Modern Challenges facing Human Resource Management - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 14 Words: 4284 Downloads: 10 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Management Essay Type Research paper Did you like this example? The twenty-first century has ushered in many alternative ways in which to do business. Specially, Human Resource Management has been challenged to keep up with todays fast tools of technology. Firms are facing exceptional challenges but very few ideal solutions. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Modern Challenges facing Human Resource Management" essay for you Create order These challenges have been identified as being talent shortages, globalization, competition and technological improvement. (Johnson, 2000; Kronos, 2003; Simphal, 2004) Confronted with the effects of globalization, the Mauritian government took the commitment to turn Mauritius into a cyber island with ICT as the fifth pillar of the economy. Thus businesses face increasing pressure to recruit and retain a knowledgeable workforce willing to adapt to the ever changing nature of businesses. Thus with the explosive growth of the Internet over the last several years and a strong economy with record low unemployment rates and increasing skills shortages in many areas has led to increased competition to recruit the best people. The recruitment process itself has also undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years with the utilisation of the internet. The use of the internet as a means of connecting the job seeker and the employer, and as a medium for conducting certain elements of the recruitment process is described as online recruitment. The fantastic growth of online recruitment market puts the stress on the phenomenon that electronic marketplaces can put forward a reach and efficiency that physical markets cannot compete. And as the Internet penetration is growing, firms are taking great interest in recruitment via the web. As a result, e-recruitment has now become a core strategy of organizations in their recruiting process. Thus the challenge of Human Resources is to emphasise on adding value to the staffing process with intelligent screening, filtering, sorting and hiring software that can fairly without any discrimination, locate and sort the potential candidates electronically. 1.1 Rationale of the Study The topic of online recruitment was chosen after a meticulous study of the various subjects and the upcoming global trends in the business background. As the world becomes smaller and that competition can be seen everywhere, business processes need to become more efficient. One of these business processes is the recruitment process. 1.2 Objectives of the Study To identify the use of intranet and internet for the purpose of recruitment To investigate the success and failure factors for e-recruitment To analyse the attitude of stakeholders involved in the implementation 1.3 Methodology For the current study both primary and secondary research were used. Primary research consisted of collecting data from Mauritian Human Resource Practitioners with the help of an online questionnaire. Moreover a face to face interview was conducted with the general manager of two recruitment sites. 1.4 Structure of the research The structure of the research is as follows: Chapter 1: Introduction It provides a brief overview of e-recruitment, the objectives of the study and the research methodology. Chapter 2: Literature Review This provides an overview of the extensive literature on e-recruitment, examining the attitudes of the different stakeholders upon the implementation, the key success and failure factors. Chapter 3: Research Methodology This presents a research methodology use: an overview of the design of the online survey and the interview, the pretest procedures were also mentioned. Chapter 4: Data Analysis and findings This provides a description of the e-recruitment process in Mauritius. Chapter 5: Recommendations This presents a description on corrective measures to be taken in order to improve the practice of e-recruitment. CHAPTER 2- LITERATURE REVIEW Definition Of Recruitment And Selection Recruitment includes those practices and activities carried out by the organisation with the primary purpose of identifying and attracting potential employees (Breaugh and Starke, 2000) and performs the essential function of drawing an important resource human capital into the organisation (Barber, 1998). Selection is the process of collecting and evaluating information about an individual in order to extend an offer of employment. Such employment could either be a first position for a new employee or a different position for a current employee. The selection process is performed under legal and environmental constraints and addresses the future interest of the organisation and of the individual (Gatewood Field, 2001) Anderson (1994) stated that recruitment and selection are integrated activities and where recruitment stops and selection begins is a moot point. Evolution Of The Use Of Technology And Internet In The Recruitment Process The internet first emerged as a recruiting tool in the mid-1990s and was hailed by the popular media as the driver behind a recruiting revolution due to the benefits it could bring to recruiters (Boydell, 2002). According to Galanaki (2002), online recruitment was first referenced in the mid 1980s, while systematic reference to the online recruitment in HR journal begins almost a decade later, in the mid-1990s, (Galanaki 2002, cites the work of Gentner 1984; Casper 1985). It was predicted that the recruitment industrys future is on the net (Edgeley, 1995) and that the internet had brought radical change to corporate recruiting (Cappelli, 2001). Crispin and Mehler (1997) suggest that the Internet had brought a lot of novelty and ambiguity into the hiring process. They argue that HR managers are yet to figure out how to adjust hiring strategies to online applicant tracking systems, interactive voice recognition services, PC-to-PC interview software, web-based testing tool, search engines, intrusive advertising techniques, and numerous job and resume databases. Traditional Recruitment According to Farhnam and Stevens (2000), the traditional approach to recruitment is for line managers, having obtained approval for new posts, to provide job descriptions and person specifications for fine tuning by their personnel department. Managers also draft job advertisement, with the assistance of the personnel department for placement in newspapers and/or professional journals. The personnel department sends information and application packs to potential candidates, collates submitted application forms, forwards applications to line managers for short listing, arranges job interviews and notifies candidates From the study of Arboledas, Ferrero and Vidal (2001), they present some examples of recruitment methods that organizations are using: newspaper advertisement, faxed/mailed resumes, recruitment agency or headhunter. E-Recruitment According to Schreyer McCarter (1998) e-recruitment refers to the recruitment process, including placing job advertisements, receiving resumes, and building human resource database with candidates and incumbents. From the relevant literature, the words e-recruitment, online recruiting, electronic recruiting, virtual recruitment, virtual recruiting, cyber recruitment, cyber recruiting are synonymous (Simphal 2004). They imply the formal sourcing of job information online (Ganalaki, 2002). The traditional method of recruitment has been revolutionized by the emergence of the Internet. In the past few years, the Internet has dramatically changed the face of HR recruitment and the ways organizations think about the recruiting function. Cullen (2001) also supports that e-recruitment is not treated as a stand-alone human resource tool but is integrated into an overall recruiting and selection strategy that includes, among other things, sophisticated behavioral and skills assessm ent, interviewing, and additional means of identifying needs and sourcing candidates. 2.4.1 Benefits of e-recruitment Millman (1998) cited in Rozelle Landis (2002) suggested that online recruitment offers an efficient way to identify and classify a virtually unlimited number of job seekers. Elswick (2000) cited in Bussler Davis (2002) that a good e-recruitment system could bring lower cost by 90%. E-recruitment can increase the image of organisation, especially when building a corporate recruitment site; it is considered to attribute to the company an image of innovation and flexibility (Fister, 1999). E-recruitment is considered as a very good tool to reach the global target (Ganalaki, 2002). It appears that other than language barriers, which can be overcome, the Internet has no boundaries. Recruitment And Selection Process Using Internet And Information Technology The recruitment process can be identified as a support process: a process which is not directly aimed at establishing the primary organisation (Veger 2006). Armstrong (2001) has broken down the recruitment process into three stages as being: Defining requirements Attracting candidates Selecting candidates Veger (2006) adds one more stage to this process namely welcoming new employees into the organisation i.e. the induction of new employees. 2.5.1 Defining requirements Armstrong (2001) stated that requirements for particular positions are set out in the forms of role profiles and person specifications that provide the basic information required to draft advertisement, brief agencies or recruitment consultants, and assess candidates. By defining requirements, essential information such as the number, type, and quality, nature of vacancy to be filled and other information can be acquired to come up with an appropriate job requirement that will match with candidates profile. A computerized job analysis can reduce the time and effort involved in writing job descriptions which in turn can be used to design a person specification. (Malthis and Jackson 2002). However one of the drawbacks to create and maintain such sophisticated system is the lack and support from top management for the transition and maintenance costs associated with a fully integrated system (Wether and Keith 1996) 2.5.2 Attracting Candidates Malthis and Jackson (2002) stated that the aim of attracting candidates is to come up with a pool of candidates who meet job requirements. Bartram (2000) presents a snapshot of Internet development as a recruitment and selection medium. He examines the role of the Internet within a traditional recruitment cycle. At the so-called attraction stage, he writes, the Internet helps to draw people into a large pool by providing a virtual stage for a job posting. Candidates can be attracted in two ways: Internal recruitment External recruitment 2.5.2.1 Internal recruitment Recruitment can be done internally (within the organisation) as well as externally (Veger 2006).In large organizations, most vacancies are advertised internally before the are externally advertised as it is the cheapest way of attracting a wide pool of candidates. Internal candidates can be sourced using two main ways: Skill inventory database An employee skills inventory database maintains profiles of employees, their skills and abilities, for use in matching to internal opportunities. It may also be used for skills gap analysis and training. With a skills inventory database based on a robust technology platform, organizations can benefit from being able to mine a transparent internal labor pool and profit from a clear understanding of the human capital it controls. Corporate Intranet Corporate intranet enable employees to take charge of their careers by permitting on-line applications for transfers, promotions or development activities related to their individual c areers (Walker, 2001). 2.5.2.2 External Recruitment There are different methods of external recruitment through the internet that are described below: Company Websites Lievens and Harris (2003) stated that Company web sites represent one of the first Internet-based approaches to recruiting. Many of these web sites also provide useful information about the organization, as well as a mechanism for applying for these jobs. A corporate career website is an instrument to communicate with online candidates. In any communication, the key is to communicate the right information in a way that has the greatest impact on the targeted audience. Topics that jobseekers expect to see addressed on the corporate career website include the companys employment culture, benefits and salary information (Simphal 2004). Leading-edge websites contain the following information (Walker 2001): Regular scheduled chat rooms with key company executives, politicians, scholars, or well known company spokespeople. Tips on how to interview, what to we ar, and what to do Information about what the future holds What positions are available and how to apply Recruiting events and other employment- related information However Simphal (2004) pointed out that some common mistakes found in corporate websites are: Some job information included company- specific abbreviation that candidates did not understand An online job application form halted users with error messages. Unnecessary large graphics were slow to download Moreover, some jobseekers judge the company on the basis of their quality of their websites which can be a hindrance because not all companies can afford to invest on building a leading edge company website (Mc Dougall 2001) Media Sites A media site takes the form of a job listing websites where electronic advertisement appear similarly and simultaneously with traditional printed advertisement in the original paper (newspaper or magazine) (Ganalaki, 2002). The main difference between tradit ional advertisement and media site as a source of recruitment is that traditional advertisement has less information while online advertisement has more information and further references can be added and has a global coverage. Relationship Recruiting Relationship recruiting is a potentially major innovation in the internet recruitment (Harris and Dewar, 2001). Its major goal is to develop a long term relationship with passive candidates, so that when they decide to enter the job market, they will turn to the companies and organizations with which they have developed a long term relationship (Boehle, 2000). Relationship recruiting relies on internet tools to learn about web visitors interests and experience and then email regular updates about careers and their field of interest. When suitable job opportunities arise, an email may be sent to them regarding the opportunity (Lievens and Harris 2003). It is also possible to use the internet to go one step further and to provid e potential applicants with realistic job preview (Travagline Frei, 2001). This is because internet-based realistic job previews can present information in a written, video or auditory format. Recruitment Sites With the advent of the internet, off-line sources such as recruitment agencies, head hunters, outplacement service companies have established on-line. There are specific recruitment sites for employers and job seekers. Due to its targeted nature, it can have a better chance to attract candidates with particular skills or field as well as a powerful source of attracting active candidates (Pin et al 2001) Online job boards and service providers have been established solely to operate via internet. Online Job boards Job boards are commercial websites where databases of job vacancies and application are found (Mohamed et al 2001; Smith and Rupp 2004). Online recruitment sites attract jobseekers by offering value added services as well as listing position and allow ing jobseekers to search through them, they help candidates to create resume online, give career advice and offer networking and work life balance advice forums (Simphal 2004) Service Provider This is the choice of outsourcing the recruitment activity to a service provider that provide technical solutions to set up the best tailor made -e-recruitment system for each company that eliminates the need for specific training for the people who are actually contracting the service (Pin et al 2001) Social Networking Social network has been widely associated with the term Web 2.0 which tends to reduce hierarchies by allowing readers to become real actors. It is user-centered and it enhances information sharing. From an applicants point of view, mobilizing a social network makes it possible to obtain more information about the company and the job. From an employers perspective, according to Rees (1966), making use of ones own network or that of the staff should limit the numbe r of applications whilst simultaneously ensuring their quality and also reduce absenteeism and turnover. In the recruitment framework, the most representative Web 2.0 tools are: Blogs, created by applicants and employers and headhunters (Hightech-job). Online Social Networks: Facebook or professional (LinkedIn or Viadeo) to find customers, partners and future employees, to hunt and contact passive applicants. RSS feeds (Real Simple Syndication), where updated information can be automatically posted on a search engine of job offers (Moovement for example), or RSS aggregators (like Netvibes and iGoogle). Video platforms, such as Youtube or Youjob, give companies the opportunity to present their job offers, and applicants the possibility of introducing their CV. 2.5.2.3 Rà ©sumà © Management Systems Rà ©sumà © management systems scan rà ©sumà ©s into databases, search the databases on command, and rank the rà ©sumà ©s according to the number of resulting hits they receive. The reliance upon rà ©sumà © management systems, coupled with the downsizing of the human resource departments in many corporation. Despite the fact the majority of large orgamisations now recruit over the internet, most of them sift on the basis of purely demographic criteria and simple checks on relevant experience (Stanton Rogelberg, 2001). Furthermore some companies claim that screening technology has helped decrease employee turnover by between 10 to 30 per cent by helping to establish a better fit between candidate and the job (Kotyar and Ades 2002). Software application such as Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and Key Word Search (KWS) are indispensable tools in filtering through the large amount of resume in job bank and job sites. However, these tolls are not free from obstacles. Human Resou rce officers using the Key Word Search (KWS) process often work without the advantage of clear and specific job information. As such, they may develop selection criteria that are not job relevant that make the Key Word Search (KWS) process invalid and consequently illegal (Mohammed et al 2002) Selecting the candidates Gowan (2006), has stated that selection is a strategic operation not a tactical one. Appointing the right person is important. However, what is critical is making sure that the wrong person is not appointed. IT has already made an impact on selection in the field of testing (Cooper and Tinline 2003) and interview, although until now is not so widespread. Bartram (2006) reports that the role of the Internet is more limited in the third stage i.e. the selection of applicants. 2.5.3.1 Methods of selection Internet Interview Wide band G3 video phone provide a halfway house between the telephone interview and live face to face interview. Video conferencing provides the employer with the opportunity to conduct a single, pair or panel interview without having the cost of transporting applicant in a common interviewing site (Bartram 2006). Reference Checks Now it is already quite common to seek and transmit references by phone and e-mail. The use of internet to deliver structured and adaptive reference checks will add to the range of ways in which this information can be collected. It will also provide an effective means of providing a higher level of control over administration of reference checking instrument (Bartram 2006). E-trays Here, the information is presented on a computer and all responses are entered on the screen. It has to deal with a series of e-mail to be organized and prioritize and to choose appropriate action to take and types relies to some e-mails. Web-based cognitive ability test Baron and Austin (2000) developed a web-based cognitive ability test which is a timed numerical reasoning test with business-related items and was after an on-line application and before participation in an assessment centers. Assessment Centers It is in the area of both group and individual assessment exercises that some particularly exciting new possibilities emerge. It is now possible that some possible to create multi-user exercises (e.g. business simulations) that can be closely monitored and assessed. The users need not be brought together to a single location, but could form part of a virtual assessment centre. The potential advantage of making such task internet based is that it removes the geographical constrained on having to bring people together to take part of the assessment (Bartram 2006). 2.5.4 Induction of new employees Induction is the process of receiving and welcoming employees when they first join a company and giving them the basic information they need to settle down quickly and happily to start working (Armstrong 2001). Traditional induction methods include employee handbook, on-the-job training and job and company briefing. Information Technology can also be used in the in the induction process by using intranet and video simulation to help in socializing employee in the work environment, video simulation can allow a job tour. According to Digenti (2002), organisations rapidly move their training focus to virtual environments, resulting in a proliferation of methods and online courses. The move to virtual delivery often involves combining a body of knowledge with resource links, interactive segments, personalization features. Shift From Traditional Recruitment To Internet Recruitment The transition from traditional recruitment to internet recruitment is part of the Human Resource (HR) Transformation. Human Resource (HR) Transformation is an integrated, innovative and business focused approach to redefining how Human Resource work within an organisation so that it helps the organisation deliver on promises made to customers, investors and other stakeholders(Ulrich et al 2009) 2.6.1 Roles of stakeholders in implementing the Human Resource (HR) Transformation Ulrich et al mentioned that Human Resource (HR) Transformation depends on the quality of HR professionals and their relationship with line managers. However if they cannot respond to the increased expectations raised by transformation, they will quickly lose credibility. The stakeholders are: Chief Human Resource HR Officer (CHRO) It is the leader of any organisation who sets the direction and tone for that organisation. CHRO is normally the one who sponsor the Human Resource (HR) Transformation by allocating money, time to the transformation offer. The CHRO initiate, take the lead in the design and monitor the transformation plan and making sure that it starts with the business context. (Ulrich et al 2009) HR Professionals HR Professionals are the one who enact the HR transformation throughout the organisation if it is to have any prospect of success. Generally successfully HR professionals facilitate change by helping make culture happen and by developing disciplin es to make change happen throughout the organisation. This may include implementation of strategy, projects, or initiatives. As HR professionals coach, architect, design, deliver and facilitate, they transform themselves from reactive staff followers into proactive business contributors. (Ulrich et al 2009) Line Managers According to Ulrich et al (2009), Line managers are ultimately accountable for ensuring that the organisation has the right talent and right organisation in place to deliver on expectations to customers. They have the responsibility to provide a clear business focus for the transformation, to ensure that the transformation team has access to both internal and external information, to ensure that the right people are involved in the transformation process, and to require clear and measurable results from the transformation. However line managers have had negative experience with the HR practices. Walker (2001) mentioned that from experience line managers are resistant to change and they attempt to keep staff, in order to do business as usual at their units. Jobseekers and internal employees Lievens and Harris (2003) mentioned that the use of the Internet makes it far easier and quicker for jobseekers to apply for a job. In years past, job searching was a more time-consuming activity. A candidate who wished to apply for a job would need to first locate a suitable job opportunity, which often involved searching through a newspaper or contacting acquaintances. After locating potentially suitable openings, the candidate would typically have to prepare a cover letter, produce a copy of his or her resume, and mail the package with the appropriate postage. By way of comparison, the Internet permits a candidate to immediately seek out and search through thousands of job openings. Application may simply involve sending a resume via email. In that way, one can easily and quickly apply for many more jobs in a far shorter period of time t han was possible before Internet recruitment was popularized. Applicants through the internet are mostly young, computer- literate, and educated (Ballie, 1996 and Frost 1997). Drawbacks of Online Recruitment E-recruitment proves more effective for companies already known [(Greengard, 1998), (William Klau, 1997)]. However, Galanaki (2002) argued that the reputation of the company can prove a critical factor to the success of the recruitment effort, not only this is performed online, but with any other recruitment tool. Organisations find it difficult to recruit executive level talent on the Internet. Arkin and Crabb (1999) conclude that executive job applicants still prefer personal contact. Similarly, a point from Seminerio (2001) is that, many companies will want to continue to use more traditional recruitment services for hiring certain employees, such as executive level staff. Arboledas, Ferrero and Vidal (2001) similarly argued that using e-recruitment tends to use only looking for junior positions and from recent university graduates. It is not suitable for recruiting top management. Also, there are some positions that are usually better resourced by using a newspaper or using both newspaper and website advertisement. The risk of overload of resumes as the Internet makes it easier for applicants to summit their resumes and it remove all barriers of time and geography in communication between employers and applicants. As a result, it could create a huge volume of unqualified candidates (Ganalaki, 2002). Similarly, Pearce Tuten (2001) argued that Web-based job sites yielded a high volume of applicants but a low quality fit. Pin et al. (2001) cite the lack of human interaction, overwhelming numbers of resumes, and privacy issues as negative sides of online recruitment. The discrimination issue forwarded to Internet non-user [(Flynn, 2000), (Hogler, Henle Bemus, 1998)]. It is claimed that e-recruitment may have a disparate impact on certain groups of particularly ethnic minorities. People may lack access to computers or do not have the skills necessary to use online recruitment. Therefore, employers need to remember that although the Internet has increased the geographic scope of recruitment, at the moment, it remains limited in its demographic scope (Hogler, Henle Bemus, 1998). Overcoming Resistant To Change Of Line Managers People resist change because it is seen as a threat to familiar patterns of behaviour as well as to status and financial rewards (Armstrong 2001).Furthermore resistance to change is a phenomenon that affects the change process, delaying or slowing down its beginning, obstructing or hindering its implementation and increasing cost. Ways to overcome resistance to changes Organisational Culture Clarke (1994) stated that the essence of sustainable change is to understand the culture of the organisation that is to be changed. Kotter (1996) argue that for the change to be successful, it must be anchored in the organisational culture. Organisational Learning Pettigree et al (1992) stated that learning plays a key role in preparing people for allowing them to cope with change. A willingness to change often stems from the feeling that there is no other option. Managerial Behavior Managers are expected to operate as leader, facilitators and coaches who, through their ability to span hierarchical functional, organizational boundaries, can bring together and motivate teams and groups to identify the need for and achieve change (Mabey and Mayon- White 1992) Following review of the literature on practices and trends on r-recruitment, a number of key variables have been identified and grouped together. The following framework comprises of a di agram highlight those that will enable e-recruitment

Theology of the Body - 32011 Words

Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body A Cliff Notes’ Version Introduction A. The Theology of the Body is the term used to describe the teaching of Pope John Paul about the human person and human sexuality given during his Wednesday Catecheses in St. Peter’s Square between September 5, 1979 and November 28, 1984. John Paul II says that these catecheses could be called â€Å"Human Love in the Divine Plan† or â€Å"The Redemption of the Body and the Sacramentality of Marriage.† B. Various scholars, in different language groupings, will generally break the theology of the body found in these 129 catecheses down into four main sections, others six. I think the most logical way to do so is to break it down into seven interrelated sections: 1)†¦show more content†¦This redemption of the body, which agrees with our experience, opens the way for the proper theology of the body. B. Man’s original solitude 1) God said: It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him (Gen 2:18). This â€Å"man† refers to the human person, and not just to the male. 2) God had put man through a test in naming all of creation, which in addition to revealing to man his freedom, allowed him to become aware of his difference from the rest of creation. He was also not God. Man is conscious that he belongs to the visible world as a body among different bodies, but he was self-consciously in search of his identity and felt alone (another sign of self-knowledge), because he was different from the rest of creation and from God. This indicates man’s original subjectivity. 3) God’s command concerning the tree of the knowledge of good and evil provides man the moment of choice and self-determination, of free will. 4) God’s command to â€Å"fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion† (Gen 1:28) by tilling the earth shows that man’s capacity to dominate the earth lies within himself, transforming it to his own needs. C. The original unity of man and woman 1) The meaning of original solitude (man-Adam) is substantially prior to the meaning of original unity (male-female). 2) The analogy of Adam’s fallingShow MoreRelatedEssay on Black Theology1522 Words   |  7 PagesThe development of Black Theology in the United was one that shocked the nation as a whole. While in slavery, Blacks had to sneak and hold church services. This was partly because Whites felt that Blacks were not able to be accepted into heaven, and they believed that once one as a Christian they could no longer be enslaved. So to appease their conscience they would not allow Blacks to take part in theology. Due to these issues Black Theology soon originated within the United States. The originationRead MoreChristian Theology And Feminist Theology1699 Words   |  7 Pagestheologians to define the word â€Å"theology,† it is likely that they would hear ten different answers. Even within the various types of theology, for example, Christian theology, there are a wide spectrum of attitudes and beliefs. Even more so, if one were to compare evangelical theology with feminist theology, the differences would add up quickly. Two modern day theologians, Stanley Grenz and Catherine Keller, well known in their respective fields, have approached their theology from different backgroundsRead MoreTheology of Worship1367 Words   |  6 Pagesâ€Å"My Theology of Worship† My theology of worship can be found in John 4:24: â€Å"God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.† This is my theology of worship from this text, which can further be broken down into these four questions, which I will go in detail about how they relate to my theology. How worship functions in the relationship between God and humanity, where the sacraments fits into my theology of worship, the role of the church in corporate worship(community)Read MoreEarth, Empathy, and Ecofeminism: A New Approach to Motivating Change644 Words   |  3 Pagessources, and ways that it can be combated through the lens of Ecofeminist Theology and Psychology. By using ecofeminist views, I will develop how climate change disproportionately affects marginalized groups around the world, and then I will use the concept of empathy from the field of positive psychology as a means to motivate those most responsible for climate change, so as to alter their actions. For t he ecofeminist-theology aspects of this project, I will focus on the work of Sallie McFague, whileRead MoreThe Biblical Interpretation Of Exodus And Song Of Solomon 793 Words   |  4 Pagesthe characteristic of Jia Yuming` s allegorical biblical interpretation, and to explore the contribution of his exegesis in Chinese Christian theology. Jia Yuming`s allegorical interpretation was influenced by several theological schools. He graduated from Presbyterian seminary, and had reformed theology background, then he influenced by pietistic theology and Charismatic movement, and then turned to allegorical exegesis. In this paper, we will use Jia Yuming` s interpretation of Exodus and SongRead MoreThe Person of Christ Essay973 Words   |  4 Pagesthat at the same time Christ is one hundred percent God (deity). As human, Christ had a body, he had a soul and spirit, he had human characteristics, and he was called by human names. In Luke 2:52, it is written that Christ, even though he had a virgin birth, He was born with a human body that was conceived by a human body. Christs humanity included both the material and immaterial aspects of the human body (he was flesh but at the same time he was also Soul and Spirit). For Christians, TheRead MoreAnalyzing Black Liberation Theology, Latin American Liberation Theology, and Feminist Theology1371 Words   |  6 PagesLiberation Theology Black Liberation Theology, Latin American Liberation Theology, and Feminist Theology Liberation theology comprises of two main principles: it recognizes the call for liberation from any form of oppression economic, political, and social: second, it says that theology must grow from the basic Christian communities and not from above. Liberation theology examines the theological meaning of human activities, which includes an explanation of the Christian faith out of sufferingRead MoreComparative Methods Of Fredericks And Clooney917 Words   |  4 PagesDoing Theology Comparatively (Comparative Methods of Fredericks and Clooney) Even though living in the midst of globalization, human community is still diverse in various aspects of culture, politics, economy, religions, etc. It is difficult for humanity to find a â€Å"common denominator† for unity and wholeness. More than fifty years ago, Radhakrishnan, the great Indian philosopher, lamented, â€Å"mankind must become a community is still a casual whim, a vague aspiration, not generally accepted as a consciousRead MoreShort Essay on Pneumatology: Spiritual Gifts975 Words   |  4 Pagesimmediately, not in a subsequent experience. This indwelling places the believer in the Body of Christ. Salvation is not a two-step process, but is instead a change in a person’s relationship with God. Biblical definitions of speaking in tongues are: a gift of the Spirit in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 that may have two functions: In the book of Acts, it is an â€Å"initiation† gift given to affirm entrance to the Church Body. It may also be a spiritual gift given by God to individuals to display the gift in churchRead MoreLiberation Theology Essay865 Words   |  4 PagesJeremy Partin I. Title Page II. Thesis Page III. Introduction Liberation theology in Latin America was first introduced in the late 1960’s, although it became famous after the writing of Gustavo Gutierrez. The roots of liberation theology can be traced back to Europe because Catholic priests were sent there to go to school. It was there where they became radicalized and sent back to Latin America. This radicalization led many to start thinking differently, including Gutierrez. He and others

Requirements for Airline Cadet Program Candidates Free Essays

For candidates, airlines have few if any requirements on nationality, place of residence, gender, education, work experience, degree, school performance and etc. If you compare the requirements for a management trainee program in a big company, you will find the things airline ask for is just essential. But the number of people airline recruit is a lot more than the number of management trainee†¦ and I don’t see the need to compare their starting salaries†¦ But this does not mean it is easy to get into airline. We will write a custom essay sample on Requirements for Airline Cadet Program Candidates or any similar topic only for you Order Now Actually, airline pilot selection is one of the most, if not THE most, rigorous selection procedure you can find. Then what are the criteria airlines use to select their new hires? The answer to this question is, instead of appearance, education or other external factors, airline value more about professional knowledge and people skill. To be specific, the professional knowledge in flying theories, planes and flight environment and stress management under pressure, management and control of multiple tasks and accurate communication. In other words, the airline selection is structured around its professional knowledge and skill needs and the criteria are to test how passionate and committed the candidates are, how much efforts the candidates contributed and how their psychological development is. Concretely speaking, the basic requirements to be an airline pilot include: Age gender: between 18 to 35. There is NO discrimination in genders. So male and female have the same opportunities; Vision: The current normative on pilots affirms that â€Å"If normal sights can be restored with the help of lenses or glasses, visual defects are not a impediment for becoming a pilot†. This means that you can become a pilot if you suffer from visual defects that can be corrected by glasses or lenses. Astigmatism, Hyperopic (long sightedness), Presbyopia and Myopia are not cause for pilot rejection. LASIK or laser operation: Pay attention though not to do a LASIK or laser operation, because this in most of the cases will stop your career forever. A Lasik or Eye Laser operation, can have slight sight effects that are a deterrent for pilots. A common side effect is night starburst of halos effects. These are typical in low lights situation with bright lights sources, usually the cockpit is low light with bright lights coming from the instruments. These effects can reduce the ability to judge or read an instrument and therefore will impede the pilot to do his own job. Medical conditions: The medical conditions that will impede you to enter will be: serious heart problems or coronary problems, clinical hypertension, color blindness or retina damages, brain damages or reduced motor skills, serious psychological problems like clinical depression, or any serious life threatening problem. For sure you will have known in advance if you have such serious medical conditions. Candidate nationality: For the cadet pilots programs in China, like the one of China Southern, you need to be a Chinese citizen to apply. For most of the other cadet programs, like the one in HK or Singapore, any nationality can be admitted, including Mainland Chinese nationals; Education requirement: A degree or diploma is needed, in any discipline, or a Form 7 equivalent with a pass in Math or Physics will do the fare. There is no preference for any discipline, so even if your degree is in art it will be accepted and will not handicap you; Major: The airline companies do not have any requirement on the major in university. Well, they don’t even require a university degree, so†¦ The general belief is that actually, a business major will be good for the long term development if you want to get a management position after; Health conditions: In terms of health, a normal youngster health condition will be more than enough to enter and pass the medical selections. You will need to pass 2 medical checks called ICAO Level 1 and Level 2 Medical, but usually these are no hurdle for entering the cadet. Anybody who satisfies these requirements above is capable for the airline pilot career. Then, let’s move to how to change the â€Å"capable† into â€Å"very capable†. In other words, what are the key criteria the airlines value and how to improve these criteria so you can pass the interviews to be an airline pilot. How to cite Requirements for Airline Cadet Program Candidates, Papers

Astronomy And Space Science Your Bones in Space Essay Example For Students

Astronomy And Space Science: Your Bones in Space Essay SIGHypogravitational Osteoporosis: A review of literature. By Lambert Titus Parker. May 19 1987. (GEnie Spaceport) Osteoporosis: a condition characterized by an absolute decrease in the amount of bone present to a level below which it is capable of maintaining the structural integrity of the skeleton. To state the obvious, Human beings have evolved under Earths gravity 1G. Our musculoskeleton system have developed to help us navigate in this gravitational field, endowed with ability to adapt as needed under various stress, strains and available energy requirement. The system consists of Bone a highly specialized and dynamic supporting tissue which provides the vertebrates its rigid infrastructure. It consists of specialized connective tissue cells called osteocytes and a matrix consisting of organic fibers held together by an organic cement which gives bone its tenacity, elasticity and its resilience. It also has an inorganic component located in the cement between the fibers consisting of calcium phosphate 85%; Calcium carbonate 10% ; others 5% which give it the hardness and rigidity. Other than providing the rigid infrastructure, it protects vital organs like the brain, serves as a complex lever system, acts as a storage area for calcium which is vital for human metabolism, houses the bone marrow within its mid cavity and to top it all it is capable of changing its architecture and mass in response to outside and inner stress. It is this dynamic remodeling of bone which is of primary interest in microgravity. To feel the impact of this dynamicity it should be noted that a bone remodeling unit a coupled phenomena of bone reabsorption and bone formationis initiated and another finished about every ten seconds in a healthy adult. This dynamic system responds to mechanical stress or lack of it by increasing the bone mass/density or decreasing it as per the demand on the system. -eg; a person dealing with increased mechanical stress will respond with increased mass / density of the bone and a person who leads a sedentary life will have decreased mass/density of bone but the right amount to support his structure against the mechanical stresses she/she exists in. Hormones also play a major role as seen in postmenopausal females osteoporosis (lack of estrogens) in which the rate of bone reformation is usually normal with the rate of bone re-absorption increased. In Skeletal system whose mass represent a dynamic homeostasis in 1g weight-bearing, when placed in microgravity for any extended period of time requiring practically no weight bearing, the regulatory system of bone/calcium reacts by decreasing its mass. After all, why carry all that extra mass and use all that energy to maintain what is not needed? Logically the greatest loss -demineralization- occurs in the weight bearing bones of the leg Os Calcis and spine. Bone loss has been estimated by calcium-balance studies and excretion studies. An increased urinary excretion of calcium, hydroxyproline ; phosphorus has been noted in the first 8 to 10 days of microgravity suggestive of increased bone re-absorption. Rapid increase of urinary calcium has been noted after takeoff with a plateau reached by day 30. In contrast, there was a steady increase off mean fecal calcium throughout the stay in microgravity and was not reduced until day 20 of return to 1 G while urinary calcium content usually returned to preflight level by day 10 of return to 1G. There is also significant evidence derived primarily from rodent studies that seem to suggest decreased bone formation as a factor in hypogravitational osteoporosis. Boy Frame,M.D a member of NASAs LifeScience Advisory Committee LSAC postulated that the initial pathologic event after the astronauts enter zero gravity occurs in the bone itself, and that changes in mineral homeostasis and the calcitropic hormones are secondary to this. It appears that zero gravity in some ways stimulate bone re-absorption, possibly through altered bioelectrical fields or altered distribution of tension and pressure on bone cells themselves. .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd , .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .postImageUrl , .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd , .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:hover , .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:visited , .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:active { border:0!important; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:active , .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uce86e42fef9dd391b7e9aa5cea9f26cd:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: The Gilded Age Essay It is possible that gravitational and muscular strains on the skeletal system cause friction between bone crystals which creates bioelectrical fields. This bioelectrical effect in some way may stimulate bone cells and affect bone remodeling. In the early missions, X-ray densitometry was used to measure the weight-bearing bones pre post flight. In the later Apollo, Skylab and Spacelab missions Photon absorptiometry (a more sensitive indicator of bone mineral content) was utilized. The results of these studies indicated that bone mass mineral content was in the range of 3.2% to 8% on flight longer than two weeks and varying directly with the length of the stay in microgravity. The accuracy of these measurements have been questioned since the margin of error for these measurements is 3 to 7% a range being close to the estimated bone loss. Whatever the mechanism of Hypogravitational Osteoporosis, it is one of the more serious biomedical hazard of prolonged stay in microgravity. Many forms of weight loading exercises have been tried by the astronauts cosmonauts to reduce the space related osteoporosis. Although isometric exercises have not been effective, use of Bungee space suit have shown some results. However use of Bungee space suit made in such a way that everybody motion is resisted by springs and elastic bands inducing stress and strain on muscles and skeletal system for 6 to 8 hrs a day necessary to achieve the desired effect are cumbersome and require significant workload and reduces efficiency thereby impractical for long term use other than proving a theoretical principle in preventing hypogravitational osteoporosis. Skylab experience has shown us that in spite of space related osteoporosis humans can function in microgravity for six to nine months and return to earths gravity. However since adults may rebuild only two-third of the skeletal mass lost, even 0.3 % of calcium loss per month though small in relation to the total skeletal mass becomes significant when Mars mission of 18 months is contemplated. Since adults may rebuild only two-thirds of the skeletal mass lost in microgravity, even short durations can cause additive effects. This problem becomes even greater in females who are already prone to hormonal osteoporosis on Earth. So far several studies are under way with no significant results. Much study has yet to be done and multiple experiments were scheduled on the Spacelab Life Science SLS shuttle missions prior to the Challenger tragedy. Members of LSAC had recommended that bone biopsies need to be performed for essential studies of bone histomorphometric changes to understand hypogravitational osteoporosis. In the past, astronauts with the Right Stuff had been resistant and distrustful of medical experiments but with scientific personnel with life science training we should be able to obtain valid hard data. It is of interest that in the SLS mission, two of the mission specialists were to have been physicians, one physiologist and one veterinarian. After all is said, the problem is easily resolved by creation of artificial gravity in rotating structures. However if the structure is not large enough the problem of Coriolis effect must be faced. To put the problem of space related osteoporosis in perspective we should review our definition of Osteoporosis: a condition characterized by an absolute decrease in the amount of bone present to a level below which it is capable of maintaining the structural integrity of the skeleton. In microgravity where locomotion consists mostly of swimming actions with stress being exerted on upper extremities than lower limbs resulting in reduction of weight bearing bones of lower extremities and spine which are NOT needed for maintaining the structural integrity of the skeleton. So in microgravity the skeletal system adapts in a marvelous manner and problem arises only when this microgravity adapted person need to return to higher gravitational field. So the problem is really a problem of re-adaptation to Earths gravity. To the groups wanting to justify space related research: Medical expense due to osteoporosis in elderly women is close to 4 billion dollars a year and significant work in this field alone could justify all space life science work. .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 , .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .postImageUrl , .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 , .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:hover , .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:visited , .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:active { border:0!important; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:active , .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2 .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u50538d294b55965acf3f272a8d5f9ff2:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Italian Renaissance Essay Thesis It is the opinion of many the problem of osteoporosis on earth and hypogravity will be solved or contained, and once large rotating structures are built the problem will become academic. For completeness sake: Dr. Graveline, at the School of Aerospace Medicine, raised a litter of mice on a animal centrifuge simulating 2G and compared them with a litter mates raised in 1G. They were Herculean in their build, and unusually strong. reported Dr. Graveline. Also X-ray studies showed the 2G mice to have a skeletal density to be far greater than their 1G litter mates.

The American Jeremaid Essay Example

The American Jeremaid Essay The American jeremiad is what shaped the identity of America and its values that are part of the American life. The American jeremiad adds a dimension of hope and fear. It adds tension to generate motivation for progress. It seeks to unify people by creating tension between ideal social life and its real manifestation. Bercovitch explains the Americans believe they have a mission and they are meant to be the best. He argues that America is not flawless and America has never succeeded because they continue to ask themselves When is our errand to be fulfilled?† This new land was sacred for the Puritans and this new land gave them an opportunity to define themselves and define what America should be. This new land became a secular and sacred place. The Jeremiad is what reminded America of their mission to be a â€Å"City upon a Hill.† It aimed to direct people back to God so they can fulfill their destiny. The European and American Puritan jeremiads are different. Bercovitch sums up the characteristics of the American jeremiad, â€Å"first, a precedent from Scripture that sets out the communal norms; then, a series of condemnations that detail the actual state of the community and finally a prophetic vision that unveils the promises and announces the good things to come.† It starts out by explaining how it should be, then it states the actual complaint, and finally it has a vision that the people need to work towards. It is about realizing the wrong and moving away from the negative and fixing the problems. Bercovitch relates social and religious issues to economics and politics by stating, â€Å"I am suggesting that the process of Americanization began not with the decline of Puritanism but with the Great Migration, and that the jeremiad, accordingly, played a significant role in the development of what was to become modern middle-class American culture. I hope that in sugges ting this I do not seem to be over-straining the worn links bet We will write a custom essay sample on The American Jeremaid specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The American Jeremaid specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The American Jeremaid specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer

Computer Ethics Essay Sample

Computer Ethics Essay Sample Computer Ethics Essay Computer ethics entails practices, values, and procedures that rule the process of access and consumption of computing technology and the linking disciplines without distorting the moral beliefs and values of people or the entire community. It is a concept in ethics that mainly focus on the ethical issues and challenges that result from the use of computers and strategies to curb them. Computer ethics majorly enforce the implementation of ethical computing procedures and usage of the computing materials and outlines the required methods that curb unauthorized transfer of digital contents. The discipline also helps to minimize other unethical processes, for instance, infringing copyrights as well as trademarks. The major aspects that relate to computer ethics mainly base on cases regarding the use of the internet, for example, privacy and user interactions with software, websites and other connected services. The common aspects of a computer ethics are such as privacy concerns, the intellectual property rights, and the impact of computers on the society. Personal data is vital when engaging in any business and thus available to other people as well as organizations. Privacy should, therefore, be upheld to protect this personal information through a technique called encryption. Privacy entails the ability of an individual to make reproductive and personal decisions w ithout any interference that is, freedom from any form of surveillance. Computer ethics describes information technology and the way to explore this technology to the users. Computer ethics also outline the challenges of running computer software and hardware as a result of misuse by the users. The modern society depends vastly on the computer networks to leverage the social and business life and thus there erupts both personal and social ethical concerns. Lack of computers would halt most of the industries today. However, most of the electronic communication between individuals and businesses, for instance, do not guarantee any privacy and security. Initially, when the computer technology was established, there was an absence of ethical standards regarding their use which resulted in challenges. However, the discussion in computer ethics brought a consensus and had solved the computer related problems. Some of the commandments regarding computer ethics dictate that one is not allowed to use a computer to harm others as it is highly unethical. It is ther efore immoral for one to access and distort other people’s files. Computer ethics also dictates that one should not interfere with another person’s work and therefore spreading and generating computer viruses to others is considered unethical. Snooping around files that do not belong to you means invading other people’s privacy and this is similar to break into others people’s rooms which are considered unethical. Using computers to steal or log into other people accounts, bank or company is similar to robbery thus ethical.It is against computer ethics to use computers to bear false witness against someone or copy any software without paying for it first. No individual is allowed to access other people’s resources without being authorized to do so and appropriating somebody else’s intellectual output is against the commandments of computer ethics. It is ethical for one to consider the consequences of any program they write and individuals are encouraged to think about computers in a broad social perspective. Compu ter ethics dictate that every person should use a computer in a way that enhances respect and consideration to ensure safety and satisfaction. Currently, we live in an era where computers are vastly used, and almost every individual has a chance to explore the internet before they commence their formal education. In this way, computers can be described as electronic devices that are human-made with the aim of maximizing welfare and convenience, with no thoughts process internally regarding moral actions.

Digital marketing presents opportunities and challenges to Essay - 2

Digital marketing presents opportunities and challenges to organisations - Essay Example 198). Yet, to obtain the advantages of digital marketing, organisations should add interactive media into their current marketing and business strategies, which is not easy to accomplish. Many companies are having difficulties developing their digital marketing strategies. Studies are being carried out to identify new marketing tools that will contribute to the development and implementation of digital marketing tools. The intention of this discussion is to describe the opportunities and challenges presented by digital marketing to today’s companies by using two concrete examples, Amazon and American Airlines’s SABRE. Various scholars and researchers have identified and described the opportunities and challenges of digital marketing. Digital marketing has created new means or outlets for advertising, selling, and buying. It allows the customer to access an incredible amount of information in an accessible and convenient way. Customers have the chance to look at products and/or services based on their wanted features, such as price, quality, functionality, and others. Customers can use it to get product reviews, or to know about the experiences, opinions, and/or ideas of other users (Urban 2004, 18). Digital marketing has given the end user some control, bringing about an enormous change in marketing processes. By using digital marketing companies can gain competitive advantage through greater customer satisfaction. In addition, digital marketing could be a simple tool for companies since the ‘digital’ feature of marketing allows further technology advances. Because the Internet facil itates two-way communication directly and quickly, implementing digital marketing strategy can occur faster than earlier marketing tools and are at times less costly. The best feature of digital marketing is its ‘instantaneousness’, hence allowing quick response from customers (Morris 2002, p. 205). On the

Free Will Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Free Will - Essay Example This leads to the realization that in deed power inflicts corruption of the mind and absolute power corrupts the mind completely (Blaug 67). The statement that power has the ability to corrupt the mind has been vividly observed in almost every part of the world. Individuals in the opposition have proven to be some of the best leaders before assuming the throne. They articulate people’s grievances and would convince that they are the best to be mandated to lead the people, ironically, when they are eventually elected to power they change to be the known despots of the world (Curra 97). In support of these, the history of Adolf Hitler can serve as an example. Hitler was German who was incarcerated for many years allegedly for castigating the regime that was in power then, after serving his sentence, Hitler was unanimously endorsed to be the Germans king on premise that he had vehemently articulated people’s voices and out rightly was the best bet then (Lewis 56). Upon ass uming the office, Hitler turn to be driven by the ever-growing need to conquer the world by claiming every part of it to be German’s territory. ... This is a clear illustration that power can corrupt the mind to an extent that it insulates critical analysis of one’s actions and impact negatively to the society or a nation at large. With reference to power as a way of corrupting the mind Hitler is not the only culprit, there are other world’s leaders who have acquired the title ‘despots’ by the way they managed power, the long list includes people like Pol Pot (Cambodian dictator) and Slobodan Milosevic of Yugoslavia (Lewis 204). At the helm of power, all these leaders demonstrated radical change in perception thus enabling us to construe that they were corrupted by power The notion that power corrupts the mind is a blanket accusation that cannot be used to include every leader who has been at the helm of power. We have very many leaders starting from grassroots level to the national level who have served in their capacities diligently with honesty and the rule of the law negating the fact that with the onset of power what follows is the corruption of the mind (Lewis 215). Again, when enumerating leaders who have shown deviance while in power, the proportion of the leaders who perfect this is negligible compared to the entire population. It is becoming necessary that we critically understand the relation between power and individuality, power itself cannot corrupt the mind, but the mind can corrupt power (Curra 198). It should then be construed the other way round. Before we relate power to the corruption of the mind, we should first have all the fundamentals of power that directly influences leader in power to depict contrary behaviors and without these, it will be elusive to admit that power affects leaders negatively. The other

No topic Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

No topic - Research Paper Example The higher nature of Prakriti includes things that are regarded as life force which hold all living things on earth. Therefore, it stresses that all the living things emerges from prakriti’s two fold levels. All living things melts in a universal Prakriti at the end of their lives while at the start of creation, God breathes new life in them and they live again. The Purusha on the other hand, is responsible for creating all living or existing communities and the entire creation both in motion and stagnant. The Prakriti represents the mind and the body with all their components while Purusha represents the inside witness ego or spirit which is the clean conscience that lives beyond human mind and senses (Giles 82). Further, it is significant to note that the purusha represents the collective cosmic male whose endurance leads in the evidence of world and life. By enduring the hardships and pains, it forms the basis for one to liberate or free himself from evils of this world. The idea of purusha is well entrenched in the Vedas specifically the purushasukta which explains how the world’s were formed and how beings were given power to live in accordance to natural laws. Further, it illustrates that the social order of the worlds was build from the purusha. The purusha exists in two types; the perishable and the imperishable. In this case, the body is perceived as perishable while the soul is seen as the imperishable. An important note is that the Supreme Being does not comprise any of these features because he is beyond Prakriti. The supreme being posses the highest qualities and is above the inner self, sustains and protects the world he created by guiding them in right path. The Prakriti takes care of the dual sense and illusion of living things. Therefore, all major transformations occur because of Prakriti. Via the connection with the ‘gunas’ it binds the inner soul to the sense of objects and hence leads to birth of

Software Development Methodologies Analysis Information Technology Essay

Software Development Methodologies Analysis Information Technology Essay The report will be divided into sections, which describe the different stages of the project life cycle and provide information about the project scope, purpose and defines project objectives. Furthermore this report investigates the different software development methodologies and examines which one would be the best to use for the purpose of the final year project. Moreover the Summary and Critical Review of the project is provided with conclusions on, possible, future changes and improvements to the project. Finally the reports Appendix section includes all relevant diagrams, testing and coding and other information related to the project. Acknowledgments I would like to thank both of my project supervisors; Jon Bennett and Matthew Wake for their help and encouragement throughout this project. Furthermore I would like to thank Karren Burrows for her help on improving my database design and Mary Spence for guidance in the complicated world of VBA. In addition I would like to express my gratitude to Kevin Potterton, a friend and co-worker at Investmaster Group ltd. for providing helpful input, recommendations and moral support in difficulties with project management. Finally my boyfriend Andrew Steer for his patience, support and proof reading. Table of content Introduction The main aim of this project was to document and develop an Order Processing Scenario for a car rental company. The system stores customer and car details, car availability, calculates rental costs and fines, prints bills, and highlights unpaid transactions. This information will be available through a user friendly interface; with clear error messages. To accomplish this, knowledge acquired throughout the years at university was used to analyse and solve problems encountered during the project. Furthermore, the information required for the project was gathered and synthesised to provide a practical and high-quality end product that could actually be used in a real world situation. Additionally, research into different software development methodologies was completed and an appropriate development methodology selected. By using techniques and tools covered during the course the requirements for an order processing system were captured, including; different users and views of customers and clerks. What is more, using the research, self-learning and additional Visual Basic tutorials enabled the use of more sophisticated and advanced coding techniques. Finally, the system was tested by users with different levels of IT knowledge and was accepted for covering the relevant HCI criteria. (Appendix14) To develop and implement a fully functioning GUI front end for the above system. Problem definition. Currently, Aleks Car Rental is a small car renting company and all record maintenance within the company is carried out manually, on paper. Customer and reservation details are written down in log books and transactions are not backed up anywhere in case of any data loss and sensitive data is quite easily accessible; making the company susceptible to data theft. This way of working is not particularly effective because the paperwork is frequently lost or misplaced, which leads to the customers being unhappy with the service provided and complaints concerning the standard of data security. The aim of this project is to produce a cheap, automated solution that will enable safe storage of sensitive customer data. It should allow permitted users to check on; the availability of cars, customer accounts and to produce relevant reports. In addition to this, the system should be easy to use with clear instructions and messages as the users (clerks) have only basic IT knowledge. Objectives To select and follow an appropriate development methodology. To capture requirements for an order processing system including different users and views of customers and clerks. Investigate different software options. Design the order processing system. To include a variety of subsystems including the maintenance of customer information, car details, clerk details and the payment of fines. To identify a variety of users for system testing against relevant HCI criteria(Appendix15). Produce a prototype with basic functionality. Conduct an evaluation of the prototype. To develop and implement a fully functioning GUI front end for the above system. Basic Project Requirements 1) Acquire and analyse user requirements. 2) Develop a working system prototype with basic functionality specified by the user. 3) Design and implement a database for the system prototype. Possible Further Enhancements 1) Add administration section to the system. 2) Develop a fully functional order processing system 3) Investigate possible security problems Deliverables 1) Report 2) Working order processing system Project Schedule The duration of each task was controlled through the production of a Gantt chart; an outline of each key task was highlighted therein. This chart can be seen in Appendix B. Nevertheless it is not always possible to stick to the produced schedule, so the second, reviewed Gantt chart was created. This chart can be seen in Appendix B. It shows the actual start and completion tasks dates presented week by week, the tasks that were completed in the different time than expected are presented in blue. Appendix C Project Development Diary and Error: Reference source not found, highlights the problems encountered during the development and times when project was feeling behind the original schedule. The main reason for running behind the schedule was that the planed amount of time to learn VBA language was an optimistic prediction and the task was much more difficult than predicted. Another factor that had a big influence on delaying the project was sudden unavailability ot the project supervisor during to his health issues. This had place in January, and caused significant suspension of the database development as the supervisor was a project client and a main source of help in using VBA code. Furthermore, accommodating for deadlines in other modules, and obligations at work lead to further delays. However by working extensively during the weekends and bank holidays all of the project objectives were fulfilled on time. Project Management Scheduling the project stages had a massive influence on the development of time management skills. Successful time management helps to increase the person productivity and overall efficiency. Setting goals, prioritising them and monitoring its execution help to gain conscious control over the project and its separate stages. Developing these skill can seriously influence the person future ability to manage the projects in the work environment. One of the techniques useful when managing the project is the MoSCoW analysis (see Error: Reference source not found). It divides the tasks into different categories to enable the decision on which of them are the most and the least important. Tasks paced high in the hierarchy are the ones that had to be completed first, when the completion of tasks placed lower in the hierarchy of importance was optional. In cases where completion of the most important tasks was taking longer than expected the less important functions were completed earlier, to ensure that there are as many working functions as possible. Furthermore to ensure that all of the good project management practices are conducted during the final year project development, weekly meetings with Jon Bennett, supervisor, were carried out. During these meetings supervisor pointed out parts of the project that might take longer to complete and highlighted the areas requiring the biggest effort concentration. Unfortunately, because of the supervisors health problems meeting in the last few month of the project development were suspended but they were resumed with the new project supervisor although not with the same frequency. 2.Software Development Methodology Software Development Methodologies Analysis When developing a system it is crucial to choose a methodology that will fulfil all of the project requirements within the allocated timescale. A successful methodology is one that enables the developer to manage, evaluate and control the system throughout its life cycle. There is a wide range of different models, which differ in; the number of iterations of the project lifecycle, the intensity of user involvement in the project and the level of evaluation. Therefore, the decision on which methodology to use for a final year project might be a very difficult one and to succeed, the complete spectrum of requirements has to be taken into account and many techniques and tools have to be considered. Agile vs. Heavyweight Methodology Project development methodologies can be divided into two main types; agile and heavyweight. Both of these methodology types possess aspects useful for the purpose of the final year project but none of them could be fully used as a separate technique. In order to find the methodology that is most suitable for the project it would be recommended to combine some of their individual aspects together. Agile Methodology Using some of the agile methodology features can significantly limit the amount of documentation produced for the purpose of the project and assure that the project will be finished in the given amount of time. Furthermore, the agile approach concentrates on good design, technical excellence and simplicity, which are the main goals whilst working on the final year project. Another argument for using an agile methodology is that it can also be used for the purpose of small, self-organised teams or individuals, helping them to adapt to changing circumstances, which is often the case in projects such as these. Heavyweight Methodology Nevertheless, using some of the aspects of a heavyweight methodology should also be considered when developing an order processing system like Aleks Car Rental. Although heavyweight methods are mainly used by large teams for the purpose of developing large projects, some of the methodology tools and techniques could be also useful when developing student project. Following a heavyweight methodology helps to identify the different stages of the project and what lifecycle would be the best to follow for the purpose of the final year project. RAD (Rapid Application Development) One of the examples of an agile methodology is Rapid Application Development (RAD). Its main advantage is that the working systems are created within a short time period, which is very useful as the time frame for the student final year project is quite restricted. Furthermore, according to the RAD methodology the project needs to be frequently reviewed by the user as new functionalities are added during the development process. This is called iterative prototyping and should be applied to the students final year project development. User participation is very important in this process as it ensures that the developed system satisfies the end users requirements. Another aim of the RAD method is to reuse existing software components. Unfortunately as Aleks Car Rental order processing system needs to be created from scratch this aspect of RAD is not suitable for the purpose of this project. Another feature of RAD is the use of Computer Assisted Software Engineering (CASE) tools and techniques, which could be extremely useful to the developer in the project planning stages and all stages that follow the development of the system. These techniques should also be used in the development of the final year project. RAD questions the use of high-level documentation, like this report, as it is very time consuming, and, instead, concentrates on the low ceremony level such as system testing, training and implementation plans. For a diagram see Appendix D. Extreme programming Another example of the agile methodology is the Extreme Programming Method. Its success depends upon the level of customer satisfaction with the system. For customer satisfaction to be optimal, this method engages the client in constant communication so that user requirements can be catered for during the development lifecycle. This could be easily applied to the final year project as contact with the client (supervisor) should be persistent throughout the whole development process. By delivering the product in modules, over short timeframes, the Extreme Programming method concentrates on short term goals instead of delivering the full product over a much longer period. The complexity is added to the project sequentially, which means that individuals will be working on something new periodically. This would be the perfect path to follow when developing the final year project as short term goals could be delivered to the project supervisor on a weekly basis. What is more, Extreme Programming allows the developer to quickly respond to changes in customer requirements, which would be highly desirable for the unstable requirements of the final year project. Another feature of the Extreme Programming method is that it is mainly used for small to medium sized projects; such as a final year project. System Development Life Cycle Methodology (SDLC) A good example of a heavyweight methodology is the System Development Life Cycle Methodology (SDLC). This methodology is mainly modelled around the Waterfall Life Cycle which breaks the project structure into stages consisting distinct goals. It is good for projects with clearly specified requirements and a large time frame. A key feature of this model is that the process needs to stay free from any overlapping or duplication. To achieve that undertaken goals always have to be accomplished before proceeding from the one phase to the next one. There is very little possibility for the designers to go back and change any of the finished stages as this would dramatically slow down the whole development process. This methodology doesnt seem to be suitable for the purpose of developing the final year project. . For a diagram see Appendix D. Structured Systems Analysis and Design Method (SSADM) Another heavy weight methodology example is Structured Systems Analysis and Design Method. It is the waterfall life cycle method which breaks the project structure into stages and rejects overlapping theses stages. Three major tools used by SSADM are Logical Data Modelling (Entity Relationship Diagram), Data Flow Modelling and Entity Event Modelling. The method combines all three techniques to enable the complete view of the developed system. Furthermore SSADM is structured from 5 complex hierarchies of stages: feasibility study, requirements analysis, requirement specification, logical system specification and physical design. As this methodology is a high ceremony method and it involves extensive planning and wide documentation, its elements should be used in a final year project to document the development process. Nevertheless SSADM doesnt really address the issue of changing requirement specifications and it doesnt allow any iteration after the project phase completion, so following this methodology rigorously might be really time consuming and not appropriate for the purpose of developing the final year project. User Centred Design methodology UCS could be described as a methodology that attempts to optimize the product around the user specifications. The main aim is to create a product that user can, want, or needs to use, rather than creating something that user will have to accommodate their behaviour around. To achieve that client has to be regularly updated with the project progress and consulted regards any changes. According to the methodology specifications there are several ways to gather required information from the users: focus groups, questionnaires, interviews, usability testing, card sorting and participatory design. Furthermore, although USC mainly replicates the waterfall life cycle method it is also focusing on its four key stages: Use Specification, Requirements Specification, Design and Evaluation. The stages are repeated until the projects usability scope is achieved. USC methodology uses many techniques that could be useful in the development of the final year project like use cases, scenarios and persona (customer for the purpose of Aleks car rental). Methodology used for this Project Time spent on the planning, documentation development and testing is often dependent on the chosen methodology and can increase or decrease accordingly to the used method. That is why, to meet the project objectives successfully the common practice is to combine different aspects of the different methodology types in the way they will suit the purpose of the students final year project. As the user (project supervisor) was consulted about the project requirements and progress on many occasions during the project development, it would indicate that aspects of Extreme Programming, UCD and RAD methodologies were used to full the project requirements. Also, using use cases, project scenario (Aleks car rental) and persona (client) taken from the UCD method made project goals easier to understand and fulfill. Furthermore, to design the order of the different stages in the project the waterfall life cycle technique was used, but as many iterations to the project throughout the different stages were made, and object oriented techniques and tools were used, this would indicate the aspects of SSADM and User Centered Design method were used in the final year project. Moreover Diagrams such as the Logical Data Model (Entity Relationship Diagram) and the Data Flow Model taken from SSADM were also used to establish the data flow in the system and what tables should be created in order for system to work as specified by the client. Additionally to confirm that all of the client requirement were covered the testing of the system was undertaken as it have place in RAD and UCD methodologies. To conclude, there is no one appropriate methodology for this project but many aspects of different methodologies combined together enabled to fulfil the requirements set by the project stakeholder. 3. Gathering Requirements 3.1 User Requirements For the purpose of this project the assumption was made that the person called system user will be the project proposer and initial project supervisor, Jon Bennett. To enable gathering of the most accurate requirements, two different data gathering methods were undertaken. Firstly, frequent consultations with the system user enable assembling essential system requirements and allows in depth research into user needs . Secondly investigation into current car hire solutions on the Internet was undertaken and features of the car renting company systems identified and reused if appropriate. 3.2Research Methods Two main research method types can be identified, quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative method is often used when the question is how many or how often. http://www.orau.gov/cdcynergy/demo/Content/activeinformation/tools/toolscontent/quantiativemethods.htm The most commonly used techniques are usually structured questionnaires and surveys. Further to that statistical data is produced and, in order to analyse and interpret the collected data, converted into charts and graphs. This method can be very time consuming and requires gathering large samples of data. As the final year project has a strict time frame and it is an individual task, quantitative method doesnt seem to be the right one to use. Second type of research methods is a text based qualitative method. In order to obtain the most accurate information, methods such as focus groups, interviews, observations, and case studies are used. The main data gathering method is to take a description of a problem from someone experiencing it or by observing the individual user. By using this method more in depth information is provided which will allow better understanding of user needs. The success of this method depends mostly on the researchers skills and should only be used if there are only a few cases to investigate. As the amount of stakeholders in the project is limited to one and it is possible to observe or interview the user, using qualitative method seems to be more suited for this project. 3.3Interviews Interview is a formal meeting and discussion with someone. http://www.thefreedictionary.com/interview Gathering information through an interview means evaluating the situation through the conversation with user. There are different kinds of interviews: structured, semi-structured, unstructured, group interviews and focus groups. In order to gather all necessary information about the required system functionalities regular weekly meetings with the user were taking place during a four month period. This is documented in appendix X. During these meetings functional and usability requirements were recognised and different methods on how to fulfil them were discussed. 3.4Functional Requirements Functional requirements indicates what actions should the system be able to do and what functions it should perform. Login Only permitted users should be able to login in to the system. Make Loan- Permitted users should be able to rent a car, and loan information should be stored in the system Add Customer- Permitted users (clerk) should be able to add new customer details. Edit Customer Permitted users (clerk) should be able to update/edit customer details. Find Customer Permitted users (clerk) should be able to find existing customer details. Delete Customer Permitted users (clerk) should be able to delete existing customer details. Add Car Permitted users (clerk) should be able to add new car details. Edit Car Permitted users (clerk) should be able to edit existing car details. Find Car Permitted users (clerk) should be able to find existing car details. Delete Car Permitted users (clerk) should be able to delete existing car details. Register car damages Permitted users (clerk) should be able to add any car damage details. Add Clerk Permitted users (manager) should be able to add new clerk details into the system. Edit Clerk details Permitted users (manager) should be able to edit clerk details in the system. Find Clerk Permitted users (manager) should be able to find clerk details in the system. Delete Clerk Permitted users (manager) should be able to delete clerk details from the system. Produce Reports Permitted users (manager) should be able to produce monthly and yearly income reports. Produce Loan Receipt Permitted users (clerk) should be able to produce client receipt with the loan details. Calculate Payment System should calculate the total payment for the loan. Calculate Fine System should automaticaly calculate fine for late returns. Notifying about overdue loans Permitted users (clerk) should be able to view details of the overdue loans. Close Option Use should be able to close all the forms. Cancel Option User should be able to cancel undertaken activity. Logout Option User should be able to logout from the system. 3.5 Usability Requirements Usability requirements measures how the software is suitable for its users, considering how easy it is to learn, how effective it is, how efficient it is, and user satisfaction. When designing a system there are ten usability principles that should be taken into consideration . Jakob Neilsenal. (2001). These 10 rules are outlined below with relevance to the order processing scenario Aleks car rental. Visibility of system status The user should be informed about any system status changes through the use of appropriate feedback e.g. When information in the system is updated a message box should be displayed informing the user whether this procedure has been successful or not. Appendix 16 Match between system and the real world Language used in the system should be appropriate and easy to understand by the user, egz meaningful error messages. Appendix17 User control and freedom -All possible activities undertaken by the user should be supported by the system (navigation). Consistency and standards To prevent any confusion the system the consistency of the interface should be kept throughout the whole system. It is reassured by using the same colours, fonts and format. Error prevention Any errors should be avoided when possible, where errors do occur, user should be clearly informed what has happened. Recognition rather than recall The interface should be informative enough for the user to understand how to navigate around the system in order to fulfil the undertaken action, egz. placing order. It should be clear to the user what they are required to do without recalling any information. Flexibility and efficiency of use The system should be designed for both experienced and inexperienced. Although the Aleks car rental system is easy and straight forward to use all of the users will be provided with user guide. Aesthetic and minimalist design Using only the basic graphics and presenting only the necessary information prevents user from getting distracted from the system. Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors When an error occures, the meaningful information should be displayed to indicate what coused the error and suggest how to resolve the problem. Appendix 17. Help and documentation -A user guide, listing clear steps on how to complete the tasks should be available. Appendix 18 3.6 Requirements gathered from available solutions This section of the report studies existing booking systems, available on-line or sold to car renting companies. See Appendix 18 for screen shots of these solutions. An investigation throuought existing booking systems was carried out in order to identify any reusable features that can be used for Aleks car rental System. Furthermore, undertaken research helped to recognise problems that should to be avoided. These are discussed below: General Usability: Usability is about design focused on helping customers perform tasks, with little effort and making the experience enjoyable. It is important from both the customers perspective as it is the means by which the user interacts; it should not lead to frustration. A well designed website interface is user friendly, simple, efficient, the functionality easy to learn and use in addition to providing effective interaction. Use of Multimedia: A range of high quality multimedia through color, sound, and graphics collaborated creates a powerful impression and generates interest, making the experience enjoyable. This sets a positive expectation for the rest of the website ultimately the customers choice of place to hire a vehicle. Use of multimedia should be kept to a minimal, with lot of white space and contrasting text. The average customers computer specification and bandwidth should be kept in mind thus it affects load up and response time. Search for Information: A customer likes a booking experience that enables them to find, select and pay for the service with ease. The solution to this is efficient navigation and search facilitation. A search function by keyword can help retrieve specific information; reducing frustration. Grouping meaningful data in a structured list should be applied as it minimizes confusion. Further subcategory help narrow down relevant information making it easier for customers to find what they are looking for. Online Order: The website should support secure online payment transactions, customers should be made aware of this, also other methods of payment options should be acceptable as customers are vulnerable to carrying out online payments. Status of reservation: It is important that the customer is updated with the status of the service once the reservation has been completed i.e. confirmation of the booking. 3.7 Safety Requirements There is a wide range of safety requirements to consider when designing a system, but as specifying them is outside the final year project scope only the basic ones will be covered. Backup when additional copies of the data are make. This could be done either by the user or automatically by the system. Backed data should not be stored anywhere within close proximity of the original system in case of a natural disaster such as fire or flood was to take place where the system is located. It is highly recommended that Aleks car rental company use a backup option to secured informations stored in the system. System stability testing to minimise system failure and possible data loss the thorough testing should be always performed on any new system. 3.8 Security Requirements Personal information stored in the system should only be accessible by authorised person. Password to prevent unauthorised individuals from accessing the data, system should always be protected with the password. Encryption protects information by making it unreadable to anyone except authorised person. This is use to protect the password when login in to the Aleks car rental. 4.Software and Hardware solutions 5.Car rental Company System Prototype In order to develop a fully working system student had to design and develop a working prototype of the booking system as a part of the project development lifecycle. See Appendix G for screen shots of the prototype system. Use Case Diagrams To gain an overall view of the system to be developed a diagram was drawn using UML (Unified Modelling Language). UML is used to show the interaction between the reservation system and the several actors/users. See Appendix H for a UML diagram. User Authentication As the system is designed to stored potentially sensitive data the user identification must be in place.<