Monday, September 30, 2019

America Should Have Stricter Gun Control

The scene is all too recognizable. A troubled person pulls out a gun in a school, an office, or a shopping center, and he or she slaughters innocent men, women, and children. Recently, mass murders have occurred at Columbine High School, Virginia Tech University, and Omaha’s Westroads Mall (Schwartz). These tragedies are not inevitable, so people wonder one question. Are guns in our society getting out of control? Four out of every ten Americans own a gun; which leads to the perception that America has returned to the Wild Wild West. In fact, it is to be assumed that where guns are present, there is a higher risk of drug abuse, crime, and accidents. About 31,224 people died from gun violence in 2007. In just one day, 268 people were shot in murders, assaults, suicides, accidents, or by police intervention (Grunwald). Not only do four out of ten Americans have gun ownership, but an additional three out of four Americans believe that the Second Amendment guarantees an individual the right to carry a gun. Hypothetically, these people believe that they have a right to bear arms and that right should not be infringed. Part of the reason why there are such outrageous statistics is because there is lost momentum towards gun control (Schwartz). People are discomforted by the fact that a ridiculous 15 years have passed since there has been an urge for gun legislation on the federal level. In the 2008 presidential campaign, neither Hillary Clinton nor Barack Obama talked at all about gun control. In fact, Obama received an F for leadership on gun control to prevent gun violence from â€Å"A Brady Campaign† (Grunwald). However, Barack Obama did acknowledge the gun control dilemma only enough to make it seem unimportant in comparison to other issues he takes on. Obama stated â€Å"We essentially have two realities when it comes to guns in this country. We can reconcile those two realities by making sure the Second Amendment is respected and that people are able to lawfully own guns, but that we also start cracking down on the kinds of abuses of firearms that we see on the streets† (Schwartz). Guns are given with laws, and when people continuously break those laws, the government should tackle the issue; America has returned to the Wild Wild West. Along with Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama ignoring the issue, Congress has done hardly anything to toughen gun control laws. In truth, Congress has relaxed the laws very little. For example, in 2003, Congress passed an amendment to block the government from publicly releasing most data that trace guns used in crimes. In 2005, Congress gave gun manufacturers immunity to lawsuits if their firearms were used in crimes. Andy Goddard’s son, Nick, who was injured in the Virginia Tech shooting said, â€Å"people don’t know how poorly protected they are† (Schwartz). Along with the lost momentum towards stricter gun control, America has become more dangerous. According to the article â€Å"In Congress, the Uphill Battle for Gun Control†, where guns are present, there are more likely to be drug abuse, crime, and accidents. Supposedly, the main challenge in discovering guns used in crimes is the insufficient amount of research on exactly which laws help cut down on gun shootings. Research by Emma Schwartz proved laws that demand owners to shield their children by keeping their guns locked or unloaded decreased deaths among children in Florida, but not in Connecticut or California. Laws that allow people to carry weapons, which advocates say tend to discourage criminals from shooting, have brought little meaningful decrease in crime. Therefore, America is violently out of control. Also, the article â€Å"Fire Away† states, â€Å"Nationally, less than 1% of all gun deaths involve self-defense; the rest are homicides, suicides, and accidents. In a study of 23 high-income countries, the U. S. had 80% of the gun deaths, along with a gun homicide rate nearly 20 times higher than the rest of the sample. Also, in one year, more than 100,000 people die from gun violence in America (Grunwald). Some people question the president’s concern. At one time, Barack Obama promised to reinstate a federal ban on certain semiautomatic assault guns. The ban was initially passed by the Democratic-controlled Congress in 1994 and lapsed five years ago. Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, a New York Democrat, is extremely impatient with the party’s silence. With every right to be impatient, a gunman randomly fired on a Long Island commuter train on Dec. , 1993 and murdered her husband while severely injuring her son. However, when she addressed the issue to Obama, the response given was, â€Å"that’s not for now, that’s for later† (Isikoff). To emphasize that America has become an unsafe society; On the morning of April 4, 2010, Richard Poplawski got into an argument with his mother. The argument was over the family‘s dog urinating on the carpet. Richard’s mother called the police to have her 22-year-old son confiscated from her house. Richard Poplawski and his mother live in what portrays to be, a rough neighborhood. Responding as police would to any other situation, two officers responded to the call, assuming that it was a typical familial dispute. Margaret Poplawski greeted them by saying, â€Å"Come and take his ass. † But little did they know Richard Poplawski, who recently was fired from his job in a glass factory, had other ideas. He went to a private, hidden section of the house, where he grabbed his guns and put on a bulletproof vest. Poplawski shot officer Paul J. Sciullo II, 37, inside the house and hit 29-year-old Stephen Mayhle on the stoop. Immediately, both men feel dead. Looking calm and collected, Poplawski stood in the doorway and fired two or three more bullets into Mayhle’s body, according to a witness. Then, he ran back into the house and fired hundreds of rounds, using an AK-47 assault rifle and other weapons to slay off a police SWAT team for four hours. He killed another officer, 41-year-old Eric Kelly, and wounded a cop (Isikoff). Poplawski’s cringing story is an ideal example of how America lacks gun control. Years ago, national political leaders would have raised questions or concerns about how such a person like Poplawski could easily get his hands on high-powered guns. They might have been even more driven because Poplawski’s cop-killing rampage was part of a rise of mass homicides that have caused 58 people dead over the past month. Or the fact that Mexico’s high violent drug cartels equip themselves with high-powered weapons, purchased at U. S. gun control measures are silent. These are including Obama White House officials who have put the lid on any talk in pushing further gun-control measures (Isikoff). With the increasing numbers in drug abuse, crime, and accidents, America has a bad reputation. Sadly, there is lost momentum towards gun control including relaxed gun laws, Obama ignoring the issue, and Congress doing hardly anything. Four out of every ten Americans own a gun; which leads to the perception that America has returned to the Wild Wild West. The fact that there were mass murders at Columbine High School, Virginia Tech University, and Omaha’s Westroads Mall is not okay. The fact that 31,224 people were dead from gun violence in the year of 2007 is not normal. The fact that four out of every ten Americans own a gun is not tolerable. Because America has lenient gun control makes our country wilder than the Wild Wild West.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Administrative Problems

Administration and management remains to be an integral process shaping the educational sector. Here, it carries out leadership approaches in dealing with the purpose and objectives surrounding educators in meeting the needs of students.It takes into account themes that allows the faculty to recognize current trends and responsive efficiently. By trying to draw out particular strategies it provides opportunities to facilitate educational success, draw out faculty empowerment, and foster institutional growth. With such dynamics, decision making on a day-to-day basis becomes synchronized with what is essential in accordance to school objectives and policies.This paper seeks to outline how educational administration themes are constantly applied on a day-to-day basis. It takes into account themes related to organizational culture, organizational change, and communication practices between administrators and educators.In particular, the paper finds distinction and common actions shaping action and decision making between two administrators. By synthesizing opinions and responses from two educational administrators, better understanding can be made on how these administrators respond to school objectives and educational administration.IntervieweesThe first respondent is John Morris. He is a principal of Garland High School since 2001. With numerous years of experience in the school, he remains competent about Garland High School’s organization and continues to align specific policies in relation to the needs of both students and faculty (Garland High School, 2007).Having earned his bachelor’s degree in Stephen Austin University and Masters in Educational Administration, he provides wonderful insights on areas related to organizational culture, communication, and organizational change.The second interviewee is Linda Glassel. She is an administrator at Garland Christian Academy for almost five years. She finished her Bachelor’s degree in Psycholog y and pursued her Masters in Educational Administration.With her background and experience in dealing with educators and students from elementary to high school, it can be argued that she is competent to address issues related to administration and management.Organizational CultureLooking closely at the responses made by Linda and John concerning organizational culture, it can be seen that they have similar responses about its importance in their respective schools. Both believed that enhancing a process of a facilitative and supportive school environment enriches opportunities for students, faculties, and administrators to become responsive to their respective needs.Similarly, both also considered the need to recognize diversity as an essential process shaping education. By taking into account diversity, it encourages better cohesion of strategies and provides solutions to daily problems (Ornstein and Lunenberg, 2007).On the other hand, Linda and John opinions diverge when they tal k about how to deal with conformity and professional excellence. Here, it can be seen that Linda sees the need to constantly motivate people to become responsible and accountable to their respective roles within the school.It is through this process that they can open up and become adaptive to change and abide with specific and given standards. If there are existing conflicts, it gives easier means to resolve issues and conform to the norms provided.In contrast, John sees this daily problem as part of the role and responsibility of an educator and administrator. He believes that since standards and expectations are given accordingly, each one must be keen and responsible enough to function according to these parameters. Here, John sees the issue as more of an individual endeavor compared to Linda’s perspective that it must be a collective process.Organizational ChangeAssessing the responses made by John and Linda with regards to organizational change, it can be seen that thei r opinions agree on the idea that change is inevitable.They both see it as an opportunity to grow and function in accordance to the changing needs of their respective schools. Since organizational change can induce varied responses among members of the school, it is then crucial to clearly identify these resistances so appropriate attention can be made (Ornstein and Lunenberg, 2007).Likewise, Linda and John also believed that addressing problems of organizational change on a daily basis means incorporating aims and objectives by administrators. By advocating these policies, administrative problems can be alleviated and addressed in a more efficient manner.On the other hand, the main difference between John and Linda’s responses revolve around specific mechanisms that can be used to address organizational resistance and accountability problems. Specifically, Linda is more of a facilitative type, seeking to interact and develop an environment where teachers feel comfortable in their work and responsibility.She believes that this would then provide the necessary means to infuse better means to generate better reaction and feedback from employees.On the contrary, John seeks to expand communication lines and openness among his people. He believes that resistance only happens because individuals do not see the bigger picture or just too comfortable with the original setup of things. However, by bridging these gaps on a daily basis, educators and administrators can fully understand the situation and prevent confusions from happening.CommunicationThe last area discussed with the interviewees revolves around administrative problems related to communication. Here, Linda and John were asked specific questions on their perspective and opinions on how this problem can be solved daily and what specific means are available that each one can utilize.Reviewing the responses made by the two, it can be seen that their similarities revolve around the recognition that confl ict is inevitable in any organization. Likewise, both also believed that resolving conflict, miscommunication, and other hurdles in communication would mean establishing specific dynamics that opens up and diversifies how people interact both formally and informally.Again, like the previous two questions, Linda and John differ in their capacity to apply these changes in their schools. Since their respective educational environments vary in specific patterns of communication and level of professionalism, the methods used to address conflict and resolve issues are also different.For example, Linda argued the need to create an environment of openness and respect other people’s opinions concerning a specific issue. This would then help limit miscommunication and development of factions within the school.On the other hand, since John’s scope and responsibility is much bigger compared to Linda, he sees the need to establish appropriate protocols and rules that teachers shoul d follow. By developing a standard on how people can communicate, it can help establish a professional and responsible means to interact. Also, it can be argued that this is his solution on communication problems in his school on a daily basis.Analysis of Inputs and Responses from IntervieweesSummarizing the whole of the interview process, Linda Glassel and John Morris provided significant feedback of how administrators operate on educational issues related to their field. Here, it can be seen that each one provided ideas, opinions, and experiences on how they manage and further administrative goals in their respective schools.Assessing their responses, it can be seen that similarities are apparent in the manner on how leadership, responsibility, and open communication remains crucial in addressing organizational culture, organizational change, and communication (Refer to Appendix for more details). Each one believed that these principles help administrators become responsive with d aily issues revolving around their practice.On the other hand, distinctions can also be seen in the way Linda and John provided specific means of how the three elements can be addressed. It can be argued that since organizations vary according to culture as well as organizational dynamics, administrators must look into means to integrate their capabilities to ensure that administrative functions are met effectively (Fiore, 2004).That is why the strategies elaborated by the two interviewees correspond to what their organization needs. Also, such result goes to show how subjective and circumstantial the process of educational administration is. That is why administrators must be keen to analyze and interpret situations within their jurisdiction so that appropriate actions related to leadership and communication can be established (Musella and Davis, 1991).ConclusionOverall, the replies made by both Linda and John showcase the different dynamics involved in educational administration. Though their answers may vary in some aspects, both have identified important precepts that looks into enhancing communication, the importance of leadership and reinforcing responsibility.By taking into account daily administrative problems, it goes to show the value of decision making and strategies used by administrators in resolving the issue.ReferencesFiore, D.J. (2004) Introduction to educational administration: standards, theories, and practice.(US: Eye on Education).Garland Christian Academy. (2009) Mission Statement. Retrieved fromhttp://www.garlandchristian.com/about-gca/mission-statement/Garland High School. (2007) Administration. Retrieved fromHelping Pauline Face Her Sister DeathMusella, D. and Davis, J. (1991) Chapter 12: Assessing Organizational Culture: Implications forLeaders in Organizational Change. Understanding school administration issues: studies of the contemporary chief education officer. eds. Kenneth Leithwood and Donald Musella. (US: Routledege).Ornstein, A .C. and Lunenburg, F.C. (2007) Educational Administration: Concepts andPractices. (US: Cengage Learning).

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances Essay

Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances - Essay Example This special document, regarded supreme, provides the means by which each of the three branches can resist the incursions of the others. Drawing from a rich background of theories from scholars regarding a systematic order of governance, the framers of the US constitution drew up this basic charter conferring sufficient institutional powers to govern. While aware of the power of the masses, the charter had in it inbuilt safeguards.1 As such, the document withheld the principle of abridging the liberties of the citizenry.  Nevertheless, no one institution was to wield absolute power. Indeed as said by Madison, â€Å"the truth is that all men having power ought to be mistrusted†¦Since the general civilization of mankind, I believe, there are more abridgement of the people by gradual and silent encroachment of those in power by violent and sudden usurpation†¦The accumulation of all powers; legislative, executive and judicial in the same hands, whether of one, few or many †¦..may just be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.†2 Referring to the works of Montesquieu, Madison alongside many other statesmen convincingly argued for the concept of separation of powers embedded with the safeguards of checks and balances within the three branches of government. The doctrine of separation of powers ingrained in the Constitution provides for the separation of government into three distinct branches; the legislative, executive, and the judicial branches. Each branch has unique responsibilities with functional separate powers. Despite the separation and functional autonomy, each branch was granted the capability to place limits on the powers exercised by the other two branches. In effect, no single agency was granted the power to exercise complete authority, thereby creating a system of interdependency. For purposes of clarity, separation of powers on one hand means that no one branch had the capacity to control the other two arms of government.

Friday, September 27, 2019

How Does Communication Differ in Helping Relationships Essay

How Does Communication Differ in Helping Relationships - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that man is a social animal. With time, the definition of social life has changed to the extent that technology has taken over the minds and thinking of men and women whom we see around us. Every person in the urban society is addicted to web-based social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, through which he can easily find new friends and social contacts who share common interests. Counseling is a society friendly word that is being used extensively these days. However, with different counseling and communication methodologies around, it can be tough to define their best applications. In fact, there are suitable methodologies which refute the traditional or conventional approach to setting things straight within the human mind. Trying new approaches will only help prune up the existing methodologies. Treating an alcoholic or a drug addict is strikingly different from psychological treatment meted out to suppressed teenagers with boy friend or family issues. If knowledge has to form the basis of all the counseling methodologies developed till now, then with our study of specific cases of depression and underperformance, we try to develop a new set of easy methodologies that can be applied to all cases of depression and counseling. It does not take much effort to make a man or woman smile, take control of the problems he or she is facing and install the conviction that the outcome is going to be all positive. This is precisely what psychological counselors need to do on a daily basis.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

The ethics and leadership conference pertained to the selection of the Essay

The ethics and leadership conference pertained to the selection of the speakers overview - Essay Example At the initial stage, professor Plump introduced the guest speakers to the audience by delving into their brief history, accomplishments and hallmarks of success. The first speaker was Marcus Allen, the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters at Southeastern. He was soon followed by by the Claims Regional Vice President at AIG, Brian Bornstein. The third speaker was Edward Capobianco, the General Counsel of Swarovski. The final speaker was, Tom Wingert, the founder and director of Inkster Cares at Inkster. He also recently graduated from LaSalle University six months ago, There were quite a numbers of question raised and discussions on significant issues related to the business environment in the course of the conference. However, there were two pertinent issues that caught my attention. The first point pertained to how and when an employee was expected to reveal any work related challenges or problems. The second issue pertained to understanding that being mistaken in taking an irrational decision is not a problem but ignoring it and not attempting to fix it, may cause real problem and place and individual in a precarious situation. Moreover, it was insightful to learn that nonprofit organizations are reliant on disclosure data. This maybe either internal in nature such as that between board members and other employees; or external in nature such with a government agency, beneficiary or donator.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

James Smith Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

James Smith - Research Paper Example It is in this context that although Mr. Smith’s conviction was upheld or proven as a burglary in the state as well as federal courts, arguments remains unconcluded as to whether it was justified for police to arrest Mr. Smith in the absence of a proper warrant. Specific Examples in the Language of Prior Decisions The constitutional justification behind the application of a warrant is that it attempts to protect the right of any individual to be secured in their property. In the language of the constitution, â€Å"The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized† (Legal Information Institute, n.d.). Even in the prior decisions, the language of the court in judgment had been quite specific in a ddressing the significance of warrant under circumstances when officers deem it to be necessary for the obtainment of any evidences. For instance, followed by the judgments of the cases such as Florida v. Bostick (501 U. S. 429) and Brower v. County of Inyo (489 U. S. 593), the language of the decision in the case Brendlin v. ... Hence, in the language of the prior decisions, â€Å"There is no seizure without that person’s actual submission† as unambiguously mentioned in the cases of California v. Hodari D. (499 U. S. 621), Brigham City v. Stuart (No. 05-502), Georgia v. Randolph (No. 04-1067), Hudson v. Michigan (547 U.S. 586) and United States v. Grubbs (No. 04-1414) (GPO, 1992; Legal Information Institute, n.d.). Arguments used by framers of the Constitution while debating the language of the document When amending the Constitution, the framers have been arguing on the actual purpose of the provisions in respect of using a proper warrant when conducting a search or a seizure or both. For instance, arguments have been based on the restriction imposed by the law executors when felt the necessity to seize or search a person or his property as per their investigation. Certain exemptions have been allowed in the constitution where the suspect’s agreement to search his property or conduct a seizer is allowed as a lawful and righteous procedure in the absence of a proper warrant [Georgia v. Randolph, 547 U.S. 103 (2006)]. Similarly, law enforcers can act lawfully in the absence of a proper warrant where there is a ‘reasonable suspicion’ based on rational justification rather than guesses (Legal Information Institute, n.d.). Thus, as the search and seizer of Mr. Smith and his property was based on his neighbor’s guess, such as act cannot be deemed as a reasonable suspicion. Nor did Mr. Smith give his agreement to the search and seizer owing to which the Constitution might depict sympathy towards the defendant (i.e. Mr. Smith). Philosophical underpinning that might influence the court’s ruling The US Constitution in its Fourth Amendment also holds particular philosophical

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Big Switch Network Design Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Big Switch Network Design - Essay Example Access policy list is also configured in the VLAN for defining the routes. Moreover, VLAN is considered as a broadcast domain. It concludes that the broadcast generates from one computer can only be received to the destination which is defined by some criteria in the broadcast domain. The advantage of VLAN implementation includes an efficient way of bandwidth utilization and eliminating the network from possible broadcast storms, which results in denial of service. Furthermore, by implementing VLANs, the capacity of switching technology is utilized to its full potential. VLAN also supports ‘VLAN trunking protocol’. The ‘VLAN trunking protocol’ will significantly reduce administration for the switched network. Addressing Security Issues and Deployment Approach for WAN A router is a core computing and packet processing devices in the Bigswitch computer network. Router connects two or more networks with different subnets, enabling the networks to expand on an e nterprise level. Logically the router builds a routing table, where it stores all the route addresses. For example, the data packet source and destination is stored in the routing table. The network administrator can statically define the network addresses which are called as ‘static routes’. ... As the current network design incorporates a core backbone, it is essential for the network to be operational and efficient. Cisco 3845 integrated service router will fulfill all the network requirements. The Cisco 3845 Integrated Services Router provides optimal performance for parallel services on the local area network including security, voice and enhanced services. Improved speculation is achievable by increased performance and modularity. The Cisco 3845 ISR consist of robust ‘WAN’ slots to improve density. The router supports over 90 modules for enhanced and latest network functionality. The router supports both copper and fiber interface. Keeping in mind that the cost must be kept to a minimum, the router supports power over Ethernet (POE). It is the revolutionary technology integrating data, voice and power on a standard CAT 5 Ethernet infrastructure. This technology provides power to the devices connected on the network in parallel. The security aspect is attrac tive as the router has built in features for data encryption. The router also supports up to 2500 Virtual Private Network tunnels for creating connectivity with campuses of Bigswitch enterprise network. However, the AIM-HPII-PLUS Module is required to support VPN capability in the router. VPN is further elaborates as it is created to improve security and productivity by combining Cisco VPN technology. Cisco VPN has proved to be a reliable name in the industry to connect remote offices, remote users and remote sites in a secure way. VPN is most widely used for remote connectivity solutions in all sizes of organizations. It is affordable due to the provision of public switched telephone networks (PSTN)

Monday, September 23, 2019

Auditing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Auditing - Essay Example In fact seasonal interruption are routine and regular and even after such interruptions business continue in normal course and thus entities pursuing seasonal business may be called going concern despite periodic seasonal interruption In this write up the issues relating auditors’ responsibility to assess the substantial doubt arising out of normal auditing procedures is considered in order to produce independent and effective reporting to the stakeholders. The assumption under the concept of going concern is continuity in normal course and such â€Å"continuity of entity operations is usually assumed in financial accounting in the absence to contrary† (Michael J Ramos, page 285)ii Auditors assess the going concern concept whenever substantial doubt is created while following regular and normal audit procedures.†If there are no doubt neither directors nor auditor need refer specifically to going concern in the financial statements or audit report. However, the Combines Code states that directors should report that the business is a going concern with supporting assumptions and qualifications as necessary. â€Å"(Lain Gray and Stuart Manson, page 674)iii Going concern concept assumes an atmosphere of normalcy. Under the going concern concept â€Å"the enterprise will continue in operational existence for a foreseeable future.† (Nexia International, page 137)ivWhenever auditors have substantial doubts about the going concern concept it underlies that financial statements have not been prepared under normal circumstances. This is because â€Å"the going concern concept is unlikely to be compatible with the intention or necessity to enter into a scheme of rearrangement with the company’s creditors, or make an application for an administrative order, or place the company in administrative receivership or liquidation.†(Saleem Sheikh and William Rees, page 349)v In other words results or status shown by

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Personal Financial Plan - Part II Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Personal Financial Plan - Part II - Essay Example Personal financial planning requires economics since economic variables like regulations, economic policies, and taxation has to be considered. In addition the use of credit is of prime importance in financial planning. This paper describes the role of economics and credit in personal financial planning. Classic economists assert that people know and understand what is in their best interest and they act and make decisions on this knowledge (Gitman, Joehnk, & Billingsley, 2010). For people to take advantage of this knowledge in their financial plan, they need to understand the most important aspects of economics like taxation, regulation, and markets among others. According to Gitman, Joehnk, and Billingsley (2010), federal tax forms the largest part of tax a citizen pays. Tax planning as an economic variable thus becomes an important part of personal financial planning. Credit refers to the trust that allows one person to avail resources to another person whereby an immediate reimbursement is not required (Edwards, 2004). The major advantages of credit are that it allows a person to acquire resources immediately and repay it comfortably within an extended period of time. The main disadvantage of credit is that the debtor will have to pay more than the amount he borrowed in the long run. Additionally, credit is reliant on the creditworthiness of the borrower; this makes it uncertain to receive. The government plays a major role in determine the economic stability of a nation. The government ensures stability and growth through guiding the pace of economic activity. The government also comes with policies relating to price stability, full employment, redistribution of income and the balance of payments stability (Edwards, 2004). The government also levies taxes and determines the amount of taxes the people will pay. These

Saturday, September 21, 2019

SWOT analysis Essay Example for Free

SWOT analysis Essay Pizza Hut, the most popular and prominent brand in the fast food industry is the largest chain food shop in the world. Starting from 1958, it has emerged as the market leader of the industry. The franchise has its own Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats but it is clearly enjoying competitive advantages over its competitors. The franchise has a strong marketing tool, large market share and a group of loyal customers. Based on these, if the company goes for a better and stronger marketing approach in the future, they will keep enjoying the edge over its competitors in the future as well. Marketing Plan for Pizza Hut (Part 1). Pizza Hut is the world’s biggest restaurant company and international franchise which has the origin in Texas, America. It has almost 34,000 restaurants across the world and is currently operating in 100 countries. Pizza Hut offers different types of pizza along with some other dishes like pasta, buffalo wings, breadsticks, and garlic bread. It has started its journey back in 1958 by brothers Dan and Frank Carney in their hometown, Kansas. Since then it has emerged as one of the most popular restaurants not only in America but also in the entire world. (Pizza Hut Corporation, 2012) Internal Environment. The mission statement of Pizza Hut is: â€Å"We take pride in making a perfect pizza and providing courteous and helpful service on time all the time. Every customer says, Ill be back! We are the employer of choice offering team members opportunities for growth, advancement, and rewarding careers in a fun, safe working environment. We are accountable for profitability in everything we do, providing our shareholders with value growth. † (Pizza Hut Website, Hawaii) So from the mission statement it is clear that the franchise wants to serve pizza of great taste and wants to retain its customer so that everybody gets the ultimate joy. They also want to be accountable to its shareholders along with quality team members and workplace. Over the years, Pizza Hut is working hard to establish the above goals and objectives through their dedication, sincerity and honest team members. That’s the reason today Pizza Hut has become the worldwide leader and a trustworthy name among the food lovers. Though today’s world is fast and mechanical people are still looking for the better quality of the food, service and also great taste. As a result, the goals and objectives of Pizza Hut is still very much correct with the peoples perspective. The present performance of Pizza Hut is very admirable as it has captured the largest market share in the industry and also has a loyal customer base. Because of their effective promotion, pricing. Food quality, distribution channel and most importantly unparallel taste, Pizza Hut has achieved a great success in the industry. The recent sale volume of Pizza Hut is also noticeable. In the year 2011, Pizza Hut had a turnover of $5. 5 billion (Financial Statement, Pizza Hut, 2012) where Dominos Pizza had $530. 6 million. (Financial Statement, Dominos Pizza, 2012) So, Pizza Hut is enjoying the edge over its competitors. Though the trend of the industry is downward because of the socioeconomic crisis hasn’t recovered still. The overall performance of the firm hasn’t declined much (only in 2007 it had a turnover of $6 billion) (Financial Statement, Pizza Hut, 2012). And the little decline is the result of the recession of 2008 as discussed earlier. In spite of those little drawbacks, Pizza Hut is trying their best to keep the pace with their mission statement and if they are unable to do that just because of external facts they will meet up with that with their honesty, service quality etc. Customer Environment. In a nutshell, everybody around the world is the potential customer of Pizza Hut. As people of all ages like foods like pizzas, they can enjoy the ultimate and different taste of Pizza Hut. The current customers of Pizza Hut have great variety. As they provide a wide range of pizzas, people from different ages can enjoy their foods. People of young age have a great attraction towards the Pizza Hut and they are a great portion of customers for Pizza Hut. In the process a few other players can be added as the young people may take money from their parents and can be influenced by their friends. The product is used only in one way and that is for eating. The great taste of the pizzas can amaze everybody and they can be the admirers of that. Customers can buy pizzas directly from the outlets and can hang around there. They can even order the food online and home delivery will be available. In the festival time with some special offers the consumption may be increased and customers may be attracted to consume more to get benefits. Because of taste, quality and service, the purchasers of Pizza Hut purchase the foods of Pizza Hut. There are other players in the market and they have a loyal customer base as well though that is not as significant as Pizza Hut. As a result, Pizza Hut are not getting those customers and they aren’t buying the pizzas of Pizza Hut. External Environment The competitors are quite a lot in the market for Pizza Hut. Some big names like McDonalds, Dominos Pizza etc. are strong contenders for taking away the crown from Pizza Hut. As it discussed earlier, Dominos pizza isn’t far away from Pizza Hut in sales volume and trying hard to get there. McDonalds also with their innovative products are looking to do the same. As it told, the recession of 2008 made a strong impact on the Pizza Hut as well as on the industry. It has experienced downward pressure in the sales volume. So, if the economy gets stabilized, the performance of the industry as well as Pizza hut is expected to be improved. Computerization is a must for the current world. Pizza Hut is computerized and centralized. As a result, the customers are enjoying digitized facilities like online ordering, home delivery etc. The sociocultural situation of the target customers are also very important factor which is needed to be considered. The target customers’ demography, economic and social condition all these things make impact on Pizza Hut as they are expanded their businesses in almost every corner of the globe. So, before going to open an outlet, they need to consider those factors and their probable profitability from that. The profitability shouldn’t be only factor for Pizza Hut. They must consider their ethical and social responsibility towards people and they have a close eye on those as well. They try to ensure the best quality and service of their food s before presenting them to their customers which made them unique in the industry. SWOT Analysis The SWOT analysis of Pizza Hut is like below: Strengths †¢ Largest chain restaurant of the world (Griffiths, 2009) 1. As the restaurant spreads in many countries of the world, it can reach a significant number of people in the entire world. As a result, the franchise can serve their products to many nationalities and because of that they have become e trustworthy name among the customers. People of the different parts of the world have different tastes and preferences. Pizza Hut by having so many outlets in different countries is doing that purpose quite successfully. 2. Pizza Hut enjoys the most branches around the globe (100) which the competitors of Pizza Hut aren’t able to do. As a result, the other restaurants can’t reach to people like Pizza Hut does which clearly makes a difference between Pizza Hut and its competitors and Pizza Hut is having the edge. †¢ Has large varieties and types of pizzas and known for its innovative range of pizzas under one roof (Free SWOT Analysis, 2010) 1. Because of having range of pizzas, Pizza Hut has become successful to meet up with the demands of various customers. Even the people from different countries are enjoying the different tastes of pizzas from Pizza Hut. So, the innovations from Pizza Hut are helping the franchise to be more reliable and popular to its customers across the world. 2. The other competitors like Dominos Pizza can’t offer such a variety of pizzas to its customers. As a result, they are lagging behind Pizza Hut on this regard. †¢ Strong marketing tools (Griffiths, 2009) 1. Pizza Hut has many media partners and uses television as a very strong advertising tool. That’s why their advertisements in television become so popular and has a strong impact on the people from the various parts of the world as Pizza Hut keeps the regional differences on their mind. 2. As Pizza Hut uses better marketing and advertisement tools than its competitors, the other companies of same type aren’t matching with Pizza Hut in the same way. †¢ Large market share and loyal customer base (Free SWOT Analysis, 2010) 1. As the market leader Pizza Hut enjoys the most of the profit of the industry and loyal customers encourage them to increase the number of their outlets in the 100 countries they are operating. 2. The competitors are not having as large market share as Pizza Hut has. So, they are lagging in regard of profit. They don’t have as large loyal customers as Pizza Hut as well. Weaknesses †¢ Loyal customers are feeling that the satisfactory level of the pizzas are not like before and it is in the declining process as other franchises are offering something better than that of Pizza Hut (Free SWOT Analysis, 2010) 1. If the trend of the above feeling among the loyal customers continue then the large market share that Pizza Hut is enjoying at present, will be reduced at some point which will lead the loss of market leadership for them. 2. The other players of the industry are coming strongly with new innovative ideas so that they can satisfy the customers in a better way than Pizza Hut which is be the minus point for Pizza Hut. †¢ Internal conflicts within the company regarding the computerization and centralization of processes (Free SWOT Analysis, 2010) 1. Whatever happens the customers seek the ultimate satisfaction and service from a company but because of this problem, they are not getting the desired services they expect from Pizza Hut. This will lead a bad spoken of mouth problem for the company. 2. The whole processes in Pizza Hut is centralized and computerized but those are causing internal conflicts among the franchises in different regions but the other organizations are not reported to have any problem like this. So, this problem will have an adverse effect on the image of the Pizza Hut. Opportunities †¢ Introduction of new fresh pizzas with innovation (The World’s Largest Online Library, 2009) 1. People are now more health conscious than ever. So, introducing the fresh pizzas will be great idea for attracting new customers and to meet their needs. Besides that, innovative pizzas like new flavors and sizes may create appeal to the customers especially to the young customers. 2. The needed time for innovation can be long as there is no time bindings for that but the fresh pizzas can be introduced immediately as it won’t take a lot of time. †¢ Opening new branches in the regions where the demand is increasing (Free SWOT Analysis, 2010) 1. Young generation in the countries like India, Bangladesh and Pakistan is probably the one big opportunity for Pizza Hut to explore. As the popularity of Pizza and other fast foods among these people is increasing day by day, Pizza Hut can use that for their market expansion. 2. As Pizza Hut already having outlets in those countries, the new branch opening won’t take too much time and will increase the profit for the company Threats †¢ Increasing cost of cheese (Griffiths, 2009). 1. The cost increase of cheese will increase of the price of the pizzas. As Pizza Hut tries to give the best taste of pizzas to its customers, it will face problems in doing that. As a result, attracting new customers and retaining the existing customers will be a big challenge for them. 2. As the price is increasing in a slow manner, at present Pizza Hut may not face the problem but in the long run with the increase of price of pizzas, they will feel the pressure. †¢ Threat from other companies and also from the local brands (Free SWOT Analysis, 2010) 1. McDonald already introduced McPizza and Dominos Pizza becoming more and more competitive. So, the competition is getting tougher and tougher day by day. So, customers who seek variety may tend to shift from Pizza Hut and in the process Pizza Hut may loss a significant portion of the existing customers. Also some local brands are trying to provide pizzas of different tastes to the customers in different countries which are alarming for Pizza Hut. 2. The threat of losing customers because of the above reason may arise very quickly. So, Pizza Hut should be aware of the fact. SWOT Matrix. |Strengths: |Opportunities: | | | | |Largest chain restaurant of the world |Loyal customers feel that the satisfactory level of the pizzas | |Large varieties and types of pizzas and known for its innovative |declining | |range of pizzas under one roof |Internal conflicts within the company | |Strong marketing tools | | |Large market share and loyal customer base | | | | | | | | |Weaknesses: |Threats: | | | | |Introduction of new fresh pizzas with innovation |Increasing cost of cheese | |Opening new branches |Threat from other companies | | | | Developing Competitive Advantages. From the SWOT analysis, it is quite clear that in spite of having some weaknesses, Pizza Hut is clearly enjoying some competitive advantages over its competitors. The three stronger points are discussed in the next section: Largest chain restaurant of the world As the restaurant spreads in many countries of the world, it can reach a significant number of people in the entire world. People of the different parts of the world have different tastes and preferences. Pizza Hut by having so many outlets in different countries is doing that purpose quite successfully. Strong marketing tools. Pizza Hut has many media partners and uses television as a very strong advertising tool. That’s why their advertisements in television become so popular and has a strong impact on the people from the various parts of the world. Large market share and loyal customer base As the market leader Pizza Hut enjoys the most of the profit of the industry and loyal customers encourage them to increase the number of their outlets in the 100 countries they are operating. Developing a Strategic Focus Focusing on marketing Among the three competitive advantages, Pizza Hut has the most prominent opportunity to develop a strategic focus on marketing. As the advertising tool of Pizza Hut is very strong they should focus more on this sector. As countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are probable opportunities for Pizza Hut and they are looking to expand their business in these countries, a strong advertisement in the television and other media can be very fruitful for Pizza Hut. (Your file library, 2010). References Free SWOT Analysis. (2010, June 02). Free Online Providerof Quality SWOT Analysis. Retrieved January 20, 2013, from Free SWOT Analysis website: http://www. freeswotanalysis. com Griffiths, M. (2009, December 23). Documents Resources for Small Businesse Professionals. Retrieved January 20, 2013, from Docstoc website: http://www. docstoc. com Pizza Hut Corporation. (2012). About Us: Pizza Hut. Retrieved January 20, 2013, from Piza Hut Web site: http://www. pizzahut. co. uk The World’s Largest Online Library. (2009, March 03). Retrieved January 20, 2013, from Scribd website: http://www. scribd. com Your file library. (2010, May 21). Retrieved January 20, 2013, from Fliiby: http://fliiby. com Pizza Hut Website, Hawaii http://www. pizzahuthawaii. com Financial Statement, Pizza Hut, 2012 http://www. yum. com Financial Statement, Dominos Pizza, 2012 http://www. ft. com.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Wal Mart Global Expansion Strategy Management Essay

Wal Mart Global Expansion Strategy Management Essay Wal-Mart is the largest retail chain in the world and also the worlds largest corporation. The company started its globalization in the year 1991 when it opened a Sams club near the Mexico City. In the year 1993 the company did set up the Wal-Mart International which was to oversee the growing opportunities of the company worldwide. Consequently, the company has enjoyed the overseas operation growth and also consumer acceptance. Wal-Mart has never changed its brand names, the every day low price and high ethical standards although its approach to competing in the overseas has evolved over time. Due to its entry into the foreign markets it changed its local regulatory frame work and customer tastes. Wal-Mart global expansion strategy The global expansion strategy of Wal-Mart is provision of goods at low prices that could raise the living standards of people around the world. This strategy involves globalization efforts of the company to enter into the overseas markets. According to Troy (1), the bottom line for the Wal-Marts company is bigger and cheaper. This is because the company intends to maintain its low price kind of leadership while at the same time pursuing the aggressive store expansion worldwide. This expansion is facilitated by opening of new stores and clubs world wide. How do they enter into the markets? Wal-Mart realized that if they took too long to enter into the foreign countries they would be allowing the competitors a lead that is too difficult to close. To avoid this end, they ventured into foreign countries to concentrate on their expansion efforts. This means that the main method used by the Wal-Mart Company in entering into new markets is by venturing into foreign countries. This is ensured by either selling the products in other retail stores which in turn distribute to the customers or by opening up its own store which will be used in the distribution of its products. For example as mentioned earlier, by the year 1993 Wal-Mart international operation had only one Sams club in Mexico but it ventured fast into the neighboring counties like Argentina, brazil, Indonesia china and Japan. This countries where perceived to be unique in the retail market in terms of the logistical systems, consumers and relationship between the suppliers and retailers. How do they expand while in the market? While in the market, Wal-Mart Company opened (build) more new stores in the countries it had ventured into thus replicating the domestic operation abroad. The company also expanded its markets by acquiring potential companies. It also picked up new ideas from other countries which helped greatly in the expansion of its markets. This included the gravity wall from Brazil, selling shoes from Canada, selling bike racks from Canada and many more (Deresky 455). Markets where Wal-Mart has been successful and the reasons for the success Wal-Mart Company has been most successful in countries (markets) like Canada, Mexico and the UK. In Canada the company purchased all the 122 Canadian woolco discount stores thus becoming the Canada highest volume discount retailer. The main proponent for the companys success is the low prices of the products and the ability to strip costs from the supply chain which impresses the analysts. The suppliers are strictly authorized to distribute goods at the Wal-Marts center within 15-30 minutes of the stipulated schedules failure to which they would be fined. Again it has a lot of bargaining power to extract price concession from the suppliers. In UK Wal-Mart acquired ASDA stores which were 232 in number thus becoming the biggest retailer in that country (Wal-Mart.com 1). ASDA warded of price competitions which overtook all the other companies in the UK. In Mexico, Wal-Mart Company acquired the controlling interest of the Mexican largest retailer (Cifra) which operated stores through the county. It modified the products so that they could meet the expectations of its Mexican users (Tilly 1). There is one common theme for the success of these three countries. For example they have acquired some of the strongest companies in this countries thus becoming the leading large scale retailers and they have also modified their products to meet the needs of their immediate clients. Markets where the Wal-Mart company has been unsuccessful and the reasons of the failure. Wal-Mart has failed in Germany and South Korea markets in particular. In Germany, the company found it difficult to adapt to the German ways and it therefore exited selling off its store (Knorr and Arndt 23). In South Korea, the Wal-Mart company also exited selling off its store because it also could not localize its operations (Awbi 1). There is a common theme as to why these two countries failed and it was because the two couldnt adapt to the needs of the various citizens (South Koreans and Germany). These failures are specific or relevant in each country and also similar. For example as mentioned above they have failed because they didnt localize their operations. To be specific the reason as to why it failed in Germany is because the Germany customers did not show much concern for the EDLP approach and many people also disliked its relatively low pay and ultra-frugal policy on managers business expenses. In South Korea it experienced operation difficulties due to its merchandise mix and the stores which were too far from the city centers. Another problem was high food prices and lack of food freshness (Deresky 458). How does culture hinder the expansion of Wal-Mart in other countries? Wal-Marts culture is a hindrance to the companys expansion. This is because some of their practices do not go well with some people in some countries (Kitlerphiroj 1). For example in Germany the Wal-Marts expatriate managers were faced with massive cultures clashes which were helped by the refusal to learn the German language. Its culture which involved merchandise departments, supercenters far from town centers and low pries did not go down with the South Koreans who disliked the companies merchandise, the locations and high prices of commodities which led to their closure. The companys culture of acquiring building and companies and low prices helped the company in nations like Mexico, Canada and the UK for they became the largest retailers in these countries. Has Wal-Mart had to change their level and method of political interaction with governments as they have expanded internationally? Wal-Mart had to change the level and method of interaction with some governments in the process of their international expansion. For example the Chinas finance, banking, taxation and insurance organizations were bureaucratic and burdensome because the regional division of finance guidelines and tax rules created problems. For example a corporation with joint ventures in numerous locations served by a single supplier had to make separate payment for each venture to the supplier. Wal-Mart Company worked together with the Chinese administration to put up a holding corporation that could consolidate joint venture distribution and finance. How effective has Wal-Mart been at maintaining their business model as they have expanded internationally? Wal-Mart has been effective in the maintenance of its business model during the international expansion because it has maintained its low price culture towards its customers. Again, it has managed to be the largest retailer in some countries like Canada, United Kingdom and Mexico. The four most important lessons There are some lessons which can be learned from this case. One of them is that companies should target to satisfy their customers so that they can get the opportunity to expand. For example most of the Wal-Marts customers are satisfied with the low prices of commodities. This has not only increased sales but also profits. Another lesson is that companies should consider the opinions, tastes and preferences of the people in a particular country before setting up a company in a foreign country to avoid massive losses. The other lesson is that a company should try to localize or understand the peoples preferences and tastes after a careful study have been carried out to avoid misconceptions that can bring losses. Another lesson is that the companies that have the interest of venturing into business in foreign countries should change and even negotiate with the various governments concerned such that they may have a favorable condition to thrive in businesswise.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

The Use Of Setting In A & P Essay -- essays research papers

The setting of 'A & P'; is quite usual for a regular grocery store on a weekday. The town is north of Boston, five miles from the beach. Since the store is right in the middle of town, banks and churches and the newspaper store can been seen from the front doors. The day is Thursday, so there is not very much business. Outside, the sun can be seen on the pavement. The main character, Sammy, is almost nineteen years old and his coworker, Stokesie, is twenty-two and married. The manager, Lengel, is gray and teaches Sunday school. The setting in John Updike's story, 'A & P';, is used as a way to show humor and realism.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Updike uses the setting in a way to show humor. In the beginning, Sammy is ringing up an older woman's groceries when three bathing suit clad girls walk in. Sammy, of course, forgets what he is doing momentarily, and rings up a box of HiHo crackers twice and the old woman catches the mistake (Updike 316). 'She's one of these cash-register-watchers, a witch about fifty with rouge on her cheekbones and no eyebrows, and I know it made her day to trip me up,'; Sammy thinks about the old woman (Updike 316). Updike also makes humorous descriptions of all the other customers. They are referred to as sheep because of the way they move about the store without anything on their minds except what is on their lists (Updike 318).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The setting also gives a sense of realism in the story, making everything describ...

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

The Existence Of God Essay -- essays research papers

The Existence of God   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The existence of a God has for generations been the topic of fierce debate. This most usually occurring between members of the religious society and, everybody else. As a matter of fact the religious world itself has not always been able to agree on God. This has resulted in many a holy man to take up the fight for his deity through the realm of words. Many theories have been proposed, and all think that theirs proves beyond a doubt on whether or not God exists. To write this paper I read four of those theories by assorted men of the cloth, who all attempt to make the argument for a God in the Christian sense.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The first of the theories I looked at was that of St.Anslem of Canterbury. He supplies the ontological argument for the existence of God. The ontological argument states that by understanding the nature of God himself, we come to realize he exists. He explains this argument by first defining what God is. Anslem says that God is a being than which nothing greater can be conceived to exist, that it can not even be considered not to exist. In short, the fact that said being can not be considered not to exist, would thereby make it greater than any that could be considered not to exist. This would in all reality be the secret to God's omnipotence in Anlsem's eyes. Another point that he stresses is that just be understanding the concept of what a God is, you are proving his existence. This is because if you understand who God is, you can also accept his existence, and therefore cannot conceive that he does not exist. Therefore making him that which nothing greater can be conceived of, and which cannot be conceived not to exist which we have already defined as God.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second argument for a God comes from St. Tomas Aquinas, who argues for the cosmological point of view. The cosmological argument states that all things in this universe have a cause, and since these causes cannot go on for ever there must be a first cause, i.e. God. He argues that there are five ways to argue for the existence of God, the first is the argument from motion. This states that everything in this world has certain potentials for motion. It also states that for these potentials to be met another object n motion must set off said potential. That object in turn would have ... ...ad and the point would be moot.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  So by looking at these paths Pascal decided to look at the risks of each wager. In the first you get infinite rewards from only one life of believing. Plus he felt that you also probably had a fulfilling and enjoyable life too. So the first, can be looked at as a win win situation in which you risked very little, and won much. The second and fourth possibilities did not really concern Pascal much because by thinking of it in terms of odds, neither seemed probable, and again wouldn't matter anyhow because you would no longer exist. The third possibility however, in which you could end up in hell, seemed to help persuade Pascal into believing in a God. He felt that for the amount you had to lose in this situation, no intelligent human would take the risk. So in conclusion, Pascal came to believe that believing in a God was a safe bet, in that it had the least risk with the highest returns.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As for myself, after reading these papers I find myself tending to side with Pascal the most. I don't think that a little insurance could hurt, because until there is proof otherwise none of us really know.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Toward an Ethics for Being Educated Essay -- Education Learning Essays

Toward an Ethics for Being Educated ABSTRACT: The regulative ideal of being educated is construed through features associated with the conduct and aspirations of faculty in higher education. These features include autonomy of mind and its presuppositions in self-knowledge and ability to inquire. These features as well cover having the identity of an educated person, implying evaluation of the products of the mind in logic and language, motivation to maintain an education, and the deep convictions and attitudes characteristic of the academic, humanist, and scientist. Finally, these features encompass knowing how to apply professional methods in reading and evaluating professional literature, identifying what is potentially educative, seeking a deepening of values through value inquiry, and the application of values in a constructive manner. However, the most promising motivation is commitment to oneself. Other motivators, such as love of learning and curiosity, will be transitory. Commitment can be to prescriptions base d on the features associated with the regulative ideal. These prescriptions would in turn comprise a rudimentary ethics for being educated. Three Concepts of an Educated Person In discussions of institutional education, three general and sometimes overlapping senses of the term "educated person" are in common usage. In the first sense, anyone is educated who has successfully completed a school's program. Regardless of what has been learned, a person is said to be educated by the fact of program completion or graduation. In other words, actual learning is not the criterion for calling a person educated. This may explain the comment that a persons education cant be taken away. The second sense specifies c... ...can be to this ethic. The prescriptions would have personal development as their common theme. Most of us take personal development, however, as discretionary. In our society, we would not be censured for rejecting personal development in favor of a life of action for example. Subscribing to such an ethic, then, would ordinarily be done for other reasons such as the ends it serves or the attractiveness of the ideal itself. From personal experience, I know of many faculties in higher education who have committed themselves to the ideal. In many of their lives, their obligation to self is complemented by other motivators such as appetites, inquisitiveness, ends, instructions, opportunities for inquiry, and incipient doubt. But, is the regulative ideal as depicted worth fealty? This depends upon our philosophy of life which I think we have given considerable attention.

Monday, September 16, 2019

K12 Education Program : A Solution or Problem to the Philippines

K-12 is the new Education Program in the Philippines that started last year, 2012. The K to 12 Program covers Kindergarten and 12 years of basic education (six years of primary education, four years of Junior High School, and two years of Senior High School [SHS]) to provide sufficient time for mastery of concepts and skills, develop lifelong learners, and prepare graduates for tertiary education, middle-level skills development, employment, and entrepreneurship.In my point of view, I take a stand that K-12 will provide a better Education Program to the Philippines and for the young generation. Why did I think so? First of all, based on the studies provided by the Department of Education, there are more tendencies of a high school student that drops out or changes course in the middle of their tertiary education which causes more trouble for both the parents and their child (children) and the fact that they are just too young to pressure themselves on what they really want to become or what they want to be doing in the near future. Thus, concluding that giving them more time to prepare and to evaluate their skills will be more convenient and beneficial for both the parent and the child (children).Second, since two years has been added to the basic education here in the Philippines, it simply means that there are more curriculums that have been added or will be added to the curriculum. And hopingly, these curriculums will help the young generation to find or narrow their decisions in what course they would like to take in their tertiary education.Based on my research (through the help of technology), I have been able to figure out that the added two years will be the years when students will be able to choose subjects between three tracks: Academic; Technical-Vocational-Livelihood; and Sports and Arts. The Academic track includes three strands: Business, Accountancy, Management (BAM); Humanities, Education, Social Sciences (HESS); and Science, Technology, Engine ering, Mathematics (STEM).These tracks can encourage and aid students to pick courses (subjects) that will help the young generation to select the best courses that will compliment their talents, skills and abilities. Thus making their college life (tertiary education) easier and making it more enjoyable.But a solution also comes with a problem. The main problem is that even though there are already plans that are being implemented, there are also problems that remains unsolved or are still being unsolved. (i.e., the study curriculums for each grade (year), the lack of school facilities that comes in handy for subjects like biology, chemistry and physics, computer laboratories, books appropriate for each grade (year) and so much more).If the Philippines’ education systems before already lacked solutions to the problems stated above, then these problems will be on a much larger number. If there are already such problems like lack of books to public school, thus saying, more bo oks will be needed because of the K-12 implementation.To solve listed problems, the government must be able to conduct projects and calculate expenses accurately for them to be able to provide for the students’ needs. If they do so, the new education program will improve the lacked in the former education program. To cite an example, if the lack of rooms will be provided, it will produce greater result. Stating, if public schools are to be provided with more rooms, then it will be easier for the teachers to teach students with a maximum number of 40-50 students which leads to a more interactional and controlled environment that will help students focus on the subject matter.Therefore, if the government will just learn to manage and budget the Philippines’ monetary fund properly, then direct a large amount of money for the department of education, they could equate that money and divide equally to provide equal shares of solutions to problems. And to extend what the bud get could do more with a greater quantity and quality.

Fast Food Industry Essay

â€Å"Fast food † this term was recognized in dictionary by Merriam-web star in year 1951 mostly we need small capital requirement to start a fast – food restaurant; small individually owned fast – food restaurant have become common throughout the world. Franchises are the part of restaurant chains which operations is to provide standardize food stuffs to the different locations for examples Pizza Hut, KFC, McDonald, Dunkin Donets, and many others. For starting any fast food business the capital requirement are relatively low than any other business. That is the reason all over the world individually owned fast food restaurant are increasing. The term fast food is use for which can be prepared and served quickly than other meal, minimum preparation time is considered for fast food, generally this term refers to food sale in restaurants and stores with low time preparation and served to customers in form of packaged for take away / takeout. This research was conduct to find out the factors for customer satisfaction. The feeling of pleasure and disappointment is known as Satisfaction. If the product was not satisfied person feelings then it will be dissatisfied, and if product satisfied person feelings after the use they will be satisfied. Customer is the key role in any business, without any customer it’s difficult to do business, and that the fact it’s the necessary work closely with your customer. Because customer can also create your business. Business runs though customer, without the customer there is no business. Satisfaction is an individual feeling of pleasure or the disappointment, if their expectation level meets, their level of satisfaction also increasing but if not then disappointment comes. Customer satisfaction is very important for every organization; either they are service sector or the private sector. It’s not every time to satisfy your customer. Since there are so many customers using products. And every customers uses it differently, take it differently, and speak it differently. The most dangerous part for any organization is word of mouth. You can’t stop every person’s mouth, even if you give your best of best, they still argue on your products which are not good for some time. Some customers likes your product and after use they speak good words for the product. But some use your product, and speak wrong word of mouth for the product. MAJOR PLAYERS. There are certain main players of fast food industries. Which are as follows. 1. McDonald corporation 2. Burger king 3. Wendy’s/Arby’s group 4. Starbucks corporation 5. Pizza hut 6. Dominos corporation 7. Yum! Brands, Inc 8. Popeye’s SWOT ANALYSIS Strengths: 1. Quick Service: – one of the biggest strengths of fast food is that it provides quick service. The biggest advantage of this is that it saves a lot of time. And in this modern world time is money hence quick service is the biggest strength. 2. Affordable: – Usually fast food is priced at a very affordable rate which starts from rupees 2. Though the prices are low in the fast food industry, the quantity is more and hence value for money. 3. Attraction: – The advertisements of fast food are very flashy and appealing especially to the youth and the younger generation. One of the most important people in the buying decision are the kids who are influenced by ads on TV who in turn influence their parents. Hence it boosts the sales. Weakness: Different Preferences: – India is a land of diversity. People in India have different preferences and taste. The fast food industry cannot cater to all the tastes and preferences of people. For e. g. some people eat Non – Veg and some don’t eat non – veg, thus creating a problem. Such problems have risen at KFC and McDonalds. Another difference in preference can be seen in the choice of the type of food. Some people prefer South Indian while some prefer North Indian. So a south Indian joint selling masala dosa , cannot start selling chole nature as per customers’ preference. 1. Lack of customization: – Fast food is usually pre-made and pre-packed and not fresh from the oven. So once the dish is made it cannot be altered according to the customer’s choice or preference. For e. g. a McDonalds burger is prepared much before the customer purchases it and he has to buy it as it is. Even if the customer wants the burger without onion or cheese still he has to purchase it due to lack of customization. 2. Unhygienic and unhealthy: – Most of the times though being tasty the oil content in fast food is very high. Hence people are now moving away from fast food. The fast food prepared is also unhygienic especially at the road side joints. Hence these are considered weaknesses to the fast food industry. Opportunities: 1. Growing nuclear families: – nowadays it is said to be the age of fast food. Parents and kids especially prefer fast food due to its quick service and for it’s satisfying appetite at affordable prices. This is a growing opportunity for the industry because families nowadays prefer eating out, rather than cooking at home. 2. Urban lifestyle: – The growth story of India is not limited to metro cities. Now it has also found its way into some rural areas and some semi – urban cities. Fast food joints are not a thing of big cities now. People in cities and towns are now having additional incomes in their pockets. Eating out now is a normal thing for the homely people in the semi urban areas. Threats: 1. Oppositions from various organizations: – Due to the various preferences in the food some opposition is received by the fast food industry. As reported in the papers organizations like PETA are opposing the use of beef fat in the items of McDonalds. There was also a huge hullabaloo when Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) was being introduced to India. This is a major threat to the fast food industry. 2. Location: – One of the major threats in India is from the location point of view. Fast food joints can’t be opened in certain locations even though there might be evidence of major consumer demand in the area. For e. g. A Hindu dominated area might pose a threat to joints serving beef related products since the cow is considered sacred to them. 3. Ready- to-eat: – Nowadays ready to eat products are more in demand in the market owing to the fact that consumers have to take minimum trouble in preparation out of which the results are healthy food, rich nutritional value, easy on pockets and higher value for money as compared to the foods available in a fast food joint. 4. Health Concerns: – Due to the low quality ingredients used in the majority of local fast food joints, the sanitation and the hygiene factors which are mostly not maintained, have given cause to various medical and other health related organizations and certain NGO’s who have taken it up to voice these issues and bring it to the attention of the general public. Thus directing the attention of the public to change the tastes to foods that are more hygienic and safe. Here canned foodstuffs stand to gain advantages. LITRETURE REVIEW. Customer Satisfaction: According to Zairi (2000) the feeling of pleasure and expectation fulfillment is known Satisfaction. If the product will not satisfied customer feelings they will be dissatisfied. and if product satisfied them after the use customer will be satisfied and become loyal to that product or brand. In other words customer satisfaction is goods or services which fulfill the customer expectation in terms of quality and service for which fulfill the customer satisfaction in terms of quality and services for which he paid. If customer satisfaction develops they will become loyal to that product and brand or their loyalty will be good for the company in the sense as a profit. Customer satisfaction is the part of marketing and play important , because if your customer is satisfied with your services or products, your position will be good in the market. Oliver (1981) describe in his study that customer satisfaction is the part of marketing and play important role in the market. In any organization satisfaction of customer is more important, because if your customer is satisfied with your services or products. Your position will be good in the market. In old times customers satisfaction was not too much important and people were not focused on the quality. But now a days competition is taught and customer is aware of all the products and companies due to education and learning environment and this is the reason that every business is concern to fulfill properly customers need and wants. Concerning all types of business organization customer satisfaction is the most important issue, and considered as most reliable feedback, for the excellence of any business organization (T .W . , 2001). Veloutsou (2005) describes in his study regarding customer satisfaction tangible products and services, there is a distinction . The distinction between tangible and intangible goods becomes coz different factors of customers satisfaction, and that is why they should be treated separate and distinct. Churcill (1982) customer satisfaction has overall reaction of expectation of consumption with a product or service on the base of perception, evaluation and psychological reaction. According to Kottler. (2000) satisfaction is the sum of attributes of products and services. Kurniawan (2010) customer satisfaction can change over the period of time, it is a dynamic process. The individual’s perception about the product’s or service’s performance leads to customer satisfaction Tat, Sook-Min , Ai-Chin, Rasli , & Hamid, (2011). Determinants of customer satisfaction: Huang (2011) promotions is different form of activities for attracting and getting attention of customer to purchase the product and services through personal selling and public relations, sales promotions and advertising. According to kurniawan (2010) promotion of product or services helps in the best way to builds relationship with customers, because everyone is looking for the best suitable deal for them. Athanasspoulos (2000) describe that customers want to see for what they are looking for. Myers (1998) promotion is reducing the feeling of guilt which is associated with the use of different product and service which result to customer satisfaction. Schefter (2000) another common factor which is useful for device customer satisfaction is website. Website is the advanced way use for the promotion, to aware the customer and satisfied them with offering vast array of functions and feature. Before making choice of product offering, potential customer has opportunity through website to make a detailed comparison Khatibi (2007). When information like discounted products travels in the public, could increase the level of customer satisfaction Kandampully (2002). Takeuchi (1983) quality is standard of something which consumer measure against the other different things; quality can be measured by giving grade, merit, attributes etc to the products and services. Consumer cannot differentiate between quality and its requirements. Service quality is evaluated when the out customer compare his/her perception and expectation of service delivery Gronroos (1984) By recognized the need of measures of service quality many researchers most often use service quality to measure customer satisfaction Zeithami (1985). For evaluating and estimating various dimension of service quality is the instrument accepted as standard Kurniawan (2010). Zeithami (1985) it is a scale with multiple items goods validity and reliability, many researchers use this instrument to understand and find the service expectation and consumer perception for improving the service quality. The expectation of the customer is important factor. The more service quality near to customer expectation more satisfaction and vice a versa Ayse Ozfer Ozcelik (1998). Customer satisfaction is reflected when he recognized the quality. While using the web, the (user interface) web is service and customer is user. They surf the internet retrieve the information and share the information when interact over the internet with others. The quality of internet service plays a greater role than service quality providing to the customers in other sectors, like hotel and hospital Kurniawan (2010). Schwager (2007) describe in his study that in the new millennium providing customers a unique experience is major key to capture the market and their heart and mind. Satisfaction or dissatisfaction is the consequences of customers consumption or experiences of services or expectation. Kurniawan (2010) Branding is one of the factor which has been identified repeatedly customer selection in selected product. Branding has impact on purchase decision of customers. The more a brand is succeeded in their earlier period the more value for its brand can be generated. Kuaniawan (2010) company formal introduction is today is branding. Brand is a set of guidelines or promise in customers mind. Brand is a product which adds other dimensions some way to differentiate it from other product Boukili (2008). Brand helps the customers the product and how he describe the company to others, opportunities can avail by branding. Branding by the American marketing association as a â€Å"Name†, sign, symbol or combination of them to identify and to differentiate the goods and services and seller, or from their competitors† . Lim (2010) customers ultimate satisfaction may have significant affect of atmosphere. Physical surroundings are helpful to create image in the mind of customer and to influence their behavior. Physical atmosphere of restaurant have the significant impact on the customer satisfaction. Lightning, furnishing, sent, music and different other atmospheric factors among them influence on customer satisfaction. Skinders(2009) there are millions of product in the world having different prices. Pricing a product is difficult thing to do. Prices are set according to the value of the product. Price from marketing mix Han (2009) state that one of the most flexible element that change quickly. In the literature of Khan (2011) marketing the most important factor indicated the customer satisfaction is price. Because the most of the customer estimate the value of the product or obtain service through price. Lim (2010) for the customer it is not necessary that a better quality can be better taste, If customer like the taste of food he/she will be willing to pay for it. Based on previous researches, in customer satisfaction and taste, there is a significant correlation found between them. Researchers found good taste of food have positive influence on customer satisfaction and it also increase the customer retention rate which is also depends on customers satisfaction. Therefore, restaurant focus on the taste of the food and services that has influences on customers satisfaction. RESEARCH FRAMEWORK Figure 1 influence show the theoretical framework of the study. There are two variables discussed in this study, i. e. independent and dependent variables. Customers satisfaction on fast food industry showing dependency on promotion, service quality, customer expectation, Brand, Physical Environment, Price and Taste of the product. Independent VariablesDependent Variable.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Four Key Barriers to Communication Essay

There are four key barriers to communication. These barriers are Process barriers, personal barriers, physical barriers and semantic barriers. As a manager I plan to overcome all of these barriers using guidelines, tools, processes and procedures. Process barriers are a big barrier to communication. The process of communication involves sending and receiving a message between two people. Sometimes things go wrong during the transmission of information. To overcome these barriers I would work on my communication skills. I would make sure I am speaking slowly and clearly in easy to understand terms. I would ask the other person to repeat back to me what I said and make sure I use my listening skills to fully understand what they comprehended. I will also not use text messages or email to communication. I will rely on phone and face to face. Another barrier to communication is personal barriers. Personal barriers are related to trust and ego. If two people don’t trust each other the communication process will be distorted. I will use honesty and integrity to earn the trust of my employees. I will not let my ego get in the way of how I run my business. We will have a strict policy for honesty, respect and fair treatment of employees. Physical barriers are pertaining to distance time and work office noise. Sometimes because of distance and time companies use email to communicate. I feel that this is not as good as face to face communication because communication is often misunderstood through email. I will enforce a strict policy of actually talking to each other rather than emailing. Phone calls and Skype will be our primary form of communication at our company. Everyone will have their own office to cut down on background noises. Flex time schedules will be used to compensate for the time difference on the west coast. Sematic barriers are encoding and decoding errors because of phrases and jargon. Cultural diversity is a key contributor to sematic barriers. As a manager I will not allow any company jargon or phrases to be used. We will only speak in terms that the average person could understand. Also when hiring new employees they will be interviewed by 3 different managers with  different foreign accents. If they have trouble understanding different accents then they will not be hired. We will also encourage hiring a very diverse workforce from every culture.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

“A Grain of Wheat” by Ngugi wa Thiong’o Essay

The idea that sacrifice is required before Kenya attains true nationhood, is one of a range of ideas – others being birth, betrayal, heroism and forgiveness – in the novel â€Å"A Grain of Wheat†, by Ngugi wa Thiong’o. It is conveyed through the words and actions of many characters (especially Kihika, Mugo and to a lesser extent Gikonyo), rather than through the author telling us, since the narration is that of a third person. Ngugi explains that sacrifice is needed for the greater good of the nation, and of the people. The author insists that all members of a community must individually and collectively accept responsibility for its growth and well-being. The person in the novel, who epitomises the theme of sacrifice, is Kihika, the past leader of the Movement. Kihika is, for better or worse, the leader most associated with the Christian qualities including sacrifice. Although at first he merely thinks of himself as a saint and a leader, he later talks, and is talked about, in clearly Christ-like terms. General R, for example, refers to Kihika’s death, as a â€Å"crucifixion†. Kihika believes in sacrifice for the greater good of national liberation, and regards it as Christ-like. This is emphasised when Kihika says, â€Å"I die for you, you die for, we become a sacrifice for one another.† Ngugi wa Thiong’o also uses the character of Mugo to present and convey the theme of sacrifice, through his death and betrayal of Kihika. Initially, the villagers of Thabai ask Mugo to lead the Uhuru celebrations, in recognition of what they take to be his â€Å"heroic sacrifice†, by housing Kihika â€Å"without fear†. This in fact is false, when Mugo was the one â€Å"that betrayed the black people everywhere on the earth†. Furthermore when Kihika at a Movement meeting in Rung’ei, calls for sacrifice upon hearing â€Å"the call of a nation in turmoil†, Mugo sits in disgust and thinks to himself â€Å"he could not clap for words that did not touch him†. This shows that Mugo is not willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good of Kenya, unlike Kihika. Mugo at the end of the novel opens his heart and repents, and his act of betrayal be ritually cleansed from the earth by his sacrificial death. Two more characters that the author uses to convey sacrifice in the book are Gikonyo and Githua. Gikonyo betrays and sacrifices his loyalty to the Movement, by confessing to the oath in the detention camp. He does this, in order to secure a quick release from the camp, and re-unite with Mumbi and continue their marriage. But this does not occur, as Mumbi betrays Gikonyo, by making love to Karanja the day that she knew that Gikonyo was coming back. Githua represents the personal effects on individuals of British rule, he says his left leg was amputated because of British bullets (though doubt is cast on this later – it is said he lost his leg in a lorry smash). Ginthua emphasises his sacrifice for his people and doesn’t recognize any benefits from the struggle because of personal misfortune. The individual dramas become more prominent as the narrative progresses, but the rebellion is its point of reference. Mugo, Gikonyo, and Karanja betray the cause of freedom in their different ways, but they also betray themselves, as does Mumbi. Through the guilt they suffer, they arrive at a point of understanding and self-knowledge, and so in the end, the novel offers a possibility of sacrifice, regeneration and birth. The connection between sacrifice and birth is first suggested by the title of the novel, which is explained by the quotation from Corinthian’s at the start of the novel. The presentation of the theme of sacrifice in â€Å"A Grain of Wheat† is put across through a variety of individuals. Kihika’s selfless sacrifice depicts this belief that the unity of the black people is imperative for the country to move forward. Mugo’s deed of treachery as well as his demise at the end of the book also helps putting across the idea of sacrifice in the novel.

Friday, September 13, 2019

(case 1) human resources management (Employee Recruitment and Essay

(case 1) human resources management (Employee Recruitment and Selection) - Essay Example They company employees over 2 million associates. It is the largest employer in America. The selection process of the company is quite vast. It includes all aspects like the advertising, screening, selection process which includes interviews, assessments, testing etc. The company uses all the proven methods like interviews, qualitative testing and assessment centers. This is post the other steps like advertising and screening of applications, which form the basis to choose the candidates who would be a part of the selection process. The amount of monies that go into the entire process of selection and recruitment of employees is very high, since the process includes a number of different steps to choose the right candidate and choose the ones who would be great at what they do. The cost that can be incurred for filling in an open position is as much as $490,000. This however is the total cost which includes from advertising, until the training of the selected candidates and the figures that are provided are estimates and not the actual costs that are being incurred by the company (Bernthal, 2009). The table below provides a clear break up of all the costs. These form the direct costs of the selection process however there are a number of indirect costs that are also involved in the selection process of employees. These normally include costs which the organization incurs due to less rigorous selection method. Also another big indirect cost is the quality of the hires. The return on investment for the company can be calculated by [Benefits – Costs / Costs]*100 (Bernthal, 2009). This will provide for a clear view on the amount of return that the company makes out of the investment made into selecting, recruiting, training and paying each employee. This however includes a lot of estimations, which cannot be made by all companies. Hence it is seen that companies generally need to correctly and promptly

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Conflict Management_M7_A1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Conflict Management_M7_A1 - Essay Example It evaluates the role of team leadership and the overall effectiveness of teams in preventing and actively managing conflict. Additionally, it assesses the importance of maintaining relationships with stakeholders throughout significant organizational change. Finally, it recommends strategies that the organization can use to prevent and actively manage foreseen and unforeseen conflicts among internal and external stakeholders that may negatively affect the organizations attempt to downsize. The paper asserts that although downsizing could be inevitable and beneficial to the organization, failure to manage perceived and actual conflicts with stakeholders could affect the firm negatively. Interpersonal conflicts influenced by political factors may arise between the government, the labor unions and the organization. The government makes labor laws that define the procedure and rules on how firms should lay-off employees. For example, labor law prohibit discrimination in the downsizing process and state that employees should be given enough notice and benefits upon termination. If the firm doesn’t observe these rules, it faces conflicts with the government and labor unions that fight for the rights of unionized employees. The firm faces interpersonal conflicts of economic nature with clients, suppliers, creditors if upon downsizing, it is unable to honor its contractual obligations (Ramsbotham & Woodhouse, 2011). For example, the inability to honor debts when they fall due and offer products/services to its clients. Social conflict with the local community may arise from downsizing. Laid-off workers may strain the community’s resources if they are not com pensated. They may become stressed and develop psychological problems, making them dependent on the communities. The conflict arises because the society expects the company to take care of the laid-off workers by giving them sufficient send-off benefit

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Leadership in context 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Leadership in context 1 - Essay Example Many incidents occur in management because of the misconception which arises between leaders in the organization where by they should understand that management is doing things right while leadership is dong the right things. Leadership is very interesting because it does not only have a concern with the management task, but it also explores sociological nature of mankind. Critical Analysis According to Burnes (2009) critical analysis of communication approaches applied in organizational change affects the implementation of organizational in the modern society. This is because the approach involved in change evaluates results to less attention. Change in leadership has always been a characteristic in organizational life though many of the people urge that frequency and magnitude are greater than ever before. Today businesses face an increased challenge of funds in competition in the markets for their inputs. According to Lewis (2011) organization must take in to consideration the dri ving forces and restraining forces for change whereby the driving forces must exceed the restraining forces. Regardless of the challenges and dynamics, the business environment organization must adopt their ethical behaviors and practices in real life time and external conditions. Basing argument with Conant and Ashby philosophy in implementation theory outlines that the research agenda in organizational changes towards contingency includes observing an organizational change initiative by using a different process of models. Again it focuses on identifying and diagnosing how and when to respond to break down changes in an organization. Therefore, ones model to fit in an organization results to strategic questioning in the research agenda by comparing the advantages of organizational model fitness (Wagner 2012). According to Burnes (2004), change has always been a characteristic of organizational life, although many argue that frequency and magnitude of change is now greater than eve r before. The implication of this statement with respect to contemporary understanding of the change process is that, management makes the system of the people and technology flow in a systematic way in day to day life thus making the organization technology to run effectively and efficiently. Basically, according to today’s life, change in leadership is much more in relation to putting more effort in order to change the whole process of management in the organization thus making it move faster and more efficiently (Burnes 2009). Change leadership is more about the people, and their decision making plans according to vision and mission in their project activities. Change in leadership has potential of controlling things in an organization; for example, in today’s world, the talks are always on the side of change in management hence the world does not do much about change in leadership since it is associated with the ways on how to make things move in an orderly manner. It maybe hindered by some the challenges, but the fact is that there is nobody who is perfect in doing the right thing, so it is obviously a big deal in most of the organizations. The goal is often set to minimize the distractions and the impact of change which concerns’ with the driving forces and visions in the organization. Models of Planned Change The models have been highly

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Early American History - Abraham Lincoln Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Early American History - Abraham Lincoln - Essay Example The three-day bloodbath ended with a massive Confederate assault of Cemetery Ridge by Major General George Edward Pickett on the battle’s last day, July 3, 1863. Known as ‘Pickett’s Charge,’ the reckless action devastated the Confederate forces and caused General Robert E. Lee to offer his resignation. The enormous losses incurred by the Confederates at Gettysburg marked the beginning of the end for the South. The Union army won the battle but also incurred heavy losses causing Commander General George Meade to offer his resignation as well. While Lee was retained as commander of the South, Meade was replaced by an angered President Lincoln who appointed Ulysses S. Grant in Meade’s position. After the battle, the Southern troops limped back home while what remained of the Northern army stayed because of flooding in the area. At Gettysburg, many thousands of decomposing bodies littered the battlefield, many of which were buried in very shallow graves. According to a witness, â€Å"body parts stuck up here and there. Hogs rooted out the bodies and devoured them† (Wills, 1992 p. 21). To alleviate the gruesome situation, a national cemetery was planned so that the dead could be buried properly. The dedication of the cemetery was held before all the thousands of bodies could be buried, but it was hoped that a formal and somber ceremony would serve to change the horrific scene of butchery to a place of honor and one that displayed a more peaceful ambiance.