Structured System Analysis and Design Method (SSADM) Research Paper - 1

Structured System Analysis and Design Method (SSADM) - Research Paper Example SSADM is an implementation that particularly combines different school of thoughts postulated by different schools of development, authors and scholars (Hutchings, 2001). These schools of developments structure design projects into well defined and small activities and also give the sequence and interaction of these activities. SSADM also uses modeling techniques and diagrammatic techniques to specify structured definitions that can be easily comprehended by the developers as well as the system users (Chaffey, 1999). The SSADM is a method that is more structured and detailed and provides a better platform for the development of information systems. Due to its attributes the structured method has several advantages compared with other design and analysis methods (The Government of the Hong Kong special Region, 1998). Structured system analysis and design method always provides a requirements statement that is always clear and understandable. This provides a foundation for the analysis design and the implementation of the system. This is mainly achieved through the use of simple language and use of diagrammatic descriptions (E & E, 1988). This method also allows for more utilization of both experienced and inexperienced staff in an organization for the design process. All staff can be assigned various tasks and responsibilities with the inexperienced staff given the less demanding tasks and are guided by the experienced or expert staff (Hawryszkiewycz & Igor, 1995). Structured method also guarantees a more improved project planning and control. The breaking don of the project into phases enables division of labour and effective estimation of project duration and management. Errors and flows can also be easily identified and rectified before moving to the next stage (Hawryszkiewycz I. T., 1995). Better Quality systems. Comprehensive definition of system

University of hertfordshire objectives

University of hertfordshire objectives Abstract In this assignment project me discuss and construct a Management Strategy that considers the University of Hertfordshire financial and non financial behaviour. A major part of the project is to develop a strategy that could identify the complications at the management level. This model is for the University of Hertfordshire to review and discuss its vision and mission while keeping the objectives of the University in mind. The project will identify the key attributes and criteria fo reviewing the strategy. Moreover the project develops the mission, vision and measures to be notified and followed by the University by considering the organizations ethical, cultural, enviromnental, social and business background. It will help to proactively make good management and therefore reduce loss of revenue and market share. This ultimately will lead to improved communications locally as well as globally as well as greater returns. The Techniques will utilize the latest research techniques and co nsider Universitys corporate objectives and business rules. The process discussed in this assignment is called â€Å"Strategic Planning and Implementation†. Keywords- Strategy Management, Planning, Vision, Business Behavior and Research Techniques 1) Introduction In todays highly competetive environment (business), planning that is budget oriented or forecast based are not that efficient. The University must engage in Strategy Management Planning that clearly defines and assesses the objectives of the university and evaluates the progress of the university. Strategic management is a level of managerial activity under setting goals and over Tactics. Strategic management is closely related to the field of Organization Studies and provides overall direction to the enterprise. According to Arieu (2007), â€Å"there is strategic consistency when the actions of an organization are consistent with the expectations of management, and these in turn are with the market and the context.† â€Å"Strategic management is an ongoing process that evaluates and controls the business and the industries in which the company is involved; assesses its competitors and sets goals and strategies to meet all existing and potential competitors; and then reassesses each strategy annually or quarterly [i.e. regularly] to determine how it has been implemented and whether it has succeeded or needs replacement by a new strategy to meet changed circumstances, new technology, new competitors, a new economic environment., or a new social, financial, or political environment.† (Lamb, 1984:ix) The following definitions, when combined, characterize a comprehensive strategic planning process. Strategic planning is: a rational analysis of the opportunities offered by an environment and of strengths and weaknesses of the firm, and selection of a match (strategic) between the two which best satisfied the objective of the firm (Ansoff, 1976). the process of determining what an organization does, what it will do in the future, and how it will manage to do it. (Bryson, 1988). disciplined effort to produce fundamental decisions and actions that shape and guide an organization, what it does and why it does it (Bryson, 1988). the continuous process of making present entrepreneurial (risk-taking) decisions systematically and with the greatest knowledge of their futurity; organizing systematically the efforts needed to carry out these decisions; and measuring the results of these decisions against the expectations through organized, systematic feedback (Drucker, 1974). 1.1) Structure of the process- Management Strategy: Strategic Formulation would be the process of the following steps: Mission and Objectives What we want to become and what we aim to achieve. Principles The objectives and the commitments of the University that guide us. Environmental Scanning Factors like global, national and state contexts, education sector, various social and business trends, outcomes and gaps. Strategy Formulation- Strenghts to the opportunities identified and competetive advantage Strategy Implementation- Implementing: budget allocation, procedure. Evaluation and Control- Monitoring and Adjustments required. Developing the strategy would help the University to be acclaimed as International University recognised for innovative and original ideas and exploring and enriching those ideas to enrich individuals, their commitments and the environment. 1.2) Criteria for Reviewing Potential Options: In the delivery of the Universitys Vision, Mission and Aims, choices must be made on where to invest resources (including people, effort, money and infrastructure) to achieve strategic objectives and the associated benefits, and to minimise risk (Sue Hybart, 11 April 2006). The Universitys strategic planning cycle illustrates the process leading from setting strategic objective through option review to making choices upon which specific implementation plans are built. Establishing criterias for strategic investment looking across all areas of the University: Analysis of the System education and its implications Sustain national and international recognition for excellence and enterprise Promote ethical practice in education and research as an integral part of the University culture Maintain a leading research performance through outstanding scholarship,ground-breaking discovery, collaborative networks and commercialised outcomes. Strengthen and sustain a reputation for excellence in learning and teaching through innovation and quality student outcomes. Advance the Innovation Campus as a successful space for developing new ideas and applications through University-business partnerships Strengthen connections to the community through improved channels for interaction and mutually beneficial projects. According to Chan (1993), higher education institutions utilizing strategic planning have five characteristics: a shared and inspiring vision that defines an institutions identity and desired position in the marketplace; a well-done strategic framework that directs institutional energies and activities; an institutional commitment to enrich external environments throug manifesting its values; a widespread strategic thinking capability that prevails over a rigid, formal an centralized planning process; a supportive value system and climate that emphasizes participatory governance and empowers participants within the institution. Moreover there are certain key areas which need to be considered:- Assess the ease of realisation (closure of gap) based on: Distance between current position and aspiration, Investment (funding, time, and other resources) required to close gap on sustainable basis, consideration of market attractiveness and consideration of opportunity cost and risk assessment. Details of administrative support and link to the University. Modifications and support from the staff members. Working in collobatation for the university would act like as an useful tool and it would generate more help and a systemetic way of approach leading to better understanding of the management and their results and analysis. Moreover one of the important factor would be the involvement of the students in learning and their life at University. Moreover to achieve excellent, internationally recognised outcomes, the University should continue to focus more on promoting the ability, creativity, and commitment of the staff at the University. These criteria help in business and enterprise international outlook, and would help in learning and teaching research along with the practical experience and knowledge gained to students and the staff members. According to Mockler (1995) though strategy formulation is very central to understanding strategic management, it does not sufficiently provide a concrete direction for action. This can only be provided by strategy implementation. This view suggests that strategy implementation poses even more difficulties than strategy formulation. However, a basic framework can be derived to serve as a road map to strategy formulation (Mezias, Gringer and Gruth 2001; Hills and Jones 1995; Mockler 1995). 2) Vision, Mission, Objectives and Measures 2.1) PEST Analysis An environment in which the University operates can be expressed in terms of the following factors: Political: It would include various government regulations and legal issues and define various norms and rules under which University operates. It includes tax policies, employment benefits and laws, trade restrictions and tariffs, political coherence among the staff and the students and environmental regulations. Economic Factors: It would and affect the universitys cost allocation. Some key examples are economic growth, interest rates etc. Social Factors: Social factors includes the cultural and demographic aspects. These factors affect customer needs and the size of potential markets. Some factors include health consiousness, career attituded of the students, age distribution and class strength. Business and Technology factors- They can be very important as they may run the other factors. They can lower the barrier to entry, reduce minimum efficcient production levels, including: R and D activity, rate of technology change atc. 2.1.1 SWOT Analysis: Swot analysis helps in matching the resources and the capabilities to the external world in this competetive era. As dicussed on (http://www.quickmba.com/strategy/swot/), a firms strenght are its resources and capabilities that can be used as a basis for developing a competetive advantage.Examples include, strong names, cost advantage, and exclusive access to high grade natural resources. It can be determoined by SWOT matrix which is a very good indicator of the strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats (Bradford and Robert W. Duncan). 2.2 Vision and Mission: Starategy Management Plays into role if the Vision and the mission are defined within the constraints of the guidelines by the University and the Faculty. Vision- To become an international University that is recognised and known for originality, enterprise and its ethics in focussing, exploring, transfering and applying knowledge to enrich its students and the individuals, their communities and the environment. Mission- Our mission is to excel through Research and teaching of world-class innovative standard and impact,learning environment that supports, informs and inspires our diverse student community,Staff initiative, enthusiasm and commitment to the Universitys goals, Collaboration and enterprise that provide innovative and timely ideas and solutions for the University and its community partners (Mockler (1995)). University share a commitment to promoting and celebrating excellence through initiative, enterprise and achievements that take society forward in an intellectual way and the freedom for opinion. It is very important to maintain the integrity, mutual respect and collegiality among the University. Moreover Students from all over the world having different cultures, ideas should stand together for the development of the University. It is very important for the University to foresight the quality and accountability as an institution by mutual development and community partnership. Moreover equal monitoring plays a vital role where students from all over the world are studying. The University is commited to developing graduates who are informed, independent learners, problem solvers, effective communicators, and responsible towards the society and to themselves. 2.3) Objectives and Measures for evaluation: The university can and have set the goals and objectives as parameters for a progress towards the vision: 1. Excellence and innovation in learning and teaching Graduates equipped to contribute to society and the workplace An active, collaborative and flexible learning experience for students Quality programs relevant to the evolving needs of students and the community An international focus in learning and teaching High quality teaching 2. Excellence and innovation in research Research of high quality and impact at an international level Enhanced capacity to attract external grant funding Quality research student scholarship and training Strong partnerships with external organisations to achieve mutually beneficial research outcomes Enhanced capacity for commercial research and commercialisation of research outcomes 3. Dynamic engagement with our communities A University that is accessible, outward reaching and responsive to its communities Strong reciprocal relationships that enrich our communities Integration of community engagement in our academic activities Enhanced educational aspirations and higher education participation in our regions 4. Students engaged with learning and University life Students engaged as members of the University community Efficient and professional management of each phase of the student experience A social and physical environment where all students can participate in University life Effective communication between students and the University 5. A university of international outlook and achievement A community with a diverse and rewarding global perspective and culture A university of choice for international students International recognition for quality, standards and outcomes 6. Versatile, skilled and committed staff An adaptable workforce with skills aligned to strategic directions A supportive, rewarding and equitable work environment 7. Business capacity to advance the achievement of our Vision Decision-making based on sound planning, governance and quality processes Strategic deployment of resources and information A sustainable and reliable infrastructure Plan for the Implementation of the strategy In this section I would be decribing about all the 7 objectives mentioned in the last heading. Moreover I would be explaining the strategic priorities, key indicators of the performance and the plan which could help in the betterment of the University and its members. 3.1) Development and Creation of the strategy Goal 1 The University is committed to providing its diverse body of students with an engaging internationally oriented atmosphere and learning experience. The priority is to promote ethical education as a part of culture, maintaining the reputation of the University and ensuring that graduates and undergraduates are committed to their employers for their knowledge and skills attained at the University. Strategy Goal 1- University must integrate the development of Graduate into the curriculum at any level and standard. University should develop, focuss and implement institutional approaches for analysing the attainment of Graduate Qualities so that University can know what skills are their students gaining. University should continue to give priority to developing the capacity of students and embed the outcomes of the Academic Integrity Project. University must provide opportunities that equip students for employment in a global labour market. University should optimise the mix of delivery methods to enhance the learning experience of students across all teaching locations and facilities to provide a physical environment that is engaging, collaborative and flexible. An international focus would help them to develop their knowledge and skills lobally and would help them to compete in a larger scale. Key Indicators- Learning and Teaching Performance Student Perception Employer Perception International Recognition

The Sphinx of Giza Essay -- Egypt Symbol Pyramids Sphinx Essays

The Sphinx of Giza The Sphinx of Giza is a symbol that has represented the essence of Egypt for thousands of years. The body of a lion with the head of a king comes from the Egyptian culture symbolizing strength and wisdom. The sphinx is a carved out of the living rock. Egyptologists believe that the sphinx was built in 2500 BC in the fourth dynasty. From the north side the profile of the Sphinx reveals the proportion of the body to the head. It would appear as though the head is small in proportion to the body. Because of the changing desert terrain, the body of the Sphinx has been buried several times over the past several thousand years. Most recently in 1905, the sand has been cleared away to expose the magnitude and beauty of the entirety of the Sphinx.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The sphinx is carved out of a single ridge of soft limestone 240 feet long and 66 feet high. The head was sculpted from the same stone, and the forepaws were separately made from blocks of limestone. The paws themselves are 50 feet long while the entire length is 150 feet . The head is 30 feet long and 14 feet wide. Because certain layers of the stone are softer than others, there is a high degree of erosion that has claimed the original detail of the carved figure.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The face of the Great Sphinx has been thought to be pharaoh Khafre's face Fascinatingly, the features of the face of the Sphinx has a far more striking resemblance to an older brother of Khafre, the Pharaoh Djedefre . Djedefre's short lived reign occurred just prior to the reign of Khafre. Originally it is believed that the Sphinx was painted and was quite colorful. Since then, the nose and beard have been broken away from . In between the paws of the Sphinx is a stela, now called the "Dream Stela" which is a stone slab placed vertically and inscribed with a story. The 18th Dynasty story tells of the time Thutmosis IV fell asleep under the Sphinx which was covered to the neck in sand. Thutmosis had a dream that the Sphinx spoke to him and promised that if he would free the Sphinx from the sand, Thutmosis would be destined to become king of Egypt. From Ancient Egypt ,astronomy and astrology play an inextricable part. Everything seems to have something to do with the stars, or at the very least have a close relation that is. The people who made it had the most extraordinary knowledge of the stars and the behavior o... ...hat culture and how similar it was to the older structure. The Luxor hotel and the sphinx in its entrance was built to show a different culture and theme from the rest of the hotels. Another reason why the Sphinx might have been built in Las Vegas, could be because both cities are deserts and that makes it a perfect place to build the Luxor and the Sphinx.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the whole, both monuments are very fascinating and have special characteristics. For example, the size and design of it, the body of a Lion and Face of a Pharaoh represents the strength and power of the ruler. Both of the monuments were built for different reasons but they still represent the same culture. The sphinx in Las Vegas was built for attraction and to represent the Sphinx in Giza and to signify the Egyptian culture. It was easy to compare the two because their so much a like, and at the same time have different purposes. Looking at a Sphinx at close range is an amazing experience. It is one of the most fascinating monuments you will ever look at, the size and magnificence of it will take your breath away. So, Whenever you get the chance to see such an amazing monument do not forget to take lots of pictures.

Othello

In the play Othello Ago states his anger towards Moor Othello to Ordering. His anger Is justified by Othello having promoted a man named Michael Cassia to a rank above him and Ago gives the notion that his wife had an affair with Othello. For these reasons Ago manipulated the people around him to the point where each could not tell the truth from the lies. Ago was able to solidify his web of deceit from flaws In their character in order to create success. Ago has always held a grudge towards Michael Cassia for stealing the Job he wanted.Michael Cassia has but one flaw that of which is drinking. At a party to honor the Moor's marriage and the victory of war Ago highlights this flaw. With the words â€Å"If I can fasten but one cup upon him, With that which he hath drunk tonight already†¦ (Shakespeare 45)† Ago gets Cassia drunk. Cassia Is not the only person to have their flaws exploited. Ago uses his wife's flaws marriage and attraction to get control over her. Email says â€Å"My wayward husband hath a hundred times Who'd me to steal It†¦ Shakespeare 65)† as she steals token of love from Toeholds wife Desman that Othello had given her. These are lust some of the flaws Ago exploited in his journey to get what he wanted. Getting Cassia drunk led to him getting into a fight at the party with which Othello walked in on. Sago's plan gained success from this incidence by Othello words â€Å"l love thee; But never more be officer of mine†¦ (Shakespeare 51)†. No longer is Cassia in the job that Ago had been passed over for. But, this victory does not stop Ago; he desires blood.Although, he does not Just want Cassia to die but also his Supposed' reined Ordering as well. Ago however says â€Å"Now whether he kill Cassia, Or Cassia him, or each do kill the other, Every way makes my gain†¦ (Shakespeare 97)†. This illustrates that he does not care which of them dies for either way he will gain success. In the end Sago's plan i s a success even after all the lies and manipulations have been brought to light. He managed to get all of his enemies killed except for the person he wanted from the very beginning: Michael Cassia.Who in the end of the play Othello would be in charge of the punishment imposed upon him. Ago prevailed by harboring what makes each person weak and then using that weakness against them. Othello By Muslim is Justified by Othello having promoted a man named Michael Cassia to a rank above tell the truth from the lies. Ago was able to solidify his web of deceit from flaws in drunk. Cassia is not the only person to have their flaws exploited. Ago uses his wife's flaws marriage and attraction to get control over her. Emilie says â€Å"My wayward husband hath a hundred times Who'd me to steal it†¦ Shakespeare 65)† as she steals token of love from Othello wife Desman that Othello had given her. These are just some of the flaws Ago exploited in his Journey to get what he wanted. Gett ing Cassia drunk led to him getting into a fight at the party with which Othello walked in on. Lagos plan gained success from this incidence by Othello words â€Å"l love the Job that Ago had been passed over for. But, this victory does not stop Ago; he desires blood. Although, he does not Just want Cassia to die but also his ‘supposed' In the end Lagos plan is a success even after all the lies and manipulations have Othello In the play Othello Ago states his anger towards Moor Othello to Ordering. His anger Is justified by Othello having promoted a man named Michael Cassia to a rank above him and Ago gives the notion that his wife had an affair with Othello. For these reasons Ago manipulated the people around him to the point where each could not tell the truth from the lies. Ago was able to solidify his web of deceit from flaws In their character in order to create success. Ago has always held a grudge towards Michael Cassia for stealing the Job he wanted.Michael Cassia has but one flaw that of which is drinking. At a party to honor the Moor's marriage and the victory of war Ago highlights this flaw. With the words â€Å"If I can fasten but one cup upon him, With that which he hath drunk tonight already†¦ (Shakespeare 45)† Ago gets Cassia drunk. Cassia Is not the only person to have their flaws exploited. Ago uses his wife's flaws marriage and attraction to get control over her. Email says â€Å"My wayward husband hath a hundred times Who'd me to steal It†¦ Shakespeare 65)† as she steals token of love from Toeholds wife Desman that Othello had given her. These are lust some of the flaws Ago exploited in his journey to get what he wanted. Getting Cassia drunk led to him getting into a fight at the party with which Othello walked in on. Sago's plan gained success from this incidence by Othello words â€Å"l love thee; But never more be officer of mine†¦ (Shakespeare 51)†. No longer is Cassia in the job that Ago had been passed over for. But, this victory does not stop Ago; he desires blood.Although, he does not Just want Cassia to die but also his Supposed' reined Ordering as well. Ago however says â€Å"Now whether he kill Cassia, Or Cassia him, or each do kill the other, Every way makes my gain†¦ (Shakespeare 97)†. This illustrates that he does not care which of them dies for either way he will gain success. In the end Sago's plan i s a success even after all the lies and manipulations have been brought to light. He managed to get all of his enemies killed except for the person he wanted from the very beginning: Michael Cassia.Who in the end of the play Othello would be in charge of the punishment imposed upon him. Ago prevailed by harboring what makes each person weak and then using that weakness against them. Othello By Muslim is Justified by Othello having promoted a man named Michael Cassia to a rank above tell the truth from the lies. Ago was able to solidify his web of deceit from flaws in drunk. Cassia is not the only person to have their flaws exploited. Ago uses his wife's flaws marriage and attraction to get control over her. Emilie says â€Å"My wayward husband hath a hundred times Who'd me to steal it†¦ Shakespeare 65)† as she steals token of love from Othello wife Desman that Othello had given her. These are just some of the flaws Ago exploited in his Journey to get what he wanted. Gett ing Cassia drunk led to him getting into a fight at the party with which Othello walked in on. Lagos plan gained success from this incidence by Othello words â€Å"l love the Job that Ago had been passed over for. But, this victory does not stop Ago; he desires blood. Although, he does not Just want Cassia to die but also his ‘supposed' In the end Lagos plan is a success even after all the lies and manipulations have Othello In the play Othello Ago states his anger towards Moor Othello to Ordering. His anger Is justified by Othello having promoted a man named Michael Cassia to a rank above him and Ago gives the notion that his wife had an affair with Othello. For these reasons Ago manipulated the people around him to the point where each could not tell the truth from the lies. Ago was able to solidify his web of deceit from flaws In their character in order to create success. Ago has always held a grudge towards Michael Cassia for stealing the Job he wanted.Michael Cassia has but one flaw that of which is drinking. At a party to honor the Moor's marriage and the victory of war Ago highlights this flaw. With the words â€Å"If I can fasten but one cup upon him, With that which he hath drunk tonight already†¦ (Shakespeare 45)† Ago gets Cassia drunk. Cassia Is not the only person to have their flaws exploited. Ago uses his wife's flaws marriage and attraction to get control over her. Email says â€Å"My wayward husband hath a hundred times Who'd me to steal It†¦ Shakespeare 65)† as she steals token of love from Toeholds wife Desman that Othello had given her. These are lust some of the flaws Ago exploited in his journey to get what he wanted. Getting Cassia drunk led to him getting into a fight at the party with which Othello walked in on. Sago's plan gained success from this incidence by Othello words â€Å"l love thee; But never more be officer of mine†¦ (Shakespeare 51)†. No longer is Cassia in the job that Ago had been passed over for. But, this victory does not stop Ago; he desires blood.Although, he does not Just want Cassia to die but also his Supposed' reined Ordering as well. Ago however says â€Å"Now whether he kill Cassia, Or Cassia him, or each do kill the other, Every way makes my gain†¦ (Shakespeare 97)†. This illustrates that he does not care which of them dies for either way he will gain success. In the end Sago's plan i s a success even after all the lies and manipulations have been brought to light. He managed to get all of his enemies killed except for the person he wanted from the very beginning: Michael Cassia.Who in the end of the play Othello would be in charge of the punishment imposed upon him. Ago prevailed by harboring what makes each person weak and then using that weakness against them. Othello By Muslim is Justified by Othello having promoted a man named Michael Cassia to a rank above tell the truth from the lies. Ago was able to solidify his web of deceit from flaws in drunk. Cassia is not the only person to have their flaws exploited. Ago uses his wife's flaws marriage and attraction to get control over her. Emilie says â€Å"My wayward husband hath a hundred times Who'd me to steal it†¦ Shakespeare 65)† as she steals token of love from Othello wife Desman that Othello had given her. These are just some of the flaws Ago exploited in his Journey to get what he wanted. Gett ing Cassia drunk led to him getting into a fight at the party with which Othello walked in on. Lagos plan gained success from this incidence by Othello words â€Å"l love the Job that Ago had been passed over for. But, this victory does not stop Ago; he desires blood. Although, he does not Just want Cassia to die but also his ‘supposed' In the end Lagos plan is a success even after all the lies and manipulations have

Case Analysis: Job Dissatisfaction and High Turnover

Case Analysis: The Treadway Tire Company: Job Dissatisfaction And High Turnover at The Lima Tire Plant Case Analysis Questions: 1. Briefly describe the situation today at the Lima Tire plant. 2. What is the relationship between line foremen at Treadway’s Lima Plant and other groups within the plant: general supervisors and area managers, top management, the union, hourly workers, each other? Why do you believe the relationships are as they are? 3. How do you feel line foreman feel about their jobs and why? Be specific about their sources of dissatisfaction.How engaged are the line foreman? How would they respond to Gallup’s 12 Questions of a Strong Workplace? Expand on your position. 4. What are the costs of turnover within the Lima plant? Direct? Indirect? How would you calculate the cost of turnover if you were Ashley Wall making a presentation to top management? (Hint: Look at number of hours worked per month, salary plus benefits, and how long it takes to come up to speed in the role) What is the magnitude of the turnover problem? formula for calculating the direct cost of turnover:Average Hours Worked/Month x Wage/Hour (including benefits) x Number of Months for Learning Curve x Productivity during Learning Curve x Number of Positions Turned Over = Direct Cost of Turnover 5. Discuss the elements of the current work system that are contributing to the problem. How does each negatively impact engagement and job satisfaction? 6. What action plan should Ashley Wall recommend? Be specific in describing your recommended actions. 7. What key lessons will you take away from this case relative to building an engaged work culture and being an effective manager?Analysis Q. 1]Treadway Tire’s Lima Plant is faced with a critical problem of employee dissatisfaction and high turnover among its line foremen. The turnover rate ran 46% in 2007. Additionally, the plant was facing skyrocketing raw materials costs and intense global competition. The plant, at Lima, Ohio, had 970 unionized hourly employees and 150 salaried employees. 50 Line foremen were floor level managers who supervised hourly employees. The plant operates 24Ãâ€"7, with four rotating shifts.Problems associated with the foremen are part of deeper concerns with workforce management and the role that these people play in the production process. The foremen are caught in the middle of an adversarial relationship between the union and management. Ashley Wall, Director of Human Resources at Lima plant, identified the cause of turnover as serious morale issues with line-foreman segment, and their job dissatisfaction. Turnover is one obvious area where plant could focus to reduce costs & increase productivity. Analysis Q. ]An employee satisfaction survey and exit interviews of departing foremen revealed significant discontent in the plant and highlighted concerns about the line-foreman position. Several other incidents highlighted tension between hourly workers and foremen . Foremen expressed concerns about their lack of authority and adversarial relations with the hourly workers. General supervisors, the next management level after line foremen, judge foremen by their ability to meet or exceed forecasts. Foremen express that a lot of expectations, are beyond their control and management does not understand that.Serious morale issues in the line foremen segment also lead to imperiled relations between management and the union. Serious morale issues in these relationships are apparent as every group feels isolated. Foremen were only expected to achieve production forecast. They were not communicated about long run goal or strategy. Be it foremen, hourly workers or upper management, they had not shared a common value-based work environment. Foremen often pulled in different, conflicting directions by management, workers and the union. They had no clear understanding of upper management expectations.They were not involved in the grievance committeeâ€⠄¢s ruling and disciplinary decisions. Hourly workers had trust issues with foremen. They did not understand what kind of authority and tools a foreman would require in meeting the objectives. Analysis Q. 3]Unequipped: Line foremen complained that they were placed on the job without any training and given no coaching once they got there. They felt disengaged on the job without the required skills and competencies. In a Lima Employee Survey, 96% foremen do not feel prepared to accomplish duties of their job.Little discretion dealing with employees: Union contracts dictated annual pay raises, & grievance procedures had not involved foremen. General supervisors appear to look favorably upon traditional management methods which tended to be adversarial. Career frustration: Few foremen, those were external hire, must have felt frustrated by their low potential for advancement as almost all of promoted positions at Lima were filled from within the plant. Isolated / not involved: Foremen h ad not felt recognized or connected. Foreman lack required authorities to perform assigned duties. 6% foremen felt the management is not sensitive to their problem. Although foremen’s job involved different duties, they do not feel engaged due to lack of communication with hourly employees as well as with upper management, conflicting situations and morale issues. Gallup’s 12 questions: Based on the current scenario, foremen’s responses would reflect their dissatisfaction and disengagement at work: Foremen would not agree to the Base Level questions. Due to conflicting management direction, they were not sure what is expected from them.Foremen would not agree they had required development tools, training and authorities to drive their work duties. They would not agree to Level 1 questions. They are expected to meet or exceed forecasts in their 12-shift but they also had to perform other administrative duties that had little to do with their daily deliverables. T hey expressed insensitivity of upper management in the survey where only 3% foremen see their supervisor is a positive role model. Their responses to Level 2 questions would also be alarming.Upper management had lack of communication with them and operated according to their own priorities and had unresponsive and unsupportive to the foremen. They were not involved in union grievance process and had lack of control over various tasks measured as their duties. Their responses to Level 3 questions would be concerning too, as illustrated in the employee survey where 68% foremen thought they had no opportunity for career progress. Due to lack of trainings, foremen felt their learning and development curve is not much forwarding. Analysis Q. ]Turnover costs are categorized as direct costs and indirect costs. Based on the research, referenced in the attachment, we considered employee benefit as 40% of the base remuneration; 4 months for new hires to become 100% productive and 50% producti vity during the period of learning curve for new hires. Based on the case study, average days worked in a month for line foremen was about 15 days, with 12-hour shift or workday, giving us 180 work hours; foremen’s hourly rate as $42 (including 40% benefits with current base rate of $30); Positions turned over in the current year is 23.Based on the cost model, provided in the questionnaire, direct turnover cost will be: 180 x $42 x 4 x 0. 50 x 23 = $347,760. Indirect turnover cost may include loss of productivity from other employees filling in for vacant position; hiring costs; administrative costs; training/induction costs etc. These costs are more difficult to quantify and assign a dollar figure to, but they are very real. Based on the references, provided in attachment, the indirect costs of turnover can be 2 to 5 times higher than direct costs.Taking an estimated figure of 2 times direct turnover cost, the indirect cost can be calculated as: $347,760 x 2 = $695,520 This will give us total turnover cost in Lima plant as: Direct Cost $347,760 + Indirect Cost $695,520 = $1,043,280. This calculation although not a comprehensive assessment of the cost of turnover, but it is a quick way to illustrate the fact that turnover is indeed expensive, even when looking at the most basic costs. We see that Lima plant could save $589,680 as annual turnover cost even if the turnover rate could be reduced to even 20%; that is twice the average turnover rate in manufacturing industry.Attachment provides a more detailed analysis of this saving*. Analysis Q. 5]Following key elements contributed negatively towards building a strong work force at Lima plant. These elements had resulted in unprepared, isolated and despair foremen that kept them from putting their best at work and provided dissatisfaction. 1. Lack of training: Many of the foremen are placed on the line after only a few hours’ training: â€Å"The general supervisors expect them to just sink or swim. † Foremen felt unmotivated by their lack of preparedness.Such lack of knowledge made commitment to the total organization difficult and enhanced feelings of dissatisfaction and disengagement towards the job. Ashley Wall initiated training program, was not considered a priority and removed from the budget. 2. Lack of communication: Much of the alienation felt by line foremen was due to the almost total lack of communications from other groups within Lima plant. Other departments operated separately, according to their own priorities and seemed unresponsive and unsupportive to the foremen. . Motivation and Development: General supervisors were not connected to their team. They had no understanding of where an individual will fit right or what area he is stronger in. Supervisors’ expectations from foremen had no intention of personal advancement of every foreman. 4. Support and Recognition: 94% foremen did not think their immediate supervisor is a role model. With this en vironment, foremen would not consider themselves as part of the company nor would they see any opportunity to advance themselves further. 5.Recruitment process: There was little evidence that interpersonal skills such as the ability to communicate, ability to delegate, ability to work well with others, etc. , were given much weight at all in the recruitment and screening process, the emphasis seemed to be on the task and short-term results rather than selecting best talent for the job. Analysis Q. 6]Action Plan 1. The training programs need to be a top priority and should provide new foremen with extensive, formal, and on-the-job training that can make them feel stronger while performing job duties.The benefits of the training program will outweigh the costs in reducing time for a foreman to work at 100% productivity and providing tools necessary to be successful on the job. Wall must provide Bellingham* with a cost-benefit analysis. 2. Instead of expecting lower level managers to m eet forecasts and control hourly employees, immediate supervisors should be more involved with the team and leadership should connect and communicate long term vision to help make their lower management feel involved. 3. Technological innovations should be introduced to reduce foremen’s efforts and operating costs.Pay for performance and other psychological rewards should be made available to help increase both productivity and employee engagement at work. 4. Human Resources should institute regular meetings with salaried work force & bring in representatives from every department to help make flexible organization structure and to discuss common issues, problems, and concerns. Lower management should also be given opportunity to express their opinions and proposed changes that may prove cost effective and high productive. . Balanced hiring policies should be adopted like the one proposed by Ashley Wall i. e. ; 60% internal hires, 30% college graduates, and 10% company transf ers. Then foster formal & informal interaction among foremen, by promoting the exchange of individual skills and competencies. Analysis Q. 7] Lessons Learned 1. Although high expectation from employees is an important key yet they should also be provided with required tools and trainings necessary to make them feel strong for the job.Based on individual employees’ talent at job, they should be provided with advance learning and development opportunities to advance their career and personal progress. 2. Employees should feel connected to the organization. This can be achieved by recognizing their work, rewarding their performance, develop them regularly, and continuously communicating with them to listen their concerns, appreciating their achievements and providing necessary help to increase their job satisfaction. 3.Management could incorrectly think about saving time and reducing cost by ignoring employees’ concerns and job related learning & development. On the contr ary, organization could save more by having satisfied employees that helps in reduced turnover cost and increased productivity. 4. Long organization hierarchy only creates isolated groups and lack of clear communication. Flat structure is necessary to improve communication and make strong connections. Attachment *Turnover cost saving by reducing turnover rate to 20%: Current turnover rate is 46% that resulted from 23 foremen turned over from total 50 hence 23/50 = 46%.As part of the 2007 edition of its Compensation Data Survey, CompData Surveys publishes 10. 2% as average turnover rate in the manufacturing industry. By the turnover cost presented above, it can be illustrated that if Treadway Lima plan could reduce turnover rate to a conservative 20% then cost savings will be $884,484 (Turnover reduced to 20%; 50 x 0. 20 = 10. 23 – 10 = 13 fewer foremen turning over. Using above mentioned costing model, and considering 13 positions turned over, Lima plant could save Direct Cos t $196,560 + Indirect Cost $393,120 = $589,680). Brandon Bellingham is the plant manager at Treadway’s Lima, Ohio Tire Plant. References: http://www. workforce. com/article/20000126/DEAR_WORKFORCE/301269997/idear-workforce-i-indirect-cost-of-turnover http://www. workplaceinfo. com. au/human-resources-management/hr-strategy/costs-of-employee-turnover http://www. jemperformance. com/Articles/highcostofturnover. htm http://www. beta. mmb. state. mn. us/doc/wfp/turnover. pdf http://www. compensationforce. com/2008/02/2007-turnover-r. html

WOOLWORTHS SUPPLY AND DEMAND N essays

WOOLWORTHS SUPPLY AND DEMAND N essays 2.3 The Management Team and Project Refresh 2 3 WOOLWORTHS SUPPLY AND DEMAND NETWORK 2 3.3 Vehicle Routing and Scheduling (VRS) and Order Fulfillment 5 3.3.1 Transport Management System (TMS) 5 3.3.2 Woolworths - Town Hall Outlet 5 4.1.2 Warehousing/Distribution Centre 6 4.2 Vehicle Routing and Scheduling (VRS) 7 7 APPENDIX....................................................................................... 10 APPENDIX I ORGANISATION STRUCTURE.......................................... 10 APPENDIX II STORE STRUCTURE...................................................... 11 APPENDIX III FACILITIES LOCATION.................................................. 12 APPENDIX IV OPERATION PROCESS OF DISTRIBUTION CENTRE............ 13 The new model of competition - supply chain compete, not companies (Christopher, 1999, p.30) is now a fairly entrenched business strategy. This paradigm, together with the belief that logistics is a core capability, enabling the company to gain and maintain competitive advantage (e.g., Stalk et al. 1992), is a potent strategy for a company to be one step ahead of the competition, given todays competitive pressures brought about by technological convergence. Using this framework, we chose to study a local and best practice company that embodies this concept - Woolworths Limited. The main objective of this paper, therefore, is to examine how Woolworths has designed and has implemented its logistics system to maintain its cost and service leadership in the food retail industry in Australia for years. However, studying a market leader has also several nuisances. For instance, although there is an overload of publicly available materials, most of these are sanitized. So to compensate this weakness, we are very fortunate to gain an insider peek of the company via an interview given to us by Mr. ...

Electric Guitar vs. Acoustic Guitar Essay Essays

Electric Guitar vs. Acoustic Guitar Essay Essays Electric Guitar vs. Acoustic Guitar Essay Paper Electric Guitar vs. Acoustic Guitar Essay Paper Acoustic guitar is type of guitar that uses acoustic method in projecting its sound. This sort of guitar is hollow and has a sound hole on its surface and largely they have six strings. They were most common in common people dances and laid-back vocals but their use has of tardily extended to blues and state music. Acoustic guitars are different from electric guitars in that the latter has more whistlings and bells than the former. In electric guitar. an amplifier is needed to project its sound whereas in acoustic guitars. merely a sound hole is needed in other words ; electric guitar requires electric power to play while acoustic guitar merely requires a sound hole. How do the two types of guitars compare and differ? This is what this research paper will chiefly concentrate on. Electric guitars harmonizing to Waring ( 2001 ; 112 ) were originally used in playing stone music but the first one to be used was in 1930 by a wind guitar player. Unlike in other merchandises where it is clear who invented them. in musical instruments is a bit different because it is non known who invented many of them but there are those who claim to be the one like Gibson who claims to hold invented an electric guitar. Most acoustic guitars have six strings but an electric 1 could hold even 12 strings. Unlike in an electric guitar where pickups that are connected to an amplifier are used to project the sound. it is different when it comes to acoustic guitar as where it the sound hole that is used to project the sound. Contrary to the electric guitar. ( Roth Arlen. 2002 ; 78 ) acoustic guitar is more complex both in its expression and in playing but one time you get used. it becomes an easy and gratifying thing. An electric guitar requires pickups to change over quivers that are made by the chords into an electric current. One of the advantages of utilizing this type of guitar is that the musical signals that are produced when one plays it could be altered electronically with some guitar effects such as deformation and reverb to accommodate your demands unlike in acoustic guitar where you have no pick apart from basking the preset sound which can non be altered electronically. ( Roth Arlen. 2002 ; 90 ) Whenever one intends to purchase a guitar. there are assorted factors that one should see but the most of import of these factors is whether you would be comfy with the sort of guitar you are meaning to purchase and the sort of music you want to play. The two types of guitars are used for playing music and are played with custodies nevertheless they differ in assorted ways. An electric guitar is much easier to play than acoustic and this is due to the manner it is designed. Electric guitar has strings that are near the stews thereby doing it easier to force the strings down without striving piece in acoustic guitar. you have to force the wires harder to the sound hole so that the produced sound would be amplified by the resonating chamber. In electric guitar there are pickups and an amplifier whose work is to better the quality of sound. ( Millard A. J. 2002 ) When it comes to comparing the size of the two guitars harmonizing to String Letter Publishing. ( 2000. 52 ) decidedly one finds that an electric guitar is smaller than acoustic guitar. This is because the latter requires heavier gauge strings that are used in doing quivers from its wooden top whereas an electric guitar has thinner wires and does non necessitate a broad top to do quivers as there are pickups that take the sound to the amplifier. The cervix of an electric guitar is besides thinner than that of the acoustic and for this ground. it is much easier to play an electric guitar because its design allows one to wrap custodies around it and allows one to place fingers in a manner that facilitates playing. Again when it comes to playing. one finds that an electric guitar is much easier toplay that the other 1. This is because the thin wires of an electric guitar do non necessitate to be pushed down harder than in acoustic guitar evidently novitiates who play acoustic guitar find themselves acquiring sores on their fingers unlike in electric 1s. An electric guitar could be played in different positions because you can keep it in many ways provided you are comfy but in acoustic you have no picks because the guitar is large. heavy and its high-strung organic structure makes it uncomfortable to play. When it comes to the monetary value of purchasing these guitars. their monetary value greatly differ in that an electric guitar costs twice the sum that acoustic guitar costs. The large difference in monetary value is because an electric guitar requires other appliances such as pickups. buttons and an amplifier that needs an excess sum of money but an acoustic guitar does non necessitate them. Therefore. if you don’t have a batch of money and you still want to play some music on your guitar so acoustic guitar is the best. ( Arlen R. . 2002. 98 ) Apart organize the monetary value. there are those who find electronic guitar to be confounding than acoustic guitar. They say that in the former you have to get the hang how to play its many buttons and bosss but the good thing about it is that you can non acquire sores on your fingers. Harmonizing to Cross ( 2008 ) . the two guitars play different functions in music because an electric guitar is largely used to play chords and guitar leads while acoustic guitar is used in thruming musical chords to many vocals. When people are make up ones minding what sort of a guitar they should purchase. they should non be guided by the form of the guitar but by the type of music that one intends to play for illustration. if you want to play stone music so the best pick is an electric guitar but if you want to thrum your favourite vocal you can travel for the acoustic guitar. ( Millard A. J. 2004. 34-38 ) Both the guitars are portable but one is more dependable than the other. If you want to travel bivouacing so acoustic guitar is the guitar you need. This is because an electric guitar requires electric power to play it but the other one don’t. You can merely transport your electric guitar if an lone if you are certain where you are traveling there is electric power because its amplifier can non work if there is no power. Another country where the two differ as per Roth Arlen ( 2002 ) is when it comes to the quality of the sound produced. Electric guitar produces better sound than acoustic. This is because electric guitars have adjustable pedals. cringle Stationss and buttons that improve the quality of the sound produced. Another good thing about this guitar is that you can maintain up with the times without purchasing a new guitar because its appliances can be replaced with more sophisticated 1s. ( Stringing Letter Publishing. 2000. 59 ) Acoustic merely like eclectic guitars come in different designs for illustration there are steel strings. classical guitar which has nylon strings and the lap steel guitar and in electric 1s we have acoustic electric that is modified with pickups alternatively of utilizing an excess mike. excavate bodied. solid bodied and another 1 with a metal organic structure. The two guitars have more differences than what they have in common. We have seen that an electric guitar is better than the other one but one should non be misled by the expressions of the guitar in fact it is the type of music you want to play and the ground for playing it should be the usher on the sort of guitar you need for illustration. if you want to entertain many people so an electric guitar is the best. An electric guitar is smaller than acoustic guitar but the latter is more portable than an electric guitar because it does non necessitate any electrical power. Plants Cited. Cross Dan. Electric vs. Acoustic Guitar. 2008. Accessed online at hypertext transfer protocol: //guitar. about. com/od/commonbeginnerquestions/a/rec_guitars. htm Millard A. J. The Electric Guitar: A History of an American Icon. JHU Press. 2004. Roth Arlen. Complete Acoustic Guitar: Complete Acoustic Guitar. Music Gross saless Group. 2002 Stringing Letter Publishing. Acoustic Guitar Owner’s Manual: The Complete Guide. Hal Leonard. 2000 Waring D. and Thomas D. R. Make Your Own Electric Guitar and Bass. Sterling Printing Company. 2001