five Indian states. This is an indication of the excepted laws and regulations regarding the environment, safety, and the health of the customers. With these noticeable incidents, the company is faced to face the same bans in different countries if it engages in similar unethical issues in the future. Environmental laws are aimed at ensuring environmental conservation, and these are also expected to rise in the near future. As such, PepsiCo may be affected negatively bearing in mind that the company’s products are developed and packaged in plastic bottles which are non-biodegradable. For example, Aquifina is a bottled water drink packaged in plastic bottles. Upon use, people discard the plastic containers anywhere thus causing environmental contamination. So far, international environmental watchdogs have been calling for the ban of these plastics as they cause landfills and other pollution-related problems (Berch et al. 2010, p.10). Other emerging concerns on laws and regulations are the labeling of water containers. For example, although labeling laws are not very strict in the United States, countries in the Middle East and Asia have strict relations which are expected to increase in the future. Scenario 3: posit ive future change Increased market base: PepsiCo has the likelihood of witnessing an increase in its market base in the future. This is because the company has diversified its operation through the incorporation of bottled water and snacks. So far, the company has a presence in two hundred countries in the world. In 2009, the company announced its plans to expand in countries with already existing operations (Berch 2010, p.3). Through the use of its adoptable expansion strategy, the company is expected to continue expanding in the years to come. Some of its brands like the Cola diet have been increasing in terms sales and popularity. This increase has been necessitated by the fact that people have become self conscious on their health and well being. As the awareness continues to take place, the brand will catch many people. As such, its market share will increase as its customer base increases. With a broad product base, the company will expand its market share. The diversification of the company’s products to include foods and snacks has prompted its future increase in market base at present and in the future. According to Berch et al. (2010, p.7) the company is on the verge of developing health products and health foods. For example, the company has been planning to invest over USD 10 billion to support the production of healthy snacks. This trend will have positive future changes on the market base of PepsiCo. This is based on the fact that many people are becoming health conscious which represents a new untapped market. In the future, the company expects to reap over USD 30 billion in this new market (Berch et al.2010, p.7). Healthier PepsiCo snacks which incorporate the demands of the health conscious customers are more than likely going to expand the market for PepsiCo. The current collaboration with researchers from Mayo Clinics and the WHO promises to develop new healthier products which will see the market of expand its market share. The bottl ed water and food snacks have a perfect market in the US which is anticipated to get the attention of consumers (Marketing Teacher Ltd 2012). As such, the sales of the organization are anticipated to increase and so is its market share. The company has also been experiencing high returns from the diet Cola. With the trends continuing the same as they are, the company will experience an increase in market share in different parts of the globe. Proposed strategies for the scenarios The negative scenario of change in the regulations and laws regarding aspects of environment, health, and safety will definitely have negative effects if the company does not put into place strategic mechanisms. The company will have to set a legal team which oversees that all the ethical and legal regulations in different countries are followed. In the process, it will ensure that the mentioned accusations are not witnessed in the future. In case of changes in the operational laws and regulations, the comp any will have to comply with the set rules and regulations. By following the laws and regulations, the company will be able to keep off from legal battles and bans. As such, its operations will continue to be operative. Health, safety, and environmental laws are increasing and are expected to increase in the near future. PepsiCo will have to carry tests on its products before entering in the market to avoid the repetition of past incidents in India. The strategy will ensure that the company does not get a bad reputation, calling back of products and face bans in major markets. Environmental conservation initiatives could be taken in future to conserve the environment. In order to solve these ethical related dilemmas, it is necessary that PepsiCo takes â€Å"different levels of government into account, as well as the concerns of NGOs† (Berch et al. 2010, p.6). This strategy will involve all the stakeholders and deal with any negative repercussions. Furthermore, the company cou ld carry thorough stakeholder orientation with the aim of discovering ethical course of action and avoid the uncalled bans. The company can develop biodegradable PepsiCo drinks bottles which would ensure environmental safety and avoid similar incidents to the one faced in India in 2006. This would reduce environmental pollution and ensure safety. Additionally, the dream machine project currently present in US could be initiated in other countries. This would encourage customers to discard their products wastes in a more planned manner which ensures conservations. On the issue of labeling the drinks bottle, the company needs to follow the regulatory laws and regulations in every country. Positive changes are expected in the future in the external environment in which PepsiCo operates. The market share for PepsiCo may increase in the future given that people are becoming health conscious. To accommodate the anticipated positive change, the company has invested a lot in research and de velopment. Therefore, the organization should continue to invest in R D in order to come up with products that can accommodate the expected changes in the future. Furthermore, the organization has already started collaboration with WHO and Mayo clinic to develop snacks and foods which are health conscious. The same has been done on the drinks sector. In the future, the same processes are required to continue to meet the anticipated changes. Contribution scenario planning make to effective strategic management To begin with, strategic management has been described as the process by which organizations manage the relation with the current environment while aligned to the organization mission (Sung 2004, p.12). It can also be defined as the manner in which a balance is maintained between strategies and the internal activities to manage the external environment. Therefore, to achieve the definition and the purpose of strategic management, scenario planning has to be carried out. This e nsures that the relationship between the organization and the changes anticipated in the future is monitored. With the changes exhibited in the external environment, managers depend on the scenario planning to plan future planning of the organization. One of the major benefits associated with scenario planning is the ability to help an organization information center from repeating past mistakes (Schoemaker 2011, p.43). As such, the organization’s strategic management team thrives to develop ways of mitigating the anticipated future negative scenarios. For example, PepsiCo scenario planning will assist the organization avoid past mistakes related to ethical issues and regulations. When an organization knows the anticipated change, it carries out up-front investment. As such, an organization avoids unnecessary thinking of the anticipated future problem change like laws and regulations. This saves the company time, energy, and costs that would result from the anticipated change if it was not carried up-front. As part of strategic management, planning prepares an organization from possible changes (Schoemaker 2011, p.43). As such, a company like PepsiCo would be in a position to reduce overexposure. Uncertain risks associated with resources and capitals are reduced if scenario planning is carried out in advance. The investment of the present and the future depends heavily on scenario planning for efficient and effective decision making process (Van Der Heijden 2011). Strategic decisions made by the strategic management team should depend on facts and collected data on external environment. As a result, the decision making process is improved since the management is aware of the possible future external environment changes (Schoemaker 2011, p.43). Managers are assisted as they are made to think in a certain systematic way. For example, through scenario planning, managers are provided with the possible predetermined changes which a manger cannot ignore or re ject. Compared to the traditional method of decision making, scenario planning is much better and effective process (Schoemaker 2011, p.43; Van Der Heijden 2011). Uncertainties resulting from different variables are easily adjusted at the same time without any difficulties. Issues of imperfect reasoning and bias by the managers are overcome through the use of this method. Scenario planning influences strategy development positively. For example, the management is forced to think beyond the current position and situation of the company. This enables the company to focus on the future of the company. Van Der Heijden (2011) adds that the process of planning energizes the management system of an organization. Attention is paid while the top management team is making decisions. Unlike in the traditional way of decision making and management, using the results of scenario planning enables the management to justify the operation on a single line or department (Schoemaker 2011, p.43). Scena rios provide contexts in which decisions are passed down the chain of command. Through the provision of a context for decisions and decision making, the communication process in an organization is improved. The decisions made are well communicated through set up channels which define the direction of an organization. Monitoring of weak signals and recognizing them until they are fully coalesced enhances corporate perception. For example, a company is enhanced to effectively incorporate any changes no matter how small it may be. This creates a corporate attitude that ensures that all problems have to be solved. As a result, strategic management process is improved. Van Der Heijden (2011) note that the commitment by a company to scenario planning makes it become part of the organization language. The reason behind this is the way in which a complex inter-disciplinary reality is transferred in effortless manner. As part of the strategic management, an organization has to ensure that it educates its managers to make quality scenarios. Consequently, the organization is in a better position to make realistic decisions both in the present and in the future of the company. ‘Stretching mental model’ is achieved which is used by planners to determine the driving forces of an organization in respect to the business environment (Van Der Heijden 2011). In reference to the case study, PepsiCo would be in a position to know the drivers of its business in respect to the business environment. Leadership is an essential tool in strategic management which coordinates the different tasks of an organization. Van Der Heijden (2011) has advised that scenario planning acts as a leadership tool. Scenario process or planning reinforces the interests of the management. Consequently, the managers become involved in the process of developing scenarios in occasional basis thus improving their leadership qualities. As the process continues, managers get more involved in the pro cess of generating scenarios which becomes contextual and influential tool. Ideas are easily communicated enhancing development of projects. According to organizational theory, the external environmental creates pressure on the internal environment of an organization (Fuhs n.d, p.6). The different pressures on the organization can be determined through the use of scenario planning. The claim can be supported by the views of Van Der Heijden (2011) who adds that the scenarios analysis which was first carried out more than 35 years ago at Shell have enabled the company deal with any external pressures. Because of the benefits associated with the process, Shell has been carrying scenario planning even to-date. The purpose of scenario planning is to â€Å"envisage alternative views of the future in the form of distinct configurations of key environmental variables† (Grant 2003, p.494). Therefore, scenario planning enables organizational managers to get on thinking and have the ava ilable mental models of thinking changed to accommodate the specified changes. As a result, managers and strategic analysts are able to synthesize different knowledge coupled with sharing of information. Russell (2005, p.11) note that managers and team players are able to discuss the possibilities of the future in relation to the stated scenario. This allows the management to solve the problems and note the possibility of the anticipated future outcomes (Russell 2011, p.11). It should be noted that scenario planning does not give alternatives to the anticipated changes from the external environment. Chermack (2004, p.15) note that scenario planning is more of the intended outcomes of the external factors than offering alternatives. Conclusion In summary, scenario planning is an essential undertaking which plays an integral role in strategic management. In reference to the essay, PepsiCo which is a MNC is more prone to changes and pressures from the external market hence the need for scenario analysis. Essentially, with increased competition and changes in laws and regulation on the areas of environment, health, and safety, the organization is required to carry scenario analysis. Based on the analysis, the major negative changes in the future are change in the environmental, safety, and health related laws and regulations. These may reduce the sales and market share of the organizations. News markets segments are a positive change which PepsiCo is more likely to depend on in the future. However, the current competition trends are not expected to reduce or increase as the market has strong entry and exit barriers. The major benefits associated with scenario analysis/planning is enabling leadership and effective decision making process which aids in strategic management of an organization. Others include creation of effective communication of decisions from management to other departments in an organization. It also allows the development of the ‘stretching mental model’ which allows better thinking among the managers. As a result, corporate perception is enhanced which enables coalesce of weak points. Lastly, the leadership of an organization is developed as the managers develop the attitude of scenario planning. This promotes the process of strategic management in an organization. Reference List Berch, K, Montoya, J Sawayda, J 2010, PepsiCo’s journey toward an ethical and  socially responsible culture, http://danielsethics.mgt.unm.edu/pdf/PepsiCo%20Case.pdf Chermack, T 2004, ‘The role of system theory in scenario planning, Journal of Futures  Studies’, vol. 8, no.4, pp.15 3 Fuhs, C n.d, Toward an integral approach to organization theory: An integral  investigation of three historical perspectives on the nature of organizations, experienceintegral.org/uploads/media/Fuhs_Toward_An_Integral_Approa h_to_Org_Theory.pdf Grant, R M 2003, ‘Strategic Planning in a Turbulent Environment: Evidence from the Oil Majors’, Strategic Management Journal, vol. 24, no. 6, pp. 491-517 LTONEWC FIASCO 2005, Cola Wars: Coca-Cola vs. PepsiCo, http://media.wiley.com/product_data/excerpt/16/04717432/0471743216-3.pdf Marketing Teacher Ltd 2012, SWOT analysis PepsiCo, marketingteacher.com/swot/pepsi-swot.html Russell, L 2005, Leadership development. Alexandria, ASTD Press Schoemaker, P J H 2011, General environment, oup.com/uk/orc/bin/9780199581610/henry2e_ch02.pdf Sung, M 2004, Toward a model of strategic management of public relations: scenario  building from a public relations perspective, University of Maryland Press, Maryland. Van Der Heijden, K 2011, Scenarios: The art of strategic conversation, John Wiley Sons, Chichester.

Two methods of losing weight, Eating right and exercise vs cosmetic Essay

Two methods of losing weight, Eating right and exercise vs cosmetic surgery - Essay Example The only similarity that eating right and doing exercise, and cosmetic surgery is that all of these phenomena work toward the establishment of the same aim that is, weight loss. When we include junk food in our diet, we are just giving our bodies empty calories that are of no use except for putting extra fat on us. We become obese and acquire a number of diseases that obesity directs toward us. When we do not exercise properly, we become lethargic and our bodies become inactive and lazy, which again put on us extra fat. Eating right and exercising regularly enable us to lose weight and become smart and energetic. Cosmetic surgery also intends to do the same. The person goes through a number of operations and surgeries to get that extra fat off the arms, belly and legs. Weight is significantly reduced and the difference is very obvious. Hence, we can say that all of these techniques help us to reduce weight. In contrast, eating right not only helps in losing extra weight by cutting off empty calories, but also provides the body with essential nutrients that it needs to stay healthy and active. Whitney, Whitney and Rolfes (2010, p.157) assert that, â€Å"A well-planned diet delivers adequate nutrients, a balanced array of nutrients, and an appropriate amount of energy (kcalories). It is based on nutrient-dense foods, moderate in substances that can be detrimental to health†. Cosmetic surgery only tends to make the body lose the extra fat that it has and does not provide any nutrients. Instead, the person has to take supplements to make up for the nutrients and multivitamins that the body loses in the process of losing weight through cosmetic surgery like liposuction. Hence where healthy diet provides body with healthy nutrients and exercise energizes the body while making it lose weight, cosmetic surgery has only one advantage of weight loss. Another contrast is that healthy diet and exercise have no side

Advice topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Advice topic - Essay Example The Chinese culture focuses on molding children into morally upright individuals of the society. Many life teachings as championed by early prominent persons such as Confucius are at the center of upbringing in the Chinese culture (Colson, 45). I have learnt many lessons from the teachings, which guide me in my daily dealings. For instance, Confucius’ teaching on unlocking personal excellence has propelled me to success and within reach of my full potential. Confucius says that â€Å"choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.† The Chinese culture has shaped me into a morally upright member of the society. Confucius lessons are instrumental in personal empowerment and decision-making on issues such as choosing a career path (Hall, Mod. 1). The sensitivity of an individual to other cultures is paramount in establishing good relations. The important aspects of the Chinese culture have made me sensitive to other cultures. Initially as I grew up, I ignored other cultures simply because they were not part of my life. However, after moving to America, I have been able to learn new things and life became more interesting as I integrated other cultures into my way of life. There should be no fear of other cultures and instead for individuals to reach their full potentials, they should explore the diversity of cultures (Hall, Mod. 1).The diverse nature of Chinese culture has helped me make formidable relationships with my peers from other cultures. The anxiety to learn from each other and empower ourselves has been the key driving force to this course. Due to different cultures, individuals have different personalities. This has made it easier to form all-round academic and social groups with friends and classmates (Hall, Mod. 1). Belief System and Discipline are important values of any culture. My parents use guan as the primary practice of valued discipline. Confucianism is a feature of

Assignment 8 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Assignment 8 - Coursework Example American managers use both participative and authoritative behavior in making decisions. Japanese managers depend on collective tactic in decision making while American managers rely on ways achieved by individuals. Moreover, American managers use informal technique in negotiating as they are irritated by problems and embrace rapid meetings while the Japanese managers adopt formal kind of meetings i.e. they explain the problem at hand in an indirect approach. Japanese managers consider American managers impatient because there are numerous business decision-making processes and social structure differences in America and in japan. Normally, negotiations expected to take a long duration take quick decisions in America, as they are averse to time wasting. Japanese may spend adequate time when clearing plans of all aspects while American managers disrespect the necessity for coherence. Americans use written communication such as emails while Japanese on the other hand do not like e-mails and memos. Japanese were, therefore, unenthusiastic to reply to the messages written by the American managers. They feel they are idlers and do not mind how other people would react top them whatsoever and so they send too many e-mails and memos. Diminished cultural diversity leads to loss in one’s identity: the loss of identity results in emotional disturbance as one is not contented with the community and/or religion to which they belong. This causes a threat to the safety of the people as they live in fear of attacks and no one to depend upon for fortification from peripheral attacks. Loss in cultural diversity leads to unethical values practiced by some individuals leading to immorality courtesy of embracing other peoples’ cultural values and practices that are termed as taboos to diversified communities and religions. 2). It is substantial that perhaps complete loss of cultural

Study Abroad Essay Example for Free

Study Abroad Essay It is a heated debate about whether students should study abroad or not. Some people argue that students ought to study overseas to develop their careers, as today finding a job has generated a rat race, whereas other people claim that studying abroad can be really expensive and no profitable at all. In this essay I shall delve into both sides. Many parents and teachers support the idea of encouraging students to live in another country. Firstly, overseas universities may offer better courses and can be more attractive for students prospective career plans. In this way, the best universities employ teachers who are experts in their fields. Secondly, qualifications gained abroad can open the door to better job opportunities. Many companies value extremely positive if candidates have been living abroad because companies know that this experience prepares people to face and overcome future challenges. It goes without saying that better job means to have a higher salary. Thirdly, overseas students are exposed to new cultures and customs which can enrich their lives as well as broaden their horizons. Finally living and studying in another nation can make you proficient in a new language. However, some people are against to this experience. They argue that nowadays, students are not adults enough to expose themselves to live abroad. They have to face daily problems such as buying food, paying the cost of living, finding accommodation, sharing a flat with unknown people and son on. They add that living overseas with an unfamiliar environment students can suffer from homesickness. Furthermore, studying in a different language can be a daunting obstacle that many students will not be able to overcome. Finally, they point out that many people after arriving to another nation can suffer from â€Å"cultural shock† which is the process to adapt to knew culture and traditions and this can affect students progress and performance at colleges or universities. To sum up, for the arguments mentioned above, it could be said that both sides have strong arguments to support or reject the idea of students studying abroad.

Technologies Used in Aged Care Facilities

Technologies Used in Aged Care Facilities Table of Contents (Jump to) Technologies used in Aged care facilities Introduction Diffusion of technology in everyday lives Technologies used in Aged care facilities Enhancing the nature of aged care in the communities The need of assistive technologies in the aged Conclusion References Technologies used in Aged care facilities Introduction Elderly care, or just elder care, is the satisfaction of the extraordinary needs and necessities that are one of a kind to senior nationals. This expansive term includes such administrations as supported living, grown-up day consideration, nursing homes, hospice care, and home care (Study of Health Care for the Aged, 1962). In view of the wide assortment of elderly care discovered comprehensively, and additionally separating social viewpoints on elderly subjects, cant to be constrained to any one practice. Elderly care underlines the social and individual prerequisites of senior subjects who require some aid with day by day exercises and medical services, however who craving to age with nobility (Study of Health Care for the Aged, 1962). It is a critical qualification, in that the configuration of lodging, administrations, exercises, representative preparing and such ought to be genuinely client focused. It is likewise huge that a lot of worldwide elderly care falls under the unpaid business sector part. The use of technology to support autonomous living and the promotion of independence of more elderly persons will be of principle concern nowadays to help the elderly (Hà ¤ggblom-Kronlà ¶f Sonn, 2007). There are Government and non-government activities which, albeit not particularly focused on at mechanical intercessions for more established persons, could contribute towards supporting agreeable and stately living in this area of the general public. There exists an endless extent of innovation intercessions for the welfare of elderly individuals in the nation so that the innovations are available, moderate and versatile to the particular needs. Innovative mediations can incredibly help in attaining to these goals by giving key inputs and abilities. Diffusion of technology in everyday lives Simultaneously, as the individuals grow older, we are seeing remarkable improvement and the dissemination of, innovation in all parts of regular life. Right now, all types of innovation, including PCs, correspondences, security, and health observing gadgets, are being utilized to perform routine assignments and exercises (Katz, 2004). The utilization of technology has turned into a basic part of work, training, correspondence, and excitement. Technology is additionally being progressively utilized as a part of the human services stadium for the conveyance of administrations, in-home checking, intelligent correspondence (e.g., in patient and doctor), the exchange of health data, and associate backing. As correspondence conventions advance, we can foresee more modern system applications that can give speedier and all the more capable intuitive administrations later on. Smart advances will likewise progressively get to be installed in our associations with nature, and robots performing day by day errands will be typical. Individuals of all ages will interface with some manifestation of innovation to capacity autonomously and draw in successfully in their surroundings. Technology has awesome potential for enhancing the personal satisfaction for the elderly individuals. For instance, health applications and websites will enhance the physical and emotional prosperity of elderly individuals (Hsu, Yen, Pai Chang, 2014). Technology can likewise empower older individuals to stay joined with family and companions, particularly with the individuals who are far off. Technology can likewise help elderly individuals stay utilized and keep up or overhaul their aptitudes, or it can facilitate the move to retirement. Technologies used in Aged care facilities We need to be clear about two things from the beginning. One, technology will never remain to supplant the human cooperation that involves the very emotion of caring for the aged (Deasley, 1992). Nor will it ever supplant the empathy, generosity, sympathy and seen between care suppliers and the individuals in our general public who are dependent on care and presented to significant vulnerabilities. Two, Progressions in innovation likewise do little in the method for offering a one-size-fits-all answer for unravelling all the heap difficulties standing up to the care of age division, including a maturing population, more intricate health issues, deficiencies of talented staff, and spiralling expenses and pressures of funding (Baker, 2003). For some, the internal workings of a private aged- care centers will regularly invoke visions of time-denied guardians surging between occupants with unlimited surges of research material in tow (Chantler, 2004). Be that as it may, as more associations move from utilizing paper-based frameworks, to incorporate, electronic frameworks, this site will turn into a relic of days gone by. In particular, electronic consideration administration applications are turning into a quick segment inside numerous private aged care office all through the countries, giving care and nursing staff with the capacity to convey more proficient and successful consideration. The improved electronic accumulation of data at the occupants bedside guarantees more noteworthy precision of inhabitant records, while quick access to this data gives care and nursing staff with the capacity to be more responsive in their day by day consideration procurements. Indecipherable documentation is being supplanted by electronic consideration arranges that bolster individual focused inhabitant care and supportive care offices to all the more viably show and guarantee agreeability. Essentially, electronic medicine organization empowers care and nursing staff to all the more successfully organize, screen, and manage solutions and give more precise and opportune drug data for staff, and further enhance inhabitant wellbeing. Supplanting paper-based records with exhaustive electronic records additionally encourages the stream of this data between the more extensive social insurance group, including doctors facilities, therapeutic professionals, drug stores, pros and other consideration experts (Weber-Jahnke Mason-Blakley, 2011). Whether it is transitioning an inhabitant from a consideration home to a clinic in a crisis, or to an elective meeting with an expert, electronic occupant records assume a significant part in conveying the most applicable and critical data for every inhabitant. By streamlining the way individual data are recorded, prepared and got to, it doesnt just make more noteworthy efficiencies and diminishes the likelihood of human sleep, additionally moves a generous measure of staff time from lumbering research material to retire, giving eye to eye occupant consideration. The outcome for the inhabitants is more quality time with consideration and nursing staff, and access to a higher standard of value care and backing. Aged care residential facilities are likewise stretching out broadband web access to their occupants, which is an effective instrument in building a feeling of having a place, backing and association (Reymond, Israel Charles, 2011). Applications that have video support, talk, email and other online interchanges guarantee occupants can rapidly and effortlessly associate with relatives, close companions and the group, which can altogether add to a more prominent personal satisfaction (Communications Technology and the Elderly, 1984). Enhancing the nature of aged care in the communities Advancement in technology for aged care raises the possibility to upgrade the nature of aging care by enabling care providers with approaches to: Enhance operational efficiencies; Diminish risks and dangers (Toba, 2007); Expand ability to oversee constrained resources successfully; Also, in particular, give care and nursing staff additional time and space to convey customized care and backing. There is an extensive variety of data innovation and programming being solely produced for the aged care division. Large portions of which incorporate private and group care-particular applications that cooperate to absolutely impact the nature of consideration and bolster administrations conveyed. Technology based arrangements can likewise all the while improve the nature of the consideration and the personal satisfaction of elderly individuals that decide to live in their own homes (Science, Technology and World Advancement, 1962). Actually, advancement in technology is empowering the maturing populace to stay independent for more, expanding the measure of time they can keep up autonomy in their own homes, where they are generally agreeable. Shrewd planning and rostering frameworks are upgrading availability of customized consideration benefits in the most proficient ways. The most proper consideration workers can consequently be dispensed to a particular customer taking into account a thorough rundown of foreordained criteria. These incorporate variables, for example, staff accessibility, area, travel necessities, experience, capabilities, and abilities, progression of consideration, and vitally, the individual care needs and inclinations of the individual accepting the consideration. This permits an association to convey more adaptable and customized consideration, subsequently driving enhanced results for the customer. The procurement of online correspondence portals can further improve the customers experience by permitting them or their families to effortlessly focus when and where the consideration visits are planned, and select which mind specialist they might want to convey the consideration. The utilization of portable handheld gadgets is additionally helpfully giving consideration specialists access to vital insights about the customer, clinical information and other critical data paying little heed to their area in the field. The ability to give data to give a second thought laborer continuously and record redesigns of this data for the purpose of considering, enormously builds the nature of the consideration and bolster that is being conveyed. Above all, less time spent on research material means more individuals associated with the customer. With progressions in rapid broadband, feature conferencing is progressively being used to look for guidance from consideration suppliers, medical professionals and different experts on the web. This can diminish the anxiety connected with travel, especially for those customers in remote areas. Group care associations can likewise use assistive advances that help care workers stay receptive to customer needs, notwithstanding when assets are restricted. The utilization of insightful sensors and alarms can help keep up the customers freedom at home, while consequently alarming a consideration specialist if a surprising action is identified. The aftereffect of actualizing such advancements is a higher standard of the watch over the elderly individual in their own particular home. The need of assistive technologies in the aged Aids or other adaptive equipments are that are commonly used by the elderly are coming under assistive technologies. Assistive technology is characterized as any hardware or a framework that helps individuals who experience issues, because of age or disability, in doing ordinary exercises. It covers basic things, for example, strolling sticks, shower seats and snatch railed, and in addition electro-mechanical gear (e.g. Powered wheelchairs), electronic helps (e.g. Advanced portable amplifiers and ecological controls), or gear utilized by caretakers, for example, lifting guides (Zhang, 1988). In particular assistive technology is crucial for good health for elderly individuals to keep up their quality of life through the authority of their own surroundings and removal of obstructions to self- determination. In very old aged individuals living at home the two key regions for Assistive Technology will be essential -mobility, for example, strolling frames or wheelchairs and in home hard ware, for example, shower seats and rails for security and to support exercises of every day living (Miskelly, 2001). Elderly need boundary free situations, proper empowering gadgets and administrations that incorporate need evaluation, preparing, repair and support of the empowering gadgets. Enhanced innovation has expanded the accessibility of gadgets, whats more, guides that enhance significantly the nature of life of elderly and debilitated persons. Further improvements are required on next generation assistive gadgets, whats more, frameworks that engage elderly persons and maturing residents to assume a full part in society, build their self-rule and understand their potential. There is developing concentration on home changes that can make a huge distinction to whether an individual is safe and has the personal satisfaction in their home. Assistive technology is likewise key for staff to have the capacity to carry out their occupation, especially in the fields of individual care, word related treatment, physiotherapy, podiatry and exercise physiology. Private offices depend on an expansive mixed bag of gear to give care. Assistive technology is key on the off chance that an individual is incapable to shoulder their own weight in request to give security to customers and safe manual taking care of for staff. Conclusion Present day experimental and technological progressions have opened up new potential outcomes for elderly care to backing comfortable and noble living of elderly.. Capacities of current advances coupled with customary learning frameworks assume an imperative part in using tremendous available assets for advantage of the elderly at moderate expenses. Numerous health awareness ventures are arranging themselves for creating therapeutics by adjusting the process of maturing and age-related sicknesses. Technologies can assume crucial part in such group living spots. Innovative application in the field of amusement and entertainment is seen as a developing field which has utility both in urban and country areas. The accomplishment of innovative applications for elderly relies on upon arrangements and projects that advance healthy ageing. The human advantages that these advances guarantee will unquestionably be advanced by an elderly-mind framework which acknowledges new innovations intended to solace them (Using technology to improve healthcare for elderly people, 2008). Some of the innovations said in this paper can undoubtedly be executed through joint endeavors of government, intentional or non-government organizations and industry. References Baker, L. (2003). The Relationship Between Technology Availability And Health Care Spending. Health Affairs. Chantler, C. (2004). Health-care technology assessment: a clinical perspective. International Journal Of Technology Assessment In Health Care, 20 (01). Communications Technology and the Elderly. (1984). Journal Of Gerontology, 39 (6), 766-767. Deasley, P. (1992). Humans and technology: the twain meet. Manuf. Eng, 71 (8), 9. Hà ¤ggblom-Kronlà ¶f, G., Sonn, U. (2007). Use of assistive devices–a reality full of contradictions in elderly persons everyday life. Disability Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 2 (6), 335-345. Hsu, H., Yen, N., Pai, T., Chang, M. (2014). PERSONAL HEALTH MANAGEMENT ON A SMARTPHONE PLATFORM. Biomedical Engineering: Applications, Basis And Communications, 26 (04), 1440004. Katz, J. (2004). Everyday lives and extraordinary research methods. Social Science Information, 43 (4), 609-619. Miskelly, F. (2001). Assistive technology in elderly care. Age And Ageing, 30 (6), 455-458. New elderly care service. (2000). Nurs Residential Care, 2 (6), 261-262. Reymond, L., Israel, F., Charles, M. (2011). A residential aged care end-of-life care pathway (RAC EoLCP) for Australian aged care facilities. Australian Health Review, 35 (3), 350. Science, Technology and World Advancement. (1962). Nature, 193 (4814), 416-420. Study of Health Care for the Aged. (1962). Nursing Research, 11 (1), 37. Toba, K. (2007). Risk assessment for falls in the elderly population. Geriatrics Gerontology International, 8, S26-S28. Using technology to improve healthcare for elderly people. (2008). Independent Nurse, 2008 (7). Weber-Jahnke, J., Mason-Blakley, F. (2011). The safety of Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems. ACM SIGHIT Record, 1 (2), 13-22. Zhang, D. (1988). IMPROVING THE CURVING PERFORMANCE OF POWERED BOGIES AND OPTIMIZING WHEEL/RAIL CONTACT CONDITIONS. Vehicle System Dynamics, 17 (sup1), 555-558.