Sandra Kendricks, Kickin It Apparel Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Sandra Kendricks, Kickin It Apparel - Coursework Example Assume that she decides to pay herself a 15 percent commission instead of the monthly salary of $3,000. Recalculate her projected monthly income statement based on this scenario. 3. Sandra suspects that she might be underestimating the amount of time needed to manufacture a dress. Sandra estimates that, on average, each dress will require three hours of direct labor at a cost of $1 O/hour. Assume that in reality it takes five hours to manufacture a single dress. Recalculate the economics of one unit and projected monthly income statement based on this scenario. A way for Sandra to increase her profits is by increasing the sales price of her merchandise. Two additional ways to increase profits is by lowering the cost of materials and direct labor costs per unit. Sandra could pay the minimum salary of $7.25 an hour instead of $10.00 an hour for direct labor. Sandra and Kickin’ It are not the same entity. The company could make money, but this does not mean that Sandra is better off running the company than working elsewhere. If the sum of Sandra’s salary and the net profit of the business are less than what Sandra was making working full time Sandra is not better off as a manager of the business. Sandra could go back to work full-time and hire a manager that makes $1,500 a month instead of the $3,000 a month she allocated for her salary. This way Sandra would have a full time salary and the business would generated under the original scenario $4,320. The pricing strategy the Kickin’ It Apparel is using is a penetration strategy. The company just got its first order and the pricing strategy used was to set the sales price low in order to gain market share. The firm seeks to satisfy its first customer in order to gain penetration into the fashion industry. Once the first deal goes through the company expects to gain recurrent business from that strategy. Upon further researching the fashion industry my assessment is that the

How to Create a Smash Book Essay Example for Free

How to Create a Smash Book Essay How to create a smash book, not a scrapbook. A smash book is a place where you can place the little things in life’ ticket stubs, magazine clips, recipes, snapshots, love letters, design ideas, pictures, and notes to self. It is faster than scrap booking and is portable too. A smash book can be made from a ringed binder or a note book or you can buy a book from k and company at a craft store or online. They are personal on each page with picture design on each that makes it unique. Before creating your smash book, know the different styles of smash books. There are twelve: simple orange, cutesy, pretty pink, retro, and smart, couture, tasty, nostalgia, doodle red, mod, 360 folio, and eco green. The simple orange smash book pages are not like the others, there a lot more plain, and simple. You can do a lot more with the pages. You can chose your â€Å"theme† easier because of the graphic pages chosen for this book in particular. The Cutesy is as described, very cute looking pages. Each page is filled with cute simple little girly things. Such as flowers or pinks and innocent looking pictures. The pretty pink is very floral and girly almost like the cutesy but different in a way because it has a lot more flower prints in it. The retro blue is designed for a retro look. If you like typography you will love this one. If you can’t help to tap your foot to the beat you will love this one because that is what this smash book is all about. It has a sense of humor to it, and it is my personal favorite. The smart smash book is covered with school inspired images and graphics. In comes in a studious style. It is great for school related things. However, the couture smash book is fun, shiny and very fashion like, with lots of color. It is a lot of girl’s favorites. The Tasty smash book is covered with food inspired pages. Original illustrations and hand lettering design, you can make this in a snap. The nostalgia style is also filled with school filled original illustrations and hand lettering designs. However not as a clean slate of a look as the smart smash book. The Doodle red smash book is filled with an artsy enthusiasm. Mod smash book is a hip style. This smash book is covered with clean lines and patterns. The 360 folio is filled with pages for everyday of the year. Lastly, the Eco green smash book is filled with easy breezy graphics, and nature loving images. Nonetheless you can’t forget when you buy your book, you need to get things/accessories to decorate it. Next, you’ll need to have simple things to decorate your smash book, such as: decorative tape, chipboard pieces, letters, stickers, souvenirs, ribbon, sequins, pockets, envelopes, brads, scissors, glue, scrapbook paper, color pencils, and pens. None the less you will want to use 3d embellishments, alphabet stickers, glitter, stickers maybe by big ideas, paper studio, and k and company. Gemstone are great to use. Border punch, ink pad by color box, distressed ink, and stamp by stampabilities, and patterned paper. After you get the smash book accessories, decorate the cover- it is the best way to decorate the cover by putting your favorite saying on the front using chipboard pieces. You could put what your smash book â€Å"theme† is about if you have one. Or you can just decorate the front cover by doodling on it, if you desire just to do that instead. If you made your own smash book out of a three ring binder, add scrapbook paper to your book on every page. Make it creative. You don’t need to just have one color or design per page. Mix it up and use different sizes and different colors. Don’t worry about this if you bought your smash book though. Meanwhile, you will want to sort out all your stuff into desired categories. You might want to sort them out into categories such as: concerts, journals, notes, travel, friends, family, school, ideas, pictures, clips, whatever it may be, categorizing them will help you when smashing them in your book. Add photos to your page. Use decorative tape and then add your souvenirs. Pockets and envelopes are great for holding big things. Next you want to decorate the page. Don’t over decorate too much. Then it will look overwhelming. But if you under decorate it will look very boring. Very un-creative. Since smash products are the best thing when decorating your smash book; sometimes it’s all you need. Smash captions are ready to stick, all you have to do is write your caption in. Smash flag clips, clips to attach photos, notes and more. Smash pads allow you to voice your opinion or jot something down, then smash it in. Smash date stamp, is exactly what it says a date stamp but with sayings like â€Å"I’m a hot mess†, or â€Å"today is†, â€Å"I love this†! With the date next to it. Smash tape is tape with a design on it, so you can be creative. Smash tape can hold your photos in place or even a feather? Who knows? Next is smash pockets, which are great for holding the bigger things like brochures and things like that. Smash bands, hold your smash book together. And your pens even closer. Now take your desired category you want to smash, your glue and pen and smash it in. Use your date stamp and date it if you would like. Add a smash caption too, some smash tape to hold in a picture that is a memory you want to keep! Some stickers, and writings of your own even drawings will work too if your artistic. Remember, this smash book isn’t a scrapbook. It doesn’t have to be all clean and neat. It’s not just about the pictures. It about the thought, a jot a feather that’s caught, it’s the idea that matters! Everything you have been keeping in that junk drawer for years, let it come out. Have fun with it. Don’t let it hide, and smash it! . It is easy to take along, anywhere you go. It has to time limit. It doesn’t take hours. So smash away and have fun, just remember those steps . Just choose your smash book style, or create your own, have the simple things to create your own, get the smash accessories, sort out all your stuff into categories and then smash it in and decorate your page to your desire.

Captain Ahab Essay -- Literary Analysis, Moby Dick, Shakespeare

Captain Ahab sights Moby Dick from afar and continues his hot pursuit on the White Whale. For three days, a relentless chase occurs because of Ahab’s desire for revenge. The indomitable whale continually destroys boat after boat. During the latter days of the struggle, the whale finally attacks the Pequod, plunging the ship to the bottom pits of the ocean. Determined to reach his final goal, the captain makes a last ditch effort and launches his harpoon towards Moby Dick. Ironically, Ahab’s harpoon catches around his neck and strangles him to death. Obviously determined to avenge his leg, the Captain causes his own downfall through his own desire for retribution. In The Tragedy of Hamlet Prince of Denmark, Shakespeare creates two characters, Hamlet and Laertes, who endure a series of events and unveil Shakespeare’s similar belief that revenge causes one to act blindly in anger. Through Shakespeare’s distinct language and diction, the characters’ mot ivational factors and personality traits, the write conveys his strong belief regarding the desire for vengeance. While the actual personality traits and each character’s motivations add more depth to Shakespeare’s overall belief, the language each character incorporates contributes more highly to the conviction – revenge causes one to act blindly in anger. By analyzing Hamlet’s use of language throughout the play, one can tell Hamlet is keen on avenging his father, but no heart or effort is put into the action. Speaking in disgust with himself, Hamlet says â€Å"That I, the son of a dear father murder'd, / Prompted to my revenge by heaven and hell, / Must, like a whore, unpack my heart with words, â€Å" (2.2.584-586). Hamlet uses simile to compare himself to a coward and state that he has no... ...ooms Laertes as it did Hamlet, because it clouds his judgment. His rashness causes him to be easily played by Claudius. Regardless of the fact that Hamlet killed Polonius, Claudius never specified that it was an accident, which could have played a major role in Laertes’ decision to go along with the King’s plan. Hamlet and Laertes share much in common with Captain Ahab. All three characters share a similar passion and determination for achieving vengeance, which ultimately results in their own downfall. Plan after plan, harpoon after harpoon, only one goal resonates in their minds: to get revenge. Blinded by their desire for vengeance, all three characters act out of personality and cause harm to themselves and those around them. Thus, revealing Shakespeare’s strong notion that the desire for revenge causes one to act blindly, rather than with reason and logic.

Biofuel: Ethanol Alternative to Transportation Essay -- Politics Oil

Biofuel: Ethanol Alternative to Transportation For the past three decades Oil dominates the agenda of political discussion. With scares over price volatility, sizes of reserves, international imports and least of which are the environmental impacts due to carbon dioxide and other emissions. Various speculations and educated guesses place our total depletion of crude oil within the next 50 years and there is a general consensus between environmentalists that we steer toward a hydrogen transportation system given the projected work and nonexistent carbon dioxide emissions (Environmental Technologies class lecture, Santa Clara University). However many barriers stand in the way of attaining such a goal, most of which pertaining to the conservative nature of society. Society works in intermediary changes, a series of steps that blend rather than abandon one method of living for another. The option 22 states have chosen, is ethanol a combustive liquid fuel that could progressively move the United States toward a clean and su stainable environment and economy. Ethanol is an alcohol molecule consisting of two carbon molecules and six hydrogen molecules. Ethanol production in the United States results as a chemical byproduct from our most abundant food stock†¦ corn. Through four well known and commonly practiced chemical processes, Hydrolysis, Fermentation, Distillation and Dehydration. Hydrolysis is used to break down the corn into simple sugars which when added to yeast in the second processes of Fermentation produces ethanol and carbon dioxide (http://www.ott.doe.gov/biofuels/abc_biofuels.html). The final two processes of distillation and dehydration merely removes sediment and waters that result from production o... ...gy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. U.S. Department of Energy. http://www.eere.energy.gov/. 4/29/2004. 7)â€Å"Increasing America’s Use of Renewable and Alternative Energy.† U.S. Department of Energy. â€Å"Nature’s Power† Ch. 6 pp. 1-18. 8)National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition. Purchasing Guide for Flexible-Fuel Vehicles. www.E85Fuel.com. 9)Rezendes, Victor S. â€Å"Gasohol: Federal Agencies’ Use of Gasohol Limited by High Prices and Other Factors.† United States General Accounting Office. Gaithersburg, MD. December 1994. 10)Shapouri, Hosein; Duffield, James A.; Wang, Michael. â€Å"The Energy Balance of Corn Ethanol: An Update.† United States Printing Office. Washington, D.C. July 2002. 11)Shapouri, Hosein; Duffield, James A.; Wang, Michael. â€Å"USDA’s 1998 U.S. Ethanol Cost-of-Production Survey.† United States Printing Office. Washington D.C. January 2002.

What is “Small” Business?

In addition to how a business is organized legally, size is also a way to classifying businesses. A small business is generally defined as any independently owned business with fewer than 500 employees that is not dominant in its industry. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is responsible for issuing the specific criteria that render a business a small business. These criteria vary widely by industry. As recently as 2010, in an effort to make more businesses eligible for SBA loan assistance programs and to encourage economic growth and job creation, the SBA issued sweeping changes to the rules governing small businesses.For example, a car dealership is defined as a small business if it has 200 or fewer employees, whereas many manufacturing operations and other businesses can have up to 500 employees and still be considered small. Most experts use 500 or fewer employees as a general rule for defining small businesses. The definition of a small business is not limited to the numbe r of employees, however. The designation as a small business may be imposed based on overall annual sales. For example, hotels, which operate within the service industry, can earn $30 million annually and still be considered small businesses.Other services, such as industrial launderers, can earn $35. 5 million and still be considered small businesses. For example, a car dealership is defined as a small business if it has 200 or fewer employees, whereas many manufacturing operations and other businesses can have up to 500 employees and still be considered small. Most experts use 500 or fewer employees as a general rule for defining small businesses. The definition of a small business is not limited to the number of employees, however. The designation as a small business may be imposed based on overall annual sales.For example, hotels, which operate within the service industry, can earn $30 million annually and still be considered small businesses. Other services, such as industrial launderers, can earn $35. 5 million and still be considered small businesses. Why Is Small Business Important in the U. S. Economy? According to the SBA, small businesses are of critical importance to the U. S. economy in a number of ways, including the following:†¢Small businesses make up nearly 99. 7 percent of all employers in the United States.†¢Outside of farming, small businesses create more than 50 percent of the U. S. gross domestic product and employ more than 50 percent of U. S. private sector workers. †¢Small businesses tend to be highly innovative, thus accounting for nearly 14 times more patents than large corporations that produce patents. In other words, some of the greatest innovations have been started by small businesses. Consider that modern advances, such as the automatic transmission, FM radios, insulin, and penicillin all began with small businesses.†¢Small businesses tend to be spread out throughout the United States, bringing employment, p roducts, and services to nearly every community in the country. In other words, small businesses are not confined to large cities but also serve small towns and rural communities. †¢Small businesses account for nearly 97 percent of U. S. exports and provide 31 percent of the value of those exports. †¢Small businesses are often owned and operated by women and minorities, which has opened the door for many minority groups to participate and invest in the U. S. economy.Minorities and women own more than 4 million and nearly 6. 5 million small businesses, respectively. †¢Small businesses create more than 65 percent of all new jobs in the United States. Despite these tremendous advantages, there are also disadvantages to small business. These businesses, especially new ones, face the risk of failure due to capital limitations. In many cases, small businesses have limited scope and do not necessarily grow into large corporations. Similarly, their owners may achieve limited personal success and wealth and often do not have access to an endless source of capital.Like larger businesses, small businesses can be organized in a variety of ways. In choosing a business form, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the available forms. Limited Partnerships The limited partnership alters the structure of the general partnership by introducing a new class of partner, the limited partner. General partners manage and operate the limited partnership and are subject to unlimited personal liability for partnership obligations.Limited partners enjoy limited liability for partnership obligations but have no right to exert meaningful control over day-to-day operations of the business. Formation of a limited partnership requires the filing of a Certificate of Limited Partnership. While a limited partnership may be formed without a written limited partnership agreement,absence of a written agreement may support the inference that the partnership is, i n fact, a general partnership. Thus, imposing unlimited liability upon all partners. Limited Liability PartnershipsIn a general partnership, each partner incurs unlimited liability for partnership obligations. In multi-state partnerships with thousands of partners, there is a significant chance that partners might face financial ruin due to the conduct of a single partner with whom they have never worked and never met. The Limited Liability Partnership, or LLP, sometimes known as a Registered Limited Liability Partnership, or RLLP, was designed to rectify this problem. Although Limited Liability Partnerships are managed like general partnerships, there are different rules governing the liability of partners.Generally, limited liability partners incur unlimited liability for partnership contracts and debts and limited liability for torts committed by another partner. Most states recognizing the LLP require the partnership to maintain a specified amount of liability insurance to compe nsate victims of torts committed by a partner. Formation of an LLP requires the filing of an application or registration. While a written limited liability partnership agreement is not required by law, it is strongly suggested. Limited Liability CompaniesThe Limited Liability Company, or LLC, is perhaps the most advantageous form for most small businesses and for many larger businesses as well. The LLC combines the limited liability of a corporation with the flexible and informal management of a partnership. Federal law allows LLCs the option of taxation as a partnership or as a corporation. Depending upon state law, an LLC may exist in perpetuity, as do most corporations. A document, typically referred to as Articles of Organization, is filed to create a Limited Liability Company.A written operating agreement may be required depending on state law; where a written operating agreement is not required, statutes will generally establish the rights of members and the method by which th e LLC is to be operated and managed. The SBA offers various incentives and programs to help these small businesses thrive, including the following: †¢Financial assistance in the form of grants and low-interest loans help small ventures stay in business and expand—in fact, the SBA helps coordinate lenders and borrowers in an effort to facilitate the financing needs of small businesses.†¢The SBA disseminates information about national and international contract opportunities within and outside of the government and encourages small businesses to apply for these contracts. †¢Assistance is offered to those starting, planning, and growing small businesses, as are general legal information and compliance reports to owners, including specific counsel to small businesses owned by women and accounting and taxation training to help various types of small businesses succeed.†¢Small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures are vital to every industry sector in the U.S. and global economy. Small businesses tend to be more responsive to changing conditions than larger, less-flexible, organizations. They also create the most new jobs and products in today’s economy. More than 65 percent of all new jobs in the U. S. are created by small businesses. Developing and exploiting a sustainable competitive advantage is an important task for small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, just like larger organizations. †¢Nearly 40 percent of all small businesses exist within the service industry, accounting for more than 2 million firms.Medical practices, accounting firms, engineering and legal offices, nursing and rehabilitation facilities, and other practices are most largely representative of small businesses in the United States. The second largest small business representation is retail which includes grocery stores, pharmacies, bookstores, jewelers, clothing stores, and more. of ways by facilitating lending, offering training, and so on. Th e SBA is responsible for classifying businesses by their size and their income. Small BusinessA business that is independently owned and operated for profit and is not dominant in its industry.Small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures are vital to every industry sector in the U. S. and global economy. Small businesses tend to be more responsive to changing conditions than larger, less-flexible, organizations. They also create the most new jobs and products in today’s economy. More than 65 percent of all new jobs in the U. S. are created by small businesses. Developing and exploiting a sustainable competitive advantage is an important task for small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, just like larger organizations.Nearly 40 percent of all small businesses exist within the service industry,  accounting for more than 2 million firms. Medical practices, accounting firms, engineering and legal offices, nursing and rehabilitation facilities, and other practices are most largely representative of small businesses in the United States. The second largest small business representation is retail which includes grocery stores, pharmacies, bookstores, jewelers, clothing stores, and more. Small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures are vital to every industry sector in the U. S. and global economy. Small businesses tend to be more responsive to changing conditions than larger, less-flexible, organizations.They also create the most new jobs and products in today’s economy. More than 65 percent of all new jobs in the U. S. are created by small businesses. Developing and exploiting a sustainable competitive advantage is an important task for small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, just like larger organizations. Nearly 40 percent of all small businesses exist within the service industry, accounting for more than 2 million firms. Medical practices, accounting firms, engineering and legal offices, nursing and rehabilitation facilities, and oth er practices are most largely representative of small businesses in the United States.The second largest small business representation is retail which includes grocery stores, pharmacies, bookstores, jewelers, clothing stores, and more. Small Business Administration (SBA)Helps small businesses in the United States in a variety of ways by facilitating lending, offering training, and so on. The SBA is responsible for classifying businesses by their size and their income. Small BusinessA business that is independently owned and operated for profit and is not dominant in its industry.

The Benefits of E

The Benefits of E Abstract In this paper, a critical review of e-contracting is conducted. This is achieved conducting a background analysis of the concept of e-contracting in which the benefits associated with e-contracting are highlighted. The method used to achieve this is literature review. The author asserts that there are a number of challenges associated with e-contracting.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Benefits of E-contracting specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As a result, it is vital to minimize these challenges so as to achieve the benefits of e-contracting. The author identifies a number of e-contracting challenges on which he formulates a set of hypothesis. Some of the challenges which the firm evaluates relates to modeling and representing contractual relationship, negotiation, monitoring, and contract management. Finally, a conclusion of the entire study is given together with a recommendation for further research to be conducted in order to seal the existing gaps. Introduction According to Grefen (2010, p.19), contracts form the basis upon which businesses establish formal relationship with various stakeholders. Traditionally, physical documents such as papers were used as evidence of an existing contract between two or more parties. However, the 21st century has witnessed rampant technological growth (Angelov, 2005. p.54). Some of the technological fields which have witnessed rampant growth include software development and telecommunication. Currently, communication is not limited by geographical and time constraints. Due to technological advancement, it is possible to exchange information more easily and rapidly. The high rate of technological innovation has led to emergence of electronic commerce which entails undertaking all business processes electronically. As a result of growth in electronic modes of collaboration between firms, business contracting has also been affected thr ough emergence of a new modes of collaboration referred to as electronic contracting [here after referred to as e-contracting] (Angelov, 2005. p.54). E-contract refers to a contract which is designed and executed through a software system. In e-contracts, business contracts are designed using computer programs which make it possible to automate the respective business processes. It is possible to map e-contracts to other related computer programs.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, e-contract programs cannot be able to deal with complex relationship arising between the various parties to the contract. The concept of e-contracts is similar to that of traditional contracts.In e-contracts, the vendors offers their product and the respective terms such as price to potential buyers. On the other hand, the buyers evaluate the terms, and negotiate the price . After this, they are able to order the particular product or service and make payments. However, all these activities are conducted electronically. In an effort to improve their operational efficiency, firms in different economic sectors such as the construction industry are increasingly incorporating e-contracting in their operation. This arises from the benefits associated with e-contracting. However, there are a number of challenges associated with e-contracting. In order to gain insight on these challenges, the researcher identifies and analyses some of these challenges. To evaluate e-contracting challenges effectively, the researcher have adopted a number of null hypothesis. All the hypotheses are based on the various elements of a contract as outlined below. Modeling and representing business contractual relationships using e-contracts is a challenging task. There are a number of hindrances which affect e-contract negotiations. Monitoring e-contracts is challenging compared to monitoring physical contracts. There are a number of issues which hinder e-contract management. By understanding these challenges, this paper will contribute towards management teams of firms which have adopted e-contracting developing strategies aimed at eliminating challenges. This arises from the fact that they will appreciate the effects of these challenges on their contractual relationship. For example, poorly developed e-contract can result into financial and legal implications on the parties to the contract. Therefore, understanding the contract will culminate into improvement of the firms’ overall operational efficiency, for example by strengthening contractual relationships. Background and history of e-contracting Through e-contracting, a firm is able to undertake a number of activities associated with contracting purely in an electronic environment. For example, the parties to the contract are able to undertake negotiations via electronic communication methods. Upon the parties to the contract coming to a consensus and a contract being established, each of the parties to the contract manages the various activities electronically.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Benefits of E-contracting specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For example, the parties may incorporate online collaboration systems in various communication processes such delivering contractual notices. In addition, e-contracting enables the collaborating parties to undertake necessary contractual amendments. This makes the process of contracting to be more efficient. According to Camarinha-Matos, Afsarmanesh and Ollus (2008. p. 193), traditional contracting involves human actors and is considered to be slow while e-contracting is faster and cost effective. E-contracting does not result into changes of the businesses processes. It is only the efficiency of the contracting process which is improved. E-con tracting mainly involves two main processes which include contract formation or establishment and contract enactment. According to Xu and Vrieze (2010, p. 3), contract formation involves a number of activities which include identification, negotiation, checking, and validation of all the contractual parties. On the other hand, contract enactment or performance involves monitoring contract performance. Grefen (2010, p.19), asserts that there has been emergence of new business settings over the past few years which require new contracting paradigm. To align themselves with the changes in the environment, firms are considering incorporating e-contracting in their operation. E-contracting process is distinct with regard to the result. This arises from the fact that e-contract is developed as a semi structured document which can be in various formats such as Microsoft Word, XML, or PDF formats. Some of these include XML based words, clauses and sentences. In addition, e-contracts are com posed of semi-structured information. In addition, some electronic contracts attain legal status through digital documents. According to Xu (2004, p.3), legal e-contracting is aimed at establishing a contractual document which addresses the intentions of all the parties.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More According to Xu and Vrieze (2010, p. 3), es of these aspects relate to development of the first contract models and frameworks. In addition, Legal and regulatory frameworks were also instituted. This period also saw the development of concepts such as the digital signature, certificate authority and certificate mechanisms. Other es of these protocols include the Transport Layer Security and the Secure Socket Layer (O’Shea et al, p. 14). In addition, lack of effective encryption and decryption by the parties involved can result into the transmission being hacked. In addition, some of the e-contracting negotiation platforms such as the email do not offer a comprehensive system which can be used in auditing electronic records. This means that the evidentiary value of e-documents and records is diminished. The resultant effect is increased inefficiencies with regard to disclosure process if a dispute occurs (O’Shea et al, p. 14). This illustrates the fact that each of the e-contracting stages results into emergence of security and legal risks. An example of industries which have increasingly incorporated the concept of e-contracting in their operation is the construction industry. In order to minimize the associated risks, it is vital for the management teams of these firms to take into account the associated risks. To eliminate these risks, construction companies should ensure that their e-contracting system is well configured. This can be achieved by considering a number of security goals which include confidentiality, integrity, authenticity, availability and cryptographic non-repudiation. Confidentiality will entail ensuring that only authorized parties can read the details of the contract. The integrity of the e-contracting system entails ensuring that the e-contract documents are not modified, deleted or duplicated. On the other hand, authenticity entails ensuring that individuals who have access to the e-contracting system are the real parties to the contract. Availability entails ensuring that the parties to the contract can access the e-contracting systems and other e-contract documents (O’Shea et al, p. 14). E-contracting challenges on monitoring Contract monitoring refers to the process of analyzing the activities conducted by the parties to the contract. This aids in detection of any possible contract violations (Meersman Tari, 2007, p. 303). According to Camarinha-Matos, Pereira and Ribiero, (2010, p. 85), it is necessary for the parties to the contract to closely watch the activities of the collaborating parties. This will aid in ensuring that the activities by the parties are according to the stipulations of the contract. Contract monitoring can be classified into two. These include proactive monitoring and reactive monitoring. In the proactive monitoring, it is possible to identify any anomalies and take necessary actions to avoid their occurrence. In reactive monitoring, the parties responsible for the occurrence of the anomalies are identified. In this case, compensation to the affected party is necessary. One of the purposes of electronic contract is to clearly distinguish what is expected from the collaborating parties (Xu Vrieze, p.4). In addition, the contract also stipulates the acceptable behavior. During the contract fulfillment phase, messages related to the contract are transmitted through the established network. These messages can be used as a source of additional information to aid in pro-active monitoring. However, e-contract monitoring is challenging since most of the networks being used in the e-contracting process of on automation of the entire process instead on developing services which would aid in supporting contract fulfillment. Some of the services considered to support contract fulfillment include monitoring. Lack of these services limits the effectiveness of creating a trustworthy electronic commerce environment. E-contract challenges on contract manageme nt Over the past few decades, the concept of contract management has increasingly become prominent. This is mainly so amongst project oriented companies such as construction firms. Demand for contract management has resulted from the fact that the business environment is experiencing rapid changes. As a result, it has become paramount for firms to be effective and efficient in how they manage their contracts. In an effort to move with the market changes, firms are incorporating e-contract management systems. An effective electronic contract management system should have the capacity of supporting the firm’s networking development. In addition, the system should be effectively distributed and connected to the internet. Camarinha-Matos, Afsarmanesh and Ollus (2008. p. 193), asserts that the system should support end to end integration. In addition, other features which should be ensured include flexibility, security and accessibility. This will increase the systems efficiency i n handling complex contracts. According to Xu and Vrieze (2004, p.5), there are various aspects associated with contract management. Xu and Vrieze are of the opinion that contract management should involve establishment of a single repository. In addition, contract management also involves tracking the performance of each contractual partner. This should be achieved through incorporation of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). The information obtained should be used to determine the necessary improvement actions and establishment of ranks. In addition, contract management also entails informing and reminding the partners on the milestones. Contract management entails ensuring that parties to the contract honors the contract terms (Betts, 1999, p.76). Through contract management, a firm is able to save on its operating costs. Despite the fact that e-contracting is considered to be cheap, there are some challenges which may result. This is mainly experienced if the firm has entered into a number of contractual agreements with firms which have adopted different electronic commerce standards. In such a case, it becomes difficult for the firm to manage the contract. This arises from the fact that the firm will be required to monitor the operations of every party which is a daunting task. In addition, the firm may not be able to maximize the expected benefit in the contractual relationship. This arises from difficulties in its effort to minimize potential costs and determining the cost of the contract violation. According to Xu and Vrieze (2004, p.6), multiparty contractual relationships may result into loss of variable information. In addition, e-contracts involving a large number of parties result into increment in the degree of complexity. This arises from the fact that the large number of collaborating parties makes the relationships to be hidden. In addition, it becomes difficult to manage e-contracts involving multiple partners with regard to modeling the contra ct and identification of responsible parties. Xu and Vrieze (p. 6) further assert that multi-party e-contracting is challenging with regard to provision of extra services such as monitoring. Conclusion As a result of technological innovation, firms are increasingly being pressurized to improve their operational efficiency. One of the technological innovations which have affected firms entails the emergence of electronic commerce. In an effort to attain their profit maximization objective, firms are integrating online services in their operation. E-commerce has also affected other business processes such as contracting. This is evident in the fact that firms in different economic sector are increasingly incorporating the concept of e-contracting in their operation. Through e-contracting, firms are able to enter into business contract with various parties electronically. The shift is also associated with the benefits resulted from e-contracting. For example, through e-contracting, a f irm can be able to minimize the costs involved in contracting. Additionally, electronic contracts result into reduction in paper work. A firm’s operational efficiency is significantly improved as a result of incorporating electronic contract. This arises from the fact that human errors which may occur during traditional method of contracting as eliminated. Electronic contracting also minimizes risks associated with contractual agreement established over public networks for example the internet. This arises from the fact that issues such as confidentiality, authenticity, integrity and security of the contract may be compromised. It is also possible to re-use content after the contract is closed in addition to provision of a machine-processible document. E-contracting will also result into improvement of business relationships thus minimizing legal and financial risks. The resultant effect is that e-commerce will be greatly enhanced. Through e-contracting, there is a high proba bility of firm’s improving their productivity and hence their competitiveness. Despite these benefits, there are a number of challenges associated with e-contracting. This means that it is necessary for firm’s to consider ways on how to eliminate these challenges. These challenges are related to technical, legal and business perspectives. For instance, for e-contracts to be effective, it is necessary for there to be effective modeling and representation of the contractual relationship. This presents a challenge to most firms since they may not be acquainted with e-contract modeling knowledge. In addition, firms may be required to have the necessary web-technology. E-contracting is also faced with a challenge with regard to negotiation. Contract negotiations ensure that all the parties to the contract are acquainted with sufficient understanding of their obligations to the contract. Contract negotiation may be compromised for a number of reasons. One of them arises from the fact hat there are various electronic platforms upon which e-contracting negotiations can be conducted. Some of these platforms such as the email may pose a threat to the contract with regard to confidentiality. This is mainly so if the security protocols are not well configured. Therefore, e-contract negotiations require the support of other technologies in order to improve security, confidentiality, integrity and authenticity of the contract. The success of an e-contract is also determined by the efficiency with which the collaborating parties monitor the activities of the parties involved. However, monitoring e-contracts may not be effective due to lack of the necessary support services. E-contract management is also challenging if the parties to the contract have adapted different e-commerce standards. In order to deal with the challenges associated with e-contracting, it is necessary for further research to be conducted. These studies should focus on the best way to seal t he challenges associated with e-contracting. In order to succeed in their e-contracting processes, firms should continuously evaluate the external environment in order to identify possible technological changes. This will enable them to update their e-contracting systems appropriately hence improving their operational efficiency. The resultant effect is that the firms will be able to maximize on the benefits associated with e-contracting. Reference List Angelov, S., 2005. Foundations of B2B electronic contracting. Eindhoven: Technische Universiteit. Burgwinkel, D., 2002. Decision support in electronic contract management: preceding of  the international conference on decision making and decision support in the internet age. Oxford: Oxford University. Betts, M., 1999. Strategy management of IT in construction. New York: Blackwell. Camarinha-Matos, Afsarmanesh, H. Ollus, M., 2008. Methods and tools for  collaborative networked organization. New York: Springer. Camarinha-Matos, L. , Pereira, P. Ribiero, L., 2010. Emerging trends in technological  innovation. New York: Springer. De Marco, T.1990. Controlling software projects: management measurement and  estimation. NY, Yourdon Press. Gardner, A., 1987. An artificial intelligence approach to legal reasoning. Massachusetts: MIT Press. Grefen, P., 2010. Mastering e-business. Massachusetts: Taylor and Francis. Howard R., 1998. Computing in construction: pioneers and the future. New York: Butterworth-Heinemann. Lee, R., 1998. Towards open electronic contracting. EM – Electronic Markets. Vol. 8, issue 3,   pp. 3-8. Marjanovic, O. Milosevic, Z., 2005. Towards formal modeling of e-contracts. Sydney: University of New South Wales. Milosevic, Z. Bond, A., 1995. Electronic commerce on the Internet: what is  still missing. Honolulu, Hawaii: INET95. Meersman, R. Tari, Z., 2007. One the move to meaningful internet systems. New York: Springer. O’Shea, K. et al., 2008. E-contracting: security and le gal issues. Queensland: Queensland University. Roddick, J., 2006. Advances in conceptual modeling-theory and practice. New York: Springer. Sommerville, J. Craig, N., 2006. Implementing IT in construction. Washington: Taylor and Francis. Sun, M. Howard, R., 2004. Understanding IT in construction. New York: Routledge. Teamwork and Online Collaboration Solutions, n.d. eTenderer: a revolutionary online  procurement system. Web. Web. Xu, L., 2004. Monitoring multinational party contracts for e-business. Sydney: Paul de Vrieze. Xu, L. 2004. Monitoring Multi-party Contracts for E-business. Tilburg: University of Tilburg. Xu, L. 2004b. A Multi-party contract model. Tilburg: University of Tilburg. Xu, L. Vrieze, P., 2000. E-contracting challenges. Sydney: CSIRO ICT Center.

Mamenchisaurus - Facts and Figures

Mamenchisaurus - Facts and Figures Name: Mamenchisaurus (Greek for Mamenxi lizard); pronounced ma-MEN-chih-SORE-us Habitat: Forests and plains of Asia Historical Period: Late Jurassic (160-145 million years ago) Size and Weight: Up to 115 feet long and 50-75 tons Diet: Plants Distinguishing Characteristics: Unusually long neck, composed of 19 elongated vertebrate; long, whiplike tail About Mamenchisaurus If it hadnt been named after the province of China where it was discovered, in 1952, Mamenchisaurus might better have been called Neckosaurus. This sauropod (the family of gigantic, herbivorous, elephant-legged dinosaurs that dominated the late Jurassic period) wasnt quite as thickly built as more famous cousins like Apatosaurus or Argentinosaurus, but it possessed the most impressive neck of any dinosaur of its kindover 35 feet long, composed of no less than nineteen huge, elongated vertebrae (the most of any sauropods with the exception of Supersaurus and Sauroposeidon). With such a long neck, you might assume that Mamenchisaurus subsisted on the uppermost leaves of tall trees. However, some paleontologists believe that this dinosaur, and other sauropods like it, was incapable of holding its neck to its full vertical position, and instead swept it back and forth close to the ground, like the hose of a giant vacuum cleaner, as it feasted on low-lying shrubbery. This controversy is closely tied to the warm-blooded/cold-blooded dinosaur debate: its difficult to imagine a cold-blooded Mamenchisaurus having a robust enough metabolism (or a strong enough heart) to enable it to pump blood 35 feet straight up into the air, but a warm-blooded Mamenchisaurus presents its own set of problems (including the prospect that this plant-eater would literally cook itself from the inside out). There are currently seven identified Mamenchisaurus species, some of which may fall by the wayside as more research is conducted on this dinosaur. The type species, M. constructus, which was discovered in China by a highway construction crew, is represented by a 43-foot-long partial skeleton; M. anyuensis was at least 69 feet long; M. hochuanensis, 72 feet long; M. jingyanensis, up to 85 feet long; M. sinocanadorum, up to 115 feet long; and M. youngi, a relatively runty 52 feet long; a seventh species. M. fuxiensis, may not be a Mamenchisaurus at all but a related genus of sauropod (provisionally named Zigongosaurus). Mamenchisaurus was closely related to other long-necked Asian sauropods, including Omeisaurus and Shunosaurus.

Ethical dilemma of psychologist

Ethical dilemma of psychologist Abstract The issue of ethics is paramount in counseling practice whereby practitioners are required to carry out their different therapeutic roles within specified Codes of Ethics. Ethics within practice has become important especially in guiding the practitioners on the appropriate ways of making sound decisions in their daily therapeutic roles. In principle the Code of Ethics, usually function to prevent the practitioners from indulging in malpractices that may harm the client or the entire profession as whole.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Ethical dilemma of psychologist specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Ethics and ethical dilemma are two concepts that have for a long time influenced the professional conduct of counseling therapists. Sometimes conflict has occurred between the two concepts especially when dealing with particular sensitive cases. For instances ethics may require the practitioner to act in one way but as a result of particular experience applying such ethical requirements become problematic thereby necessitating the need for ethical sensitivity. In general, counseling therapists in going about their daily professional work are challenged to deal with questions that do not always have obvious answers and they become forced to assume responsibility of deciding how to act in ways that will put the interests of the clients above anything else. There exist a number of different models that guide counseling therapists into making sound ethical decisions when faced with ethical dilemmas. The issue of ethical dilemmas in counseling therapy is and will continue to be live as practitioners face new and dynamic challenges everyday, a situation that is further compounded by creation of new laws that practitioners have to work within and respect. Therefore, it is always necessary for practitioners to identify the best and most appropriate sources of which they can utilize solve o r manage the issue of ethical dilemma. Ethical dilemma of psychologist ‘What do I do?’ This is the introductory sentence in Kenneth S. Pope and Melba J. Vasquez’s book titled ‘Ethics in Psychotherapy and Counseling: A Practical Guide’. According to the authors, counseling therapists and the larger body of psychologists are confronted with pertinent questions or dilemmas that sometimes leave them ‘deficiency’ of solutions or way out. The authors’ observation is that, in everyday of psychologists’ lives, there exist situations that will results into dilemma. The authors identify aspects such as telling truth or lie when such instances may compromise the therapist’s benefit, revealing client’s confidential report even when such decision may harm clients and other people. This is in addition to reporting fellow colleagues due to their misconduct even when such colleagues hold higher positions or are critical in th e professional progress of the therapists’ or going against the administration requirement to do what one believes will compromise the ethics of the profession (Pope and Vasquez, 2010). All these constitute situations that psychologist have to face in their daily activities and practice.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Pope and Vasquez (2010) assert that carrying out psychotherapy confronts the professionals with constant dilemmas, and whether each dilemma is small or large, delicate or blaring, brings a tangle of questions (Pope and Vasquez, 2010). The basic question that majority of psychotherapists will ask is whether there is something right that can be done and if such thing exist how can it be executed (Pope and Vasquez, 2010). In general therapists will ask, â€Å"is there a right thing to do, if so, how do I find out what it is, what makes it right, who says so, if I do it, what will happen to the patient, to me, to innocent and not-so-innocent bystanders?† (Pope and Vasquez, 2010, p.1). Psychotherapists have to deal with hard questions that are personal and hard to make an admission to themselves or others. When this happens, the therapist will ask questions such as â€Å"What am I tempted to do, what could I get away with, would doing the right thing cost too much, get people mad at me, get me sued, get me fired, would doing the wrong thing be all that bad, especially if no one found out about it? What if I’m not strong enough, not good enough to do the right thing, and can I duck this one and palm it off on someone else?† (Pope and Vasquez, 2010, p.1). According to the authors, these pertinent questions generally lead therapists back to the basic question of ‘what do I do now? One avenue that majority of therapists have utilized in addressing the above questions has been adherence to ethics. For in stance, Pope and Vasquez (2010) note that ethics provides help to therapists in answering the pertinent questions they face. Through ethical awareness, psychotherapists are able to perceive in clear ways how their various choices are able to implicate and impact the lives of their clients, their fellow professional colleagues, and the public at large. According to the authors, ethical awareness, â€Å"frees professionals from the confining webs of habit, fatigue, fallacy, dogma, carelessness, hurry and daily pressures while at the same time enable psychologists to see new possibilities, respond in new ways, and act with greater understanding† (Pope and Vasquez, 2010, p.2). Therefore, ethical awareness should be perceived as continuous, active process that involves constant questioning and personal responsibility. Confidentiality is an ethical aspect that for sometime has characterized the psychology profession by guiding the psychotherapists in many situations. In its sense, confidentiality refers to the legal duty therapists have where as part of therapy psychologist are not supposed to disclose information about their clients (Corey, 2009).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Ethical dilemma of psychologist specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The country has enacted laws that form part of psychotherapist-client privilege where the laws requires that disclosure clients make during the therapy process should be protected from exposure and that such disclosure need to be perceived and regarded as confidential (Corey, 2009). The importance of confidentiality in psychology is critical and paramount, an aspect every psychologist needs to observe. It constitutes an aspect that is central and vital to development of trusting and productive client-therapist relationship since the general conviction among the professionals is that no genuine therapy can take place or be conducted unless the c lients have that assurance that the information and revelations they make to the therapist will be accorded uttermost privacy and kept confidential. Although this aspect has become a considerate to many therapists, the general understanding is that though confidentiality should be valued, it cannot be considered an absolute (Corey, 2009). Specific situations will force or will require the therapist to divulge the confidential information of a client and in such circumstances; the therapists will be guided by appropriate law that is there (Corey, 2009). Nevertheless, in determining when to breach confidentiality, recommendations have been that the therapists should be guided by the requirements of the law, institutions in which their services are being utilized, and the kind of clients they are provided services for (Corey, 2009). Certain situations are permitted by the law for therapist to make disclosure of client information hence breaching the aspect of confidentiality. Such inst ances include when the therapist has evidence and he is convinced that his or her client is aged less than 16 years and is a victim of incest, rape, child abuse or any other related crime. In addition, when the therapist is convinced that the particular situation the client is in, requires hospitalization, when the client information is key requirement in court for appropriate action, and lastly, when the clients request that their records be released to them or to a third party (Corey, 2009). However, in all these, the paramount obligation of the psychotherapy is to ensure there is adequate protection of client disclosure to ensure a healthy and productive therapeutic relationship exists. Ethical dilemma in working with high school adolescents Ethical dilemma: Revealing underage/adolescents confidential information to their parents or relevant authorities while therapeutic process is underway constitutes an ethical dilemma to modern therapists. Most underage/adolescent students eng age in risky behaviors that intervention from parents and guardians is needed.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The under-age students may seek the help of a therapist when still under heavy influence of and addiction to the risk behaviors. The question that arises is whether the therapist should disclose the confidential information given by the underage client to parents or school administration for intervention. In actual circumstances, psychotherapists are normally confronted with wide range of ethical challenges where no clear solution is apparent especially when working with high school adolescents engaged in risky behaviors (Goforth and Hayter, 2010). As a starting point, it should be noted that almost all ethical challenging situations are vague and making an appropriate and satisfying decision may not be easy. Adolescence is a period that has been described to be ‘stressful’ to young people, as majority of them becomes victims of ruined lives as a result of wrong decisions or choices. Adolescents take part in multiple risk health behaviors, which cause their lives to hav e negative impact. For example, adolescents have in most instances entered into conflicts with their parents, teachers, guardians, and society in their attempt to create and develop their own identity, opinions, and values (Miller, 1989 cited in Rolison and Scheman, 2002). When freedom is presented to them to utilize or make decisions, adolescents have greatly become ‘victims’ of negative and costly wrong decisions. Trends that have been studied by majority of researchers show that adolescents’ risky behaviors are increasingly becoming a problem, which at the same time may have negative future consequences to the young people (DiClemente, Hansen and Ponton, 1996). For instance, studied show that the high percentage of adolescents start using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs at an early age (DiClemente, Hansen and Ponton, 1996). At the same time, high percentage of adolescents from disadvantaged socio-economic homes are likely to engage in risky health behaviors a t an early age (DiClemente, Hansen and Ponton, 1996). On overall, majority of adolescents are venerable to experiment and initiate risk behaviors that in essence have deleterious consequences during the adolescence stage (DiClemente, Hansen and Ponton, 1996). At the same time, these risky behaviors have resulted into deadly consequences for the adolescents. For example, drinking excessively and driving has resulted into accidents, smoking has led to development of cancer, and unprotected sex has led to unwanted pregnancies and contract of deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS, and STIs (Worren and Danner, 1989 cited in Rolison and Scheman, 2002). Providing psychotherapy to adolescents engaged in risk behavior has been one of the roles psychologists have been playing especially in schools. Many schools seek services of psychologists to respond to psychopath behaviors that majority of students may be engaged in. It is at this stage of providing therapy that ethical dilemma engulfs the ther apists. For Instance, carrying out students’ assessment, the student in this case a client of the therapist may disclose to the therapist that he or she has been frequently using drugs and tobacco while at the same time, engaging in unprotected sex activities (Goforth and Hayter, 2010). The situation becomes unusual to the therapist as to whether such revelation or disclosure should be made known to the parents of the student or the school administration of the student. Further, the law and ethical guidelines postulate clearly that the parents or guardians of under-age adolescents engaging in sex should be informed (Goforth and Hayter, 2010). The ethical dilemma for the therapist in this case is whether to obey the law and ethical requirements which in turn may ruin the counseling or therapeutic process with the client, or continue with therapeutic counseling for the client and provide necessary help that might lead to change of these behavior. Observation in such a case is t hat divulging the confidential information of the client to parents or school administration in the process of therapy might affect the therapy process negatively. Therefore, it is from this concern that majority of psychologists finding themselves in such situations are advised to keep the client’s information confidential as this would help to maintain a good relationship with the client that may lead to change of behavior (Goforth and Hayter, 2010). Nevertheless, the therapists are advised to constantly monitor the behavior of the adolescents to ensure there is progress in the change of behavior. Ethical decision-making process The above outlined case, which present ethical dilemma to therapists, can be handled appropriately through an effective ethical decision-making process that leads to sound or ‘wise’ decisions on the part of the therapist. One interesting aspect with ethical decision-making process is that, sometimes the process may occur very first lead ing to an easy resolution of any particular ethical issue (Canadian Psychological Association, 2000). This happens when the particular being resolved has clear-cut guidelines or standards and no conflict of principles exists (Canadian Psychological Association, 2000). On the other hand, other ethical issues particularly those that exhibit conflict between ethical principles may have no quick resolution, in some instances might be emotionally distressful, and might require time-consuming deliberation (Canadian Psychological Association, 2000). Ethical decision-making process should take place within the broad spectrum of ethical principles that guide the counseling and therapy process. In sense, therapy or counseling process operates within four main principles: respect for the dignity of persons, where this is the paramount principle and it should be given highest weight except in circumstances in which there is a clear and inevitable danger to the physical safety of any person (Can adian Psychological Association, 2000). The second principle has to do with responsible caring which constitute a principle that requires competence while carrying out therapy and the process should be conducted in ways that give respect and dignity to the person (Canadian Psychological Association, 2000). Third principle has to do with integrity in relationships where the principle requires therapists to have utmost integrity while conducting therapy. Lastly, there is the principle of responsibility to society, where the general view is that this principle should be given lowest weight when a conflict exist though societal responsibility needs to be considered in every ethical decision (Canadian Psychological Association, 2000). In general, there are ten steps in which ethical decision-making takes place. Identifying individuals and groups affected by the decision In the context of the above case, individuals involved in therapeutic process constitute high school teenagers at risk by engaging in risky health behaviors such as unprotected sex, drug abuse, and excessive drinking. Further, other affected groups include teenagers’ parents, guardians, and school community. Identifying relevant ethical issues and practices In adolescents’ therapeutic process, ethical issue involved is the confidentiality of the information and revelation adolescents make to the therapists. It is necessary for the therapist to establish productive and meaningful relationship with the client and therefore it would be of great help if the therapist kept the teenagers revelation confidential while at the same time continue with therapy while monitoring the teenagers progress. Breach of this step can only be realized in circumstances the adolescents’ risky behavior gravitates and accelerate at a rate that the therapist perceives intervention of parents, guardians and other stakeholders will be of benefit (Canadian Psychological Association, 2000). Consideration of p ersonal biases, stresses and self-interest It is important for the therapist to consider his or her personal factors that might lead into bias while the therapy process is going on. In some stressful events and circumstances, the therapist may be biased, stressed and self-interest may be overpowering when certain revelations are made by the client. In such instances, the therapist is supposed to be guided by the Code of Ethics and other relevant codes that might elaborate on the relationship that needs to be established with the client. In situations that are beyond the therapist intervention, he or she is advised to seek professional help and guidance from fellow colleagues and other relevant authorities. Developing alternative course of action In general, therapist especially those providing help to teenagers involved in risk behaviors should have numerous interventional strategies to employ in order to see that meaningful help of therapy is provided to the affected clients. The p rocess might be tedious and stressing especially teenagers revealing their secrets and what they might consider personal to them. In such circumstances, the therapist is supposed to explore the possibilities of adopting and utilizing different available alternatives in order to ensure appropriate therapy is administered to the client. Analysis of short-term, ongoing and long-term risks and benefits While taking part in the therapeutic process the therapist need to assess possible risks and benefits any particular course of action will incur to the client, to the client’s family, school, or society at all. As explained in the principles of therapeutic process, the client’s needs should outweigh all other needs though not dominate. Therefore, both short-term and long-term effects of each adopted course of action should be evaluated and the likely impact to the client, the therapist and family, and the school. Choice of course of action after application of principles Aft er the therapists are convinced that principles of the profession and therapeutic process have adequately been applied, they are supposed to turn attention to devising the course of action to take in order to realize benefits to the client and all those concerned. Adolescents’ engaged in risky behaviors in general will require interventional programs to help them recover or stop the particular actions they are engaged in. Therefore, the therapist should come up with appropriate and meaningful course of action to implement. Assuming responsibility for consequences of the implemented actions Generally, the course of actions a therapist undertake to pursue and implement with aim of realizing meaningful therapeutic procedure and results always aim at bringing about positive results for the clients. The aim is not to aggravate the problem any further but to provide adequate and sustainable help to the client by adopting particular course of actions perceived to be correct. Any par ticular course of actions undertaken, the therapist should be ready to take full responsibility. Evaluation of the results of the course of action The therapist should be in a position to carry out assessment and evaluation of the course of actions undertaken and pursued and where possible intervene where necessary. Evaluation will help the therapy to assess and monitor the success or failure of any particular intervention or course of actions pursued. Re-engaging in the decision-making process for unresolved issues As part of assuming responsibility for consequences of action, the therapy should be ready to correct the negative consequences that may result from particular course of actions. Such correction initiatives require the therapy to re-engage in the decision-making process in order to resolve the issue. Appropriate actions to prevent occurrence of the ethical dilemma The therapist needs to undertake necessary and appropriate actions to prevent future occurrences of the spec ific dilemma. Such appropriate actions can include adopting necessary communication mechanisms and problem solving techniques with colleagues. All the therapist can front for changes in procedures and practices that he or she perceive to be inappropriate or hindrance to the therapeutic process. Conclusion The issue of ethical dilemma for therapists is real in psychology profession. There have been attempts to address this aspect through numerous and different ethical codes which have and continue to play important roles in resolving the dilemma. Nevertheless, what is required for therapist especially those working with adolescents is to operate within the precepts of the code of ethics while at the same time seeking professional guidance where necessary. In addition, the therapists should embrace continuous training and workshops as this will lead to their professional growth while impacting necessary skills to deal with in challenging circumstances that result in ethical dilemmas. References Canadian Psychological Association. (2000). Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists. Ontario: CPA Publishing. Retrieved from https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=vq=cache:v07eeiUDShEJ:www.cpa.ca/cpasite/userfiles/Documents/Canadian%2520Code%2520of%2520Ethics%2520for%2520Psycho.pdf+Canadian+Psychological+Code+of+Ethics+for+Psychologists+ethical+decision+making+processhl=engl=kepid=blsrcid=ADGEESi16YngDV-3wX26RiYx-gZHL_BkO9QuMRv5eJnrq7rXge3o7BPsG9BM9JuwFgctQhagLazNB7r0Mgylh82Iq0JNtHRRqlGZLGWmPJCqOsPua2YcApN2syFLbodlR1atPlszzWJXsig=AHIEtbTKb9WOgae8gU4N1g3ro8yZ0Uyovw. Corey, G. (2009). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy. OH; Cengage Learning. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?id=eg4Tev903YwCpg=PA42dq=Ethics+in+psychotherapy+and+counseling:+A+practical+guidehl=enei=Ih84TYUQyJY66K_ZxAssa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=2ved=0CCkQ6AEwAQ#v=onepageq=Ethics%20in%20psychotherapy%20and%20counseling%3A%20A%20practical%20guidef=false DiClemente, R. J., Hansen, W. B. and Ponton, L. E. (1996). Handbook of adolescent health risk behavior. NY: Springer. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?id=DoSU8Xo_ahQCpg=PA2dq=adolescents+risky+behaviorshl=enei=wao4TZDlDY6MswbjzMXzBgsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=1ved=0CCMQ6AEwAA#v=onepageq=adolescents%20risky%20behaviorsf=false. Goforth, A. N. and Hayter, C. A. (2010). Ethical Dilemmas during training: Students’ Perspective. National Association School Psychologists, Vol. 38, No. 7. Retrieved from http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?index=12did=2038869751SrchMode=1sid=1Fmt=3VInst=PRODVType=PQDRQT=309VName=PQDTS=1295542939clientId=29440. Pope, K. S. and Vasquez, M. J. (2010). Ethics in Psychotherapy and Counseling: A Practical Guide. MA: John Wiley and Sons. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?id=xsGzy_JvzyACprintsec=frontcoverdq=Ethics+in+psychotherapy+and+counseling:+A+practical+guidehl=enei=dRk4Tae5FMLqOYvfne0Ksa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=1ved=0CCMQ6AEwAA#v=onepageqf=false. Rolison, M. R. and Scheman, A. (2002). Factors influencing adolescents’ decisions to engage in risk-taking behavior. Health Publications. Retrieved from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2248/is_147_37/ai_94598394/.

New product idea Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

New product idea - Essay Example he possibility to easily consume your daily dose of fresh fruit juice at work, at school, †¦ Fruitness offers a small assortment of orange-based fruit juices to match everyone’s taste and it makes for the perfect refreshment during a break from working. The exclusivity of our business model lies in the concept of delivering fresh juices directly to companies. Fruitness will be established as a B.V.B.A. to limit liabilities for the owners. The money that has to be raised to start the business is â‚ ¬ 60.000, financed by five managers. Dividends will not be paid during the first 7 years. Profit will be re-invested in the company to finance internal growth. Some of our major direct competitors are Minute Maid (Coca Cola Co.) and Tropicana (Pepsi Co.). Their main advantages are their size and expertise. Their weakness is their disability to deliver a fresh juice to the market. â€Å"Fruitness provides a solution to increased awareness towards health and better-for-you products. All Fruitness juices are daily made with fresh fruit and delivered within 24 hours. Fruitness’ innovative business model ensures that Fruitness is available at the places where people spend most of their time and energy; at work or at school!† Fruitness produces fresh orange juice, squeezed the first day and directly delivered to the customer the second day. It is made of 100% fresh fruit, without addition of sugar, concentrate, preservatives or use of heat. The packaging consists of a white HDPE (high density polyethylene) bottle that helps maintain high Vitamin C levels (extra 15% retention rate over clear bottles). It is a high quality product aimed at health-conscious consumers. The juice is delivered to companies that want to provide their employees with a fresh, healthy and tasty alternative to the usual soft-drinks. To meet customer demand and taste, Fruitness produces different flavours. It focuses on citrus juices, all with an orange basis: Orange ² (100% orange), Orange & Lime

Vidsoft Case Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Vidsoft Case Analysis - Essay Example The company, to avoid this sort of situation in the future, could install more team-based leadership tasks. Li is a people person and motivator in the case, but Hsu is very positional and by-the-book. Babatunde needs to understand that in dealing with Li, gender stereotypes are not viable explanations for understanding the impact of personal factors on choices about conflict resolution strategies. In the co-orientation model, the degree to which two employees hold similar views about a topic is known as agreement. The latent conflict phase is marked by the impact the conflict has on the ongoing work relationship of the parties involved. Things are changing in the internet age as well in terms of communication. The conflict management style marked by high concern for self and high concern for others is collaboration. A mediator is a third-party conflict role specializing in the exercise of control over the negotiation process and its outcomes (Babatunde’s role). Network analysis is one way that conflict resolution researchers study conflict generation and resolution. During the manifest conflict stage, conflict strategies are enacted in communicative interaction. Babatunde needs to present strong leadership skills and a sense of direction in order to optimize employee performance. Too often, different departments of organizations tend to dissolve along lines of ineffective communication in group meetings in which the manager becomes less of a leader and more of a scapegoat or outmoded mouthpiece of the status quo, and in situations such as these, political infighting and departmental disagreement over issues of funding and allocation make take priority over what should be the clear mission and shared vision of all involved; that is, determining what is best for the customer in terms of loyalty and buying behavior,

Final Exam Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Final Exam Questions - Essay Example Congress, were convened to stop the Coercive Acts. Though, the contemporary Congress still performs this duty, it has failed the American people in passing certain laws that are supposed to improve the quality of life of Americans. This is the case of the health care reform debate. Congress, in the view of many Americans, plays politics with the health care reform proposal without putting the interest of Americans in mind. Second, the founding fathers felt that a bond should exist between the people and their representatives. This is to ensure that representatives present the local concerns of their constituency at the national level for solution. Many Americans believe their representatives do not actually represent them but rather represent special interests. The debate on health care reform substantiates this point. Third, the contemporary members of Congress earn much more than the median American income. For instance, non-officer members of Congress earned $169,300 annually whil e the yearly income of most Americans is $45,113 for men and $35,102 for women (Steven et al., 2006). This seems out of place in the opinion of many Americans, given that congresspersons were supposed to represent the people. Fourth, the fact that Congress concealed their pay raise by slipping them into a large bill makes many Americans to distrust them (Steven et al., 2006).

Exam #2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Exam #2 - Essay Example By implementing this program, the company gets the following benefits: Light and modified duty program offers cost savings opportunity for the company to control workers’ compensation and disability costs. A well developed Light and modified duty program must contain the senior management’s support and cultural acceptance by the location management of the program. In addition, a well-made light/modified duty program contains a detailed job description for each task done in the workplace. Potential questions include: A). will there be a rising cost of workers’ compensation and healthcare? –the answer to this question is no, the program in conjunction with the transitional duty will manage this. Also, it is more efficient to pay an employee working at 50% as opposed to paying for workers compensations which is 0% productivity to the company. B). in case of injury, which will be responsible? The answer to this question is, the responsible individuals include the injured employee, supervisor, and program coordinator a. Family medical leave act- Only serious health conditions of the employee constitutes a modified work program. This act is only relevant in cases where the employee has a serious accident, with the approval of a medical practioner. b. The Americans with disabilities act- This act enables employers to make permanent reservations for employees who are disabled. This means that disabled employees do light duty task. If no outcome is predestined for the light duty program and the employer requests no follow up information, the employer may be sued. Although the employee may be working under the light and modified duty programs, follow up data is necessary. c. Workers compensation statutes- Actual disabilities qualify someone for this act and for a modified work program. An employer may be sued if found to make a sick or injured employee work as

Skills Of Scholar-Practitioners Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Skills Of Scholar-Practitioners - Assignment Example In order to perform the last stage, critical thinking, it is relevant to take part in coursework and writing, thus enabling me to become a connoisseur in my field. Academic writing enables me to better analyze and evaluate relevant information of my field and develop my personal critical reflections based on the latest developments in the modern researchers and studies. Professional communication is triggered once a person is able to identify relevant information for discussion, remember and understand it and further on discuss it with other scientists because the truth is born of arguments (Bell 2007, p. 55). With the help of modern technologies and the Internet web, it is possible to develop proficient searches in different fields. Online libraries and databases are fertile grounds for further improvements and scholar-practitioner skills’ application. In order to advance by basic and proficient skills of a scholar-practitioner, I am going to:1) Outline relevant databases for my research field;2) Evaluate and analyze information available from online and printed sources;3) Remember and understand it;4) Use smart think, the writing center, communicate with faculty members and colleagues for support. Moreover, in order to penetrate into depths of scholar-practitioner skills and information search strategies, I am going to go up the ladder of Paul and Elder’s six stages for developing a good habit of thought. Currently, I am at stage four: The Practicing thinker.

Exam #2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Exam #2 - Essay Example By implementing this program, the company gets the following benefits: Light and modified duty program offers cost savings opportunity for the company to control workers’ compensation and disability costs. A well developed Light and modified duty program must contain the senior management’s support and cultural acceptance by the location management of the program. In addition, a well-made light/modified duty program contains a detailed job description for each task done in the workplace. Potential questions include: A). will there be a rising cost of workers’ compensation and healthcare? –the answer to this question is no, the program in conjunction with the transitional duty will manage this. Also, it is more efficient to pay an employee working at 50% as opposed to paying for workers compensations which is 0% productivity to the company. B). in case of injury, which will be responsible? The answer to this question is, the responsible individuals include the injured employee, supervisor, and program coordinator a. Family medical leave act- Only serious health conditions of the employee constitutes a modified work program. This act is only relevant in cases where the employee has a serious accident, with the approval of a medical practioner. b. The Americans with disabilities act- This act enables employers to make permanent reservations for employees who are disabled. This means that disabled employees do light duty task. If no outcome is predestined for the light duty program and the employer requests no follow up information, the employer may be sued. Although the employee may be working under the light and modified duty programs, follow up data is necessary. c. Workers compensation statutes- Actual disabilities qualify someone for this act and for a modified work program. An employer may be sued if found to make a sick or injured employee work as

Concepts of Culture and Society Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Concepts of Culture and Society - Research Paper Example There are different elements of culture and social forces that continuously influence us as an individual in society. These elements not only differentiate us from people belonging to other cultures but also help us stick to our basic values and traditions. Some of the most important elements of culture and social forces influencing us include language, values, religion, social organization, and arts and literature. Values are the cultural standards, which help us determine what is right and what is wrong whereas norms are the rules of a culture, which tell us how to behave in a society. Every culture has its own norms and values, which distinguish people from one another. Language helps us communicate our feelings to other people around us. People speaking the same language usually share a common culture. However, in some societies people speak different languages due to different cultural backgrounds. This element of culture makes a person identified as a person belonging to some specific culture. Social organization is another basic element of a culture. Social organization refers to the collection of institutions, social groups, classes, and social forces such as family and relatives, which form a society. Every individual has different social grouping and class in a society, which distinguishes him or her from other individuals living in a society. Socialization is a very complex process, which helps a person think and behave according to what is considered worthy (Berns, 2010, p. 12). Socializing agents such as family, school, peer groups, technology, workplace, religion, and state influence us as individuals in a society. The social views, political views, and social norms and values portrayed by the mass media and technology put a deep impact on the thoughts of every individual distinguishing him or her from other individuals. Workplace is another socializing

External influences Essay Example for Free

External influences Essay Three ways in which an increase in unemployment might affect Hacker PLC are Organisation, Payments, and Government spending. Organisation Unemployment can have a number of effect on the internal organisation of a business. It may mean that the firm can no longer afford to recruit new members of staff because of low demand for its products. New, often young, recruits to a firm will no longer be coming through. In addition, new posts which arise may be filled through retraining of existing staff rather than recruitment. This can lead to significant changes in the age profile of an organisations employees. Redundancies are also a common feature of a period of high unemployment. Whilst the work of some who are made redundant will not be replaced, the responsibilities and roles of others may be added to the job description of those who remain within the firm. This can lead to increasing demands on existing employees. During periods of high unemployment, some firms reorganise their internal structure. This may mean the loss of a whole tier in the hierarchy or the changing of individuals job description. Payments Businesses may be faced with making redundancy payments to workers. These tend to vary between firms depending upon the average length of service of the employee. The cost of reorganisation caused by redundancies will also have to be borne by firms. Such costs may include lost productivity after a reorganisation as employees struggle to cope with new responsibilities. It may be easier for firms to recruit new employees during a period of high unemployment. This is because there is a large pool of people to choose from, with more applicants for each available post. In addition, because of the increased competition for new jobs, people may be prepared to work for less money. In this way firms can lower their labour costs. Government spending High levels of unemployment mean that government spending on social security will be high. Also, the government will lose revenue from tax and National insurance contributions which people would have paid had they been in employment. To male up for this the government may borrow, increase taxation or reduce other items of spending. 8. Structural unemployment can offer UK businesses the opportunities of new methods of productions and competition from overseas. The business benefits from the changing of pattern of demands because this means that because the business may make use of modern technology/machinery, there will be less human intervene required. This is a benefit has the business is reducing its labour costs and total costs. This is a benefit because although this means that redundancy will be made and high labour turn over will be made, at least the business will be able to keep the money spent on labour and enjoy greater profits. Secondly, the business may be gain an opportunity from this because an encouragement can be made to foreign producers to establish their businesses in UK. This will benefit the firm because it means the firm can negotiate with the government to receive grants and support with the establishment of the business, as the firm can provide employment to people and possibly to those people as well with skills not needed by domestic businesses. 15. The likely implications for the government trying to reduce the unemployment are that in Cyclical employment the business may suffer from the falling sales. In the short term, the businesses may be able to add any surplus production to stocks. Alternatively, businesses may seek new market, perhaps overseas. However, not all businesses may suffer from the changes in unemployment, whilst suppliers of luxury products could suffer substantial reduction in sales. Secondly, in structural unemployment the effects on the businesses can be severe because its often highly localised and very persistent. If there is need to a reduce output, then rationalisation and redundancy might follow and factories and offices may be closed. Research and development plans may be abandoned or postponed as firms seek to reduce their costs to match their reduced revenues. The predicted fall in the level of demand may encourage the firms to diversify.

Business Ethics Case Study: Primark

Business Ethics Case Study: Primark This assignment will review the literature on Business Ethics within the context of a particular organisation PRIMARK. To enhance our understanding of the concepts of values and morals our study defines and evaluates ethics in a business context; simultaneously throwing light on issues such as disposable fashion and ethical sourcing. 1. INTRODUCTION Primark, the cult value fashion brand owned by Associated British Foods (ABF) is the largest clothing retailer in UK by volume with a whooping 207 stores spanning across Europe. Mr. Arthur Ryan, founder and chairman has been credited of bringing affordable fashion to the high street and is also credited for nurturing Primark into an astounding success story. Starting from the first store in Ireland in 1969 till the 207th store in 2010, this brand has experienced phenomenal growth. Primark picked up the Multi Market Retailer of the year 2010 award at the Oracle world retail awards ceremony. Market Share 18.2% (http://www.primark.co.uk/page.aspx?pointerid=eb44df4565934edca627dac6ec12145a) 2. LITERATURE REVIEW Business Ethics Barry (1979) defines Ethics as studying what constitutes good and bad human conduct, including related actions and values. According to Velasquez (2010), the prime focus of business ethics lay on morals and values with respect to company policies, decisions and framework. He categorizes business ethics by: social issues, company issues and individual issues. From the National Business Ethics Survey (NBES), Verschoor cited that companies today are increasingly giving importance to ethical behavior and social responsibility. Also, more unethical practices are getting exposed rather than unethical behavior committed. Hence, it confirms evidence of the fact that companies are taking this issue seriously in order to not jeopardize their global brand and image. At this juncture, one should think about why should companies engage in ethical business practices? Is it simply to abide by the law, as it is the right thing to do or because it benefits them to do so? This may seem as a moral dilemma in several ways since it is the central issue in business ethics. (Fisher and Lovell, 2009) An increasing number of consumers make their purchase decisions based on ethical values of a company. Hence, it is crucial to make consumers aware of the ethical issues in trade and to understand what would prompt them to modify their consumption patterns. Marketing strategies can then be developed based on this understanding. (http://www.nri.org/publications/policyseries/PolicySeriesNo12.pdf) Ethical Consumerism Ethical Consumerism is an emerging process that emphasizes on socially responsible trade activities. It is just as much about supporting the good companies and products, as it is about withdrawing support from the bad ones. An ethical consumer will help in providing information one needs to make an informed decision about a purchase. (http://www.ethicalconsumer.org/ShoppingEthically/WhyBuyEthically.aspx) (http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1690945) Positive ethical purchase behavior, takes into account the trends that comprise attempts to purchase ethical products. For example, use of Fair-trade or Organic products. Negative ethical purchase behavior or boycott, has been regarded as the key form of ethical consumerism. It means avoiding products that are unethical. Therefore, an informed consumer would only choose products that reflect moral responsibility. For instance, in 1997 MORI survey for CAFOD on purchasing products from developing countries, there was particularly high support for a minimum agreed standard of labor conditions for workers in developing countries; 92% of the sample thought that this should apply to UK companies. (http://www.nri.org/publications/policyseries/PolicySeriesNo12.pdf) Ethical Sourcing Ethical sourcing simply put is the moral standards put forward by companies, which source their goods from other third party vendors. These standards have been set up to allow companies to ensure that the work they have contracted out to third party firms, have been conducted in an ethical manner. A critical analysis of the levels of ethical standards would lead one to an understanding that the highest level of ethical compliance lies in ethical sourcing. This is because nearly all other ethical standards are internal standards falling within the control of an organization and its framework, whereas ethical sourcing would deal with the (outsourced) production outside the purview of the organization. In essence, to be a supplier for an organization that has ethical sourcing guidelines, the supplier must also be an ethical organization. However, this is an ethical standard that is predominantly seen in companies in developed countries that contract their work to companies located in de veloping countries. Ethical Sourcing in the society is not well regulated although there are rules and statutes in place. In the UK, the Combined Code on corporate governance does not deem it essential for companies to adhere to certain policies. Companies can get away with simply explaining why they have not complied with specific provisions in their annual report. This again is only a regulatory mechanism that is in place for public limited companies, which are listed on the stock exchange (Preuss, 2009). Both these mechanisms were set up to pacify the public and various industry players, as neither of these acts have actual policing power. Most companies Ethical Sourcing guide is a copy from governing bodies Statute on Ethical Sourcing. The governing body in the United Kingdom is the ETI (Ethical Trading Initiative) (Preuss, 2009). The ETI is essentially a consortium of companies, trade unions and industry players who work together for the upliftment of the workers who make various consumer goods. Most companies take the statute from the ETI and plug in their own inputs or areas of concern. According to Preuss Ethical Sourcing includes ensuring ethical standards are followed by work contracted to outside companies from an environmental, economic and social standpoint. However one must realize that these are determined by the individual companies and are tailored to suit their needs and stress is laid on areas of concern to the company putting forth these standards. This leads ethical sourcing standards to be very industry and firm specific. According to Preuss, the key areas of concern, in order of importance, across industries are as follows: a) Employment Issues Compliance with Local Laws Safe working environment No Child Labor Non- Excessive working hours Avoiding Illegal Immigrants b) Environmental Issues Commitment to Environmental Protection Compliance to local laws Minimization of Waste Control of Emission/ Pollution Use of Environmentally friendly Technologies c) Economic Issues Confidentiality of Supplier Issues Prompt Payment Reciprocal Business Relationship not required Support for Smaller and Local Suppliers Recognizing Risk of Dependant Suppliers Acknowledge Hardship where Relationship ended (Preuss, 2009) 3. ANALYSIS The world we live in has moved into a new stage of mass consumerism, where no matter how much we have is never enough. As a result, our lives have become more materialistic. This shift has been extremely beneficial to large corporations, who have recognised and exploited the potential of the markets. This holds true for several industries especially the retail and fashion industry. Disposable fashion or Fast fashion is the new trend, which has been catching on among clothing giants like HM, Forever21, New Look and Primark. It refers to the practice of producing cheaper imitations of the latest fashion trends that are mass-produced quickly at comparatively low costs. This makes fashion more accessible to a larger segment of the population. It may be considered a boon by millions of avid shoppers but it also has considerable drawbacks. First, it possess a serious threat to Fashion designers whose work has been replicated. Further, the ways in which these garments and accessories are being produced also have serious environmental consequences. Lastly, the business models that make the retail giants everyday low prices possible rely on subsidies from millions of people around the globe (Cashing In: Clean Clothes Campaign, 2009). Millions of workers in the fashion industry have become little more than slaves, stated Neil Kearney (2007), General Secretary of the International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers ´ Federation (ITGLWF). Poor working conditions and terms of employment, along with low wages are common problems that occur across garment-manufacturing factories. Workers in countries like India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and China have a large population that lives below the poverty line, providing extremely cheap labour for companies worldwide. This already oppressed section of society is further exploited to meet the needs of large corporations globally. Workers in garment manufacturing factories are often robbed of their basic rights. A woman at a Walmart and Carrefour supplier in Bangladesh reportedly said, I feel so sick and tired after a days work that I do not want to work the next day. But hunger does not allow thinking of sickness; the thought of living with an empty stomach makes everyth ing else forgotten. We work to save ourselves from hunger. (Clean Clothes Campaign, 2009). Unfortunately, the impact on these factory workers is not equally spread. It is the women and children who suffer the most. A recent survey in India suggests that a quarter of all garment factories are employing under-age labour. Most of the production is for export to Europe (Neil Kearney, 2007). The scandalous truth is that the majority of workers in the global fashion industry rarely earn more than two dollars a day, in an industry worth over  £36 billion a year in the UK alone(Lets Clean Up Fashion, 2009). Workers wages are often much lower than the cost of living in their respective countries. Labourers work for over 80 hours a week at 5pence an hour and are often not paid for the additional hours of work they put in. A woman at a Tesco Supplier was documented saying, We do a lot of overtime. Almost every day there is at least one hour extra. We are called on Sundays as well. However, our monthly wage slip will not show all the overtime that we do. It will quote only 1-2 hours as overtime in a month (Clean Clothes Campaign, 2009). Garment workers are the linchpins of an industry worth over  £36 billion annually in the UK alone (Lets Clean Up Fashion, 2008). Workers in these garment factories end up paying a high price for cheap clothes. The colossal growth of such companies is a testament to the thriving businesses that they are running. Therefore, making their responsibility towards their operations even more pertinent. Many low cost giant retailers claim that they are taking measures to ethically source their materials and ensure workers labour rights, however, this is not enough. There is an urgent need for improvements in the corporate social responsibility system, on behalf of the garment retailers. Primark, part of ABF is the second largest clothing retailer in UK in terms of volume (Associated British Foods; Retail Segmentation, 2010). The Primark brand has made itself synonymous with affordable fashion. Its value proposition is to provide low cost and highly fashionable clothing, which is targeted at lower income, fashion conscious shoppers. Keeping this in mind, it is no real mystery that Primark must keep its production and overhead costs as low as possible so as to profitably sell their cheaply priced goods. To maintain profitability and to keep their value proposition in mind, Primark had to keep the production costs low. This had been done by outsourcing work to textile factories in developing countries across Asia. Primark claims that these factories are properly vetted and audited to ensure adherence to fairly high ethical standards that are a part of their supplier contract. Here, a question arises as to how does Primark manage to provide cheap clothing? It is assumed to be the result of negotiations with their suppliers, which is something most suppliers would be willing to compromise on, just to include a brand like Primark on their client list. The onus lies on these suppliers to produce goods at extremely low costs, considering the abundant availability of cheap labour in developing countries. However, they may opt to subcontract the work or parts of it to vendors with less standardised capital equipment in terms of employee work force and standard of work areas just to maintain optimum profitability. These subcontractors are generally production houses that operate from basements or garages rather than an industrialised area. They simply provide a more profitable way for the contractor to get their orders completed. Surprisingly, these subcontractors are outside the purview of most audits and do not form a part of the regulated market. This allows them to operate, abusing many laws and flouting most rules prescribed by the government and by Primark who gives the original order for production. They ensure that the goods are sent to the factories and no outsiders get to see their production facilities where they employee ch ildren, pay low wages and provide unsatisfactory working conditions. However, at the end of the day all fat cats in the supply chain are able to make their bag of money and a customer at the end of the chain is able to get a nice fashionable top to wear for under five pounds!!! The retail sales figure for the year 2009 has shown a remarkable upswing for Primark as compared to other high street clothing brands. It has emerged as one of the strongest brands during the time of recession and has been recognised as a major success story. In 2008, the big Primark expose was broadcasted on television that caused public outrage and media dismay. This also led to Primark being designated as UKs most unethical clothes shop. But the question here arises, that even after consumers being aware of the unethical practices the clothing chain has cemented its position at the top. (http://londonfashionnetwork.com/c/19/248/primark-vs-our-ethics). This is what a consumer had to say after the expose- I very much doubt it will stop me from shopping in Primark though. My budget is smaller than my conscience Sugarplumfairy 26th May 2008, 22:51 (http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=589698HYPERLINK http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=589698..) I just dont c are really -by Narrr 25th February, 2010. (http://makewealthhistory.org/2009/01/12/how-long-can-primark-get-away-with-it/) The story of rising profits continued, as seen in The Guardian (2009). The report stated that Primark was amongst the fewer retailers who were prospering in the times of recession posting 10% increase in profits. Primark, despite receiving all the bad press in the months prior to the launch of its flagship store in Oxford Street, London, was the scene of a stampede at its opening. Essentially, one can clearly reason that a normal consumer does not really care. This is cemented in black and white in their Annual report, which shows sales figure to be a staggering  £1.1bn, an increase of about 18% from the previous year. (http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/apr/21/primark-announces-profit-riseHYPERLINK http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/apr/21/primark-announces-profit-rise..) This perception denotes that some people think employing them is in the poor mans interest It always makes me laugh when people go on about unethical; whats more unethical giving them a job and a way of living or producing all our stuff here and letting them starve? Secondly, I cant afford  £30 for a top when I can go to Primark and get one for  £3. Thud, 25th May 2008 (http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=589698). The upward trend continued, with Primark performing spectacularly in 2010 with an increase of 35% in operating costs. Sales figures at the popular fashion chain increased by 18% to  £2.7bn. Further, an increase in operating profits to  £341mn helped by 13 new stores including its first ever in Belgium. Going by the popularity, the management will continue opening new stores all over Europe, where they expect considerable growth. (The Guardian, 2010). It has also agreed to buy 10 stores from their rival Bhs that are scheduled to open from the next fina ncial year that will add 300,000 sq. feet selling space, which points out that they are considering expansion plans. (http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/retailing/article7035964.ece) Following BBCs Panorama documentary, Primark conducted a private investigation, which led them to terminate contracts with three Indian suppliers. A spokesman from Primark stated, We take this lapse in standards very seriously indeed. Under no circumstances would Primark ever knowingly permit such activities, whether directly through its suppliers or through third party sub-contractors. (BBC, 2008). As a direct response to the crisis, Primark created a comprehensive website called www.ethicalprimark.com. This website contained information and videos which strengthened their positive attitude towards values and policies regarding ethical trading. It was targeted at consumers which aimed at eliminating any doubts regarding Primarks sourcing. Primark soon created a new standardised selection process for its suppliers, along with a strict Supplier Code of Conduct. They also went on to formulate a stringent auditing program to avoid such a crisis. Their code of conduct was translated into 26 different languages so that workers in factories understand their rights. In addition, Primark heavily invested in new software from BSI management systems that was designed to help Primark manage its supply chain more effectively. In 2009, Primark established a specialized Ethical Trade Program. It consisted of a Director of Ethical Trade, along with ethical trade staff who was stationed in sourcing countries. Primarks Ethical Trade Strategy aimed at implementing ethical trade policies and ensuring suppliers met the required standards. Through workshops, training and audits this committed team intended to protect the rights of workers within the supply chains. On assessing the compatibility of Primark in terms of its Marketing and Ethics (Lecture Notes) on a scale of one to ten, we would position Primark in Group B category. Based on our reading, it has been targeted victim a number of times for its indulgence in unethical practices. However, it never admitted to the onus of such activities, hence we can say they are responsible and hence, abiding by the law and not Group A. They do not have a set of core, non-financial values and principles that is regarded as one of the most important assets of a companys existence, which strikes them off Group D. Also, they are not strongly committed to being ethical; else they wouldnt have been targeted several times for their morally irresponsible activities. Hence, they do not fall within Group C. Primarks value proposition is provision of cheap clothing. To fulfill the same, they need to keep the cost of production minimal. With this in mind, the companys purpose for existence is to ensure profits f or ABF rather than being socially responsible. They do try to improve ethical standards but not at the cost of reducing their profits. Thus, we think Primark falls under Group B. All companies function differently and can classified and put in different groups based on their ethical standing. As has been shown below: Kolhbergs theory of moral reasoning (Referencing Lecture Notes and URL) Kohlberg suggested that a company progresses in their moral reasoning (i.e., in their bases for ethical behaviour) through a series of stages. He believed that there were six identifiable stages. Stage 1 Organisations behave according to socially acceptable norms and their motive is to abide by the law. Stage 2 Characterised by a view that right behavior means acting in ones self interest. Stage 3 Complying with social norms. Characterised by an attitude, which seeks to do what will gain the approval of others. Stage 4 Oriented to abiding by the law and responding to the obligations of duty. Stage 5 A genuine interest in the welfare of society and prepared to challenge the societal norms when necessary. Stage 6 Belief in universal principles. Based on respect for universal principles and the demands of individual conscience. Referring back to the initial model of categorising companies between Groups A D, we would place Primark at level 2 on the Kohlbergs model of moral reasoning. Primark, as a company is known to act for its self-interest. This level complements its characteristics of Group B. This can be supported by the fact that although Primark has been pointed fingers at several times for their indulgence in unethical practices, their responses have always been the same and nothing has practically been done about it i.e., they have taken the necessary steps to control unethical practices and would try further tighten control over suppliers. (BBC, 2008) 4. CONCLUSION It can be expected to be less about ethics and more about a promise of freedom from moral anxiety when in fact it is that anxiety that is the substance of morality. From this we understand that a company chooses to be as ethical as it really wants to be. From what we gather, Primark would like to be seen as an ethical company. After the expose, Primark made sure they improved their ethical standards as well as their suppliers standards. Primark paid for auditors to ensure the ethical standards of their suppliers, which is a sign of dedication to their ethical stance. As a group, we concluded that even though Primark was at the centre of this scandal, they have been repeatedly targeted by market speculations primarily because they are the big name at the end of the supply chain. One must acknowledge that Primark is not entirely at fault. Its suppliers sub-contracted work to other local vendors, without Primarks knowledge. These sub-contracted vendors had children working in their warehouses, which were overworked and paid sub standard wages. Primarks auditors should have been aware of this. This poses the question of who is responsible for allowi ng these ethical breaches to take place. After the expose, Primark has taken various steps to portray an ethical image and maintain a high level of ethical standards. After sacking suppliers who did not meet their standards, they invested in auditing software, and established a specialized ethical strategy.   So is Primark really at fault or is it easier to blame a giant retailer. The fact remains that Primark and its suppliers were caught again engaging in the same unethical practices, so was Primark turning a blind eye or were they unaware of the situation. The expose hit the public eye during the recession, where people were shopping on the cheap, thereby forcing them to switch to cheaper alternatives.   Does that make your everyday shopper an unethical consumer, or were these consumers forced to shop at Primark solely for economic reasons? If the former is true, Primark and its suppliers will be able to continue trading without a problem.   However, if one dwells on it and the latter is true, the time line for Panorama to have an effect on the minds of the society has faded away. Essentially, it is upto Primarks conscience whether they want to take strict action against their auditors and suppliers ensuring adherence to higher ethical standards, or will they simply portray an image of having taken action to put to rest the allegations against them.