Summary Of Rising Tide Bear Bryant, Joe Namath - 1181 Words

The title of my book is Rising Tide: Bear Bryant, Joe Namath, and Dixie s Last Quarter it is a biography written by Randy Roberts Ed Krzmienski. Throughout the years of the civil rights movement, this story took place in Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1957, where Bear Bryant was announced as the new head coach of the University of Alabama. The two main characters are Joe Namath and Paul Bear Bryant. The theme of this book is about the legendary coach Paul Bryant and how he helped Joe Namath overcome the struggle of segregation on and off the football field. Considering the relationship of the athlete and coach during golden era of the game, it addresses the losses, the commitment, and the determination in becoming one of the nation s elite.†¦show more content†¦Despite him playing in the southern conference Namath kept his distances from that pelage conditions of segregation in the south. Meanwhile, he did not look, speak or behave like Bryant s other boys, and it was not just because he was a northerner. Even though his head coach Bear Bryant acknowledged Namath s greatness, Bryant was no coddler, frequently drawing Namath from games after bad performances. Coach Bryant told all of his players that no starting spots were given based on reputation. Bryant had a gaze that was challenging to meet, the penetrating intensity that made a man terrified to look into his eyes directly because it might be defined as a challenge, and afraid to look away because it might be considered as a lack of resolve. There was nothing about Coach Bryant that showed a sign of softness or suggested he couldn t kick the ass of any man within hollering range. Bear was in a foul state of mind and had been for quite a while. Coming to Alabama had taken a toll on Coach Bryant significantly, and cash was the slightest of it. The chain occasions that incited his turn from Texas AM started a long way from the football field. In February 1956, following a three-year court fight, Autherine Lucy, a college alum from Shiloh, Alabama, became the first African American student to go to the University of Alabama. Her appearance on campus incited a progression of dissents, going from marches and addresses to savagery. Despite the fact that she got

Essay about Cyber Bullying and Hate Speech - 1161 Words

Free speech is both a universal and national liberty. The United Nations and the United States of America believe that free speech is something that humans should be allowed to exercise. However, each respective group has their own limitations. These limitation, although broad, protect against free speech being taken too far. Like any liberty or privilege there must be a line in the sand to keep extremists from aggressively using and abusing this right. The United Nations formed The Universal Declaration of Human Rights. With in this declaration are 40 articles with a preamble examining the rights which they believe are basic and necessary. Article 19 from this declaration says, Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and†¦show more content†¦Where a few years ago an angry review or nasty play ground comment could be only voiced verbally and face to face. Now, we are able to access several mediums and platforms which provide us the ability to express ourselves on the in ternet and more importantly in writing. Good, bad and ugly words are forever imprinted online, particularly on social media. With social media sites and technology making improvements in leaps and bounds, we excitedly work to keep up. New laws are being crafted to protect us from hate speech and cyber bullying. A younger generation are drawn to social media and have the ability to connect to friend and (perhaps) foes. Kids may take to the web to seek out justice after being wronged by a friend, but what are the rules for web based threats and ugly words? Cases have been made of kids lashing out on teachers and peers by creating hate groups and posting comments voicing their strong opinions. While many kids feel this is a harmless act that could be compared to griping about another student or teacher during their free time, authorities feel it is much different. Hate Speech Cyber Bullying Hate speech is considered a limitation of free speech. It is socially unacceptable to use racial, religious or sexual slurs and individual countries, states, or districts may place political restrictions on free speech. These limitations protect citizens from harm, emotional orShow MoreRelatedIs Cyber Bullying Ruins Self Esteem?1531 Words   |  7 Pagesfriend. Cyber-bullying ruins self-esteem when it occurs and Cyber-bullying as well as regular bulling supports the First and Fourth Amendment. The First Amendment gives citizens of the United States the right to say, write, publish, and believe what they want as long as it does not violate the rights of others and create dangerous situations. Many US citizens that believe the First Amendment applies to students would agree that students have the right to voice their opinions and that hate speech isRead MoreSpeech On The Bill Of Rights1153 Words   |  5 Pagesof speech, or of the press† (Alderman and Kennedy, pg.21). Because of the First Amendment, hate speech, â€Å"no matter how offensive its content†, was â€Å"protected† under the laws (ACLZ). However, people are still demanding more. They want hate-related speech to be allowed on campuses –without knowing the effects and the damage it could do. Hate speech could bring people down, lower their confidences and their school performance, and in some case, school avoidance. The audiences of offensive speech onRead MoreCyberbullying s Hold On Tod ay s Society1384 Words   |  6 Pagesis only what the survey covered - it does not account for the whole teenage population. Another big problem with cyber bullying is not that it is happening, it is that many kids do not think that the adults that may be able to help or do not really care much. In an article by Jessica Priest, an award winning journalist for The Victoria Advocate, a high school student that had been cyber bullied recently due to her role in a school play was interviewed. What she had to say was rather disheartening;Read MoreCriminalization of Cyberbullying1026 Words   |  5 Pageseffects of cyber bullying are becoming a growing problem, the criminalization of cyber bullying is needed to prevent its harmful repercussions to the United States and serve as a deterrent. Cyber bullying has become the 21st century version of bullying; it has extended beyond the classroom and onto a virtual world that seems to have no real-life effects. The world is now able to bully someone in the comfort of his or her own home, at any given point, with the use of technology. However, Cyber bullyingRead MoreAn Increase in the Worlds Technology Brings and Increase in Cyber Bullying 762 Words   |  4 PagesCyber Bullying The increase in the world of technology comes with a horrific price. According to a non-profit organization for social revision, â€Å"eighty-one percent of adolescents think bullying online is easier to get away with than bullying in person.† (11 Facts About Cyber Bullying). Universally, there is controversy involving stronger laws for cyber bullying. Unfortunately, many individuals live by the motto â€Å"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.† People also believeRead MoreMy Family - Original Writing Essay1131 Words   |  5 Pageseyes out while yelling at my sister. How could this happen to you? Why did you want to do this? Why did I get a call from the cops at two in the morning saying that you were thinking about killing yourself, my mom yells, fiercely shaking in fear. I hate my life, my sister screams back at them practically swimming in her own tears. By this point, both of my brothers have awoken and are now standing alongside me witnessing this heartbreaking scene. But why Casey, my dad softly says, trying to holdRead MoreCyber Bullying1493 Words   |  6 PagesKNOWS WHO YOU ARE, YOU ARE A BAD PERSON AND EVERYBODY HATES YOU. HAVE A BAD REST OF YOUR LIFE, THE WORLD WOULD BE A BETTER PLACE WITHOUT YOU. MEAGAN RESPONDED YOU’RE THE TYPE OF BOY A GIRL WOULD KILL HERSELF OVER ABOUT TWENTY MINUTES LATER MEAGAN WAS FOUND IN HER BEDROOM CLOSET WHERE SHE HAD HUNG HERSELF, AND DESPITE EFFORTS TO REVIVE HER, SHE WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD THE NEXT DAY. THIS CRUEL PRANK THAT WAS PLAYED ON MEAGAN IS KNOWN AS CYBER BULLYING. IN THE YEARS SINCE I FIRST HEARD THIS STORY I’VE HEARDRead More Cyber Bullying Essay1419 Words   |  6 Pagesare unaware of is bullying exists in many forms and is more common in the cyber world. In 2012, CBC news reporter Joan Leishman , aired â€Å"Cyber-bullying,† she describes a story about a student named David Knight’s unbearable life entering the Internet. Later in 2014 , Rachel Simmons, a former Rhodes Scholar and the founding director of the Girls Leadership Institute, wrote an article titled â€Å"Cyberbullying Is a Growing Problem.† Simmons article addressed the impact of cyber bullying in the 21st centuryRead MoreIs Bullying A Serious Problem?1683 Words   |  7 PagesHistory of the Problem Bullying has been an ongoing problem all over the world for as long as people can remember. Bullying by definition is, to use superior strength or influence to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants. Bullying is a very serious problem, victims of bullying are more prone to depression. Bullying does not affect just one group, it can happen to anyone making it a prevalent threat to all of society. Approximately 160,000 teens skip school everyRead MoreStudent Code Of Conduct And Employee Handbook867 Words   |  4 Pagespseudonym on Tumblr until after her passing where repeated threats and bullying took place. Beaufort County Schools has added anti-bully prevention and conflict resolution programs available online to prevent future tragedy like this one from occurring again. The student code of conduct and employee handbook has anti-bullying contracts requiring the signatures of all students and faculty members. Vowing they will report all forms of bullying. Students are accountable for de-escalating conflicts, avoiding

Cooperative Learning and Cloud Computing †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Cooperative Learning and Cloud Computing. Answer: Organizational structure of Wesfarmers Wesfarmers is an Australian company which operates supermarkets, liquor, hotels and convenience stores. The company has an industrial division with businesses in chemicals, energy and fertilizers, industrial and safety products. The company is managed by a group of directors and a managing director. There is chief operating officer. There is a company secretary, chief human resources officer and executive general manager (corporate affairs). There is also a finance director (Wesfarmers, 2017). Thus there are several functional heads giving the impression that there is functional organization structure in the company. There are a number of employees under the company secretary with a hierarchical structure. Similarly there are many employees under the chief human resource officer. Some of them are seniors than others in the department. So there are several departments in the company looking after specialized tasks. But there are also many divisions in the company for various types of businesses. There are divisional heads like Managing Director Coles and Managing Director Bunnings. Coles is a supermarket chain run by the company. There are employees in each of the divisions performing different functions and tasks. Some of them reporting directly to divisional heads. So there is an impression that the company has an hybrid organizational structure. There are many lines of authority in the organization. Operational problems faced by Wesfarmers In case of functional organization structure, there is greater degree of specialization (Smallbusiness.chron.com, 2017). The employees in one department know only one kind of work. For example an employee in the sales department would not know how things are done in the human resources department. Moreover there are different divisions in the company. If the salary of one of the employees in the Coles division is not being cleared due to some reason, the person would be asked by the individuals senior in the division to go to the human resources department to solve the problem. In this case the person might be harassed by the employees in the human resource department as the individual does not know how things are done there (Robbins et al., 2017). This operational problem is due to the lack of knowledge about the work of a department. There needs to be more interaction between the employees of different departments. According to Fan, Wong and Zhang (2013), governments have built companies with pyramid like structure with many layers of hierarchy to minimize the effects of political interference. As we go up the hierarchy people on different levels of organization decrease. In Wesfarmers also there are many lines of authority which would create confusions and delays also in decision making. It becomes difficult to understand who is in control in different situations. According to Fjeldstad et al., (2012) firms increasingly face pressures due to complex and changing global environment. The authors advocate adoption of new type of organizational designs which are formed keeping in mind employees who can self organize and share resources. Protocols and processes are designed for multi employee collaboration. The emphasis is on flexibility in organizational design. System acquisition method Every big company nowadays has a software for managing its business operations. These software help in doing the work of recording business transactions and also furnish reports for use by the top management for taking important decisions. The bigger a company, the chances are more complex are its business operations. In the market there are different types of software like commercial software which anyone can buy and install in the companys computers for use. These are more or less standardized software which offer the same facilities for different users. But a big company like Wesfarmers has lot of resources. It can contact the best software developers in the country to make a software which is designed specifically for its use (Featuredcustomers.com, 2017). This is a custom software. The software company already has certain software in its stock which it would offer to Wesfarmers. The company like Wesfarmers must have done enterprise resource planning and would like a software which can keep track of the inventory of its products in various divisions. It would like a software which can consolidate the results of its various divisions to produce a consolidated income statement and balance sheet. The software should also be able to tell about the slow moving stock so that company can decide which products to store less in its stores. Moreover if there is any abnormal loss of products, it should also be recorded. The software should be able to calculate automatically liquidity and profitability ratios. Parry et al., (2012) studied the business to business relationship in software industry. A two level analysis of customer outlook on relationship characteristics was done. It was found the major things that were taken into account while buying software was product price, functionality, bilingual capability, location and software quality. Interpersonal skills, trust and professionalism of seller were also important. Flow chart of sales procedure Wesfarmers has over 15000 suppliers across the group. Coles is the largest consumer business and sources food and groceries. Wesfarmers retail businesses source from several countries. These goods are bought to the ports and then taken to distribution centres of the company. Goods are taken from the distribution centres to the stores of the company all over Australia. The customers of the company visit the stores and move around the stores looking at various items. They pick the items they want and place them in a cart. They take the cart to the purchase counter where an invoice is made and on the payment by the customer, the delivery is made. There are online purchases also (The Conversation, 2017). The customer visits the website of the company on mobile, computer or tablet and clicks the items that are to be purchased. The delivery of the item at the customers place is made by Wesfarmers staff. There is a proper internal control system put in place by the company. When delivery of goods is made from the distribution centre to the store, the delivery note and the purchase order are compared. There is also internal audit of various sales entries made in the computer by the person making sales invoices. The inventory levels are also physically verified. Zaman and Sarens (2013) studied whether there were informal interaction between the audit committees sent by external auditors and the staff of the company who performed the internal audit. It was found that there were regular meetings among the two parties. In addition there were informal meetings that helped external auditors understand better the work done by internal auditors. The following is the flow chart of sales procedures of Wesfarmers. There can be control problems in the above system. There can be a situation where the goods brought from the distribution centre are less and are allowed to come in. In this case more goods were ordered but purchase order not compared properly with the delivery note (Smallbusiness.chron.com, 2017). In this case there would be lesser goods at stores and many customers would return empty handed. There could be theft of goods at the store by staff or customers. They should be properly checked. The goods delivered to the customer should be in accordance with the invoice made. The staff at the purchase counter might be corrupt and misappropriate money received from customers and manipulate accounts to show less sales. Development and adoption of the accounting software packages In the early 1950s and 1960s big companies started handling lot of data. This data could be automated only with the help of computers. Early accounting programs were written for mainframe computers (Mainframes.com, 2017). Mainframe served a large number of users and data was processed in batches. First privately owned UNIVAC 1 in 1955 started handling payroll for a General Electric factory in USA. The companies in 1960s invested in making accounting systems that conformed to their specific needs. The introduction of SAPRF in 1973 meant that there was a single software which could be used by hundreds of people. In 1978 companies could automate their accounting for a few thousand dollars. In 1983 Lotus 1-2-3 was introduced. In this software there were rows and columns in which data could be stored. The data could be numeric as well as text. Even graphs could be made on black and white screens. This software could be run on small computers as well. In 1985 Microsoft launched its spreadsheet called excel which is part of the MS Office software even now and is hugely popular. In 1987 Turbocash in South Africa launched automated system for trial balance, balance sheet and income statement. Ledgers could be consolidated in minutes. Now we have accounting software packages like Xero and MYOB which can make even bank reconciliation statements and other tasks which the accountants had to once do manually on their notebooks. According to Denton, (2012) cloud computing technologies such as Google Docs and Microsoft Office live can improve instructional methods. Department of education in some countries is adopting cloud based features like file sharing and online publishing. Other cloud based activities like cloud accounting are now also on the rise. Current market size The market for cloud accounting is growing in Australia. There are small as well as large businesses which are moving to cloud accounting as it in many cases leads to lesser costs, convenience and lesser work for the companies. The subscriber base of the leading accounting software companies has been growing. Xeros subscribers grew by 51% during 2016 to reach 717000 customers globally. Australia is Xeros biggest market accounting for 312000 subscribers followed by Newzealand with 186000, the United Kingdom with 133000 and the USA with 62000 subscribers (CRN, 2017). MYOB has increased its revenue 11% to hit $178 million for the half year ending 30 June 2016. The number of online subscribers was up by 41% with a total of 200000 users. Quickbooks rose 61% in 2016 to 53000 customers. Quickbooks though a smaller player compared to Xero and MYOB has been growing fast which means that there is hope for other companies to make more customers and increase their market share. Leading software in the market Leading software in the market are Xero, MYOB, Reckon and Quickbooks. These accounting software have become popular because of the number of tasks these software can do, their prices, convenient availability and after sale service. All these software have moved to the cloud and provide online accounting. There are some features in each of the four software that provide them competitive advantage. Xero provides multicurrency accounting which is useful for companies operating in different countries (Xero, 2017). The software also provides asset management facilities. There are different assets on which depreciation is to be provided and they are bought and sold also. Similarly there is automatic making of bank reconciliation statements. Reckon software is more popular among small and medium enterprises. It provides facility of unlimited invoicing and payroll accounting. One can also track projects through this software (Reckon, 2017). MYOB software is more popular among big companies. It is useful for companies like Wesfarmers which have multiple divisions and thousands of customers. The software has fully integrated customer relationship management features. The software can help in shipment tracking and supply chain management. Quickbooks is known for quick invoicing and payment reminder system. It also provides online banking and mobile apps for tracking information. Problems faced by users of accounting software There are many challenges faced by users of accounting software. Some of these software are quite expensive but do not have commensurate features like automatic calculation of bank reconciliation statement. This feature is missing in many software and this is a major problem because reconciliation helps to find missing transactions and incorrect accounts. Some accounting software are slow. This leads to more time taken and extra costs. Many accounting software are outdated. They are inaccurate jeopardizing the entire accounting system of the company. The firms should buy latest software from reputed companies even if it is more expensive. Cloud accounting has many advantages but if there is no proper data security software installed, the data of the company can be stolen. This could lead to loss of thousands of dollars especially if bank accounts are manipulated when online accounting is used. There is the need to install powerful data security software (Filehippo.com, 2017). But this also has some costs involved. Some accounting software are difficult to understand and very less training is provided by the vendor. In this case the company has to organize training programs for its employees. References CRN (2017) Xero paying subscribers jump by 240000. Available at: https://www.crn.com.au/news/xero-paying-subscribers-jump-by-240000-419449 (Accessed: 29 April 2017). Denton, D. (2012) Enhancing instruction through constructivism, cooperative learning, and cloud computing,TechTrends,56(4), pp.34-41. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs11528-012-0585-1?LI=true Fan, J., Wong, T. and Zhang, T. (2013) Institutions and organizational structure: the case of state-owned corporate pyramids,Journal of Law, Economics, and Organization,29(6), pp.1217-1252. Available at: https://academic.oup.com/jleo/article-abstract/29/6/1217/989792/Institutions-and-Organizational-Structure-The-Case Featuredcustomers.com (2017) Wesfarmers Limited utilizes these three vendors. Available at: https://www.featuredcustomers.com/customer/wesfarmers-limited/reviews (Accessed: 28 April 2017). Filehippo.com (2017) Security software. Available at: https://filehippo.com/software/security/ (Accessed: 29 April 2017). Fjeldstad, ., Snow, C., Miles, R. and Lettl, C. (2012) The architecture of collaboration, Strategic Management Journal,33(6), pp.734-750. Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smj.1968/full Mainframes.com (2017) What is a Mainframe ? Available at: https://www.mainframes.com/whatis.html (Accessed: 29 April 2017). Parry, S., Rowley, J., Jones, R. and Kupiec, B. (2012) Customer-perceived value in business-to-business relationships: a study of software customers,Journal of Marketing Management,28(7-8), pp.887-911. Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0267257X.2012.698637 Reckon (2017) Small and medium businesses. Available at: https://www.reckon.com/au/ (Accessed: 29 April 2017). Robbins, S., Judge, T., Millet, B. And Boyle, M. (2017) Organizational behaviour. 7th edn. Australia: Pearson. Smallbusiness.chron.com (2017) Five common features of an internal control system of business. Available at: https://smallbusiness.chron.com/five-common-features-internal-control-system-business-430.html (Accessed: 28 April 2017). Smallbusiness.chron.com (2017) Functional organizational structure advantages. Available at: https://smallbusiness.chron.com/functional-organizational-structure-advantages-3721.html (Accessed: 28 April 2017). The Conversation (2017) Wesfarmers boosts sales, but online still a challenge for retailers. Available at: https://theconversation.com/wesfarmers-boosts-sales-but-online-still-a-challenge-for-retailers-11857 (Accessed: 28 April 2017). Wesfarmers (2017) Leadership team. Available at: https://www.wesfarmers.com.au/who-we-are/leadership-team (Accessed: 28 April 2017). Xero (2017) Features and tools. Available at: https://www.xero.com/us/ (Accessed: 29 April 2017). Zaman, M. and Sarens, G. (2013) Informal interactions between audit committees and internal audit functions: exploratory evidence and directions for future research,Managerial Auditing Journal,28(6), pp.495-515. Available at: https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/02686901311329892

Islam as Most Feared and Controversial Religion

Table of Contents Introduction Religion Politics Military affairs Territorial expansion of Islam Conclusion Works Cited Introduction No faith in the modern society is as feared and controversial as Islam. It covers the common opinion as an extreme religion that has elements of terrorism, authoritarian leadership, gender imbalance, and civil war.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Islam as Most Feared and Controversial Religion specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More However, Islamic religion appears to be complex than we assume. This essay explores the role of Islam in society, its political position, military affairs, and territorial expansion with reference to the period of Prophet Muhammad. Religion History puts it that Islamic faith has evolved from the periods of Prophet Muhammad into present times. The word Islam means submission to God’s will. This definition suggests that everything must obey the rules a nd the will of Allah or the law of nature. The faith teaches that God’s power came to humanity through Quran to Muhammad. Subsequently, Muslims believe that God is all-powerful and know-it-all. Besides, God has no social measures, equals, peers, beginning, or end. The Medina Charter declared Muhammad as the solely prophet of God. Islamic religion asserts that the Quran came through a messenger or prophet of God, and Muhammad was the final of such messengers (Goldschmidt 12). The fundamental belief of the Islamic religion as expressed by Muhammad is the judgment day, which no one can flee. Muslims believe that everyone will face judgment before the heavenly throne (Goldschmidt, 34). The religion observes right actions, rules, and laws. There are five vital pillars of Islamic faith guiding believers. The first pillar is witness (Shuhuduh). This rule stresses that there is only one God and Muhammad is God’s messenger. The second pillar is the worship (salat) or ritual pra yer.Advertising Looking for essay on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Fasting (Saturn) is the third pillar of Islam that Muslims observe during the holy month of Ramadan. The fourth pillar talks about giving of tithe (zakat) or alms. The final pillar talks about pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca. There are also other duties and prohibitions such as jihad to guide believers. They also fight those who forbid God or his prophets, and others who reject allegiance to the true until they pay tribute to Islam. Jihad has many meanings depending on situations and contexts. It can mean fighting Jews, Christians, or pagans. Some modern Muslims claim that jihad is an act of defending Islam against attack from external aggressors through verbal or military attack. Politics During the development of Islamic religion, the religion experienced divisions among the Shiites, Sufis, and Sunnis. We can attribute these divisions to the fact that religious leaders of the time experienced worldly changes, which consumed them just like politicians. Further, scholars note that this power struggle is an abuse of a sacred ideology since religion is not about supremacy. Studies show that the faith of Islam main duty is to create a just society where all members experience equal treatment and respect. The subsequent history had negative effects on Islamic faith. Muslim religion had its own rituals, philosophy, laws, mysticism, laws, shrine, and sacred writings just like any other religion. Islamic political development has evolved through various phases. First, we have the traditional or republican phase, which mainly occurred during earlier periods of establishing Islamic religion among pagans, traders, and nomads. This was the period of Muhammad (Trifkovic 102).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Islam as Most Feared and Controversial Religion specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The second phase was the liberal phases in which Muslims attempted to incorporate many non-Muslims. The final phase is the repressive phase whereby Muslim rulers established complete autocratic systems. This happened after Islam became hardened religion among the converts and conquered (Karsh 18). Some Islam states also favor secularism. This implies that the state and society have secular belief systems and have separated the public life from Islam. In the Islamic context, secularism ideologies promote secular political and social views and not Islamic principles. Therefore, there is a clear distinction between religious life and affairs of the state. As a result, strong followers of Islam have condemned secularism in states with such political ideologies and social values. They believe that public issues should not come before religion. In fact, they feel that religion should influence every aspect of state and public matters. However, we have to note that religion cannot guide diverse interests of people in a state. Some Islamic states have practiced secularism for many centuries. As a result, such states have low cases of human rights abuse. Some historians have concluded that secularism is the best way to run Muslim states. Abdullahi Ahmed An-Na’im asserts, â€Å"enforcing (Sharia) through coercive power of the state negates its religious nature, because Muslims would be observing the law of the state and not freely performing their religious obligation as Muslims† (An-Na’im 3).Advertising Looking for essay on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In some cases, Muslims governments have retained secular approach to governance. However, Sharia laws guide aspects of citizens’ lives in situations of disputes. At the same time, the roles of Sharia laws in these countries differ. Tolerances of secular political and social ideologies have created tensions in many secular states. Opponents believe that such ideologies promote anti-Islamic beliefs, Western supremacy, and imperialism. Military affairs We can understand military affairs from the teachings of Muhammad and contents of Quran under the pillar of jihad. Muslims believe that jihad is a struggle based on the ways of God. Muhammad first proclaimed jihad among his followers and urged them to fight for God. Based on Jihad, Muslims exert their power over others they consider as inappropriate for their belief system. In this sense, a number of interpretations focus on what jihad is. It can be a devil, an enemy, non-Muslim, or aggressor, both from within or outside the terri tory. These multiple meanings have brought confusions to the appropriate usage of the term jihad with reference to war. Some scholars have claimed that the use of jihad without any supporting term simply translates to warfare or military issues (Brockopp 99). At the same time, jihad also reflects Muslims endeavor to attain highest possible spiritual morality. On this morality question, there are differences between ‘greater jihad’ and ‘lesser jihad’. The first one mainly concentrates on spiritual growth. Conversely, the latter focuses on warfare and radical solutions to issues. Muslims states consider jihad as the use of military force to acquire new territories or protect the existing ones against enemies. In this sense, jihad becomes the guiding principle of military affairs. Currently, the exact aim of jihad remains unclear. For instance, some believers consider jihad as a holy war for protecting their faith and territories without any offensive aims. On the other hand, others argue that jihad is an attempt by Muslims to conquer the world, just as Muhammad used it to extend Islamic territories. The Islamic law allows jihad under certain conditions. For instance, Muslims can declare jihad against their enemies, terrorists, non-Muslims, pagans, and rulers who attempt to stop proselytizing aims of Islam or suppress Muslims. However, many Muslims believe that jihad is only for defensive purposes. Different Islamic states (states that use Islamic laws) have various definitions of what conforms to Islamic justice system. This suggests that the use jihad is not uniform among different states of Muslims, which use jihad. In most cases, we have noticed that Muslims engage in jihad as groups. This implies that jihad is a collective responsibility of Muslims and their leaders. In fact, Muslims who have power over society must make jihad a personal responsibility, and they must mobilize their followers to support the course. Based on the curre nt acts of Muslims, we cannot draw a conclusion on what jihad supports or limits of jihad. This is because Muslim fundamentalists have used jihad to terrorize and punish offenders under what the international community refers to as abuse of human rights or criminal activities. In some cases, world leaders and some Islamic states have condemned such acts. Western media have constantly depicted the brutal and radical form of Islam (fundamentalism) as entirely as a creation Islamic religion. Nevertheless, fundamentalism is a world affair, which all leading religions have experienced in reaction to issues of modernity. Therefore, fundamentalism does not take place accidentally and only takes its root when elements of modernity have advanced in stage. Afterwards, religious leaders attempt to combine the two, but if they fail, some believers turn to radical actions, which result into fundamentalism movement. Fundamentalism ideologies highlight some of the botched promises of modernity and fear among opponents. As a result, the movement sees secular ways as threats to religion and state. Such believers fight to restore the conventional and established ways. Muslim radicals differ with other Muslims who positively embrace modernity or Western political ideologies. Besides, Muslim radicals maintain that they fight to survive and protect their religion. Under the guidance of such mindsets, some Muslims opt for terrorism while others try to reinstate their religion by legitimate ways. Islam has provisions for military officials. For instance, Umar did not want his soldiers to get into contact with cities because of potential harmful influences like wealth and luxuries. As a result, soldiers stayed in isolated encampments. This also prevented them for participating in power struggle with locals. Territorial expansion of Islam Scholars who have studied territorial expansion of Islam noted that it originated from actions of Muhammad. Muhammad used different methods, such as force, persuasion, and diplomacy in order to expand Islam. Soon after the death of Muhammad, Caliphs took control of Islam and continued with aggressive tendencies of Muhammad in order to get new converts (Hitti and Khalidi 195). In North Africa, Muslim conquerors met resistance from the Byzantines who ruled the region. This slowed down the pace of territorial expansion. Berber of Northwest Africa exerted much resistance and several fights against Muslims. However, Muslims defeated Berber in the subsequent fights and took control of the city. They also destroyed Carthage to punish Byzantine Emperor for resistance. After conquering North Africa, Muslims turned their attention to Europe in which they easily captured Spain. However, in 733 AD, Franks stopped Muslims at the Battle of Tours. This marked the end of territorial acquisition in Europe. As a result, the region remained under Christianity up-to-date. Territorial expansion of Islam remained a significant achievement for Muslim in during the expansion period. The religion used force to put all Arab nations under Islamic laws. It then proceeded to claim Spain and some parts of Afghanistan. This made some of the Caliphs the most powerful in the world. Under such a rapid expansion into Christian territories, Muslims and Christians had to struggle for control of some areas like the Mediterranean region. Scholars have analyzed conditions, which led to struggle and expansion of Islam. Such territorial acquisitions led to the establishment of Muslim rules around the world. Muslims led several incursions in most areas of the world. This suggests that the current territories remained the permanent ones after settlements. At the same time, there were places where Muslims faced continued resistance. In some parts of the world like the Indian Ocean region, Islam used trade to acquire new converts. From history, we have to dispel any idea that Muhammad, subsequent Caliphs, and their followers used any peaceful means f or territorial expansion. At the same time, we have to acknowledge that jihad was not defensive in any way. Therefore, all territorial acquisitions of Islam took place by forceful means. Islamic conquerors assumed that all conquered territories were exclusively Arab states and established Islamic laws in such areas. Based on the teachings of Muhammad, conquerors forced the captured people to convert to Islam. This was the focus of the Arab rulers because they wanted to convert many territories to Islam. It also of interest to note that Islam spread to other areas through trade, migration of Muslims, and wishes of urban dwellers to convert. However, this did not stop some rulers from using Islamic principle of jihad to capture new territories. Generally, Islamic religion attracted many nomads and other primitive populations. However, the conquered majorities did not fully embrace the religion. We know that it takes time for people to embrace new ideologies fully. This was the case of Christianity in the past. However, this was not the case of Islam. Captured people were aware of the consequences of not complying with the demands of rulers based on the violence nature of territorial expansions. This coercion provided the needed advantage to convert many people to Islam. Therefore, Islamic religion lacked the peaceful means that Christianity used to be a dominant religion in the world today. Besides, such violence nature of the religion did not appeal to educated and civilized groups. Conclusion Islam has existed in criticism since its inception. Some of the earliest critics consisted of Christians who considered Islam as heresy. Later, some criticism emerged from other Muslims and Jewish scholars. Critics considered both the public and private life of Prophet Muhammad in their criticisms. These are mainly morality issues. Some critics also focus on some teachings of Quran in order to debate controversial moral aspects of the religion. Still, other scholars have also turned to issues of human rights in the modern society. At the same time, they also explore positions of women in Islamic nations. Studies show that Islam has been a binding religion among faithful. However, some elements of fundamentalism and treatments of non-Muslims or offenders have brought concerns to different groups. As such, Islam continues to draw criticism from its roles and influences on military affairs, politics, and religious practices. Works Cited An-Na’im, Abdullahi Ahmed. The Future of Sharia: Secularism from an Islamic Perspective. Atlanta, GA: Emory School of Law, 2007. Print. Brockopp, Jonathan. Islamic Ethics of Life: abortion, war and euthanasia. South Carolina: University of South Carolina press, 2003. Print. Goldschmidt, Arthur. A Concise History of the Middle East 7th ed. Colorado: Westview Press, 2002. Print. Hitti, Philip and Walid Khalidi. History of the Arabs 10th ed. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2002. Print. Karsh, Efraim. Islamic Imperiali sm: A History. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2007. Print. Trifkovic, Serge. The Sword of the Prophet. Salisbury, MA: Regina Orthodox Press, 2007. Print. This essay on Islam as Most Feared and Controversial Religion was written and submitted by user Mauricio U. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

How useful is the concept of genre to media producers and audiences Essays

How useful is the concept of genre to media producers and audiences Essays How useful is the concept of genre to media producers and audiences Paper How useful is the concept of genre to media producers and audiences Paper Essay Topic: Film Pulp Fiction All areas of media such as film, TV and music can be classified into recognisable types also known as genre. These can be divided by what is known as sub-genre. For example a film such as Rush hour can be classified into category of action-comedy. The main element of the film is action but has comedy within it so would fit into the sub-genre of action-comedy. Generic codes repeat with regularity and are useful to the producer of the film, the people who make it and the audience alike. Genre is a very useful tool, for the people whose idea it is to make the film, to the audience who finally consume it. The use of genre makes advertising a particular film an easier process. A film poster is quite an important aspect of a films advertising. This therefore means what is advertised on the poster is very important. The genre of the film must be instantly recognisable by a potential consumer of the film. Cabin Fever is a film where the genre is quickly recognised by the audience. The poster shows a hut in the distance, with a forest around it but only red and black colours are used. The use of the colours signifies to the audience blood and horror. The designer of the poster has used these colours because of the way audiences sub-consciously or not recognises certain generic codes. We often associate red with blood and also death, though on its own would not signify a horror film so we see a hut in the wilderness. Though most people would be able to tell this is a horror film at the top of the poster it says Terror In the flesh. Each genre will appeal to different people as everyone has their own tastes, so it is important for the producers of the film to use the codes and conventions associated with the film so that what is advertised applies to the genre it suggests. Part of the success of the advertising campaign echoes from previous examples of that genre. A science fiction film may feature something that the audience will relate to, such as in Independence day where we see the distant earth with spaceships. We know what the genre will be and therefore whether to chose to see it. A proportion of the audience will go and see a film based on who directs it. Where a film is sold on the personality of the director, this is known as the auteur theory. These films are sold on the directors particular style and these films are a success because of it. Occasionally these films are often hard to categorise into a genre, as the directors individual style can mean they do not follow the conventions of a genre. Tarrantino is a director famous for his individual style. Two of his most well known films, Resevoir Dogs and Pulp fiction play on are expectations on the gangster genre. Through our experiences of watching gangster films we know what to expect, however with films such as the two suggested we enjoy watching films, which break the codes of that genre. A film such as Scarface is a gangster film that follows the typical codes that the audience expect from it. If the audience has experiences of seeing such films it makes watching Pulp Fiction more enjoyable as it breaks these conventions but still can be classified as a gangster film. What stars feature in a film can often determine the success and popularity of a film. Audiences will often go and see a film based on what actors or actresses star, and not what type of film it is. This means that genre is not always as important especially when the film is consumed on the basis of the stars in it. It makes it easier for producers to guarantee the success of a film by signing a famous star. This means that genre is not always as important to the audience if they decide whether to watch a film on who stars in it. Actors often stick to a particular genre of that they are best known for or are seen to act the best in. It can be risky for an actor to be in a film they are not familiar with, as they may not be able to adapt, which can be disappointing for the audience who are used to their chosen actor/ actress in a particular role. Arnold Schwarzenegger is well known for action films, such as in the Terminator series. When the audience knows that he is in a film they may want to go on see it because they like the role he plays, but also because they know the type of films that he is in. The auteur theory and who stars in a film shows that genre is not always useful to the audience. However genre is very important if we wish for our expectations in a film to be met. We use conventions to make us feel at home and deviating from aspects of a genre may confuse the audience or mean that their expectations are not met. A film such as Die hard follows many of the conventions that the audience would expect. It has a terrorist situation with peoples lives at risk. Against all odds the good guy manages to defeat the numerous enemy and the leader of the terrorists by using guns and various other weaponry. The main character Bruce Willis has a woman whose relationship whose relationship is in jeopardy. If the audience wanted to see an action film where the conventions of this genre are followed then Die hard would be a good choice as these are followed. Where the audience have the expectation of a film to be a certain way, we find it enjoyable where this is fulfilled at the end of the film. If this is not met the audience can feel disappointed that they have not seen what they expected. This can be quite dangerous for profucers and film makers, as if the audiences expectations have not been met they may feel cheated which can generate particular mistrust for a particular film maker or genre. This is the last thing producers and film makers want, which is why venturing into a new convention, or changing conventions of a genre is risky. However this can have its rewards but is a gamble on whether it will be a success or not. This is why the media world does not often see this. When producing something that the audience is familiar with it has a guaranteed success, as long it is of a reasonable standard. The media world is controlled by finance. The people and organisations that fund a particular project or product are often un-willing to back something with a lesser chance of success due to its diversity. This is understandable, as the media world is a business with the aim of achieving as much profit as possible. However where the genre is played on, can bring in the rewards. Sometimes a film does not meet our expectations, however this can sometimes be a good affect. Where a films genre has been messed about of changed we enjoy the unexpectedness of the genre being messed about with. Pulp Fiction is a film where the audience may feel this. At the start we feel at home because we have seen many other gangster films in the past but we enjoy the script which makes the characters talk like no ganters weve ever heard before. The situations are familiar to us, but the dialogue very different to what the audience expects. An example of this is when the characters played by Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta are in a car talking about what each country calls a Macdonalds meal. Our enjoyment stems from our knowledge of genre however for the audience to appreciate this kind of experience they must have knowledge of the genre. We enjoy seeing the rules of the genre broken as long as the film-maker does not go to far so the audience isnt confused and perhaps disappointed with what theyve experienced. A fine balance has to be met so it is important that the film makers get it right. However rebellious or alternative we picture ourselves as we still like some level of organisation in the media texts we enjoy. This is what genre is used for and makes us feel secure through the genre workings. Genre is useful and enjoyable to the audience in that we like the anticipation of waiting for the predictable features. Though we may complain when a television programme such as Eastenders has a predictable setup, but one of the reasons we watch it is that we see our expectations fulfilled. The audience enjoys this, but sometimes we like the producers to surprise us. With all types of media, there are examples where the producer can go too far, and the audience can be lsft disappointed or confused. This can mean the audience will not watch the program again which is the last thing the producers want. In an episode of the x-files we expect some kind of investigation in Alien activity by Molder and Scully, however when the stand up comedy episode was aired I fely that this did not work and Id imagine other viewers would feel the same. These types of films usually come from a film company with a low film budget or from outside of Hollywood. This is because the film-makers, producers and director has less constraints which mean there is more freedom to make the film they want to. Hollywood is often reluctant to venture into a project with known risk as at the end of the day for many the aim for many is to make as much money as possible from the film. However in recent years Hollywood are seeing the benefits of changing conventions of genre, as the producers know how to meet our expectations, and so therefore also how to play with them. These films can often be considered low-art, as though they are very popular by consumers do not necessarily have to be of a high quality. As long as the mass-market continues to watch these films then Hollywood will follow particular genres very closely. Film producers use genre ton see what types of films are popular. Western films used to be very popular, however this genre has somewhat now gone out of fashion. This is why Hollywood does not make this genre of film for consumers. Hollywood aim is to achieve the pleasure of the majority of the population, which means genre is a useful tool in doing this. After all, the film industry is competing for the audiences leisure pound. If there is films in the cinema that few people wish to see then this leisure pounf will be spent on something elso. All forms of media are competing for this leisure pound, and so by appealing to the audiences tastes on genre is more makes it more likely for the audiences leisure pound to be spent on this. Many people find by finding what type of film or genre it is can determine whether they want to pay to see it. As action and comedy are two of the most popular genres by making a film such as rush hour which combines the two is likely to be popular. Even when we go to a video shop already knowing what type of film we want to watch, be it a night in with friends to watch a horror film or whatever. This is useful because we can easily pick out what films fall under this genre, as they are easily spotted or are categorised into genres.

Should the Number of Passengers Be Limited in Cars Driven by Teens

Should the Number of Passengers Be Limited in Cars Driven by Teens The article is about the importance of limiting the number of passengers in the cars driven by teens. Driving is quite liberating, a rite of passage for most American teenagers. It means  freedom  from parental oppression, is a way for an adolescent to have some of the responsibilities of an adult. Most teens get their driver’s license around 16 or 17 years old, during their sophomore and junior years of  high school. Teens spend hours after school, nights on the weekends, driving around with their friends. It’s a major part of their lives, with social, even spiritual, implications. However, though it’s a major part of the adolescent experience, it’s still taken for granted – not just the privilege, but dangerousness of it. And it’s because of this that the number of passengers should be limited to just two people in cars driven by minors, one of which being a licensed drivers, as well. TV HAS A NEGATIVE IMPACT ON TEENAGERS Why just two passengers in teen-driven cars? First of all, adolescent drivers just aren’t experienced enough drivers to ride around with a car packed full of other people, especially other teens. It’s too distracting for them. They aren’t thinking about safety, about a safe-driving speed, aggressive drivers on the road, etc. What’s on their minds? Popularity, looking cool and having fun are important to them – teens think they’re invincible. There are not anticipating the unexpected – a deer in the road, a drunk driver, an accident up the road. Any teen driver is too self-absorbed to think that when they are driving a car, they are at the wheel of a loaded weapon capable of taking the lives of others. They just aren’t thinking of these things. It’s not important to them. They just don’t yet have the driving experience. A federal law should be put in place limiting the number of passengers in teen-driven cars to just two for one more important reason: With fewer drivers in a car, there are fewer distractions. Teens are notorious for spending too much time on their iPhones, totally ignoring everyone and everything else around them. They don’t have the attention span to safely drive a car full of other people; and if that car is filled with loud, self-absorbed attention-seeking teens, it’s even harder for a teen driver to focus on what is important: driving safely to a destination, protecting its passengers. And that is virtually impossible when there are too many people in a car driven by an adolescent. Not only should teen-driven cars be limited to just two passengers, a licensed driver, regardless of their age, should always be in the car with a teen driver unless they are driving in the car alone. This way, that licensed passenger can help the young, inexperienced driver as a passenger – aiding them in paying attention, stopping when necessary, and when to ignore rowdy, distracting drivers. Licensed drivers also use their own experience, even if limited, to get the car safely to its destination. And this notion of legally mandating a licensed driver to ride as a passenger in a teen-driven car holds the driver more responsible – it holds them to a higher standard, because they realize this passenger, the licensed driver, will be watching them and keeping them focused, which will most likely make the teen driver a better, safer, more attentive and mindful driver. WHY MISSING A CLASS IS A BAD IDEA Let’s conclude this argument, that the number of passengers should be limited to two people total in cars driven by minors, one of which being a licensed driver. It should be no other way, potentially legally enforced in every American state. Repercussions should be extreme, as to scare young drivers into obeying the law and realizing that a car is a weapon when not driven responsibly and safely. Of course, several teen drivers are assuredly good drivers with a good perspective, who are responsible and mindful of how dangerous driving truly is. But the majority of teens do not, to the full extent, realize the potential disasters that come with driving, consequences that too often lead to premature death and serious injury. And if teen drivers are limited to just two passengers at a time, one of which being a licensed driver, then driving-related accidents will lessen, and the road will be a better, safer place for people to travel.

Philosophy - Heidegger - Being in Time - selected sections Research Paper

Philosophy - Heidegger - Being in Time - selected sections - Research Paper Example 303). It appears that to facilitate the conception of Dasein in a holistic way, Dasein’s being from birth to death should be studied. However, this is not possible in our context, because provided that we are capable of studying anything, we are not dead yet. Heidegger claims that we could however understand our Dasein holistically and that we could be entirely ourselves if we take on a genuine connection to our death, and, certainly, that genuineness is simply being myself â€Å"in an impassioned freedom toward death—a freedom that has been released from the illusions of the One, and which is factical, certain of itself, and anxious† (Heidegger 1978, 311). The likelihood of being genuine is revealed to us in the appeal of conscience, which provokes us to be prepared for Angst and to be determined in understanding what we have chose to carry out. Authenticity is described as a determined expectation of our own death, which allows us to reconnect with our being in totality. As stated by Heidegger (1978), â€Å"Being-towards-death is the anticipation of a potentiality-for-Being of that entity whose kind of Being is anticipation itself† (ibid, p.

Approaches to Effective Change Management Essay

Approaches to Effective Change Management - Essay Example It is important for change managers to be open for new ideas that may be significant in the change process, which encourages all the stakeholders involved to participate and own the organizational objectives, thereby making it possible for the change managers to accomplish their tasks (Ivancevich et al. 2007). Kotter (1996) observes that change management also requires that the important decisions be defended from denunciation by other players who might not be informed or whose interest might only be focused on resisting change irrationally. If change managers allow new ideas to be dismissed in such a manner, there can be no progress. However, while defending the ideas against criticism, it is important to consider the suggestions of others who might have a different perspective in regard to approaching change. For example, technical personnel who understand the organizational systems better can offer essential advice regarding the necessary changes that are beneficial. Flexibility i n decision making is important for change to be accomplished. In other words, change managers need to disregard the manner in which they have always approached matters related with decision making. They need to allow flexible practices that broaden their scope of thinking, which allows them to identify new opportunities and methods of working. Rigidity in decision making hampers innovativeness in organizations since they do not open up to change (Szamosi & Duxbury, 2002). In other words, organizational culture is important in determining the success of the change process. It may hinder or promote change and therefore change managers should be keen on maintaining a culture of flexibility in organizational decision making. Promotion of flexible working is also important to ensure that the employees are aware that the typical procedures followed in the workplace can be changed at the realization of any opportunity for improvement, which is significant in avoiding resistance to change a mong the organizational staff (Lines, 2004). According to Ivancevich et al. (2007), successful change management involves learning from past experiences. The change managers can use examples of situations where they failed in the past and apply the knowledge to avoid undesirable occurrences in the change process. In choosing the approach towards implementing new ideas, it is important to keep focused on the positive aspects instead of looking at the possibilities of encountering difficulties in the implementation process. Focusing on potential difficulties leads to undesirable pessimism that may hamper progress. Risks also need to be shared by forming strong partnerships that are also significant in developing new ideas (Szamosi & Duxbury, 2002). Bennett & Durkin (2000) observes that the information obtained in the change management needs to be analyzed and sorted out to distinguish between the vital information from the irrelevant. Failure of the change managers to make out the dif ference in such information leads to the presence of surplus data that makes the tasks even more difficult. Such situations cause exhaustion and low morale in implementing the organizational activities, and the change process may be abandoned before the change management goals are accomplished (Mourier & Smith, 2001). On the other hand, Lines (2004) observes that there is a tendency for managers and data collection staff to make assumptions that they collect all the information that can be accessed while they do not. In other words, improper judgment regarding the information received by the change managers leaves substantial information that might be useful to the management

10 Reasons to Oppose the Death Penalty Essay Example for Free

10 Reasons to Oppose the Death Penalty Essay Innocence and the Death Penalty The wrongful execution of an innocent person is an injustice that can never be rectified. Since the reinstatement of the death penalty, 139 men and women have been released from death row nationally. The High Cost of the Death Penalty It costs far more to execute a person than to keep him or her in prison for life. Death Penalty Can Prolong Suffering for Victims Families Many family members who have lost love ones to murder feel that the death penalty will not heal their wounds nor will it end their pain; the extended legal process prior to executions can prolong the agony experienced by the victims families. International Views on the Death Penalty The vast majority of countries in Western Europe, North America and South America more than 139 nations worldwide have abandoned capital punishment in law or in practice. Inadequate Legal Representation Perhaps the most important factor in determining whether a defendant will receive the death penalty is the quality of the representation he or she is provided. Deterrence Scientific studies have consistently failed to demonstrate that executions deter people from committing crime anymore than long prison sentences. Arbitrariness in the Application of the Death Penalty Politics, quality of legal counsel and the jurisdiction where a crime is committed are more often the determining factors in a death penalty case than the facts of the crime itself. Religious Perspectives on the Death Penalty Although isolated passages of religious scripture have been quoted in support of the death penalty, almost all religious groups in the United States regard executions as immoral. Racial Disparities The race of the victim and the race of the defendant in capital cases are major factors in determining who is sentenced to die in this country. In 1990 a report from the General Accounting Office concluded that in 82 percent of the studies [reviewed], race of the victim was found to influence the likelihood of being charged with capital murder or receiving the death penalty, i.e. those who murdered whites were more likely to be sentenced to death than those who murdered blacks. Alternatives to the Death Penalty In every state that retains the death penalty, jurors have the option of sentencing convicted capital murderers to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The sentence is cheaper to tax-payers and keeps violent offenders off the streets for good.

Development of the Quantity Surveying Role

Development of the Quantity Surveying Role The report within analyses and documents the historical development of the Quantity Surveying role from inception to modern day practice, the roles and responsibilities of the Professional Quantity Surveyor and Contractors Quantity Surveyor, along with the importance and relevance of key skills to the role of the QS. The Quantity Surveyor role was born in the United Kingdom, shortly after the birth of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in 1834, due to the fact that Architects wanted to distance themselves from the surveying profession. The report goes on to talk about the many reports published by The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which identify the Quantity Surveying roles and how the future QS role will adapt to change. Both the Professional and Contractors QS have roles and responsibilities in the Pre-construction, Construction and Post-construction phases on any given construction project. Both sides have similar responsibilities during the pre-construction phase for example, each side will have a duty to carry out a form of estimation regarding the price of the works, which will require measurement/quantification. During Construction, the Contractors QS will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the project, including procuring subcontractors and submitting valuations to the client, whilst the Professional QS will be working with the client to ensure the Contractors QS valuations are factual and that they are certified in line with the contract terms. Post-construction activities on both sides would include activities such as Final Account procedures. Finally, the last section of the report details the six key skills required by a Quantity Surveyor in order for a successful career; Numeracy, Verbal Communication, Written Communication, ICT Skills, Problem Solving and Self-management. It is important that an aspiring Quantity Surveyor/Project Manager is continually developing these skills, as they will play a large part of their working careers for the rest of their lives. The purpose of this report is to write about the functions of the Quantity Surveyors and the roles each has within the Construction Industry. The team intends to accomplish the roles and responsibilities of the Quantity Surveyors (QS), Professional Quantity Surveyors (PQS), and Contractors Quantity Surveyors (CQS). The content of the report will consider the importance of key skills such as, Problem Solving, Numeracy, Self-Management, Written, and Verbal Communication and IT Skills. To accomplish this the team will meet up and communicate with each other, plus research the subjects for the report. All three team members will be involved with the evaluation of the report, once the report has a structure the team should meet-up to go over the order that each member will completing, after each of the members have finished the sections there should be another meet-up to check the work each as done and update the contents, once this is finished the report should be edited and completed. The resources for the report will come from the research in secondary published literature, and from sources based on the internet. 1.1 Introduction This qualitative team research report will analyse and make use of secondary published literature to discuss the fundamental roles and responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor. The report will highlight the key skills required to conduct the roles and responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor. Quantity Surveying is an occupation that dates back as far as the 17th Century in Britain, when construction enterprises were measured and valued after they were designed and built. The definition of a Quantity Surveyor according to the renowned author Seeley (1997, p. 40), whose work is well documented in many books that cover all aspects of Quantity Surveying, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦A quantity surveyor is a professionally trained, qualified and experienced in dealing with these problems on behalf of the employer. He is essentially a cost expert whose prime task is to ensure that the project is kept within the agreed budget and that the employer obtains value for money. 1.2 Constraints or limitations on the work There have been several limitations on this report, the most important limitations being that the word count of the report has a maximum limit of 3000 words. Another was that group members did not always all come to the same conclusions, with differing opinions on subjects which could have led to opposing or contradicting views. Another constraint was that with it being a group task, on occasions there were individuals that were not able to meet due to busy lifestyles and other plans. Other instances of this was when work schedules clashed with meetings, or that long distances meant the meeting was unviable, or the venue for the meeting was too small for everyone to sit and engage. 1.3 Any assumptions made No assumptions have been made for the basis of this report. 2.1 Introduction This section will document and cover a brief history of the Construction industry, the inception of the QS role in the industry, the historical development of the QS, along with the roles and responsibilities of the QS on both the private and contractors side. 2.2 Historical development of the QS role The Construction Industry within the UK in the past was very different to the modern industry we know of today. The industry back then saw a Project Manager individually tender, procure and co-ordinate each discipline on site himself. However, the Napoleonic Wars of 1803 to 1815 would see the revolution of the Construction Industry in the United Kingdom. Cartlidge (2013) indicated that the government in power during the war were required to construct barracks to house the large amounts of soldiers that were to be crossing the English Channel. Due to time being of the essence, contracts were required to be let on settlement by fair valuation based on measurement after completion of the works. The many years that followed on from this saw the amount of projects in similar scenarios magnify, leading to the inception of the general contractor in the United Kingdom. The year of 1834 saw the birth of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). This professional association exclusively for architects, was formed on the basis that architects wished to distance themselves from surveyors and their perceived obnoxious commercvial interest in construction' (Cartlidge, 2013, p. 7). This in turn led to the inauguration of the Quantity Surveyor in the UK. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) report published in 1971 clearly defines the role of the Quantity Surveyor (RICS, 1971). The report seeks to acclaim the profession as specialists in the measurement and valuation of construction works (Perera, Pearson and Dodds, n.d.). The trio go on to state that the follow-up report also produced by the RICS, The Future Role of the Chartered Quantity Surveyor (RICS, 1983), identifies the skills and knowledge base of the QS while identifying the scope for expansion and diversification of services (Perera, Pearson and Dodds, n.d., p. 2). 2.3 The duties of the QS According to Willmott Dixon (2016), the duties of Quantity Surveyors are to carry out a feasibility study, advise on potential sites and working out what a client can afford to build. They will present detailed valuations on information of costs for elements of work on an intermittent basis to aid payment for those works carried out to date. They will be responsible for organising the division of a project into component work packages, and awarding these work packages to smaller, more specialised construction companies such as the subcontractors and, in that process, finding the best deals. They are also responsible for dealing with contracts and legal matters. Managing costs to ensure the initial budget is not surpassed. Arranging the staff payments and, settling the final accounts. Plus, act as the financial advisors while monitoring progress for the client. 2.3.1 The roles of the Professional Quantity Surveyor The Professional Quantity Surveyor (PQS), which is a quantity surveyor employed in private practice, has been prevalent in the Construction industry since the 1960s where cost planning services were introduced into their repertoire of duties in order to avoid tenders being returned over budget (Ashworth, Hogg and Higgs, 2013, p. 8). It is the PQS responsibility to give advice on all financial and contractual issues to all relevant parties, from pre-tender to completion of the project. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (1998) published a set of competencies, titled Table 1, in which the assessment of professional competence would be measured against. The competencies are split into three different categories; basic, core and optional. PQS would need to fundamentally prove that they meet these competencies in order to reach chartered status. 2.3.1.1 Pre-Construction The pre-construction roles and responsibilities would include functions such as initial budget setting with the client, quantification/measurement and possibly preparation of bills of quantities, dependant on the contract. The PQS would also have an input into the design stage of the project, and would work with the Project Manager (PM), architects/structural engineers and public authorities, as he/she would be involved from a very early stage. Following this, they would then work with the PM directly to give sound commercial advice to ensure the contract is awarded to the most favourable and most cost effective contractor. 2.3.1.2 Construction Phase During the Construction phase, the PQS would still be expected to analyse and provide cost/commercial advice to the PM where needed, but he would mainly be working with the Contractors QS now to ensure that monthly valuations are submitted and valued correctly. Not only this, he/she would be responsible for attending site to review the applications submitted to confirm the values applied for. The term for this generally is Cost Control. 2.3.1.3 Post-Construction After the Construction phase, has been completed, the PQS would endeavour to complete and settle the Final Account with the Contractor to ensure all monies, where due, are paid and all disputes settled. If its necessary, the PQS will also conduct and participate in arbitration or court proceedings to settle disputes that couldnt be resolved previously. Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS, 2016) 2.3.2 The roles of the Contractors Quantity Surveyor The Contractors QS is responsible for the performance of operations similar to those of the PQS, i.e., the measurement and pricing of construction work, utilising certain mechanisms for pricing such as Bill of Quantities. The Contractors QS handles the day to day running of the building/construction project. The construction programme is handled in three distinct sections. These are Pre-Construction, Construction Phase and Post-Construction. Within these phases the Contractors QS plays a major role. 2.3.2.1 Pre- Construction The Contractors QS will be required to carry out a Feasibility study for the project. They will also estimate the cost and whats involved in the project based on measurements of the designer or clients sketches. The Contractors QS can compare the project with historical projects that his/her company has completed, and potentially gain an insight into how much the build may cost. The final part of the phase will lead to the final detailed estimate which is prepared by the QS and the Architect of the project which will lead to the evaluating tenders. 2.3.2.2 Construction Phase The role of the Contractors QS will be to provide cash flow data so the client can start to arrange the finances needed to execute each stages of the project. They will also provide assessments on the cost effect so they can be ready for any changes that will appear during the Construction phase. During this time they can provide a project report. They can also manage disputes within the organisation (Clients, Designers and Building Contractors). 2.3.2.3 Post-Construction The Contractors QS will be preparing and carrying out Final Accounts with subcontractors that have worked on site, as well as preparing their Final Account submission to submit to the client. The QS will liaise with the site team to ensure that all snags/defects are carried out in a timely manner. Once the defects liability period has expired within the Main Contract, generally 12 months after practical completion, the QS will be responsible for releasing any retention monies owed to the subcontractors. 3.1 Numeracy Numeracy skills are one of the largest of the key skills within the QSs repertoire, as they assist with the majority of the tasks a Quantity Surveyor carries out. For example, a Quantity Surveyor would be required to carry out numerous calculations for tasks, such as when he/she is required to produce tender documentation, i.e., Bills of Quantities etc. Measurement, or Quantification, would also require extensive numerical knowledge, as the task of producing a Bill of Quantities would require the QS to measure quantities from a drawing and implement the measurements into a suitable method of measurement, such as SMM7 or NRM2. The QS would also require handy numeracy skills when producing a valuation, or application for payment, as he/she will need to devise a document that can be used to apply for monies against particular activities, which would generally be against an Activity Schedule. 3.2 Verbal communication Verbal communication is a very important skill for the Quantity Surveyor to have because they have to interact with the internal and external employees which are working on the project. For example, the QS has to have a formal relationship with the client and the architect whilst managing affairs on site. It is imperative that a positive rapport is built up using verbal communication with suppliers, as this will help to ensure materials are delivered on time, which in turn will assist in the overall project completion. Communication with all parties involved in a contract will be required, as the different parties involved all have the same end-goal; to complete the project. Verbal communication is essential in the day to day life of the QS, speaking face to face with clients, Project Managers and other key figures involved in the project. The QS will also be required to demonstrate his/her verbal communication skills in meetings, interviews and conferences. 3.3 Written communication The written communication will be important from the beginning to the end of any work that need to be carried out and can be either: Email Letter Proposals Contracts Brochures This will begin when a team has been assembled when minutes of the meetings will be taken. Once these notes have been written up into a report they will allow the team to get the relevant information. By having these written down will allow anyone who needs to see the information they will be able to request them. They will also become a permanent record to reference information from. 3.4 IT Skills ICT skills are quickly becoming the foreground of a Quantity Surveyors key skill inventory. The need for computer literacy and a high level of ICT skills has stemmed from the fact that computers are now a large part of how a QS operates. Generally, a QS will produce Bills of Quantities, send emails, write letters and even now, gain measurements from drawings using a computer. Most of these tasks require a satisfactory level of capability regarding ICT, and more of the complex tasks require further extensive knowledge. Ashworth, Hogg and Higgs (2013, p. 14-15) identify and backup the idea for the need of strong ICT skills, by stating that process skills include computer literacy. 3.5 Problem Solving Problem solving is a very important skill required in the role of the QS. Due to the unpredictability of the Construction industry and the works that are carried out on site, the QS will be required to use his knowledge and devise an innovative solution to a problem which arises on site. The QS would be required to sufficiently and effectively identify and examine the problem to find a possible resolution to overcome the situation in order for works on the site to continue to progress towards completion. Demonstrating this skill will help the QS to achieve productivity and targets, as well as meeting key dates within a contract, i.e., Practical Completion, otherwise known as PC. 3.6 Self-management To be successful in the management of yourself, Valchev (2016) states you should be self-confident. The best way to achieve self-confidence is being positive by getting rid of negativity, and be happy with every achievement whether they are big or small, State that you are smart and intelligent and finally talk with other positive people. Valchev (2016) also states that you should be able to manage stress. To achieve your stress levels, you should relax, enjoy yourself, take holidays with people you love, take long walks and have hobbies or do activities you like. You should have excellent organisational skills and can manage your time, which can be achieved by writing lists, make a schedule, prioritize and setting goals, break down large tasks into smaller tasks and balance work and rest and recreation. You should be self-motivated, to achieve this you should make a list of your needs and desires listen to music when working on them and look at different books for inspiration this can expand your thoughts, and you should also have big dreams, live in the present moment, have dreams often and remember everything can be achieved. Lastly you should also have a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet. With all of this will help productivity which will make the work go easily.   4.1 On roles and responsibilities of the QS To conclude, Quantity Surveyors, have a vital part to producing efficient work in construction to reduce conflict by securing the most suitable procurement technique is selected, providing effective cost control procedure and ensuring value for money constantly. They minimise the potential lapse by distribution of risk and identifying the value-adding activities in the project. Quantity Surveyors run an extensive choice of skills outside the traditional quantity surveying actions. The extended skills of quantity surveyors will help clients to achieve their needs and expectations. In the current financial predicament, where cash flow and credit are paramount for clients, thus completion of project on specified time and within budget is important especially in the public sector which deal with the large projects and intensive capital. Quantity Surveyors can secure success for projects by the current technical and financial information and hence have vital influence in economic recovery. 4.2 On the importance of key skills development as aspirant quantity surveyors or project managers and future specific recommendations you have for your key skills acquisition and development The key skills that have been identified above; numeracy, verbal communication, written communication, IT skills, problem solving skills and self-management skills are all critical to an aspiring Quantity Surveyor/Project Manager. They are the necessary foundations to a successful career in the Construction industry, as without these crucial skills, a Quantity Surveyor/Project Manager would struggle to perform his or her day-to-day tasks. The development of these key skills is necessary in order to progress and enhance the opportunities available to you throughout your working career. Without the development of these skills, you will not be able to achieve your life goals, which will decrease your confidence and will lead to you having a poorer quality of life. However, if these skills are developed and maintained, your confidence would be boosted and you would live a far more comfortable, fulfilled and higher quality life. References   Ashworth, A., Hogg, K., Higgs, C. (2013) Williss Practice and Procedure for the Quantity Surveyor. 13th edn. Chichester: John Wiley Sons, Ltd. Brandon, P. (1990) Quantity Surveying Techniques: New Directions. Oxford. Blackwell Scientific Publications Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (2016) Professional Quantity Surveyor. Available at: http://www.ciqs.org/english/designations-defined-professional-quantity-surveyor (Accessed 16 November 2016). Cartlidge, D. (2013) Quantity Surveyors Pocket Book. 2nd edn. Oxfordshire: Routledge. Manker, A. D. (2016) What Is Written Communication in Business? Definition, Types Examples. Available at: http://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-written-communication-in-business-definition-types-examples.html (Accessed 19 November 2016). Perera, S., Pearson, J., Dodds, L. (n.d.) Alignment of Professional, Academic and Industrial Development Needs for Quantity Surveyors. Northumbria: Northumbria University. Rahmani, F. (n.d.) Importance of Quantity Surveyors for public sector organisations in the prevaling recession. Available at: http://www.academia.edu/466357/Importance_of_Quantity_Surveyors_for_public_sector_organisations_in_the_prevaling_recession (Accessed 19 November 2016). Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (1998) The APC Requirements and Competencies. London: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. Seeley, I. H. (1997) Quantity Surveying Practice. 2nd edn. London: Palgrave Macmillan. Valchev, M. (n.d.) Self-Management Skills | List, Definition, Tips Techniques. Available at: http://www.businessphrases.net/self-management-skills/ (Accessed 19 November 2016). Willmott Dixon (2016) The role of a Quantity Surveyor | Willmott Dixon. Available at: http://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/careers/working-for-us/the-role-of-a-quantity-surveyor (Accessed 16 November 2016). Ashworth, A., Hogg, K., Higgs, C. (2013) Williss Practice and Procedure for the Quantity Surveyor. 13th edn. Chichester: John Wiley Sons, Ltd. Brandon, P. (1990) Quantity Surveying Techniques: New Directions. Oxford. Blackwell Scientific Publications Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (2016) Professional Quantity Surveyor. Available at: http://www.ciqs.org/english/designations-defined-professional-quantity-surveyor (Accessed 16 November 2016). Cartlidge, D. (2013) Quantity Surveyors Pocket Book. 2nd edn. Oxfordshire: Routledge. Manker, A. D. (2016) What Is Written Communication in Business? Definition, Types Examples. Available at: http://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-written-communication-in-business-definition-types-examples.html (Accessed 19 November 2016). Perera, S., Pearson, J., Dodds, L. (n.d.) Alignment of Professional, Academic and Industrial Development Needs for Quantity Surveyors. Northumbria: Northumbria University. Rahmani, F. (n.d.) Importance of Quantity Surveyors for public sector organisations in the prevaling recession. Available at: http://www.academia.edu/466357/Importance_of_Quantity_Surveyors_for_public_sector_organisations_in_the_prevaling_recession (Accessed 19 November 2016). Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (1998) The APC Requirements and Competencies. London: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. Seeley, I. H. (1997) Quantity Surveying Practice. 2nd edn. London: Palgrave Macmillan. Valchev, M. (n.d.) Self-Management Skills | List, Definition, Tips Techniques. Available at: http://www.businessphrases.net/self-management-skills/ (Accessed 19 November 2016). Willmott Dixon (2016) The role of a Quantity Surveyor | Willmott Dixon. Available at: http://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/careers/working-for-us/the-role-of-a-quantity-surveyor (Accessed 16 November 2016). List of appendices Group Diary Evidence Group Diary Date Activity Actions agreed Type of evidence 21 Oct 2016 Message from Matt Meeting Message print-out (see Figure 1 in Appendix 2) 27 Oct 2016 Email to the two members Template of the report Screenshot (see Figure 2 in Appendix 2) 01 Nov 2016 Email to Jeannette from Matt Revised template Screenshot (see Figure 3 in Appendix 2) 15 Nov 2016 Message from Matt Rearranging some of the report and organise a meet-up for the next day Screenshot (see Figure 4 in Appendix 2) 24 Nov 2016 Message to Mo Requesting work Screenshot (see Figure 5 in Appendix 2) 30 Nov 2016 Email to Matt Dropbox invite with the assignment Screenshot (see Figure 6 in Appendix 2) Evidence Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 (snippet of conversation from WhatsApp) Figure 5 Figure 6 (emails to Matt)

Matching Dell

The Matching Dell Business case by (Rivkin. J & Porter, M) defines the personal computer industry and outlines its history and development, with focus on Dell Computers. This paper will analyze the case study by means of the Strategic Situation Analysis and Planning Method (SSAP), by portraying and comparing Dell with its main competitors, namely: IBM, Compaq, Hewllet-Packard and Gateway. Approaching the strategic situation from SSAP method’s step number one, Financial Analysis, step number two, External Business Environment Analysis and step number three, Business and Corporate Strategy Analysis, an external analyst perspective will be drawn based on past , present and future trends that will be used to give recommendations of investments to potential investors. The Personal Computer Industry From its inception the computer industry was mainly composed of large corporations such as IBM and DEC and unaffordable, heavy hardware such as mainframe computers. Having a personal computer at home was a mere aspiration those days. Between 1975 and 1981 many discoveries occurred that gained popularity with electronic hobbyists, when pre-assembled personal computers entered the market. These computers were pioneered by firms such as Apple Computers, MITS and smaller ones such as Tandy/RadioShack and Commodore. Almost immediately, other major electronic firms entered the market of personal computers. These companies focused their business on other electronic industries before this. The pioneer of the first personal computer was IBM in 1981 and its success translated to a market share of 42% of the market two years later. Although, IBM produced most of the components for its mainframes computers, for PCs it purchased from others the required parts and then assembled the machines. The operating software for IBM’s first PC was custom-made by Microsoft, which was then just a start-up software firm. The microprocessor for the operating system (OS) was designed by Intel, another corporation that benefited from the partnership with IBM. Microsoft’s first operating system to IBM is the backbone structure for all the current versions of operating systems (OS) implemented by Microsoft. A proprietary system developed by Apple, held 20% of the market by 1983. In 1982, another firm named Compaq entered the market with a low-priced portable clone and had $100 million in revenues during its first year, which turned out to be the fastest growing company in American history. By 1984, Dell Computer Corporation entered the market and transformed the way PCs were assembled and distributed. Historically, what has really revolutionized the PC industry was the establishment by IBM of an open architecture for their first PC, making its operating system and other proprietary information available to encourage software developers to write programs for the IBM PC and to motivate other firms to make compatible peripherals. Moreover, the unforeseen business strategy at IBM caused the company to become vulnerable to other market entrants and lost their sustainable competitive advantage, since many other IBM clones were manufactured. This cased the company to lose market share to competitors. Step One – Financial Analysis Financial Position Dell's financial history, like most company's, changes over different periods. These changes can be attributed to changes in the demand of the product, technological advancements, manufacturing costs, competition, and economic conditions. In 1999, the approximate cost of manufacturing a basic personal computer was between $800 and $900 (Kwak & Yoffie 1999). Dell sold computers directly, and through retail distributors. In 1994, Dell actually lost money on retail sales. When comparing Dell's direct sales to the retail channel it shows that there was a 5. % operating income through the direct sales, and a -3. 0% operating income in retail sales. Dell's market share increases from 1. 0 in 1990 to 13. 2 in 1998. Direct sales of Dell' personal computers through telephone, mail, and internet helped increase their market share. The total market size for the personal computer industry is $74. 6 million. Exhibit 4: Portion of Sales Through Each Channel by Region from the Matching Dell Case shows the highest channels in which personal computers are distributed in different geographic areas. In the Americas, the most popular channel is distributor/reseller which accounts for 41. 2% of sales, second is the direct channel which accounts for 29. 7% of sales, and third is the retail channel which accounts for 21. 7% of the sales. These three channels are the top channels world wide, and distributor/reseller is the channel with the highest percentage of sales across the board. Income Statements Dell and its competitors Compaq, Gateway, and HP all have had their revenues increase over the period between 1991 and 1998. The companies differ when the net income is compared from the same time period. In the Appendix, Table 4: Profit as a Percentage of Sales shows a comparison between 1991 and 1998. Profit as a percentage of sales is a note worthy calculation because it shows a ratio of profits to sales. If a company has high sales it does not necessarily mean that it will have high profits. In Table 4, you see that in 1998 Dell has the highest profit as a percentage of sales. Since Compaq has a negative net income in this year, its data is skewed. Dell percentage of sale has grown by 2. % in this seven year period. Using the calculation (This Year)/Base Year x 100 and data from 1991, to 1998 Dell sales increased 20. 5% and net income increased 28. 63%. This shows that profits increased more than sales in the same time period. This means that Dell became more efficient in production which yielded greater profits. Net income increasing more than sales shows Dell's efficiency in production and distribution. It cut costs of making and selling its computers to have a greater profit. In the appendix, Table 1 shows the year on year percent changes for Dell's sales. This table shows that Dell's sales continue to grow each year. Price Comparison Exhibit 9 in the Matching Dell Case shows Ratings of High-end Desktop PCs by Consumer Reports(1998). It is shown on the table that Dell's product sells for $2400, HP's product sells for $2200, Gateway's product sells for $2647, and Compaq's product sells for $2950. Data on the same table rates these computers on price, speed, quality, and other things customers value in computers with a scale of 1 being excellent and 5 being poor. When the customer ratings are averaged Gateway has a rating of 1. , Dell and HP have a rating of 2. 4, and Compaq has a rating of 2. 7. Dell is the lowest in price and second highest in rating. This shows that customers are satisfied with the dell computer, more so than some of the more expensive brands. Company Profitability Exhibit 11 from the case compares Major PC Manufactures and their financial data. Return on Equity(ROE) is calculated in this table and the major players can be compared. The ROE shows the profitability of a corporation because it shows how much profit is generated from the money the shareholders have invested. Dell has a ROE of 62. %, Gateway has a ROE of 25. 7%, HP has a ROE of 17. 4%, and Compaq has a ROE of -24. 2%. HP and Compaq have substantially more revenue than Dell. Compaq does not have a higher net income, but HP does. At first glance you would think that HP is a better company in regards to personal computers but when you look at the ROE you notice a difference. Out of all the major competitors in the personal computer industry Dell has the highest ROE. Therefore it is the most successful company in this market. It would be recommended that investors invest in Dell to achieve the most out of their investment. Revenues Dell's company became more successful when it withdrew from retail in 1994. It was losing money by distributing its computers in this channel and learned from its mistakes. In 1996 it started its website which provided another opportunity for customers to order from them directly. Exhibit 11 also shows that Dell keeps its cost structure lower than its competitors. When something is not benefiting the company, Dell does not wait, it acts on it and tries to continue to make Dell a successful corporation. Compaq has very, very high revenues but there are obviously major problems with the company. Its net income and ROE are negative numbers, which shows that the company is not profitable in 1998. Compaq only has 4. 4% of sales from direct sales, where Dell has 86. 6%. This is a major advantage to Dell because there is no middle man and Dell can obtain all profits. In ratings of PC Vendors by Corporate Managers with PC buying Responsibility (Exhibit 8), Dell Ranks high in user satisfaction, extremely high in raw technology, second highest in pricing, and moderately high in service and support. Compaq ranks high in pricing but low in user satisfaction, raw technology, and all customer relations. Having quality customer services gives Dell an advantage over Compaq. Financial Conclusion The financial performance of Dell, Compaq, HP, Gateway and other companies in the PC industry we see that high revenues do not always translate into a profitable company. Shareholders and investors are looking for high returns on the amount they invest in their respected companies. Dell is the most profitable company as of 1998 with the highest return on investment. The most valued aspect of Dell's company at this time is the use of the direct sales channel. Also, Dell sells its computers at a cheaper price than its competitors but still ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys. Dell can offer a lower price by keeping its manufacturing and selling costs down. This way it can still make a profit and keep and attract customers. Dell started out as a small operation in a college dorm room and it continues to grow significantly on a yearly basis. Step Two – External Business Environment Analysis The market for computer systems and services is subject to intense price competition. In addition to several large branded companies, there are other branded and generic competitors. Dell competes primarily based on its technology, direct customer relationships, value, performance, customer service, quality, and reliability. Its main competitors are Compaq, and Gateway, both business are 90% PC dependent. However, due to Compaq’s low financial performance, HP was Dell’s primary competitor followed by Gateway in 1998. The main stakeholders group are: customers, competitors, suppliers, shareholders, employees and the government. In Table 6 in the Appendix theTarget [Customer-or-Client] – [Product-or-Service Connections] is shown. The PC competitive environment can be distinguished between its geographic and its customer categories. The geographic market for the PC industry is segmented by worldwide and U. S basis market share, while the customer category is segmented into: Large business, small & midsize business, home and small office, government and educational institutions. Based on the information from Exhibit 11 in the Matching Dell case, Compaq leads the U.  S and the worldwide market with 16. 4% and 16. 6% of PC shares respectively. Dell comes in second place with 10. 4% in the worldwide market share and 15. 1% in the U. S. PC market share. Gateway follows in behind both companies with a 4. 2% worldwide share and 8. 1% in the U. S. By comparing the major players we can see that Compaq is a leader in the market, however these market leadership if compared with the company’s financial information is not translated into profits, since it has a negative profit marking and a negative return on equity (ROE). ROE is one of the best measures of a corporation’s profitability, since it shows investors and stakeholders how much profit the company generates with the money shareholders have invested and for Compaq a negative ROE could be an indication that even if it has the greater market share amongst the PC industry there are problems with the bottom line net income and management issues. The customer group of Large Business is dominated by Dell Computers with 33. 6% market share followed by Compaq with 27. 5%. In the case of Small & Midsize business, Dell has a 37% against a 32. % market share held by Compaq. Moreover, in the Home & Small office PC sales customer category, Gateway has the leadership by large from its closest competitor HP with a 58. 2% share against a 33. 3% held by HP and Compaq comes next with a 28. 5% stake of the market. In addition, Gateway also has a leadership in the Education segment of the market, with a 8. 2% market share trailed by Compaq with 5. 3%. The government sectors is mostly equally divided amongst the PC industry competitors, with shares ranging from 5. 1% to 6. %, leveraging a very close competition. Growth rates and the percentage changes help to analyze and understand the companies being assessed. The overall performance of the PC industry has been assessed from 1989 to 1998 and the results are as follows: (Conclusions from Exhibit 2) Dell’s growth rate on average was 50. 5% for the period 1989 to 1998, while Compaq grew an average of 17. 9%. If this percentage change had not being analyzed in depth, one could think that Gateway had a greater growth than Dell Computers; from its inception it had an 87. % growth rate. However, if the first two years of operation were removed from the calculations, we can see that the actual growth rate for Gateway’s would only be 19. 5%, which would place it behind Dell. Compaq had and average growth of 17. 9% in the same period. Five forces competitive analysis and industry value chain (Diagram 1). Dell manufactures most of the products it sells and has manufacturing locations worldwide to service its global customer base. Dell believes that its manufacturing processes and supply-chain management techniques provide it a distinct competitive advantage. Its build-to-order manufacturing process is designed to allow Dell to significantly reduce cost while simultaneously providing customers the ability to customize their product purchases. In addition, Dell purchases some of its products from third-party original equipment manufacturers and resells them under the Dell name. Dell’s manufacturing process consists of assembly, software installation, functional testing, and quality control. Testing and quality control processes are also applied to components, parts, and subassemblies obtained from third-party suppliers. Quality control is maintained through the testing of components, subassemblies, and systems at various stages in the manufacturing process. Quality control also includes a burn-in period for completed units after assembly, on-going production reliability audits, failure tracking for early identification of production and component problems, and information from Dell’s customers obtained through services and support programs.