Lincoln electric case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Lincoln electric case study - Essay Example Managers respect the production workers. They are also respected and valued for their contribution to the company’s business. The fact that the worker’s contribution is no less than that of the management towards the growth of the organisation is recognized and acknowledged by each of its member. Decentralized approach has made it possible even for the workers to challenge the management in case of wrong and unfair decisions. They can voice their opinion in case they feel that a certain decision taken by the management is unfair, or likely to bring negative effects on the organisation. Most of the workers are fresh pass-outs from schools when they are absorbed by the organisation and are provided the required training to perform various functions. Some of them are promoted to the position of executives because Lincoln believes in promoting employees from within the organisation and not from outside. The major reasons that can be attributed to the success of Lincoln are its quality standards and its responsibity towards its workers. Both these aspects have gone a long way to make this system extremely successful. The company focuses primarily on the welfare of its employees and their performance levels automatically improve. Workers are paid according to the piece rate system and rewarded for their performance. It is strictly ensured that they exceed their performance goals in order to achieve maximum pay. They are encouraged to put in their best efforts and rewarded accordingly. This company provides so much support to its employees that it has become their second home which bars them from leaving the company. Success of the organization in United States called for the process of diversifying its roles in foreign countries. Lincoln decided to purchase a number of plants in Japan, South America and also in some of the European countries. It

Defining And Understanding Empowerment Social Work Essay

Defining And Understanding Empowerment Social Work Essay Empowerment can be defined in general as the capacity of individuals, groups and/or communities gain control of their circumstances and achieve their own goals, thereby being able to work towards helping themselves and others to maximise the quality of their lives. In health and social care empowerment means patients, carers and service users exercising choice and taking control of their lives. It is not that one is empowered means he or she become all powerful like God. Even if we are empowered still we have limitation. Actual meaning of empowerment is that one feels that he or she able and feels powerful enough in certain situations to take part in decision making. I also will explain how politics played a part in disempowering women in health and social care services. It is a greatest challenge in health and social care to achieve progress with the empowerment of carers and people who receive services. Beginnings of twentieth century women were disempowered because of politics played a part. Emancipation is a commonly used word in other western European countries to refer to what in the UK mean by empowerment. The word emancipation has is useful because it has overtones of the struggle for votes for women in Britain at the beginning of the twentieth century, so it reminds us that empowerment  Ã‚  in the health and social services has a political aspect. When carers and people who use services experience being disempowered and excluded, this is a form of political disenfranchisement. In other words, it is as though they have no vote and are not treated as full members of society. In contrast, when people become empowered, they can exercise choices and have the possibility of maximising their potential and living full and active lives.   There is a tension between enabling people to take control of their lives and recognising that workers may need to intervene and take control sometimes, in order to protect other people. This applies to both empowerment and advocacy. Empowerment for people with learning disabilities is the process by which they develop increased skills to take control of their lives. This will help them achieve goals and aspirations, maximising their quality of life. A key feature in empowering people is giving them a voice and actively listening to what they have to say. Empowerment is, therefore, closely linked to the concept of advocacy. Empowerment in learning disability can be described as a social process, whereby people who are considered as belonging to a stigmatised social group can be assisted to develop increased skills to take control of their lives. This increased control will help them to achieve their goals and aspirations and thus potentially maximise the quality of their lives. The concept has connections with assertiveness and independence and is clearly linked to the various forms of advocacy. When considering the current climate it is somewhat an indictment on our times that the Government sees the need to name the White Paper regarding its vision for learning disability services as Valuing People. The title alone inversely suggests that as a society we are not valuing people. The content presents the evidence on levels of exclusion, disempowerment and lack of valued social roles facing those with a learning disability and how services should be planned to address this. (A similar Scottish Executive Review of Learning Disability has the title The Same As You.) For the individual with a learning disability, the subjective experience of empowerment is about rights, choice and control which can lead them to a more autonomous lifestyle. For the professional, it is about anti-oppressive practice, balancing rights and responsibilities and supporting choice and empowerment whilst maintaining safe and ethical practice. Education is often seen as the main engine of empowerment, equality and rights of access. Thus, as a group, people with a learning disability can be at a particular disadvantage. They may have to be enabled and supported to perhaps overcome social obstacles and can be dependent on others to make important information accessible to them, assist them with advocacy and help safeguard their rights. A key feature in empowering individuals is giving them a voice and then listening actively to what they have got to say. Person Centred Planning with its focus on placing the individual at the centre of the process and using techniques to obtain meaningful participation can be a major contribution to finding out what people have got to say. Empowerment will bring along with it rights and responsibilities plus also potential risks for people. It is often the fear of physical risk which can inhibit empowerment processes for people who see themselves as responsible for vulnerable people. They may fear a blame culture if things go wrong. Surprisingly, as recently as 1998, the Social Services Inspectorate noted there were no systematic approaches for risk assessment and management in the field of learning disability. The Foundation for People with a Learning Disability set out to identify good practice in how to reconcile the tension between ensuring the safety of an individual with a learning disability and empowering them to enjoy a full life in the community. A report was produced called Empowerment and Protection (Alaszewski et al, 1999) which suggested that organisations needed to develop risk policies which embrace both protection and empowerment issues at the same point. The definition of risk should look at consequences and probability. Procedures should also include, from the start, the wishes and needs of the person who has the learning disability and involve them  throughout, including the decision making stage. Such comments about organisations developing appropriate risk strategies show that empowerment is not there just  as a concept for front line staff, but should penetrate the strategic planning levels. Valuing People states (Section 4.27) that people with a learning disability should be consulted for their views on services and these views utilised at a corporate planning level. In Mrs Ali case she is empowered by Muslim religious faith to take of her bed-bound husband although in contrast her care taker Jean believes that Mrs Ali should be empowered. This indicates religion also empower some people to take care vulnerable people.

Example Answers For Questions On Evidence Based Practice Nursing Essay

Example Answers For Questions On Evidence Based Practice Nursing Essay Introduction In this assignment I shall discuss the concepts of Evidence Based Practice (EBP), and briefly outline its importance to my professional practice. I shall select a relevant aspect of my practice in relation to my professional discipline. I will provide a rationale for selecting my aspect of professional discipline, which will be within the context of (EBP). I will discuss the extent to which my selected aspect of professional practice is informed by various types of evidence. In relation my chosen aspect of professional practice, I shall then identify factors that may facilitate and hinder the implementation of (EBP). Q1 Evidence based practice (EBP) is to demonstrate the best practice, which has been supported, with a clear rationale to back it up. Whilst using (EBP), this also acknowledges the patient/clients best interest. (EBP) is the conscientious, explicit and judicious use of current best evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patient/clients (Sackett et al, 1996). In this definition Sackett facilitates an understanding between (EBP) and decisions we make in everyday practice. This demonstrates the strong connection between both aspects. Here, Sackett emphasises the importance of decisions we make as healthcare professionals, and how clearly they should be stated. This shows that decisions are well thought-out, which demonstrates that the use of evidence is used sensibly and carefully, which means that any care or support we deliver must be evidence based. It shows that Sackett understands that if care or support we provide has a rationale, then this enables us to deliver it with a meaningful purpose. According to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) we as healthcare professionals must deliver care on the best evidence or best practice (2008). The code of conduct clearly states that any advice we give must be evidence based. If we fail to adhere to the code, then this may result in disciplinary action by the (NMC) (2008). As healthcare professionals I feel any care we deliver should have a rational to justify anything we carry out. I believe that as healthcare professionals we are expected to understand why we are caring for patient/clients, whereby a rationale is provided for the care that we provide. (EBP) helps us as healthcare professionals keep updated with policies and procedures (ref). It is fundamental that we keep our skills and knowledge current, which enables us to provide effective care. (EBP) in its earlier days of evidence based medicine, which provides a suitable way in producing efficient clinical decisions, avoiding routinely work practice, which increases clinical performance (Evidence Based Medicine Working Group 1992, Davidoff et al ,1995). In the above statement it demonstrates that (EBP) contributes to significant clinical decisions, which may subsequently develop It is important that we adhere to policies and procedures for the best practice available, which may prevent us from making any errors. As practitioners we are accountable for our actions. Justifying what we do is vital, which must have a rationale behind it. Failure to adhere to (NMC) may result in professional misconduct (2008). Q2 Here I shall formulate the question according the (PICO) method, which is population, intervention, comparison intervention, and outcome. This was devised by Sackett et al, which is a useful method in order to make questions more purposeful (1997). My selected aspect of professional practice is the Treatment of Depression and its Effectiveness in Adults with Cancer. I personally feel there is a high prevalence of depression in cancer patients. In my experience, I have found that there are many cancer patients, which may be suffering from depression. According to Barraclough (1994) states that depression is the most common psychiatric illness in patients with terminal cancer. The high prevalence of depression in cancer patient has influenced me carry out my own research, which will effectively enhance my knowledge. Personally, I feel that by developing my knowledge on my chosen topic will help enable me to have a greater understanding, t in my future practice. Hinton (1963) found that 24% of patients dying in an acute hospital were depressed. It has been found by Casey that patients suffering with depression may be assessed by asking them if they have symptoms such as ; loss of pleasure in activities, feelings of guilt and worthlessness, or thoughts of self harm, which may help in recognizing a diagnosis in depression (1994). Q3 The objective of a qualitative research is to describe, explore, and give explanation to the phenomenon what is being studied (Marshall Rossman, 2006. (Morse Richards 2002) established that there many techniques used in the collection of data involved in the production of a qualitative study, but the commonly used are observing and interviewing partakers. A meta-analysis is within a qualitative study, whereby the findings of qualitative are carefully examined, the methods and theories from different studies, to form an overview or conclusive ways of thinking about phenomena Thorne et al (2004). In my experience I have found that many patients whom have cancer have been low in mood, but often go left untreated. Maguire found that up to 80% of psychological and psychiatric morbidity, which develops in cancer patients often goes unrecognised and untreated (1985). It speaks about how patients are non-compliant in discussing symptoms unreservedly with nursing and medical staff. It mentions that in the United Kingdom (U.K) clinical nurse specialists play an important role in assessing the symptoms and providing advice to cancer patient with highly developed and metastatic cancer (Gray et al,1999). This qualitative study was purposely carried to deter how clinical nurse specialist manage, assess, and perceive depression in such patients, in both hospital and community settings. Atkin et al (1993) found that 43.4% of nurses reported that early recognition of, signs of anxiety and depression was part of their role. It shows the difficulty nurses are faced with in convincing medical staff to follow up assessment or prescribe antidepressant medication. I shall now critique the study. Firstly, none of the nurses had any form of mental health training. Therefore, I feel their lack of knowledge may have falsified the findings of the study. Lastly, the demographic area may have been expanded further afield, which subsequently makes the findings minimalistic. The view proposed by Long (1995, p94) that the most problematic characteristic of the hierarchy of evidence model, is that it completely lacks recognition of qualitative study methods. According to Sackett et al (1996) a qualitative is in the ranking of research evidence at the base. Here, it shows that a qualitative study has inadequate efficacy, whereby it lacks randomization, it also has scarce before and after studies. However, it does give emphasis to the fact that open ended question were asked in a qualitative study, which demonstrates its feasibility. An open ended question can have many answers, whereby it can be answered in many ways than one. If in depth answers are obtained, then this may enable the researchers to capture a greater insight of the situation. Nevertheless, it has been discovered that identifying the findings in a qualitative study can be complex, this may due the style of reports, or they may be perceived wrongly (Sandelowski Barroso 2004). Systematic reviews were first defined as concise of the best available evidence that address sharply defined clinical questions (Murlow et al 1997). Here, it states that a systematic review involves gathering quality information, which is then analysed, whereby it is then summarised. A systematic review is a vital source of evidence-informed policy and practice movement, which connects research in decision-making (Chalmers, 2003). Secondly, this systematic review provides us with evidence on cancer patients receiving interventions such as drug therapy, and their efficacy. In this systematic review it found that depression is the most common in cancer patients, which often goes undiscovered and untreated (Lloyd-Williams, (2000); Bailey et al,(2005). It also shows that cancer patients survival rate may be decline if their immune response is impaired. (Andersen et al, 1998; Newport and Nemeroff, 1998; Reiche et al, 2004) and poorer survival (Buccheri, 1998; Faller et al, 1999; Watson et al, 1999; Faller and Bulzebruck 2002; Herjl et al, 2003; Goodwin et al, 2004). It is known that in previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the effectiveness of interventions for cancer patients whom are suffering from depression have been unsuccessful in differentiating between depression/depressive symptoms. Dale and Williams (2005) refers to the findings from this review, which demonstrate that there little trial data on the effectiveness of antidepressants, which are prescribed to reduce major depression and depressive symptoms in those suffering with cancer. Nevertheless, previous reviews which have failed to identify the dissimilarity between both depression and depressive symptoms. It shows little data from clinical trials, which demonstrate psychotherapeutic interventions, which may effective in reducing depression in cancer patients. A number of small-scale trials showed that psychotherapeutic interventions, more so Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which may be effective in treating cancer patient whom have depressive symptoms. In conclusion, this review shows that there is a hard-pressed need for a more rigorous process in the examination of the effectiveness and consequences regarding approaches towards in managing depression in cancer patients, and providing them with appropriate healthcare services. In respect to the hierarchy of evidence chart Sackett (1996) states that systematic reviews are at the peak of the chart, which demonstrates this, a strong piece of evidence. The results of a systematic reviews are produced in such a way, whereby a thorough examination of evidence is processed (Murlow,1987; Cook et al.,1998). Sackett and Straus (1998) found that systematic reviews of (RCTs) are ranked as the best evidence in making clinical decisions in relation to a patients care. Within this study a systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCT) of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic implementation for cancer patients with depression/depressive symptoms. This study had a specific criterion for the selection of (RCTs) of the pharmacology and psychotherapeutic interventions. Partakers were either adult cancer patients with depression, or depressive symptoms receiving interventions such as pharmacology and psychotherapeutic. This source of evidence fits into the hierarchy of evidence at the apex of the chart. It is known that a singular RCT or Several RCTs are well thought-out as the uppermost level of evidence, and anything below this is classed as a lower level of evidence, which may be classed as an inadequate source of information (Ellis 2000, Lake 2006, Morse 2006b, Rolfe Gardner 2006). Evidence shows that (RCTs) are considered highly effective sources of information (Muir Gray, 1997;Mulrow Oxman, 1997; Sackett et al.,1997). It would be highly unethical to use these findings as a prejudice against patients with cancer who wish receive treatment for depression and depressive symptoms, because of the limited data on effectiveness. However, traditional or unsystematic reviews can be apparent and suitable to attain, which can also be deceptive at times, above all they are scientific Murlow(1987). None of these studies make mention of persons centred planning (PCP), which is slightly concerning. Professionals may have four ways in which they can contribute towards (PCP): introducing, contributing, safeguarding, and implementing/integrating (PCP) (Kilbane and Sanderson ,2004). Q4. Although, there may be an accumulating body of knowledge about the efficacy of immeasurable nursing practises, which leaves gap between what is in fact known and what is actually practised (Grol and Grimshaw, 2003). People whom have been in the profession for a long time may not approve or wish to adhere to the implementation of (EBP). This may be due to a number of reasons such as; culture, age, learning ability, or even attitudes towards changes within an organisation. It is known that there may be barriers which may cause complications in applying (EBP) in nursing practise, this has been established in extensive literature reports (Estabrooks et al 2004). If a nurses workload is too big, then this may influence their ability to adapt to changes in practise. A significant source of implementing (EBP) is; student nurses or newly qualified nurse. I have found that student nurses and newly qualified nurses are an important source in the utilisation of (EBP). If for example; they have carried out research at university for an assignment, then they may be able to apply and demonstrate this in practise, and also influence fellow colleagues. Conclusion In writing this assignment I have found depression in cancer patients is significantly high. I am now able to say that on the completion of this I am now able to acknowledge the complexities of depression in cancer patient. This will enhance my future practice as a nurse, which will enable me to apply the knowledge I have gained from this assignment into practise. I am now able understand the importance of (EBP), and its relation to my future practise. This has helped assist me in developing my academic skills. On the completion of this assignment I have developed my analysis skills immensely, which will help assist me in my future practise. References Atkin K., Lunt N., Parker G. Hirst M. (1993) Nurses Count: A National Census of Practice Nurses. Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York. Barraclough J, (1994), Cancer and emotion. Chichester UK:Wiley Casey P. Depression in the dying- disorder or distress. Progr Palliat Care 1994; 2: 1-3. Davidoff F, Haynes B, Sackett D Smith R, (1993) Evidence-based medicine: a new journal to help doctors identify the information they need. British Medical Journal 310, 1085-1085. Ellis J (2000) Sharing the evidence: clinical practice benchmarking to improve continuously the quality of care. Journal of Advanced Nursing 32, 215-225. Preston, Lancashire Estabrooks CA, Winther C, Derkson L. Mapping he feild: a bibliometric analysis of the research utilization literature in nursing. Nurs Res 2004; 53:293-303 EVANS D, Journal of Clinical Nursing 2003; 12: 77-84, Hierarchy of evidence: a framework for ranking evidence evaluating healthcare interventions Evidence-Based Medicine Working Group (1992) Evidence based medicine: a new approach to teaching the practice of medicine. JAMA 268,2420-2425. Gray R, Parr A, Plummer S, Sanford T, Ritter S, Mundtleach B, Goldberg D, Gournay K. A national survey of practice involvement in mental health interventions. J Adv Nurs 1999; 30: 901-906 Grol, R, Grimshaw J. From best evidence to best practice: effective implementation of change in patients care. Lancet 2003;362:1225-30 Hinton J, The physical and mental distress of dying. Q J Med (1963); 32: 1-21 Kilbane J Sanderson H (2004) What and how:understanding professional involvement in person centred planning styles and approaches. Journal of Learning Disabilities. Long, A.F.(1995) Health services research a radical approach to cross the research and development divide, in Baker, M, Kirk, S(ed.) Reasearch and development for the NHS, evidence, evaluation and effectiveness. Oxford: pp. 94 MANTZOUKAS S (2008) Journal of Clinical Nursing 17, 214-223 London, A review of evidence-based practice, nursing research and reflection: levelling the hierarchy Maguire P. Improving the detection of psychiatric problems in cancer patients. Soc Sci Med 1985; 20 :819-23 Morse JM, Richards L. READ ME FIRST for a users guide to Qualitative Methods. Thousand Oaks: Sage, 2002. Morse MJ (2006b) the politics of evidence. Qualitative Health Research 16, 395-404. Canada. Muir Gray J.A. (1997) Evidence-Based Healthcare. Churchill Livingstone, New York. Murlow CD, Cook DJ and Davidoff F (1997) Systematic Reviews. Critical links in the great chain of evidence. Annals of Internal Medicine 126(5):389-91 Mulrow C.D. Oxman A.D. (1997) Cochrane Collaboration Handbook (database on disk and CDROM). The Cochrane Library, The Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, Updated Software. NMC REF 2008 Rolfe G Gardner L (2006) Towards a geology of evidence-based practice: a discussion paper. International Journal of Nursing Studies 43, 903-913. Swansea, Sackett D.L., Richardson W.S., Rosenberg W. Haynes R.B.(1997) Evidence Based Medicine: How to Practice and Teach EBM. Churchill Livingstone, New York. Sackett DL, Richardson WS, Rosenberg W, Haynes RB, (1997) Evidence based medicine: how to practice and teach EBM, London: Churchill Livingstone Sackett DL, Rosenberg WMC, Muir GrayJ.A, Haynes R.B and Richardson WS (1996) Evidence based medicine. What it is and what isnt,British Medical Journal 312:71-2 Sackett DL, Straus S, Richardson WS, Rosenberg W and Haynes RB (2000) Evidence-Based Medicine: how to practice and teach EBM (2e). Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh Sandelowski M, Barroso J: Finding the findings in qualitative studies. J Nurs Scholarsh 2002, 34:213-219. Open Access Silva, Carlos Nunes (2008). Review: Catherine Marshall Gretchen B. Rossman (2006). Designing Qualitative Research [20 paragraphs]. Forum Qualitative Sozialforschung / Forum: Qualitative Social Research, 9(3), Art. 13, Are you Ipad Lover If not Become One! http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fon.fb.me%2FdUg8mah=80efb Are you Ipad Lover If not Become One! http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fon.fb.me%2FdUg8mah=80efb S Williams1 and J Dale1 Br J Cancer. 2006 Coventry Cancer Research UK Thorne S, Jensen L, Kearney MH, Noblit G, Sandelowski M. Qualitative meta-synthesis: reflections on methodological orientation and ideological agenda .Qual Health Res 2004;14:1342-65

Essay --

Before I explain and talk about why a ball goes farther when hit with an aluminum bat, I would like to present and explain some vocabulary concept and words. A collision, transfers momentum or kinetic energy from one object to another object. There are two types of collisions, elastic collision and inelastic collision. An elastic collision is a collision that occurs when two objects bounce apart when they collide; the total kinetic energy in the system is the same before and after the collision. For example, elastic collision occurs when equally massive balls move in the same direction; in this case momentum is transferred from one ball to another ball. And an inelastic collision is a collision that occurs when two objects collide and do not bounce away from each other; the collision changes the total kinetic energy in a closed system. For example, inelastic collision occurs when two cars crash and join themselves into one; the objects stick together after colliding. In inelastic c ollision all that happened is the loss of some kinetic energy, objects don not necessarily need to stick together in an inelastic collision. Whether a collision is an elastic collision or inelastic collision momentum would always be the same before and/or after the collision as long as you have a close system. According to Asif Shakur, Chair of Physics and Engineering at Salisbury State University, explains, â€Å"Aluminum is a hard material. It doesn't have a lot of "give." In other words, aluminum is highly elastic. Therefore, very little of the ball's initial kinetic energy (the energy associated with motion) is used up in permanently deforming the aluminum. Indeed, the aluminum springs back quickly and the ball retains much of its initial energy. In co... ...reased the animosity between the two players† (Russell). The point of all of this is that Piazza’s bat broke; professional players typically go through a lot of bats during a baseball season. In conclusion, there are a various numbers of reasons why a ball go farther when hit with an aluminum bat; such as, aluminum bat can be swung faster, aluminum bats have the trampoline effect, aluminum bats have winder sweet spots, and aluminum bats don’t break. A ball goes farther when hit with aluminum bat because of the fact that the bat is very lightweight and have a large 'sweet spot' in which to hit the ball. In order to have a ball with a high speed, in other words, lots of kinetic energy, the collision has to an elastic collision. Aluminum bats can be swung faster because the barrel of an aluminum bat is empty; the distribution of mass along the length of a metal bat.

High School Literature :: essays papers

High School Literature The story â€Å"Brownies† by ZZ Packer could be looked at as a work of literature from certain views, but in the opinion of Prose, the author of â€Å" I Know Why the Caged Bird Cannot Read,† I do not believe that this story would be looked at as a work of literature. This story does not seem very â€Å"uplifting† as Prose would want it to be for a high school reader. Although it is a very interesting story and it holds many important messages about our society and culture, it does not hold up to Prose’s standards as a work of literature. Prose believes that we â€Å"have rushed to sacrifice complexity for diversity.† (Prose, 76) This is exactly why I do not think that Prose would choose this story as a something she would want students to read. â€Å"The reader is being squandered on regimens of trash and semi-trash, taught for reasons that have nothing to do with how well the book is written.† (Prose, 76) Prose often talks about how stories that are chosen for our society’s high school curriculum are not complicated enough. The stories read by students are easy to read, and demand very little thought from the reader. Prose uses words such as transformative, complex, powerful, and profound for the books she believes should be used. These words do not describe the story â€Å"Brownies† by ZZ Packer. Although there are many accurate similes and decently used language in the story â€Å"Brownies,† the overall point of the story seems very simple for a high school student to pick up on. I do not think it would engender a feeling of deep thought for students, as Prose would want. The story â€Å"Brownies† seems like it would be easy to analyze. It seems like more of the type of story that would evoke more of a response, which in my opinion would not be greatly valued by Prose. She seems like she would be more interested in having a high school student have to work to analyze a story, than respond about how they felt about a certain piece of writing. Racism is a strong message in the story â€Å"Brownies.† There are two troops of brownies camping in the same area. One of the troops is black girls, and the other is all white girls.

Hrm in South Africa

International Human Resource Management Your assignment is to take a country of your choice and consider how the human resource management function has been shaped by the internal and external contexts. Conclude your assignment with some suggestions as to what the future might hold for the field of HRM in your chosen country. The idea behind the module is for you to explore the meaning and implications of the concepts and ideas of international and comparative human resource management. There is no one way of defining and understanding the nature and purpose of HRM.HRM varies according to the cultural and institutional environment in which it is conducted. It is suggested that you choose a country with which you are familiar, perhaps your home country, as this may enable you to provide examples to support your analysis. However, the important point is to choose a country that may be readily researched by access to texts and other available information. Assessment criteria: These are referred to in your Handbook. However, as a guide you need to show understanding of the various concepts and ideas discussed in the sessions, including knowledge of the perspectives to the employment relationship.This will include the extent to which culture impacts upon the relationship; how political, economic and social contexts influence the relationships; indicate some understanding of differing approaches to management development and have some understanding of the importance of employee relations. Brief outline of the essential criteria: Distinction – an assignment demonstrating wide coverage and understanding of the subject, including a strong critical analysis and evaluation. Commendation – an assignment demonstrating wide coverage and understanding of the subject, with some critical analysis and evaluation.Pass – an assignment demonstrating wide coverage and understanding of the subject, but mainly description rather than critical analysis and evaluati on. Structure Choose a country that has been researched in the past†¦ i. e. a place where HRM practices are commented on and discussed. Consider and comment on internal and external context that have influenced HRM factors CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF EXISTING RESEARCH Conclude with recommendations, as well as suggestions as to what the future may hold for HRM in the country of choice. An analysis of current HRM practices in the Republic of South Africa IntroductionThis study will investigate and explore two to three aspects of HRM practises within the Republic of South Africa. In order to gain an insight into how the country functions, it will be important to understand the various internal and external factors that may have influenced current HRM practices. South Africa is a multicultural country with a rapidly growing economy, and is widely seen as one of the most stable democracies in Africa, having recently emerged from the infamous apartheid era. The South African economy is the largest in the continent, and the 28th largest in the world.The country lobbied heavily, and was eventually invited to join the economic and political organisation BRICS in 2011 (Smith 2011), and has just successfully hosted the annual BRICS conference (2013) for the first time. Concerns have however been expressed over whether South Africa deserves its place among the BRICS, as the country has the lowest levels of government spending, life expectancy, and literacy rates within the group, while the South African GDP comprises just 2. 5% of that of the combined BRICS’s GDP (Smith, 2013).In addition, while the populations of India and China stand at over a billion people, South Africa has a population of 50 million of which almost a quarter are unemployed and live on less than ? 1 a day (Seria & Cohen, 2009). This high poverty level is a major contributor to the crime rates in South Africa, with Johannesburg being infamous for its high levels of crime (Diseko, 2010). The most c oncerning crime considered to be the extent of rape and violence against women in South Africa. With two rapes occurring every minute (Itano, 2003), a typical South African woman is estimated to have a 40% chance of being raped (Middleton, 2011).Domestic violence is also reportedly high, with statistics suggesting that one woman is killed by her husband/partner every eight hours in South Africa (Faul 2013). The practice of ‘corrective rape’ is a major problem, which is based on the incorrect belief that the rape of lesbians can ‘cure’ them of homosexuality (Mufweba, 2003). The South African government is well aware of all these problems, and has made a number of attempts to tackle them head on, including the amendment and strengthening of laws that deal with sexual offences.The government notes that the problem â€Å"is reflective of deep-seated, systemic dysfunction in our society† (Government Gazette South Africa, 2007). Diseko (2010) argues that t he high crime levels have had a massive impact upon the South African economy, with recent research showing that the country has been experiencing a brain drain (Kok, 2006). Moolman (2012) highlights cases of high numbers of skilled engineers and other professionals emigrating to MDRs (More Developed Regions) such as Australia and North America.Dreyer, cited in Moolman (2012) argues that while South Africa holds 80% of the world’s chromium, manganese, gold and platinum reserves, the shortage of skilled workers means that costs are becoming too high for the industry to be profitable. The statistics for 2001 show that only 181 managers or skilled professionals immigrated to South Africa from MDRs, with 645 going the opposite way (Statistics South Africa 2003, cited in Kok, 2006). These statistics highlight the struggle that South Africa faces with regard to the attraction and retention of talented skilled workers to help keep its economic growth on an upward trajectory.However, Diseko (2010) argues that this phenomenon is reversing, and cites South Africa’s rapidly growing economy and political stability have seen it once again become a ‘net importer’ of skilled workers. He claims that South Africa now appears an attractive proposition to South African expatriates as well as foreign skilled workers, and argues that this ‘net import’ of skilled workers is driven by economic factors such as the recession within MDRs, such as Europe and North America. Cultural factors are also vitally important within the business environment, as they affect the context of business and social interactions.Hofstede has developed a In order to understand the cultural aspect of South Africa countryHofstede (2013) This essay will explore current HRM practices in South Africa, with three major aims Identify your country of choice Justify your choice of country Provide a contemporary overview of the country (50 words) Identify the cultural features of your chosen country using Hofstede or another cultural theorist Explain how those cultural features impact upon HR practices in that country (100 words) Identify the PESTLE factors affecting your chosen country. Explain how those PESTLE factors impact upon HR practices in that country. 100 words) What might the future hold for HR in your chosen country? (50 words) These areas will be investigated through a review of existing literature, which will be critically analysed in order to identify areas that may be developed in future. Definition – highly debated, as various HR practitioners define this in different ways. Macey & Schneider (2008) argue that the term is used to describe behaviours, traits and psychological states, and their associated outcomes. Access Talk about how the new educational processes being introduced will enhance variation among the talent pool if it works. ttp://geert-hofstede. com/imprint. html http://geert-hofstede. com/dimensions. html SA at the m oment may have the need for people and have the people, but the skills of the people may not match up to the requirements. what has been driving the change, crime rate in johannesburg, violence, more economic potential than actual, growing quite fast, next to BRICKSA is the definition of emerging economies going to include SA? Look at growth rate of BRICKSA economies and  compare to European and US economy. TABLE Stagnation in western economies, but is growth being shown as a comparative within the BRICKSA economies.References Diseko, L, (2010), â€Å"South Africa’s brain drain generation returning home†, Available at: [http://articles. cnn. com/2010-11-18/world/south. africa. migration_1_south-africans-violent-crime-job-seekers? _s=PM:WORLD], Accessed on: 15/03/13 Erasmus, B, Van Wyk, M, Schenk, H, (2003), â€Å"South African Human Resource Management – Theory & Practice (3rd Edition)â€Å" Formeset, Epping, Cape Town Faul, M, (2013), â€Å"South Africa vi olence against women rate highest in the world†, Available at: [http://www. huffingtonpost. com/2013/03/08/south-africa-violence-against-women_n_2837804. tml], Accessed on: 03/08/13 Government Gazzette South Africa, (2007) [Online], â€Å"Criminal law (Sexual offences and related matters) Amendment Act 2007†, Available at: [http://www. info. gov. za/view/DownloadFileAction? id=77866], Accessed on: 12/03/13 HRPractice, (2011), [Online], â€Å"Findings from a pilot survey†, Available at: [http://www. hrpractice. co. za/newsletters-online/200907. html] Accessed on:12/02/13 Itano, N, (2003), [Online], â€Å"South Africa begins getting tough on rape†, Available at: [http://womensenews. org/story/rape/030224/south-africa-begins-getting-tough-rape#.UVB2sBzIbX4], Accessed on: 15/03/13 Macey, WH, & Schneider, B, (2008), â€Å"The meaning of employee engagement†, Industrial & Organisational Psychology, Volume 1, pp. 3-30 Middleton, L, (2011), â€Å"Correctiv e rape: Fighting a South African scourge†, Available at: [http://www. time. com/time/world/article/0,8599,2057744,00. html], Accessed on: 12/03/13 Moolman, S, (2012), [Online], â€Å"The brain drain continues†, Available at: [http://www. miningweekly. com/article/the-brain-drain-continues-2012-08-10], Accessed on:15/03/13 Mufweba, Y, (2003), [Online], â€Å"’Corrective rape makes you an African woman’†,Available at: [http://www. iol. co. za/news/south-africa/corrective-rape-makes-you-an-african-woman-1. 116543#. UVB9mhzIbX4], Accessed on: 14/03/13 Seria, N, & Cohen, M, (2009), [Online], â€Å"South Africa’s unemployment rate approaches 23. 5%†, Available at: [http://www. bloomberg. com/apps/news? pid=newsarchive&sid=aoB7RbcZCRfU], Accessed on:14/03/13 Smith, D, (2013), [Online], â€Å"South Africa: More of a briquette than a BRIC†, Available at: [http://www. guardian. co. uk/world/2013/mar/24/south-africa-bric-developing-economy ], Accessed on:13/03/13 SA HR Best Practice Summit Reportback http://www. hrfuture. et/education-and-training/sa-hr-best-practice-summit-reportback. php? Itemid=265 ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES ENGAGED? http://www. hrpractice. co. za/news/news. html http://www. info. gov. za/view/DownloadFileAction? id=117580 Human resource practices and discrimination in South Africa: overcoming the apartheid legacy http://www. ingentaconnect. com/content/routledg/rijh/2002/00000013/00000007/art00008 Managing human resources in South Africa: A multinational firm focus http://www. emeraldinsight. com/books. htm? chapterid=1761939 http://books. google. co. uk/books? id=uilaYjWdvN4C&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q&f=false

OpenBTS

OpenBTS: A Way of Providing Internet Access to Developing CountriesAbstract The mobile network infrastructure of the twenty-first century is monolithic. It de facto closed and complex systems have few suppliers. They are mostly pre-internet protocol run, and their architectural concept keeps evolving. However, this evolution has not resulted in them being economical or flexible. Thus OpenBTS brings the empowerment that is needed to build and operate cellular networks. Given that the technologies and capabilities are necessary to make such systems is readily available. This paper will look at the OpenBTS. What it means, how it works, components needed to create it, how these components function about each other. Also, the paper will look at the cost involved in setting up OpenBTS and how viable it is in the developing nations.? OpenBTS: A Way of Providing Internet Access to Developing CountriesOpen Base Transceiver Station simply is known as OpenBTS is a GSM access point that is software based. It allows the use of mobile phones that are GSM compatible with voice over the internet protocol. The software is categorized as open source by its developers Range Networks. Its public release as an open source software revolutionized the lower three layers of the GSM protocol stack (Iedema, 22). The OpenBTS is abbreviated by the C++, as free software, its controlled by the GNU Affero General Public License terms and conditions. How the OpenBTS works. OpenBTS operates by replacing the third layer of conventional GSM operational infrastructure. As opposed to GSM system that forwards calls through the radio resource management protocol via base stations that are external, OpenBTS has internal units that perform this function. OpenBTS uses SIP to deliver calls to VOIP soft switch and therefore bypasses the need to route the call to the operator's mobile switching center Burgess (David ; Samra, 13). The VIOP software is installed, and the OpenBTS are installed in one computer to form a cellular network that delivers calls to VOIP soft switch and therefore bypasses the need to route the call to the operator's mobile switching center. The VIOP software is installed, and the OpenBTS are installed in one computer to form a cellular network that is self-sufficient. However, it also possible to configure several OpenBTS units to share a common VOIP switch to form a network.Other components of GSMGSM components can be divided into four areas. These are the MS (Mobile Station), BSS (Base-Station Subsystem, NSS (Network and Switching Subsystem) and OSS (Operation and Support Subsystem. These four elements within the GSM network operate together as one unit, and therefore users never realize the difference that exists in the System (Iedema, 32). The components would take the below shape regarding a diagram representation.The MS or mobile stations also known as the cell or mobile phones and is the part of the GSM network that is seen and operated by the users. Technological innovation has improved the size and functionality of this part of the network over the years. The mobile station has two elements that help it carry out its functions. These are the Hardware, and the Subscriber Identity Module often referred to as the SIM (David & Samra, 13). The SIM contains the user's information that the network uses to identify them and the IMSI which is the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI). The hardware contains the devices that are used to generate data and transmit it. It also contains the International Mobile Equipment Identity which is an international identification used to trace stolen phones. The BSS or Base Station Subsystem has two sections, the Base Transceiver Station (BTS) and the Base Station Controller (BSC). The BTS communicates with the mobile through an Um interface and associated protocols (Iedema, 24). The BTC provides radio resources that communicate with and control through an Abis interface. The NSS or Networking Switching Subsystem is the core element of the GSM network, and it contains several elements. These elements are Mobile Services Switching Centre which acts as the switching node and enables functions such as registration, authentication, and call location among other functions to be performed. The Home Location Register element contains the administrative information used to register the user to the network and direct calls appropriately. The Visitor Location Register contains information that allows individual users to access the services that they request. The Equipment Identity Register, checks for the International Mobile Equipment Identity to verify if the particular equipment is allowed to accesses the services. Authentication Center provides the link between the SIM card and the network through a key that helps in radio connection. The Gateway Mobile Switching Center is responsible for obtaining Mobile Station Roaming Number that helps in call termination.The other element of the GSM network is the OSS (Operation and Support Subsystem). It's the component that connects the NSS and BSC. The GSM network is controlled and monitored by this element. It also used to monitor traffic load that goes through the BSS. The connection between OpenBTS and other GSM network components OpenBTS can be connected to GSM through software or hardware. The software elements are the GNU Radio and the Asterisk. This is a software suite that has several modules that are combined with minimal hardware and used in implementing radio systems in personal computers. It's an interface that is graphical with blocks that represent stages through which data flows. This graphical representation is achieved through the use of Python programming language (David ;Samra, 13). The asterisk is the communication server that provides the capability that enables BTS to route calls accurately, perform correct registration and authentication processes in the GSM networks. The asterisk enables the network to read the Subscriber Identity Modules as the SIP user, and their International Mobile Subscriber Identity as the SIP username. This is achieved by connecting the Asterisk PBX to the OpenBTS. The other way of connecting OpenBTS to GSM network is through the use of hardware such Motherboard Ettus Research Universal Software Radio Peripheral. Also, daughterboards RFX900 with VERT900 antennas and GSM terminals equipped with SIM cards is required. The connection is made through motherboard that can accommodate several daughterboards (David ; Samra, 13). The interface between the motherboard and the daughterboards is provided by USB cable that can transmit Radio frequency bandwidth.Cost of OpenBTS and other components Compared to the traditional cell networks, OpenBTS is low in cost as most of the components needed are easily available. The software and the equipment used to create an OpenBTS through GSM network are readily available in stores and online (Heimerl et al., 3). This has made OpenBTS cost effective as compared to the traditional landline network or the other cellular networks such satellite. The only challenge that OpenBTS faces are the availability of power in rural areas that are of the grid. The use of other sources of power could prove to be expensive and drive the cost of the network high especially in a developing country where income levels are low.Feasibility of OpenBTS in the rural areaThe feasibility of OpenBTS in providing internet access in the rural and remote area is great. Through the use of simple and easily available material, networks that can cover a radius of up to 15miles is easily created (Heimerl et al., 3). This would drastically improve the coverage area of these of grid areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach. Various advantages would come with Using OpenBTS to provide internet to the rural area. The cost of OpenBTS is low compared to other forms of such as satellite or landline. The equipment and technology required to build OpenBTS are affordable and readily available. However, there are also the cons of OpenBTS (David ; Samra, 13). Several regulations hinder the development and use of this technology. The process of getting approval to develop OpenBTS network can be tiresome in some countries. Also, the radius covered by OpenBTS network can be relatively small requiring the creation of multiple networks to cover wide areas. OpenBTS in Indonesia In Indonesia, the OpenBTS is provided by an American startup Endaga. The company operates the module through the Village Base Station which is mounted on the small box and mounted on metallic poles (Heimerl ; Brewer, 3). The equipment is powered by solar panels that are mounted on the same pole. The box is further fit with management software that performs billing and analytics functions. These stations combine the function of a traditional GSM equipment and programmable computer allowing them to provide more value. They provide both voice and data capabilities to the rural villages. After experiencing success with this innovation in two primary towns, Endaga is preparing to expand to other locations within the country and the continent. Conclusion For the two first century to truly be a century of technological advance, there must be an equal distribution of internet services. Both the rural and urban areas must be covered effectively by internet services. There has been concentration on the urban areas with the number of services providers in these areas going up. However, the rural and poor areas have been given little attention or at times completely neglected. Most developing countries in Africa and Asia lack essential internet connectivity. In the areas where the services are available, they are still expensive for many who are poor. The OpenBTS promises to solve the two-fold problem that many remote and poor areas are facing. Since it allows for firms to provide for cheap internet services, it will eliminate the problem of affordability. Also, it will also offer off-grid areas that lack power. Through innovation like the one that has been exhibited by Endaga, it is now possible to provide internet services in any area. It is now upon the various governments of the developing nations to ensure that right policies that will facilitate the development of the concept is in place.