Primitivism Essay free essay sample

Paul Gauguin is said to have always felt like an ‘other’, a primitive and therefore in his later years set out in search of a pure society that was close to nature and free from the corruption of civilisation. ‘Gauguin is traditionally cast as the founding father of modernist primitivism. ’ (Solomon-Godeau, A. 1989. pp314) His many works explore and express his desire to find authenticity and to ‘become a savage’. Similar to Gauguin, Emil Nolde seeks to return to a oneness with nature, in an attempt to bridge German’s past with its future. Using traditional German forms of art such as folk art and craft and combining this with that of modern images, using loose brushstrokes to create an earthy and natural feel to his works. Nolde was a part of the German Expressionism movement which sought to unshackle their civilisation and return to nature and freedom. â€Å"Primitive peoples create their works with the material itself in the artist’s hand, held in his fingers. We will write a custom essay sample on Primitivism Essay or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page (Nolde, 1934) This statement by Nolde explores tactility and the idea of the power of expression in such simple forms, which is what Nolde explains to be a contributing factor as to why artists are so drawn to the works of the primitive peoples. These simple, natural works are intense in their expression of power and meaning thus providing artist such as Nolde and Gauguin with inspiration and direction for their works, showing them how to create simple yet expressive works of art that are moving and captivating to the viewer. Emil Nolde, ‘In the paintings by which he is best known, ‘primitive’ figure types are used to evoke emotional and religious themes. ’ (Harrison, C Wood, P. 1992. ) Emil Nolde’s works such as ‘Dance Around the Golden Calf’ (1910) and ‘St Mary of Egypt’ (1912) show this expressive form of painting, with loose brushstrokes and wide use of colour creating a very rhythmic and sensuous painting. These works are representative of Nolde’s move to a oneness with nature as it can be seen that the expression and movement within ‘Dance Around the Golden Calf‘ is very natural and flows. St Mary of Egypt’ uses a wide range of colour and loose brushstrokes to create an incredibly expressive and bold artwork. It is clear to see that Emil Nolde is influenced by the works of primitive peoples as his works are simple yet largely expressive and moving in their aesthetics. Emil Nolde was seen to be very political in his time and was very outspoken with his ideals of art. He ‘attacked the scientific approach to tribal art that ignores its aesthetic potential. While â€Å"Coptic, Early Christian, Greek terracottas and vases, Persian and Islamic art† have been admitted to the canons of high art, he complains, â€Å"Chinese and Japanese art are still classified under ethnography and primitive art is ignored altogether†(Lloyd, J. 1985. pp. 46) This statement shows that the art of primitive people was yet to be considered ‘art’ by the society at that time, therefore by such well known artists as Emil Nolde and Paul Gauguin using non-European cultures as inspiration for their works would have lead to the change in attitudes towards the art of the primitive peoples. Perhaps informing people of its true artistic qualities and lending society to the idea that primitive art should indeed be considered art. Nolde was very political in his manners and rejected any mixing of races, in art as well as in life. ‘The Roman Empire, he tells us, never produced art of real value since it was an amalgam of nations. To this remarkable statement he adds the following observation: ‘England in many respects to be compared with the Roman Empire like all Germanic people once had great art, poetry, and wonderful music. But after the immigration of Spanish Jews the country became materialistic, concerned only with power and possessions. Its interests spanned the whole world and went all directions, and what remains now is a nation almost impotent in the arts. ’ (Ettlinger, L. 1968. pp. 200) Although these were his views and opinions, Nolde was still heavily influenced by non-European cultures weaving many references to these cultures throughout his works. Paul Gauguin, like Emil Nolde, used a vast range of colours and wove a flowing feel throughout his works symbolic of the freedom and natural qualities found amongst these non-European cultures they so highly treasured. ‘The Polynesian titles he gave most of his Tahitian works were intended to represent himself to his European market, as well as his friends, as one who had wholly assimilated the native culture. In fact, and despite his lengthy residence, Gauguin never learned to speak the language, and most of his titles were either colonial pidgin or grammatically incorrect. ’ (Godeau. pp. 325) This statement by Solomon-Godeau shows that although Paul Gauguin has set out to return to his primitive ways and ‘become a savage’, he was still programmed to thinking like that of someone from the bourgeois society, unable to fully comprehend the traditions and culture of these primitive people. Gauguin’s works such as ‘Two Women on a Beach’ (1891) and ‘Merahi metua no Tehamana (Tehamana Has Many Ancestors)’ (1893) both explore this natural and pure lifestyle that Gauguin sort to find amongst the Tahitians, whilst also juxtaposing the French impression of their culture and their influence with the use of the European clothes that these women wear. Within the work ‘Two Women on a Beach’ Gauguin’s use of loose, free brushstrokes emphasises the fact that the women are close to nature, they look as though they are carved out of wood. However, these women are also seen to be out of place in their environment as their stances seem somewhat awkward and uncomfortable and the image has been cropped making it feel as though they don’t fit in the image. Both are seen to be wearing missionary dresses/European clothes and are weaving, representing the French’s view of the Tahitian women, lazy, close to nature and savage. Gauguin’s work ‘Tehamana Has Many Ancestors’, similar to that of ‘Two Women on a Beach’, depicts a girl (Tehamana) seated wearing European clothes, holding a woven fan with flowers threaded throughout her hair. Tehamana, like the women in ‘Two Women on a Beach’, also seems somewhat out of place and as though she does not fit within this image. The references to her savage lineage, through the use of the paintings on the wall behind her and the petrogliphs reinforces the fact that like many other Tahitians, Tehamana ‘had no relation to her former traditions. ’ (Godeau. pp. 326) The images of Tahitian women wearing European clothing emphasises and makes reference to the Catholic, Mormon and Calvinist missionaries that had been at work in Tahiti for many years before Gauguin had travelled over to Tahiti. The authenticity that Gauguin had set out to discover had diminished, therefore ‘Gauguin did not paint Tahiti, but his Tahitian dream. ’ (Staszak, J. 2004. pp. 353) These images highlighted the fact that the Tahitian’s ‘pre-European culture had been effectively destroyed. ’ (Godeau. pp. 324) ‘Not only had the indigenous religion been eradicated, but the handicrafts, barkcloth production, art of tattoo and music had equally succumbed to the interdiction of the missionaries or the penetration of European Products. The bright-coloured cloth used for clothing, bedding and curtains that Gauguin depicted was of European design and manufacture. ’ (Godeau. pp. 324) Paul Gauguin, Emil Nolde and many artists alike have been vastly influenced by the works of primitive peoples, borrowing certain aspects of their culture and art in order to gain inspiration for their own works and expand their expressive capabilities within their art works. The fact that these artists are well known for their works relating to the primitive that have drawn inspiration from non-European, ‘savage’ cultures emphasises this notion that indeed art by primitive peoples should be considered a true art form. Reference List Ettlinger, L. D. â€Å"German Expressionism and Primitive Art,† The Burlington Magazine Vol. 110 No. 781 (1968): pp. 200, accessed May 8, 2012. http://www. jstor. org. wwwproxy0. library. unsw. edu. au/stable/pdfplus/875584. pdf? acceptTC=true Lloyd, J. â€Å"Emil Noldes Still Lifes, 1911-1912: Modernism, Myth, and Gesture,† Anthropology and Aesthetics No. (1985): pp. 46, accessed May 8, 2012. http://www. jstor. org. wwwproxy0. library. unsw. edu. au/stable/pdfplus/20166722. pdf Harrison, C. , Wood, P. Eds. , â€Å"Emil Nolde ‘On Primitive Art’,† Art in Theory 1900-1990, 1992. Solomon-Godeau, A. â€Å"Paul Gauguin and the Invention of Primitivist Modernism,† Art in America , July 1989. (pp. 314,325,326,342) Staszak, J. F. â€Å"Primitivism and the other. History of art and cultural geography,† GeoJournal Vol. 60 No. 4 (2004): pp. 353, accessed May 8, 2012. http://www. jstor. org. wwwproxy0. library. unsw. edu. au/stable/pdfplus/41147901. pd

10 Summer Retail Jobs to Look Out Forâ€and How to Get Them

10 Summer Retail Jobs to Look Out For- and How to Get Them When you think â€Å"summer job,† you don’t necessarily think â€Å"career path,† or â€Å"40 hours a week in a cubicle.† You probably think of something where you’re working with people, maybe at oddball hours, building experience and making bank before moving on to something else at the end of the season (school, a new job, etc.). Seasonal jobs can be great because they don’t have to be your forever job, but are a useful stop along your path. Whether you’re looking for a flexible second job or a summer job in between semesters, here are the retail jobs you might want to consider. CashierThis is kind of the classic entry-level retail job. Cashiers are responsible for checking customers out, handling different forms of payment, and using the store’s point-of-sale (POS) system. They may also be responsible for maintaining the checkout area, handling returns or other customer issues,The pay: An average of $9.18 per hour, per PaySc ale.What you’ll need: People skills, good math skills, and general trustworthiness, since you’ll be handling money on the store’s behalf.Stock ClerkStock clerks, who are most often found in big box department stores or grocery stores with high traffic and turnover, keep shelves full. Throughout the day, merchandise can get depleted or scattered, so these clerks are responsible for keeping shelves looking orderly, and tracking inventory. Clerks typically move between the store floor and the warehouse/storage areas throughout their shifts.The pay: An average of $11.14 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Clerical skills (for managing inventory and keeping records), customer service skills, attention to detail.Overnight Stock ClerkThis is a variation on other types of stock clerk positions, except these nocturnal professionals get their work done after the store is closed. Overnight stock clerks are responsible for inventory management, and getting the s tore ready for business the next day.The pay: An average of $11.14 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Clerical skills (for managing inventory and keeping records), customer service skills, attention to detail.MerchandiserIf you see displays as you walk into a store (or strategically placed along the way to convince you to buy cookies while you’re on your way to pick up milk and eggs), that’s usually the work of a merchandiser. Merchandisers are responsible for setting up product displays to maximize attention to specific products or sales. They work with an eye toward placement, design, and inventory.The pay: An average of $12.04 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Attention to detail, design skills, strong organizational skills.Store SecurityWhether during business hours or after the store is closed, just about every store needs security officers keeping a sharp eye on things. Security officers may be responsible for loss prevention (shoplifti ng by employees or customers), general store security, and safety procedures.The pay: An average of $11.65 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Attention to detail, possibly a background check.Retail AssociateRetail associates are usually at the front lines in every store. Answering customer questions, making sure the store shelves are well-stocked, handling transactions or returns, and generally being an ambassador for the store are all parts of a retail sales associate’s job.The pay: An average of $11.65 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Customer service skills, attention to detail, organizational skills, math skills, and problem solving skills.Retail Store ManagerIf you have previous retail experience, there may be opportunities for seasonal store managers as well, particularly in stores or industries where summer is a busy time. Managers may be responsible for managing staff, payroll, store policies, opening and closing, customer queries (and inte rvening when necessary), and basically keeping the ship moving smoothly.The pay: An average of $14.65 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Customer service skills, leadership skills, attention to detail, organizational skills, math skills, and problem solving skills.Customer Service AssociateCustomer service can be one of the most challenging jobs in retail, but if you have the people skills to turn an irate shopper into a happy customer for life, then this is the retail niche for you. Customer service associates are usually faced with problems- product returns, customer questions, customer complaints, etc., so troubleshooting is their game. Ideally, they help customers resolve whatever issues come up, while providing a good customer experience.The pay: An average of $10.63 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Customer service skills, patience, problem solving skills, attention to detail.BakerIf straight-up retail isn’t your thing, there are also ways to combine food service and retail for your summer job. Many grocery stores and department stores have in-store bakeries. These bakery associates typically help prepare baked goods and displays for the day ahead, so if you’re an early bird, this may be a great retail option for you.The pay: An average of $11.38 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Customer service skills, baking/cooking skills, punctuality, possibly food handling certification.Omnichannel AssociateThis is a new front in retail, as many companies start offering a multi-format approach to selling their products online and in brick-and-mortar stores. (Think Amazon, or department stores that let you ship from their warehouse directly to your local store for in-store pickup.) Omnichannel retail employees are retail sales associates that often work on the fulfillment side of things, preparing orders to be shipped or delivered. They help create a seamless process for customers who want to move from online s hopping to in-person shopping.The pay: An average of $11.38 per hour, per PayScale.What you’ll need: Customer service skills, attention to detail, organizational skills, math skills, and problem solving skills.How to Snag Your Summer Retail JobOnce you’ve figured out what type of retail job would be a good fit for you and your skills, what next? Here are five tips to help get you hired in time for summer.Time it right.Retail stores typically hire year-round, so when should you apply if you’re looking for that summer sweet spot? Right before summer is your best bet- store employee turnover can be high, and stores may not be able to plan staffing too far ahead of time.Find summer-friendly stores.Your best chances to snag a summer job will come at stores that are busy during the summer (sorry, Christmas ‘R Us). Home improvement stores or gardening centers are good bets for the summer, since people are outdoors and active. Ditto sporting goods stores, or offic e supply stores gearing up for back to school sales. Big box stores like Best Buy, Costco, Target, WalMart, etc. are usually perennially hiring, so keep an eye on those evergreen stores as well.Be ready to go.When you start scoping out places that might be hiring, have your resume ready to roll. Again, high turnover means you might have to jump on any opportunities right away. If you hear about an opening and spend three days spiffing up your application, it may be too late!Be proactive.Don’t wait for opportunities to come up. If you’re targeting a particular store, don’t wait for someone to put a â€Å"we’re hiring† sign in the window. Keep an eye on their website, or do it the old-fashioned way- stop in and ask! But remember #3: if you go into a store to inquire about potential jobs, make sure you’ve got your resume in hand.Use your network.You never know who might know of retail places that are hiring soon, so make sure to let people know you’re on the hunt. Your neighbor, your teacher, your old football coach- any of them could have good leads, so definitely mention that you’re looking for a new job. Plus, they know you, and may be able to vouch for you.A summer retail job doesn’t have to be a forever career (unless, of course, you find you have a passion for customer service, or a level of zen in creating floor displays), but it can be an excellent way to pay the bills and build experience before you get to your next step. There are a lot of opportunities out there, so you can find jobs that work best for you and your needs (part-time vs. full-time), your skills, and your experience level. Plus, you’ll be in air conditioning all summer. Not a bad deal!

Your Rights and Responsibilities As a New U.S. Citizen

Your Rights and Responsibilities As a New U.S. Citizen Becoming an American citizen with all the freedoms and opportunities this nation has to offer is the dream of many immigrants. Those who are fortunate enough to be in a position to pursue naturalization gain the same rights and privileges of citizenship as natural born American citizens save one: naturalized U.S. citizens are not eligible for the Office of the President of the United States. With these new rights, citizenship also brings with is some important responsibilities. As a new U.S. citizen, it is your duty to you give back to your adopted nation by fulfilling these responsibilities. Rights of U.S. Citizens Vote in federal electionsServe on a juryBring family members to the United StatesObtain citizenship for children born abroadTravel with a U.S. passportRun for federal officeBecome eligible for federal grants and scholarship Responsibilities of U.S. Citizens Support and defend the ConstitutionServe the country when requiredParticipate in the democratic processRespect and obey federal, state, and local lawsRespect the rights, beliefs, and opinions of othersParticipate in your local community (Source: USCIS)

Applied Analysis of the Carbon Price Mechanism in Australia Essay

Applied Analysis of the Carbon Price Mechanism in Australia - Essay Example The new Carbon Price Mechanism to be announced by Australian government will impact the social well-being of the consumers and will also affect the household budgets. However, the compensations proposed to be made by the government will reduce the adverse effects that these higher prices would have, otherwise, on the energy consumption patterns of the consumers. These effects may be well described with the help of Consumer choice theory. A basic assumption of Consumer choice theory is that the consumer wishes to maximize the utility. In other words, their decision making is rational. However, it is also assumed that the income available to a consumer to be spent is also limited. Subject to such available budget, the consumer seeks to maximize the total utility gained from consumption of goods and services. 1. EFFECT OF RISING PRICES ON ECONOMIC WELL-BEING OF CONSUMERS: As explained earlier, consumers have limited incomes. With these incomes, they wish to maximize their satisfaction. This satisfaction is gained through consuming goods and services. However, with limited incomes, there is a limitation on the consumption of goods. Where the consumer has equal preference for two goods, he is said to be indifferent between these two goods. The income of an individual consumer is shown in the diagram below. It is assumed that this income is divided by the consumer for the consumption of two products, one of which is the energy source shown along the X-axis. The economic well-being of the consumer is in that he uses both the goods to his entire satisfaction with his limited income. To explain the effect of rising prices on economic well-being of households, assume that the consumer has a limited income which is represented by Budget line BC1. This budget line in the graph shows that the consumer can divide his income between the energy source and other goods by such income. The indifference curve IC1 shows different consumption options available to the consumer for co nsumption generate equal utility to the consumer. But all the points situated on IC1 are located above the budget line except Point A. so, the consumer will get maximum satisfaction by utilizing X1 units of energy source and Y1 units of good Y. With corresponding increase in the price of energy source, the units which may be consumed by the consumer become less. So, the budget line is rotated inwards. New budget line obtained is BC2. The new indifference curve obtained after rising the price of energy source is IC2 and the new equilibrium point which generates maximum satisfaction for the consumers is B. at this point, the consumer will get maximum satisfaction by consuming X2 units of energy source and Y2 units of product Y. It is to be noted that due to rise of price of energy source, the consumption of both the products has been reduced. Thus, this will adversely affect the well-being of the consumer as the consumer will have to sacrifice the units of both the goods in order to a ttain equilibrium for the consumption of both the units. EFFECT OF RISING PRICES ON ENERGY CONSUMPTION PATTERNS OF HOUSEHOLDS: The rising prices will also affect the energy consumption patterns of the households. It will specially affect the consumption patterns if the consumers have an alternative source of energy. In case of rising prices, the consumer consumption pattern will be tilted towards that alternative source of energy. The budget line is BC1 before the price change and the IC will show the

Human Resources in the Legal Context Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Human Resources in the Legal Context - Essay Example According to the report  much of the underutilization of older workers both those currently working and those wanting to work is the result of rigid corporate and government policies and practices.   Many assumptions about the elderly have been transferred to workers in their 50s and early 60s. The result of this transference is that retirement age is typically viewed as a cutoff point for one’s working capabilities.This discussion highlights that  the Avolio Experiment revealed the damaging effects of stereotypical assumptions about age. In his study, Avolio asked young professionals to listen to audio recordings of simulated interviews. Avolio told his subjects that the candidates had similar work experience and equivalent on-the-job performance. The same actors voiced the young and the older candidates on the tapes. When it was time to evaluate the candidates, the listeners tended to regard the older workers as non-valuable contributors and to judge the younger ones a s adequate performers.  Older employees are often refused training opportunities, despite working in organizational cultures that value those who maintain and improve their skills.   Some human resource managers believe that older workers are less flexible, are unwilling to learn or change their ways, and have work styles that conflict with the work styles of younger workers. These unjustified assumptions often lead to rationalizations based entirely on the bottom-line.

Groups, Teams, and Conflict Essay Example for Free

Groups, Teams, and Conflict Essay Strategies There are various strategies available to aid in effective team building. One step is developing a recruiting strategy that supports the organization’s diversity goals. Volunteering time to organizations that serve the needs of underrepresented segments of the population is another way to enhance your company’s reputation as an employer that values diversity. Another step that can be used is by registering the organization with local job agencies, such as the local Workforce Center. The organization can also contact universities, trade schools and other academic institutions with information about the company and keep them informed of job openings they can post for graduating students. Organizations can also create partnerships with national and local organizations to promote the company’s image. It can also help to participate in industry events, and include employees in the company’s current workforce who represent various forms of diversity. The organization should not limit its definition of diversity to race, color, sex, national origin or religion but should expand its concept of diversity to include multi-generational diversity as well as diversity in work styles and cultures. One of the most important strategies is to construct work teams with diversity in mind. Whenever possible, the organization should assign employees to work on teams together who otherwise would not have the opportunity to work together. They should assemble groups of people who represent varied work styles, generations, skills and culture and encourage collaboration and synergy among employees through embracing differences (Huebsch, 2013). Challenges One of the biggest challenges with diversity is misconception. Most people associate the word diversity with multicultural issues, but it also covers  the differences in age, sex, sexual orientation, religion, background, and even position of power. Failing to recognize this can result in accidental discrimination against certain groups. Several types of workplace diversity challenges exist. These issues can strengthen a company or ruin one. Communication is essential to diversity in the workplace. Every person and cultural group communicates differently, which can be the biggest challenge of a diversified team. Sometimes employees misinterpret tone, e-mails, and body language, and fail to respond appropriately. Employees that resist change can be a significant diversity barrier. If someone has been raised a certain way, it can be difficult to adapt overnight. Having one resistant employee can throw off the organization’s balance. An organization benefits more when its manager is on board with major decisions for maximum results. Diversity will not work without a supportive manager (Holt, 2013). Conclusion The best way for an organization to determine which strategy works best for, is by looking at the success of the team and ultimately how the organization benefits from the teams work. As we all know, there will be challenges with any team/group because you have different people from different backgrounds, different personalities, and different outlooks on life. However, if the organization can get each member to recognize that their success ultimately depends on the success of the company, I believe that the diversity of the group will no longer be a primary issue. Instead each team member will begin to pay more attention to the work and less about the differences of each team member in regard to themselves. Once the organization begins to benefit from the team’s success, it will be evident that the strategy chosen is a success. References Holt, M. (2013). Workplace Diversity Challenges. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/create-diverse-workplace-10154.html Huebsch, R. (2013). Workplace Diversity Strategy. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/workplace-diversity-strategy-4925.html

History of Throgs Neck and Maritime College Essay -- essays research p

History of Throgs Neck and Maritime College. â€Å"In September 1642, John Throgmorton , with 35 families applied to the Dutch authorities in Niew Amsterdam for permission to settle in. Permission was granted in October 1642, and the conlonists settled on the long neck lying south of what is Eastchester Bay today and named it Throgmorton’s Neck after their leader. By the time of the American Revolution, the name had been contracted to Throgg’s Neck. Throgmorton and his colony thrived for short time, for in the later part of 1643, the Siwanoy Indians attacked the colony and destroyed it. Eighteen persons were massacred. Fortunately, at the time of the attack, a passing boat managed to land at the Neck and helped the remaining colonist to escape to safety. Throgmorton escaped but didn’t return to his colony after the massacre. â€Å" (Hamilton, Harlan. Throgs Neck Light. 1-2) Fort is built at Throgs Neck. â€Å"As New York City developed into the nations largest seaport and business center, the strategic value of Throgs Neck as a site for defense of the seaward approaches to the city from Long Island Sound became apparent. Construction of a fort was considered in 1818, and on July 26, 1826, the federal government purchased fifty-two acres of land from William Bayard. Construction of a fort began in 1833 with I.L. Smith as the architect. New England stone masons erected the thick walls of the fort using granite blocks ferried down from Greenwich, Connecticut. Irish laborers did much of ...

Managing Diversity in Global Companies

When a firm starts to function internationally, an understanding of culture and its impact on behavior, particularly management behavior and practices, becomes essential. Very often, people experience difficulties when they have to work in another culture because peoples’ world views and mental programs are different in different cultures. Culture has been called â€Å"the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes one human group from another† (Hofstede, 1980). Thus, the objectives of managing diversity in organizations emphasize the appreciation of differences in creating a setting where everyone feels valued and accepted. These objectives are: 1.) To monitor an organization's success or progress in managing diversity by organizational surveys of attitudes and perceptions, among other means. 2.) To create and shape the firm’s common set of values that will strengthen ties with customers, enhance recruitment, and the like 3.) To resist the fear of change in the organization itself and resist the discomfort of differences among the individuals in the organization. Even though there may be real economic benefits to expanding the world view of executives and corporations, developing recognition of the existence and benefits of diversity in global management does not come easily to US managers, who often have less exposure to multicultural realities in their workplace compared to their European or Asian counterparts. At present, most companies remain largely indifferent to changing corporate America's predominantly white status quo. But gradually, it is reassuring to know that some 300 or so companies that are aggressively pursuing diversity initiatives. They include companies such as General Motors and Starwood Hotels that have excelled at seeking out and doing business with black suppliers, many of which are represented on the Black Enterprise Best Companies for Diversity list of the nation's largest black-owned companies. To make the BE Best Companies for Diversity list, a company must demonstrate significant representation of African Americans and other ethnic minorities in four key areas: corporate procurement, corporate boards, senior management, and the total workforce. Others, such as Xerox Corp. and FedEx Express, are among the very best at bringing talented people of color into the senior management ranks of their companies, while PG&E and Marriott International are among those that have excelled at African American board representation. And when it comes to fostering diversity, corporations such as McDonald's Corp. and Verizon are old hands (Black Enterprise, July 2005). However, when companies decide to venture in the global arena, it is significant that the manager is reminded that the first imperative for effectively managing cultural diversity is cultural sensitivity. In fact, according to Clark (1987), one of the most recognized global brands, Coca-Cola, attribute their success to the ability of their people to hold and to understand the following perspectives simultaneously: Their corporate culture. The culture of their brand. The culture of the people to whom they market the brand. When global firms, small as well as large, service as well as manufacturing, have workforces that are distributed broadly across continents, and increasingly in emerging markets of the world. They include people from many countries and cultures, speaking many languages and educated in very different systems. The challenge for diversity for them would be twice as difficult. Thus, to manage diversity, domestically or globally, Laurent (1986) recommended espousing modern human resource strategy that requires these minimal orientations: An explicit recognition by headquarters that its own way of managing reflects the home culture values and assumptions. An explicit recognition by headquarters that foreign subsidiaries may have different ways of managing people, which may be more effective. A willingness to acknowledge cultural differences, and to take steps to make them discussible and, thus, usable. A commitment to the belief that more creative and effective ways of managing people can be developed as a result of cross-cultural learning. As companies continue to expand worldwide, human resource leaders are finding that a one-size-fits-all global solution to promote diversity that does not exist. According to Kurt Fischer, Vice President Business HR. and Diversity Officer of Corning Incorporated, HR managers often find that basic HR functions–compensations. benefits, staffing – no longer support their company’s business strategy. Leaders today are faced with the challenge of rethinking and restructuring how they will deliver HR services – and on a global basis. He suggested transforming HR globally through Centre of Excellence Approach (Stopper, 2003). According to Fischer, the Centre of Excellence approach provides content experts within the HR organization who focus on meeting strategic business needs. For example, a company's HR functions may be aligned with its businesses on paper but not in practice. This disconnect can be addressed through a Centre of Excellence approach, which provides content experts within the HR organization who focus on meeting strategic business needs. These experts serve as consultants to corporate business divisions and develop customised HR products and services to support business issues. For the Centre of Excellence approach to be effective, it should map to three levels of HR transformation: strategic, operational, and foundational. On the strategic level, HR leaders must work to define key HR objectives and a new value proposition with their client business divisions–in effect, changing HR’s positioning in the organization. A non-threatening way to accomplish this task is to participate with business divisions in developing their annual business strategy, and then craft an HR strategy to help each division meet its business goals. HR leaders must transform the organization's HR foundation, addressing core â€Å"people† elements of its change. Flexible networks of HR staff should be established to work cooperatively toward shared workforce management goals. A formalized HR reporting and organizational relationship system should be developed, and key HR performance requirements, accountabilities, and competencies defined. This right mixture of diversity is said to provide a wide-array of solutions to various problems and situations. On the other hand, it is also a venue for introducing conflict and disagreement. As the intense global competition zooms in largely on knowledge, creativity, and human talent, multinational firms are finding it more important to make full use of their entire workforce, tapping the creative energy and talents of all their employees. Their task is to find ways of succeeding not in spite of a diverse workforce, but because of it. At the same time, consistency is more important than ever. The integration of activities calls for close communication and reliable interaction, whereas the presence of global customers requires a single integrated approach to product delivery.   In view of this, Beamish et al. (2003) deemed that striving for consistency and fostering diversity is a continual process. There is no final resting point where a firm attains high consistency and high diversity once and for all. When managers cannot grasp consistency and diversity in a single step; they have to continually improve both. Thus, the actual challenge for global firms lies in their thrust for consistency and then their emphasis for diversity; this is also in consideration of their commonalities and deriving the full benefits from their differences. Works Cited Beamish, Paul W., Morrison, Allen J., Inkpen, Andrew & Rosenzweig, Philip M.   International Management: Text and Cases, (5th ed.), New York: McGraw-Hill Companies, 2003. Black Enterprise. The 30 Best Companies for Diversity: When it Comes to Minority Representation, These Corporations Mean Business. Earl G. Graves Publishing Co., Inc. 35.12 (July 2005): 112. Clarke, Jr., Harold F. â€Å"Consumer and Corporate Values: Yet Another View on Global Marketing,† International Journal of Advertising 6, (1987): 29–42. Hofstede, Geert. Culture’s Consequences: International Differences in Work-Related Values, Beverly Hills, CA: Sage Publications, 1980. Hunt, James G., Schermerhorn, J. R. Jr., and Osborn, R. N. Organizational Behavior, 8th edition, New York:   John Wiley & Sons, Inc, 2003. Laurent, Andre. â€Å"The Cross-Cultural Puzzle of International Human Resource Management,† Human Resource Management, 25.1, (Spring 1986): 91–102. Stopper, W. G. Current Practices. Human Resource Planning, 26.2 (2003): 5.   

Creative Concept Essay

I. TIME CONTEXT The case is analyzed when problems affecting the company’s operation took place, inventory cost rises, and lead time for manufacturing custom and standard product line increases. It was then that Thomas decided that it’s about time to take a careful look at the overall impact the new standard furniture line is having on his operation. II. POINT OF VIEW Chad’s Creative Concept started with a good vision of producing custom-made wooden furniture for vacation cabins bringing â€Å"a bit of outdoors inside†. Gaining popularity, evidenced by the increasing demand for their products,  they’ve proven themselves and earned the trust of their clients with subtle and elusive tastes. Opportunity came for the company to venture into the production of a more standard line of furniture. This endeavour could have been great but such affected the company’s operations, marketing and finances. Alterations could have been done in the overall manufacturing process of the company or conducting a marketing analysis could provide insights and working out the marketing segmentation on the potential demand for the standard line products. Most likely, the company was not that much ready to embark on this new line of furniture making in terms of their managing their resources and making the most out of them. Consequently, problems arose and if this situation will continue, additional investment in product cycle will be low or even zero at some point of time. If this will not be given much attention and proper solution will make matters worse. III. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM Enumerated below are the problems identified in the case of Chad’s Creative Concepts. How did producing standard furniture affect Chad’s Creative Concept’s operations and its financial gain? How can the company operations or slow manufacturing process be improved to cater market demand for both furniture lines? What can the management do to reduce production costs while upholding customer satisfaction? IV. OBJECTIVES The following are the objectives the case proponent would like to achieve in order the address the problems faced by Chad’s Creative Concept. To ascertain the operational and financial effects of manufacturing standard furniture. To determine ways on how to improve company operations to cope with the increasingly steady demand for standard and custom-made furniture. To decrease production cost without sacrificing product quality and customer satisfaction. V. AREAS OF CONSIDERATION A. SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGTHS: The company began by producing custom-made furniture and in a short period established a stable reputation for creative designs and high-quality workmanship. Growth of sales led into the production of a more standard line of furniture. Can offer products at the lowest possible price with utmost customer satisfaction. Producing custom and standard furniture offer customers with more choices. WEAKNESSES: Single manufacturing process for both standard and custom furniture. Processing time on the same equipment and craftspeople are shared in manufacturing custom and standard furniture. The holding cost of the company is increasing with dollars tied up in inventory, both of raw materials and work in process. OPPORTUNITIES: Good reputation yields custom furniture sales to be strong and steady sales growth for standard line furniture. THREATS: Customer demands lowest possible cost with maximum satisfaction, in terms of product quality and delivery requirements. Custom furniture is prioritized in making schedules because of its high sales and profit margin causes delay of finishing standard furniture. Costs associated with standard furniture line are increasing. Expensive storage or warehousing cost. Increasing lead time for both custom and standard orders causing longer promised delivery times. Capacity is at its peak providing no space left for expansion.VI. ALTERNATIVE COURSES OF ACTION In order to address the issues faced by the management of Chad’s Creative Concept the following alternative courses of action may be implemented: 1.Relocation of warehouse to an economical and cost saving location. 2.Recruitment of additional staffs e.g., craftsman. By doing so, both  product lines will not compete for the same craftspeople. 3.Encourage existing staffs for overtime in order to reduce delay in manufacturing products, by providing night differential fees and hazard fees. 4.Given that both manufacturing lines are in demand, business capacity maybe enlarged by enabling more facilities to accommodate processing of both product lines. 5. Employ inventory management. This includes developing a forecasting technique about product demand and making right layout and work flow process. Make scheduling decisions, entails how much to produce, to make sure there are not so many raw materials as work in progress status. VII. DECISION CRITERIA The following criteria were used to evaluate the suitability of alternatives recommended in making the decision: Maintain customer satisfaction and company reputation. It is important to note that decision must be based on this rationale because the longevity of a business may be determined by the patronage of its satisfied clients. Chad’s Creative Concept best marketing strategy is the quality furniture they produce for both product lines. Moreover, customers of standard furniture line imposed more stringent delivery requirements, increased lead time for both product lines causes longer agreed delivery times which may garner dissatisfied customers and tarnish company reputation. Improve or at least maintain profitability. Finance and accounting disclosed that profits are declining because of costs congruent with the standard furniture line. Priority given to custom furniture line delayed the generation of revenue for standard furniture line. A company even with a good reputation may not stay in the business if its sales can’t support company operation and administrative expenses. Reduction of cost through proper management of resources such as time, inventory and manpower, will increase profit margin. Hence, it is important at this point to base decisions on this criterion. VIII. DECISION ANALYSIS ALTERNATIVE PROS / ADVANTAGES CONS / DISADVANTAGES 1 Relocation of warehouse with a cheaper rental fee will lessen costs and increase profitability. May incur relocation cost. Since new warehouse is cheaper it may not be that big to accommodate raw materials and inventories. 2 Can manufacture more products and accommodate market demand for both lines and deliver the products on time maintaining client satisfaction. Thus, increasing sales and profit margin. Increase in salaries expense decreases profit margin. May spent time for training new recruits. Learning curve may be lower as they start off. 3 Can increase number of finished products and increases sales. Quality of work may suffer. Employees may get exhausted for working overtime and tend to finish it at a shorter time than usual. Increase salaries expense and decrease profit margin. 4 Can speed up processing time since both lines will not compete for the same equipment. Hence, sales will be increased. Increase asset – capital investment. There is no space left in the plant for expansion. Manpower should also be increased to operate new facilities which increase salaries expense and decrease profit margin. 5 Conceptualisation of right layout and work flow process suitable for both lines would expedite production process. Developing forecasting techniques in understanding demand of products will facilitate timing of procurement of raw materials ex. Just-in-Time Strategy which avoids too much investment on hanging raw materials and work in process inventory. Hiring experts for making the right lay-out and for developing forecast will incur professional fees thus, increasing expenses or costs. IX. DECISION Based on the information presented in the case of Chad’s Creative Concept, the case proponent would like to recommend that alternative no. 5 which entails inventory management address best the problems enumerated above and matches the criteria specified. Hiring an expert who will conceptualize right lay-out for work flow process will speed up manufacturing procedure and configure standard and customized so to reduce setup and changeover time and cope with the demands. Hence, delivery requirement will be met and customers will be satisfied in consideration of preserving company reputation. Moreover, results of forecast will be useful in the timing of procuring raw materials to avoid unnecessary expenditures such as holding cost which will boost up profits. As disclosed in the case, the plant capacity is at its full, plant has no space left for an expansion, and costs associated with the standard line are rising because there is no active sale and the inventory is increasing in the form of raw material and work in process which is holding the investments of the company. It is recommended that the JIT system should be used. Just in Time (JIT) is an inventory strategy companies employ to increase efficiency and decrease waste by receiving goods only as they are needed in the production process, thereby reducing inventory costs which at this point is what the company needs. This inventory supply system represents a shift away from the older â€Å"just in case† strategy, used by Chad’s Creative Concept, where producers carried large inventories in case higher demand had to be met. Though hiring experts will incur cost still the â€Å"benefits exceed costs†. Bearing in mind this principle will further company success and the going concern of the business. X. STRATEGY OF IMPLEMENTATION In implementing the decision the following should be done: Lay-out current manufacturing process. Hire experts who will make the forecasts techniques in understanding demand and conceptualise the layout and work flow process appropriate for both product lines. Lay-out developed should undergo dry run if it would accelerate manufacturing process and achieve the product quality desired. Such as: Product layout for standard line product, usually used for large volume products. Process layout for custom products is used when there are  diversified products using broad-spectrum operations, varying volumes and varying rate of output. Properly laid out factory can ensure the smooth and rapid movement of materials, from the raw material stage to the end product stage. In implementing the new inventory strategy, Just in Time system, supply chain should be adequate and would match demand projected.

. But we know for a fact that they killed and were killed

No one knows exactly how many boys served in the Civil War. But we know for a fact that they killed and were killed. Some of these boys showed more courage than most, which allowed them to endure the hardships of war. In the early morning of April 12, 1861, troops of the Confederate army assembled one mile outside of the Union fort, Fort Sumter. As the light of day appeared, the Confederates waited until they heard the command. With the orders to attack by P.G.T. Beauregard, the Civil War began. Because of the fall of Fort Sumter President Lincoln called for volunteers. Thus started the arrival of anxious young men willing and ready to fight for their side. Many saw the war as a sure way to settle the dispute between the North and the South. No one is quite sure of the number of young boys enlisted in the armies of the North and South. Most record keeping was relaxed and unorganized. There was no real way to tell how old a boy was. Most of the time the boys lied about their ages, and most of them got in. Sometimes the parents of a young boy would allow or even force their son to become a soldier. This was the case for fifteen-year old Ned Hutter of Mississippi. I am sixteen next June, I said....The officer ordered me out of line and my father, who was behind me, stepped to the table. He can work as steady as any man, my father explained. And he can shoot as straight as any man who has been signed today. I am the boys father. It must have been the way he said the words...[because] the officer handed me the pen and ordered, sign In the North the boys joined the army to escape the boring routine of farm life and to take an exciting adventure. They didnt join with the intention of stopping slavery. Northern boys new very little of what slavery was, but they new they wanted to take over the South and set them straight. The Southern boys h...

An Explication of the Theme of Choice in Robert Frosts The Road Not Taken and Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening

An Explication of the Theme of Choice in Robert Frost's The Road Not Taken and Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening The two poems written by Robert Frost that are going to be explicated are named â€Å"The Road Not Taken,† written in 1916, and â€Å"Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,† in 1922. The purpose of the explication of these two poems is to correlate them in order to establish a common theme that they both possess, originating from both of the poems’ individual themes. The theme that I choose to explicate concerns choice, or experiencing a time in life in which a choice has to be made given a set of possible options. When one is presented with a set of options pertinent to an important choice in life, they explore all of the possible outcomes of the options pertaining to that single choice. This is one of the reasons why it is important to spend time thinking about which option that should be chosen, lest a wrong or unfavorable decision is made. Once the sole option has been decided upon amidst the other options and possible outcomes that are given, a sense of confidence is attained and this instills the ideology into one’s mind that they have made the right choice, and they can now continue unobstructed in life with this positive mindset, knowing they made the right choice, and when it is reflected upon later on in life, the earlier instillation of the ideology—that they made the right choice that time—is still present during the reflection. The first stanza of Frosts poem The Road Not Taken portrays a traveler who has encountered a road divergence in which only one of its paths can be taken, in the first line â€Å"two roads diverged in a yellow wood.† Being a traveler, he closely examines one of the paths of the divergence, although his exploratory actions as a traveler are explained in the second and third lines of the stanza; â€Å"and be one traveler, long I stood and looked down one as far as I could† in which he gauges the safety of the path and the possible outcome before coming to a decision for which path he decides to continue on. Oftentimes in life when a decision for a choice has to be made, people observe the given options in every manner, to see and decide which one would be the best one to make, as the traveler is doing in this case for either of the paths he has the option of taking. In the second stanza of the poem, the traveler again examines the secondary path and makes his own observations about it in the first line; â€Å"then took the other, as just as fair†¦Ã¢â‚¬  in which he concludes that both of the paths are mostly identical. In the remaining lines of the stanza, he examines how this path of the divergence appears to be slightly more worn (possibly from more people traveling on it) than the other, noted in the second and third lines; â€Å"and having perhaps the better claim†¦ because it was grassy and wanted wear†¦Ã¢â‚¬  in which he actually comes to the conclusion that the paths are mostly identical in the fourth and fifth lines of the stanza; â€Å"though as for that the passing there†¦ had worn them really about the same.† It can be inferred that at this point, the traveler is indecisive of which path should be taken, since no decision was actually made at this point in the poem. When deciding upon the choice you want to make with the provided options, examining or observing the characteristics of both options is a key aspect of decision-making. In the first two lines of the third stanza, it is now known that the time of day is early, that the area still remains as it was previously, and none of the leaves covering both paths have turned black from the constant on-foot traversal of other human beings; â€Å"and both that morning equally lay†¦in leaves no step had trodden black.† It can also be inferred that the traveler is spending a long time thinking about which path he should take, in which the same is done for weighing the options for a choice which has to be made. In the remaining three lines, the traveler appears to have made a decision, apparently evident in the line â€Å"oh, I kept the first for another day!† in which he favors the second path over the first one, and intends to take the first path sometime later or afterwards. The traveler also realizes that they do not want to be exposed to a situation like this anymore, given that they understand the current circumstance; attributable to the phrase â€Å"yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back.† Essentially, the traveler realizes the path they have chosen in order to arrive to this point (in the poem and in the journey; again, given the current circumstance), and that knowing how things lead to other things [â€Å"how way leads on to way†] introduces a doubtable possibility, which would be returning [â€Å"I doubted it if I should ever come back†]. In the first two lines of the last stanza, the traveler has finally decided which path they wanted to take in the divergence, and that when they decide to reflect upon this decision they made, later in life, they will say: â€Å"I shall be telling this with a sigh†¦somewhere ages and ages†¦hence two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference.† In the very last line of this stanza, the traveler appears to be very content with his decision, and does not hint towards any sign of regression of choice in his words, hence their words â€Å"and that has made all the difference.† The aforementioned instillation of confidence is present in the traveler’s words (and mindset) because they do not regret the decision they have made during their reflection upon which choice they decided to make, and could also conclude that the traveler was able to continue in life undoubtedly because they believe and know that the choice they made was the correct one. In the first three lines of the first stanza within the second poem Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening, the horseman is unaware of whose woods he thinks he is currently situated in, although he knows that ‘his’ house is in the village that is more than likely nearby, by saying â€Å"whose woods these are I think I know†¦his house is in the village though; he will not see me stopping here†¦to watch his woods fill up with snow.† In the last two lines of this poem, it appears that the horseman knows that he has somewhere else to be rather than the forest, and that ‘he’ would not want the horseman spending the night in the forest (despite its beauty), when the horseman should, or has to be, in town. The horseman’s horse realizes that they are not in town, and that it would be rather odd to stop suddenly without any real reason; in the second stanza’s first two lines â€Å"my little horse must think it queer†¦to stop without a farmhouse near.† The following two lines indicate the setting within the forest, and the darkness for the time of year it is; â€Å"between the woods and frozen lake†¦the darkest evening of the year.† Perhaps this natural setting and the darkness of the day, with the added ambiance of the forest is a reason why the horseman wants to stay and admire the beauty of the forest, but they have one of the options—of a choice—to stay in the forest. Within the first two lines of the third stanza, the horse realizes the peculiarity of the situation, because â€Å"he gives his harness bells a shake†¦to ask if there is some mistake,† given they are currently sitting in the middle of a quiet forest, on the darkest night of the year, in moderately snowy conditions and far from the nearby village—that needs to be reached. The ambiance of the forest’s quietness is also denoted in the following two lines of the stanza; â€Å"the only other sound’s the sweep†¦of easy wind and downy flake.† However, in the first two lines of the last stanza, the horseman realizes something—that despite where they are, they remember that they have kept a promise to someone; â€Å"the woods are lovely, dark and deep†¦but I have promises to keep.† It can be inferred that the horseman is currently in the process of upholding this promise to someone, in which he is venturing the nearby town, through the forest, to do so. The horseman had an option to remain in the forest that night, but they did not do so because they reminded themselves that they have a long journey to complete before they can actually go to sleep (apparently would be best for them to complete it sooner than later) in the village in the last two lines of the stanza; â€Å"and miles to go before I sleep†¦and miles to go before I sleep.† When comparing the lines from both sets of stanzas within both poems, the aspect of having a choice is present in both of them. In The Road Not Taken, a choice between which road has to be taken is made, and in Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening, a choice of whether to continue through the forest to get to the town (to rest, presumably) or remain in it for the night (to adore its natural beauty) is contemplated, however the traveler in The Road Not Taken chooses a path to continue on his journey, and the horseman in Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening reminds himself that he has somewhere else to be instead of staying in the forest. Regardless of the circumstances that may arise during the situation of making a choice in life, you are still presented with the given options, and the options of course to examine or observe the possibilities of what you can do in such a situation, i.e. the traveler in The Road Not Taken having to pick a path based from his observations, or the horseman in Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening opting to go to town so they could rest (and complete the journey), rather than resting in the forest amidst its natural beauty (and not knowing what could happen overnight). However, once a decision is made from the given options, the ensuing circumstances or occurrences may either positively or negatively affect the mindset you have towards the decision you made, especially in hindsight or upon reflecting on what was done at that point in time, i.e. the traveler’s words in reflection of his choice of path he made—written in the last lines of the last stanza of The Road Not Taken; â€Å"I shall be telling this with a sigh†¦and that has made all the difference!† It is more than likely that Frost wants his readers and audiences to recognize these situations in life through means of expressing them his own poetry, which is perhaps why the handful of steps concerning the aspect of decision-making and its effects—especially in life—are poetically portrayed with his own examples, in different forms, in both of these poems.

Big data Thesis Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Big data - Thesis Proposal Example The appropriate selection of research approach forms the basis for reliable study. In this proposed research study, a systematic approach will be followed for accomplishing the desired aims as well as objectives successfully. In this regard, a qualitative research approach will be used, as it is a procedure of ascertaining values, perceptions as well as attitudes of individuals in an enhanced manner. A qualitative approach will assist in having an immense understanding about the trends that exists in the electronic markets. The collected data will be analysed through qualitative approach, for ascertaining findings reflecting the important information about competitions and prices and other market trends in the electronic markets. Additionally, in this proposed research study an inductive approach will be used with the intention of obtaining about electronic markets on a broader perspective. Subsequently, inductive approach will also assist in understanding different factors responsib le for market trends and current market conditions of electronic markets. Moreover, the analysis of data will also aid in measuring the extent as well as trends of customer satisfaction and sentiments of customers in relation to products and/or services (University of Bradford, 2012, Hancock, 2002). In this proposed research study, a specific research design or process will be followed in order to control its effective completion within a desired timeframe. The proposed study comprises a series of activities, which will be necessary for conducting the entire study in an effective and appropriate manner (Kumar, 2010). The research design consisted of seven phases which have been described below: Data collection is an essential part of a particular research procedure or study. Accurate data should be collected with the intention of obtaining reliable findings. There are two types of data collection technique which include primary and secondary data. In this proposed research