Printable organs concepts

The topic of 3-D printable organs very evidently, is starting to receive an increasing amount of attention. The whole mechanism of creating live tissue and organizing cells to form organs seems impossible and amazing.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Printable organs concepts specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Until recent time, scientists had problems to keep cells in balance and preserve their survival, as there were few issues. Presently, it has been accomplished by combining stem cells with liquid medium in which the cells have the ability to spawn and continue growth (Benayoun 2013). The process of 3-D printing has been around for some time, printing physical objects, ranging from robotic parts, to photographs, guns and other everyday items. It is clear that no one thought that this process could go so far. In personal opinion, printing 3-D objects is very useful, as it saves time and increases efficiency of pr oduction and social involvement. Printing organs is very much relative and as of right now, people are unable to grasp the concept very closely. It seems extremely futuristic and the majority of population cannot even imagine the technology, particularly the printer that will create live organs. But in case this does work, it would prove extremely beneficial for humanity. There are many people who are on the waitlists for skin transplants, not to mention organs. It is difficult to find donors and there is no guarantee that the organ or tissue will be accepted by the body. Person’s own stem cells can be used in creating organs, and it means that they will be better accepted by the organism, so there will be very little risk involved and chances of survival are greatly increased.Advertising Looking for essay on biology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This sort of development will have very many benefits that will solve p roblems between hospitals and patient care. For a very long time, since doctors started experimenting and practicing transplanting organs, there has been a battle among professional and patients. The ethical questions on who must decide where the organs will go and how to separate those in particular need from those who can wait some time longer has been under debate. One thing for certain is that there is no way to predict the long term deterioration in patient’s health, so it quite impossible to develop a degree of needs between individuals. As previously discussed, the topic of 3-D organ printing is receiving enormous amount of attention and people are starting to wonder if there will be any ethical problems. With the ability to create living tissue, people are starting to wonder if it will become possible to replicate a whole human being and cloning has been mentioned as one of the unwanted outcomes. The merging of â€Å"real† people with artificially created human organism has been described in numerous science fiction movies and books but no one has imagined that it might become a part of reality. The primary problem is that people will start playing God, and the whole ethical issue of whether the cloned or â€Å"printed† people will be considered an individual or will they be a mere duplicate that can be experimented on and used for organs is questioned (Magnus 2008).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Printable organs concepts specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The existence of soul and character will become very problematic, as these are things that are impossible to discover or quantify. This can be compared to infants that are grown in labs, using modern technology but the cells that are used are taken from parents and are already formed, as comparing to stem cells that are neutral and then, are later manipulated to produce the required organ. This sort of artifi cial involvement and unnatural modification by humans can be the basis for much debate and argument. One thing for sure, is that the progress and technological advancements cannot be stopped and the future is defined by the knowledge and human ability to better people’s organisms. This sort of technology can be compared to the current prostatic usage and it has proven to be extremely beneficial for people. If it is acceptable to better joints and bones, then organs can be added to the same category. There should not be a problem with the organs because it is the patient themselves that donates their own stem cells and so, there is no ethical dilemma present. But people are starting to wonder if it will become possible to replicate brains and human individuality. It would be wise to leave this issue to the future because the current debate is centered on organ manufacturing and this without a doubt is a positive direction that must be further studied and developed.Advertising Looking for essay on biology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The growing attention to 3-D organ printing is continuing to increase the amount of people who consider this technology extremely beneficial. The most recent advances have explained how the technology is used and people are becoming more familiar with and used to the whole idea. The mixture of stem cells and bio liquid allows for layered growth of cells into any organ that humans have. The further progress in computer technology and bioresearch has made it evident that almost any part of human body can be â€Å"printed† (Fernandes 2011, p. 164). The following diagram illustrates the technique, where a â€Å"form† of an organ is used and stem cells surround it and start growing, replicating the physical copy of the organ. (Loh 2012, p. 3). Scientists are now talking about being able to produce tracheas and organs that have an intricate system of blood vessels and nervous endings. The use of produced live tissue has already been applied in testing drugs and treatments. Another most recent developed was in the production â€Å"a self-healing hydrogel that binds in seconds and is able to be stretched repeatedly† (Loh 2012, p. 4). As genetics and DNA has been extensively studied in the past, this can be considered the continuation of the already existing experimentation. It is fascinating that scientists have developed a technique of â€Å"inserting† genetic material into the cell and are able to manipulate the living processes (Khademhosseini 2008, p. 128). I think that this sort of technology is inevitably connected to humanity and evolution. People were given intricate brains in order to discover ways to better ourselves. Unfortunately, it will probably be impossible to replicate individualities because there is much more immaterial and unexplained aspects involved in making someone who they are. Just as there are limitations on certain things that people cannot achieve, like flying, walking through walls or changing into other live organism or objects, Nature will not allow people to become creators of other human beings. Of course, it is possible that some secret governmental facilities are in fact cloning people who are already walking amongst the population but there is no conclusive evidence. One thing for sure, is that problems must be dealt with as soon as they arrive and not before, otherwise, there will be an overload of the mind. References Benayoun, J 2013, The Latest in Biotech: Printable Organs. Web. Fernandes, P 2011, Advances on Modeling in Tissue Engineering, Springer New York, United States. Khademhosseini, A 2008, Micro and Nanoengineering of the Cell Microenvironment, Artech House, Campridge, United States. Loh, X 2012, Polymeric and Self Assembled Hydrogels, Royal Society of Chemistry Cambridge, United Kingdom. Magnus. T 2008, ‘Stem Cell Myths’, The Royal Society, vol. 363. no. 1489, pp. 9-22. This essay on Printable organs concepts was written and submitted by user Trinity Osborne to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan The WritePass Journal

Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive Summary Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive SummaryIntroductionBackgroundReview of Problem EvaluationBenefits of IS Strategic PlanConclusionRecommendationsWhy SWOT Analysis?Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis?Recommendations on IT InfrastructureRelated Executive Summary This project is designed to get in detail from survey and past relevant literature the impacts of Information System(IS) adoption in sponsoring company and be able to produce a report that will help in advising the   management and the owner of Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) on the feasibility of the IS in their business and proffer a recommendation on the adoption of the IS strategy. Currently, the sponsoring company has not employed any form of IS strategy in their business activities. They currently depend on the traditional (face-to-face) business means. However, the management have decided to take step forward in expanding their business, on that process this project has been requested by GFH owner and the manager with the aim of getting decision management support. The data gathering of this project will be through survey such as research of relevant academic literatures such as journals and books. Subsequently, the collected data will be analyse and produce a clear and relevant management supporting report which will help to solve the real life problem. Introduction In the history, the relationship between an organizations strategic plan and information systems (IS) was of little importance to the organizations management as information systems were seen as the same with data processing concerning corporate issues and it was systematical placed as a back-room operation for the running of everyday tasks. However, in current times, information systems has become an essential part for the management of organizations, thus there has been an increasing realization for the incorporation of information systems into the strategic planning of organizations. This is because, information systems and information technology (IT) enable organizations flourish – as it helps organizations grow in scope, offer improved services and innovative products. However, the development of a strategic IS plan concentrates on identifying the most appropriate IS for an organization and the implementation plan with its main objective to ensure the alignment of the current business strategy with a new IS strategy (Earl, 2003). Additionally, a strategic IS plan can be interpreted as a formal exercise, where successions of consistent steps are embarked on, which results in the definition of IS requirements as well as the identification of a lasting strategy.   This project will avail Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) the case study of this project, with a framework focused on enhancing GFHs future and at the same time, provide GFH with technological infrastructures that will support the business to cope with business changes. Thus, the next chapter comprises of a review of certain aspects of this project, such as the sponsor’s details, overview of research chapter, the objective, scope and structure of the project. Background The project sponsor is Golden Fleece Hotel; a privately-owned Hotel (Medium Enterprise) that provides full hotel services such as reservation, restaurant and client services. The hotel was founded in the year 1999 in South Yorkshire and provides catering to customers in two basic group- business people and pleasure travelers that wanted a more personal hotel experience. The hotel’s top management team comprises of two (2) persons – the owner and the Manager. The hotel has four (4) main Units: Restaurant/Catering, Housekeeping, Reservation and Client Services.   Despite the size of the hotel, GFH still operates business in a traditional manner with poor information technology (IT) infrastructure for their business processes. The hotel does not have any form of electronic commerce (e-commerce) system like website and online transaction support system. However, they always fill a paper card any time they need to get their customers details as a means of making reservatio n and showing of their business services. In order to fit well in today’s dynamic information era, GFH plans to increase its business operations and services so as to respond to the needs of their customers and the changing situation of their business. Review of Problem Currently, GFH is not conducting business in modern way, they still work manually. This shows that majority of their business with customers are always carried out in person or through paper works. However, GFH have a substantial amount of customers that want to contact or make reservations with them in modern way (via internet), but GFH do not have the technological infrastructure to connect with its clients. They have a number of employees that are lacking significantly in IT and technical skills, for this reason this made GFH ability not to achieve its desired goals and objectives. Finally, GFH has no formal IS strategic plan to define its management activities that will enable the business achieve its business objective. Additionally, the research into the development of IS strategic plan will be evaluated and reviewed to allow the selection of the suitable methodology(s) for the development of the plan for GFH. However, the next chapter covers the evaluation of the project succe ss. Evaluation From the literature, different development methodologies have different foci and structure; hence leading to different planning or development methodologies for SISP. For instance, Porter’s Value Chain Analysis (VCA) and Critical Success Factors (CSF) methods; the VCA focuses on events that concern adding direct value to an organization while CSF ensures the concentration of the vital requirements concerning the IS need of an organization. Both methods have different structure and focus. However, as VCA focuses on adding direct value, it consequently puts IS straight into the domain of adding value to the organization instead of cutting cost. Practically, VCA simply offers organizations a model that covers advanced level information, but on the other hand, fails to tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan. Nonetheless, Porter (2001) argued that in order to ensure success in the application of the plan, organizations need to formulate their business strategy in a way that integrates either cost leadership, market differentiation or focus in an appropriate way to attain a viable long-term competitive lead in their preferred market area. However, Kim and Mauborgne (2005) argued that Porter’s value chain model is not the only alternative for organization, as it concentrates solely on internal processes as an alternative to data, thus it does not properly outline the data structure required by the organization. They argued further that an alternate way to achieve the SISP implementation success with profits and high growth as well as gaining a competitive edge, is for organizations to create a Blue Ocean Strategy that goes beyond Porters model by concurrently pursuing both the low cost and differentiation strategy at once. For instance, DELL Computers had an initial strategy to sell directly to the customers at a lower price, thus making their service distinctive from other competitors. They also provided a toll-free telephone number and special (online) features or enhancement in their services as they allowed direct interaction with their clients which helped them understand their client requirements better. However, Pant and Hsu (1995) advised that it is essential for Porter’s VCA to be implemented in combination with selected methods that will tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan as well as outline the right data structure. Similarly, the CSF is thought to be useful, as it enables the development of IS around the success factor and is a method extensively used (Seddon, et al. 2002), but conversely a comprehensive strategic IS plan cannot be performed with it – as there is no definition for the data architecture (Pant Hsu, 1995). Nonetheless, this is not to say that the CSF method cannot be used for SISP development, because in the case of GFH, it could serve its purpose as CSF analysis is easily performed as well as conducted with little resources. Similarly, the SWOT analysis requires little resources and typically reflects an individuals current position and perspective of the organization involved in the analysis. However, this perspective can be misrepresented to explain an earlier decided course of action instead of being used as a method to uncover new possibilities. Also, the threats from a SWOT analysis could be seen as opportunities, however, it depends on the persons or groups involved in the analysis. However, in the case of GFH, the synergy of strategies will not guarantee success for the organization, but in accordance with Mentzas (1997) viewpoint of SISP development, a multi-phase study of GFH business should be conducted before the implementation of a strategic IS plan – so that the synergy of strategies can enhance the organization. Basically, the multi-phase studies are considerations that concern the environment of an organization as well as the alignment that should accompany the configuration of GFHs environment with the business strategy of GFH. However, the stages of the multi-phase study suggested by Mentzas does not cover difficult organizational phenomena that are swayed by human factors; thus it scarcely covers the human aspects, underlying forces and contextual realities concerning the development of a strategic IS plan (Lindsay, 2003). Nevertheless, this is not to imply that the strategies/models in this literature cannot be used for the development process of a strategic IS plan. They can be used in an organized way that enables each strategy look after the lapses of the other strategies; just as Earl’s advocated the use of multiple methodologies for the development an information systems strategy; and in accordance with the findings from Meckel et al., (2004) survey, Small Medium Enterprises use a combination of methods/methodologies to develop their strategies for the enhancement of their business. Thus, developing an IS strategy for GFH may involve the use of multiple methodologies, with the aim of evolving IS into the products/services of GFH as well as creating new strategic opportunities through the use of IS. However, the level and type of strategy to implement is normally determined by the significance of information systems to the organization, the nature of the organization, and the organizationâ €™s current environment (Robson, 1997). Consequently, the formation of an IS strategy for GFH will involve essential factors for instance organizational structure, culture, the business strategy, technical infrastructure containing the availability of technical skills as well as the perceptions and prospects of employees; thus, highlighting the dynamic nature and requirements of an information systems strategy. However, the formation of an information systems strategy is subjected to continuous modification as the interest and perceptions of the main groups and actors involved in the development process changes (Walsham Waema, 1994). Nonetheless, the methodology(s) that will be used to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH will focus not only on being conceptual or managerial but on the environment and suitability of IS in GFH. Benefits of IS Strategic Plan Brown (2005) suggested that recognizing and understanding the importance of information systems for an organization is essential to ensure that information systems are implemented strategically. However, an important benefit of IS strategic plan for GFH will be novelty, because it will create value for the business. Fundamentally, introducing new technologies in an organization is simply associated with novelty (Power, 2006). Furthermore, Information System strategic plan will assist GFH to develop new standards for their business, increase the throughput of employees, reduce operations costs, and encourage collaboration within and outside the business plus improving customer satisfaction and services (Shore, 2006). Practically, integrating IS into GFH will bring benefits of effectual communication between them and their customers, because it will conquer the concerns of culture, time and distance. Furthermore, with the help of databases, the business associates of GFH will enhanced consistency and support in relation to collaboration. Essentially, the reason why most organizations adopt Information System is to move their business into the international space of competitiveness, since information systems helps and supports such ambitions (Ward Peppard, 2003; Applegate et al., 2008). Though, information systems benefits can be categorized as tactical, strategic and operational where measurements concerning tangible and intangible are classified under operational (Turban et al., 2005). But, the tangible benefits GFH will achieve from implementing IS strategic plan which comprise – the inventory reduction and improvement in productivity. Whereas the intangible benefits include innovative or enhanced processes and standardization in relation to systems integration (Turban et al., 2005). Nevertheless, GFH will also achieve some strategic benefits like there will be increased in growth; market share and leadership will improve competitive advantage. Conclusion The aim of this project was to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH. However, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to critically evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH. Additionally, in relations to the theories and processes of IS strategic plan discussed in the literature review, a good integration was developed to ensure that the literature review theories and processes were implemented in the practical elements of the project, as the processes and methodologies for developing a strategic IS plan was followed. Also, GFH’s business operations were evaluated and its business plan aligned with the recommended IS strategies by means of the CSF analysis. Moreover, the content of the literature review served as a guideline for the development of the entire strategic IS plan. Therefore, this goes to prove that the content in the literature review was comprehensively integrated into the project’s practical elements. Nonetheless, the information systems were basically recommended to completely support the business strategies of GFH, as detailed implementation plan was proposed. Nevertheless, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to significantly evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH and therefore, one can say that the product delivered to GFH satisfied the scope of GFH’s requirements. Recommendations Practically, todays’ operational effectiveness and efficiency in most organizations can be seen as a strategic plan. This means that it’s possible for an organizations strategic plan to arise from anywhere, anybody, or from comprehensive planning as well as from trial and error. However, strategic thinking is the best way of doing things as strategic planning and the synthesis involved are simply contributors of the entire strategic development phenomenon. Nevertheless, from the literature covered, selecting methodology for an organization like GFH is determined through the suitability of the methodology into the organizations situation. Additionally, the literature in this chapter has shown that it will be difficult for one methodology to completely support the full analysis, development and implementation of a strategic IS plan. Therefore, I will apply or use the strategy that allows the use of multiple SISP methodologies. In other words, I will choose a number of methodologies used by SMEs from the findings of Meckel et al., (2004) survey to formulate a strategic IS plan for GFH. Moreover, during the selection of methodology, it is important to think through the amount of resources made accessible for the development phase. Thus, a resource issue for the development phase of is the confinement of time and man power for the SISP development. As a result, the SWOT analysis will be used in the formation of an IS strategy for GFH, as it requires little man power and the time duration required for its development is minimal. In addition, the SWOT analysis is simpler and straightforward when compared with Porter’s Five Forces analysis. In addition, the CSF analysis will also be used for integrating the business-IS strategy and the identification of information systems requirements. This method will be used, as it focuses on the information necessity, which is required by GFH. Why SWOT Analysis? This methodology SWOT analysis was carefully chosen to enable the evaluation of GFH’s strength and weakness as well as their opportunities and threats. Basically, in relations to the strength and weakness, emphasis will be on the internal environment while for the opportunities and threats, emphasis will be on the external environment. However, the primary aim of the SWOT analysis is to attain continuous competitive advantages for GFH through the implementation of strategies that use the internal strengths of GFH, by reacting to the environmental opportunities, and simultaneously reducing the effect of external threat as well as circumventing the internal weakness of the company. Consequently, enabling SWOT analysis to produce a comprehensive plan, as the threats and weaknesses established in the SWOT analysis will be prevented. On the other hand, SWOT analysis can allow an organization to use a lazy course by looking for strengths that fit opportunities and overlook the oppo rtunities that they feel cannot be used to their advantage. However, in order to avoid this lazy approach, the SWOT analysis would be used to identify the best opportunities for GFH and then plans will be in place to stretch GFH to ensure that they meet these opportunities. Nonetheless, the assessment area in relation to SWOT analysis is greater than that of Porters Value Chain Analysis for the reason that SWOT concentrations on both the internal and external environment of an organization, whereas Porters Value Chain concentrates only on the internal environment; thus offering more advantages when compared with Porters Five Forces. Furthermore, the assessment area of SWOT concerning the internal environment of GFH will lead to the identification of certain areas that will lead to exceptional accomplishments as well as critical failure features in GFH. This analysis will aid GFH maximize the strong elements/factors they have and avoid areas of weakness during decision making. Also, the assessment area in relation to the external factor will provide GFH the ability to analyze the external openings and threats concerning their competitors as well as creating a better understanding of customers needs, thus allowing GFH to assert itself properly in the mar ketplace and encourage the exploration of prospective strategic options (Robert, 2004). However, to portray a perfect picture of the SWOT analysis, Robson (1997) developed the SWOT matrix together with four kinds of exposures for risk that are incorporated into the SWOT matrix. The matrix shows the kind of reactions that may well be suitable to cope with every risk. A sample SWOT matrix and likely reactions are presented in Figure 6. Practically, from figure 1, the use of the SWOT matrix makes SWOT analysis easier to decide which task should be prioritized when compared to Porters Value Chain analysis or Five Force. Basically, the SWOT matrix makes it possible to identify possible risks visible in information systems and recognize ways to reaction to the risk. Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis? This methodology, CSF analysis consists of a set of factors that include expertise and responsibilities that are considered as very important factors for the continuous success of an organization. Basically, CSFs are a small number of things that need to work aptly to make certain of an organization’s continued existence and success in the marketplace (Turban, et al., 2005). However, in the case of GFH, CSF analysis will help GFH enhance its business – as it will ensure information systems aid the business strategy of GFH by determining essential information requirement and activities that for the IS plan. According to Peffers and Gengler (2003), the CSF analysis of an organization centers on the fundamental scopes of anticipated performance of the organization. Hence, the CSF analysis will provide GFH with an improved understanding of the required strategic information for the future of the business. Practically, the CSF analysis of GFH will examine the business objectives and ascertain the necessary elements that are needed for every objective. Afterwards, the necessary IS required to help the CSFs sustain GFHs business growth and success is identified. Consequently, by achieving the CSF analysis, GFH will be able to position itself properly in the marketplace (Ward Peppard, 2003). Therefore, it is essential for GFH to constantly monitor all the CSF, to make certain their performance is up to standard. In addition, the CSF analysis will provides real support for the development of a strategic IS plan, as it focuses on key activities for business success as a result preventing any focus on trivial activities. Furthermore, it enables proper allocation of resources to key areas of the business during the development of a strategic IS plan (Avison Fitzgerald, 2003). Recommendations on IT Infrastructure The recommendations and design of the functional structure of the future information technology (IT) department and conceptual technical architecture of the future information technology (IT) department of GFH was proposed to help GFH overcome the difficulties they face. As stated in the case study, the main concern at the moment is incorporating networking functions into the business activities of GFH to lessen their manual processes. Basically, GFH will use the strategy of e-vision opportunities, e-marketing and e-operations. As implementing the e-vision opportunity will entail using innovative business ideas like changing their normal manual processes of manually booking from customers and keeping physical records of customers. They should be able to automate these processes by using a computerized system electronic booking processing system for booking accommodation. This way, GFH will be able to generate a method of understanding the needs of customers and it will also ensure t hat there is a surge in the effectiveness and efficiency of the processes at GFH. Similarly, GFH can also implement the e-marketing strategy by moving most of it business activities to the internet, so that they will be able to maximize customer interaction at GFH. This is achievable, since the automated systems in place. Practically, with the automated system, it will change certain functions at GFH and drive GFH towards web-based creativity; hence the e- marketing opportunity will be applied in the process as it’s connected to customer interaction that centers on the use of web-based creativity to change the strategic technique used to interact with customers. Lastly, the e-operation opportunity should be used to transform GFH strategy for business by using web technology to enhance the operations of GFH. In addition, GFH will be able to develop an electronic database for customer to amass details or information concerning their booking. Thus the recommendation for this aspect of the network an activity of GFH is that a new and dedicated server should be installed to sustain better and faster networking activities. The system should be able to monitor the speed of the network and the network usages as well as the number of users at any particular time. Furthermore, for security purposes, the installation of firewall is a must to ensure that the network packages are filtered. Also, a firewall will stop any outside virus from attacking the new network system. Furthermore, GFH will be saving or cutting operations cost by adopting a printer sharing strategy; where the printers will be programmed to run as network printers, therefore supporting any printing requirement from different departments within GFH. However, the future functional structure for the IT department will be designed to ensure that GFH is able to deliver reliable services on a regular basis to its customers. The new functional structure will allow GFH practice appropriate configuration management in supporting all of its IT applications/services. Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive Summary Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive SummaryIntroductionBackgroundReview of Problem EvaluationBenefits of IS Strategic PlanConclusionRecommendationsWhy SWOT Analysis?Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis?Recommendations on IT InfrastructureReferencesRelated Executive Summary This project is designed to get in detail from survey and past relevant literature the impacts of Information System(IS) adoption in sponsoring company and be able to produce a report that will help in advising the   management and the owner of Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) on the feasibility of the IS in their business and proffer a recommendation on the adoption of the IS strategy. Currently, the sponsoring company has not employed any form of IS strategy in their business activities. They currently depend on the traditional (face-to-face) business means. However, the management have decided to take step forward in expanding their business, on that process this project has been requested by GFH owner and the manager with the aim of getting decision management support. The data gathering of this project will be through survey such as research of relevant academic literatures such as journals and books. Subsequently, the collected data will be analyse and produce a clear and relevant management supporting report which will help to solve the real life problem. Introduction In the history, the relationship between an organizations strategic plan and information systems (IS) was of little importance to the organizations management – as information systems were seen as the same with data processing concerning corporate issues and it was systematical placed as a back-room operation for the running of everyday tasks. However, in current times, information systems has become an essential part for the management of organizations, thus there has been an increasing realization for the incorporation of information systems into the strategic planning of organizations. This is because, information systems and information technology (IT) enable organizations flourish – as it helps organizations grow in scope, offer improved services and innovative products. However, the development of a strategic IS plan concentrates on identifying the most appropriate IS for an organization and the implementation plan – with its main objective to ensure the alignment of the current business strategy with a new IS strategy (Earl, 2003). Additionally, a strategic IS plan can be interpreted as a formal exercise, where successions of consistent steps are embarked on, which results in the definition of IS requirements as well as the identification of a lasting strategy.   This project will avail Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) – the case study of this project, with a framework focused on enhancing GFHs future and at the same time, provide GFH with technological infrastructures that will support the business to cope with business changes. Thus, the next chapter comprises of a review of certain aspects of this project, such as the sponsor’s details, overview of research chapter, the objective, scope and structure of the project. Background The project sponsor is Golden Fleece Hotel; a privately-owned Hotel (Medium Enterprise) that provides full hotel services such as reservation, restaurant and client services. The hotel was founded in the year 1999 in South Yorkshire and provides catering to customers in two basic group- business people and pleasure travelers that wanted a more personal hotel experience. The hotel’s top management team comprises of two (2) persons – the owner and the Manager. The hotel has four (4) main Units: Restaurant/Catering, Housekeeping, Reservation and Client Services.   Despite the size of the hotel, GFH still operates business in a traditional manner with poor information technology (IT) infrastructure for their business processes. The hotel does not have any form of electronic commerce (e-commerce) system like website and online transaction support system. However, they always fill a paper card any time they need to get their customers details as a means of making reservatio n and showing of their business services. In order to fit well in today’s dynamic information era, GFH plans to increase its business operations and services so as to respond to the needs of their customers and the changing situation of their business. Review of Problem Currently, GFH is not conducting business in modern way, they still work manually. This shows that majority of their business with customers are always carried out in person or through paper works. However, GFH have a substantial amount of customers that want to contact or make reservations with them in modern way (via internet), but GFH do not have the technological infrastructure to connect with its clients. They have a number of employees that are lacking significantly in IT and technical skills, for this reason this made GFH ability not to achieve its desired goals and objectives. Finally, GFH has no formal IS strategic plan to define its management activities that will enable the business achieve its business objective. Additionally, the research into the development of IS strategic plan will be evaluated and reviewed to allow the selection of the suitable methodology(s) for the development of the plan for GFH. However, the next chapter covers the evaluation of the project succe ss. Evaluation From the literature, different development methodologies have different foci and structure; hence leading to different planning or development methodologies for SISP. For instance, Porter’s Value Chain Analysis (VCA) and Critical Success Factors (CSF) methods; the VCA focuses on events that concern adding direct value to an organization while CSF ensures the concentration of the vital requirements concerning the IS need of an organization. Both methods have different structure and focus. However, as VCA focuses on adding direct value, it consequently puts IS straight into the domain of adding value to the organization instead of cutting cost. Practically, VCA simply offers organizations a model that covers advanced level information, but on the other hand, fails to tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan. Nonetheless, Porter (2001) argued that in order to ensure success in the application of the plan, organizations need to formulate their business strategy in a way that integrates either cost leadership, market differentiation or focus in an appropriate way to attain a viable long-term competitive lead in their preferred market area. However, Kim and Mauborgne (2005) argued that Porter’s value chain model is not the only alternative for organization, as it concentrates solely on internal processes as an alternative to data, thus it does not properly outline the data structure required by the organization. They argued further â€⠀œ that an alternate way to achieve the SISP implementation success with profits and high growth as well as gaining a competitive edge, is for organizations to create a Blue Ocean Strategy that goes beyond Porters model – by concurrently pursuing both the low cost and differentiation strategy at once. For instance, DELL Computers had an initial strategy to sell directly to the customers at a lower price, thus making their service distinctive from other competitors. They also provided a toll-free telephone number and special (online) features or enhancement in their services as they allowed direct interaction with their clients which helped them understand their client requirements better. However, Pant and Hsu (1995) advised that it is essential for Porter’s VCA to be implemented in combination with selected methods that will tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan as well as outline the right data structure. Similarly, the CSF is thought to be useful, as it enables the development of IS around the success factor and is a method extensively used (Seddon, et al. 2002), but conversely a comprehensive strategic IS plan cannot be performed with it – as there is no definition for the data architecture (Pant Hsu, 1995). Nonetheless, this is not to say that the CSF method cannot be used for SISP development, because in the case of GFH, it could serve its purpose as CSF analysis is easily performed as well as conducted with little resources. Similarly, the SWOT analysis requires little resources and typically reflects an individual’s current position and perspective of the organization involved in the analysis. However, this perspective can be misrepresented to explain an earlier decided course of action instead of being used as a method to uncover new possibilities. Also, the threats from a SWOT analysis could be seen as opportunities, however, it depends on the persons or groups involved in the analysis. However, in the case of GFH, the synergy of strategies will not guarantee success for the organization, but in accordance with Mentzas (1997) viewpoint of SISP development, a multi-phase study of GFH business should be conducted before the implementation of a strategic IS plan – so that the synergy of strategies can enhance the organization. Basically, the multi-phase studies are considerations that concern the environment of an organization as well as the alignment that should accompany the configuration of GFHs environment with the business strategy of GFH. However, the stages of the multi-phase study suggested by Mentzas does not cover difficult organizational phenomena that are swayed by human factors; thus it scarcely covers the human aspects, underlying forces and contextual realities concerning the development of a strategic IS plan (Lindsay, 2003). Nevertheless, this is not to imply that the strategies/models in this literature cannot be used for the development process of a strategic IS plan. They can be used in an organized way that enables each strategy look after the lapses of the other strategies; just as Earl’s advocated the use of multiple methodologies for the development an information systems strategy; and in accordance with the findings from Meckel et al., (2004) survey, Small Medium Enterprises use a combination of methods/methodologies to develop their strategies for the enhancement of their business. Thus, developing an IS strategy for GFH may involve the use of multiple methodologies, with the aim of evolving IS into the products/services of GFH as well as creating new strategic opportunities through the use of IS. However, the level and type of strategy to implement is normally determined by the significance of information systems to the organization, the nature of the organization, and the organizationâ €™s current environment (Robson, 1997). Consequently, the formation of an IS strategy for GFH will involve essential factors – for instance organizational structure, culture, the business strategy, technical infrastructure containing the availability of technical skills as well as the perceptions and prospects of employees; thus, highlighting the dynamic nature and requirements of an information systems strategy. However, the formation of an information systems strategy is subjected to continuous modification – as the interest and perceptions of the main groups and actors involved in the development process changes (Walsham Waema, 1994). Nonetheless, the methodology(s) that will be used to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH will focus not only on being conceptual or managerial but on the environment and suitability of IS in GFH. Benefits of IS Strategic Plan Brown (2005) suggested that recognizing and understanding the importance of information systems for an organization is essential to ensure that information systems are implemented strategically. However, an important benefit of IS strategic plan for GFH will be novelty, because it will create value for the business. Fundamentally, introducing new technologies in an organization is simply associated with novelty (Power, 2006). Furthermore, Information System strategic plan will assist GFH to develop new standards for their business, increase the throughput of employees, reduce operations costs, and encourage collaboration within and outside the business plus improving customer satisfaction and services (Shore, 2006). Practically, integrating IS into GFH will bring benefits of effectual communication between them and their customers, because it will conquer the concerns of culture, time and distance. Furthermore, with the help of databases, the business associates of GFH will enhanced consistency and support in relation to collaboration. Essentially, the reason why most organizations adopt Information System is to move their business into the international space of competitiveness, since information systems helps and supports such ambitions (Ward Peppard, 2003; Applegate et al., 2008). Though, information systems benefits can be categorized as tactical, strategic and operational – where measurements concerning tangible and intangible are classified under operational (Turban et al., 2005). But, the tangible benefits GFH will achieve from implementing IS strategic plan which comprise – the inventory reduction and improvement in productivity. Whereas the intangible benefits include innovative or enhanced processes and standardization in relation to systems integration (Turban et al., 2005). Nevertheless, GFH will also achieve some strategic benefits like there will be increased in growth; market share and leadership will improve competitive advantage. Conclusion The aim of this project was to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH. However, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to critically evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH. Additionally, in relations to the theories and processes of IS strategic plan discussed in the literature review, a good integration was developed to ensure that the literature review theories and processes were implemented in the practical elements of the project, as the processes and methodologies for developing a strategic IS plan was followed. Also, GFH’s business operations were evaluated and its business plan aligned with the recommended IS strategies by means of the CSF analysis. Moreover, the content of the literature review served as a guideline for the development of the entire strategic IS plan. Therefore, this goes to prove that the content in the literature review was comprehensively integrated into the project’s practical elements. Nonetheless, the information systems were basically recommended to completely support the business strategies of GFH, as detailed implementation plan was proposed. Nevertheless, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to significantly evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH and therefore, one can say that the product delivered to GFH satisfied the scope of GFH’s requirements. Recommendations Practically, todays’ operational effectiveness and efficiency in most organizations can be seen as a strategic plan. This means that it’s possible for an organizations strategic plan to arise from anywhere, anybody, or from comprehensive planning as well as from trial and error. However, strategic thinking is the best way of doing things as strategic planning and the synthesis involved are simply contributors of the entire strategic development phenomenon. Nevertheless, from the literature covered, selecting methodology for an organization like GFH is determined through the suitability of the methodology into the organizations situation. Additionally, the literature in this chapter has shown that it will be difficult for one methodology to completely support the full analysis, development and implementation of a strategic IS plan. Therefore, I will apply or use the strategy that allows the use of multiple SISP methodologies. In other words, I will choose a number of methodologies used by SMEs from the findings of Meckel et al., (2004) survey to formulate a strategic IS plan for GFH. Moreover, during the selection of methodology, it is important to think through the amount of resources made accessible for the development phase. Thus, a resource issue for the development phase of is the confinement of time and man power for the SISP development. As a result, the SWOT analysis will be used in the formation of an IS strategy for GFH, as it requires little man power and the time duration required for its development is minimal. In addition, the SWOT analysis is simpler and straightforward when compared with Porter’s Five Forces analysis. In addition, the CSF analysis will also be used for integrating the business-IS strategy and the identification of information systems requirements. This method will be used, as it focuses on the information necessity, which is required by GFH. Why SWOT Analysis? This methodology – SWOT analysis was carefully chosen to enable the evaluation of GFH’s strength and weakness as well as their opportunities and threats. Basically, in relations to the strength and weakness, emphasis will be on the internal environment while for the opportunities and threats, emphasis will be on the external environment. However, the primary aim of the SWOT analysis is to attain continuous competitive advantages for GFH through the implementation of strategies that use the internal strengths of GFH, by reacting to the environmental opportunities, and simultaneously reducing the effect of external threat as well as circumventing the internal weakness of the company. Consequently, enabling SWOT analysis to produce a comprehensive plan, as the threats and weaknesses established in the SWOT analysis will be prevented. On the other hand, SWOT analysis can allow an organization to use a lazy course by looking for strengths that fit opportunities and overlook the opportunities that they feel cannot be used to their advantage. However, in order to avoid this lazy approach, the SWOT analysis would be used to identify the best opportunities for GFH and then plans will be in place to stretch GFH to ensure that they meet these opportunities. Nonetheless, the assessment area in relation to SWOT analysis is greater than that of Porters Value Chain Analysis – for the reason that SWOT concentrations on both the internal and external environment of an organization, whereas Porters Value Chain concentrates only on the internal environment; thus offering more advantages when compared with Porters Five Forces. Furthermore, the assessment area of SWOT concerning the internal environment of GFH will lead to the identification of certain areas that will lead to exceptional accomplishments as well as critical failure features in GFH. This analysis will aid GFH maximize the strong elements/factors they have and avoid areas of weakness during decision making. Also, the assessment area in relation to the external factor will provide GFH the ability to analyze the external openings and threats concerning their competitors as well as creating a better understanding of customers needs, thus allowing GFH to assert itself properly in the marketplace and encourage the exploration of prospective strategic options (Robert, 2004). However, to portray a perfect picture of the SWOT analysis, Robson (1997) developed the SWOT matrix together with four kinds of exposures for risk that are incorporated into the SWOT matrix. The matrix shows the kind of reactions that may well be suitable to cope with every risk. A sample SWOT matrix and likely reactions are presented in Figure 6. Practically, from figure 1, the use of the SWOT matrix makes SWOT analysis easier to decide which task should be prioritized when compared to Porters Value Chain analysis or Five Force. Basically, the SWOT matrix makes it possible to identify possible risks visible in information systems and recognize ways to reaction to the risk. Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis? This methodology, CSF analysis – consists of a set of factors that include expertise and responsibilities that are considered as very important factors for the continuous success of an organization. Basically, CSFs are a small number of things that need to work aptly to make certain of an organization’s continued existence and success in the marketplace (Turban, et al., 2005). However, in the case of GFH, CSF analysis will help GFH enhance its business – as it will ensure information systems aid the business strategy of GFH by determining essential information requirement and activities that for the IS plan. According to Peffers and Gengler (2003), the CSF analysis of an organization centers on the fundamental scopes of anticipated performance of the organization. Hence, the CSF analysis will provide GFH with an improved understanding of the required strategic information for the future of the business. Practically, the CSF analysis of GFH will examine the business objectives and ascertain the necessary elements that are needed for every objective. Afterwards, the necessary IS required to help the CSFs sustain GFHs business growth and success is identified. Consequently, by achieving the CSF analysis, GFH will be able to position itself properly in the marketplace (Ward Peppard, 2003). Therefore, it is essential for GFH to constantly monitor all the CSF, to make certain their performance is up to standard. In addition, the CSF analysis will provides real support for the development of a strategic IS plan, as it focuses on key activities for business success – as a result preventing any focus on trivial activities. Furthermore, it enables proper allocation of resources to key areas of the business during the development of a strategic IS plan (Avison Fitzgerald, 2003). Recommendations on IT Infrastructure The recommendations and design of the functional structure of the future information technology (IT) department and conceptual technical architecture of the future information technology (IT) department of GFH was proposed to help GFH overcome the difficulties they face. As stated in the case study, the main concern at the moment is incorporating networking functions into the business activities of GFH to lessen their manual processes. Basically, GFH will use the strategy of e-vision opportunities, e-marketing and e-operations. As implementing the e-vision opportunity will entail using innovative business ideas like changing their normal manual processes of manually booking from customers and keeping physical records of customers. They should be able to automate these processes by using a computerized system – electronic booking processing system for booking accommodation. This way, GFH will be able to generate a method of understanding the needs of customers and it will also ensure that there is a surge in the effectiveness and efficiency of the processes at GFH. Similarly, GFH can also implement the e-marketing strategy by moving most of it business activities to the internet, so that they will be able to maximize customer interaction at GFH. This is achievable, since the automated systems in place. Practically, with the automated system, it will change certain functions at GFH and drive GFH towards web-based creativity; hence the e- marketing opportunity will be applied in the process as it’s connected to customer interaction that centers on the use of web-based creativity to change the strategic technique used to interact with customers. Lastly, the e-operation opportunity should be used to transform GFH strategy for business by using web technology to enhance the operations of GFH. In addition, GFH will be able to develop an electronic database for customer to amass details or information concerning their booking. Thus the recommendation for this aspect of the network an activity of GFH is that a new and dedicated server should be installed to sustain better and faster networking activities. The system should be able to monitor the speed of the network and the network usages as well as the number of users at any particular time. Furthermore, for security purposes, the installation of firewall is a must to ensure that the network packages are filtered. Also, a firewall will stop any outside virus from attacking the new network system. Furthermore, GFH will be saving or cutting operations cost by adopting a printer sharing strategy; where the printers will be programmed to run as network printers, therefore supporting any printing requirement from different departments within GFH. However, the future functional structure for the IT department will be designed to ensure that GFH is able to deliver reliable services on a regular basis to its customers. The new functional structure will allow GFH practice appropriate configuration management in supporting all of its IT applications/services. References

The finest one-stop shop for ambulance vehicle Essay

The finest one-stop shop for ambulance vehicle - Essay Example Other related designs inside and out of the ambulance vehicle will also be covered within the business for as long as it is related with providing medical equipments. For instance, cabinets, and handles for medical apparatus will be provided as well. In other words, the said business is a one-stop shop for ambulance because it would try to cater in as much as possible all the essential needs of the said vehicles for emergency purposes and other related concerns. A detail of this plan can be pictured out through Appendix 3. 3. Business Name and Logo  The business name is taken from the name of the proponent; it is â€Å"SAAD Company†, while the company’s logo is obtained from the site of Arthursclipart.org (2009). The logo is a picture of a red cross, indicating that the company is provider of life-saving equipments for emergency purposes. In other words, the logo remarkably emphasizes that the business would work hand in hand with medical-related businesses. In this c ase, it would provide substantial equipments and other related needs of ambulance vehicles including but not limited to designing customized medical gears.   4. Location  The proponent would want to locate the business at the center of South Australia, Adelaide. This is the capital of South Australia. In June 2011, there were 1.21 million people in its population, an integral component of the overall 1.66 million people in South Australia in the same year (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2012). Adelaide is situated at the heart of South Australia where business.

Medical coding Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Medical coding - Coursework Example While similar studies could be done using data collection from other government services, it would take much more time to do so. CPT can help quickly summarize the data and highlight areas of high frequency or areas which have become important during the last few years. By following such an analysis insurers could be able to reduce their cost and their final price for the customers too. By pricing their insurance products according to occurrence rates for specific ailments, prices for certain insurance covers could be reduced. Also, insurers would be able to track the areas where the claim costs are highest and act accordingly. Finally, this analysis could help make forecasts and predict when certain events are more likely to occur and where – this could help plan resources to tackle such issues in time. 2) Extension to pharmacies and laboratories: CPT codes could be given extension to cover pharmacies’ and laboratories’ activities. The CPT could cover the entire Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services. This would prevent adverse dispensing events and the physicians would also be kept up to date on medical consulting/therapy that the patients have already received. Further, laboratories could also use the CPT codes just like physicians for reporting and managing their billing and services to patients. 3) Cross-country standardization: As CPT codes have standardized the healthcare and insurance industry practice in the US, an extension of these codes could be to set the standards internationally. With such standardization, sharing of best practices and faster dissemination of information across countries could be much faster and efficient. 4) Remote surgery protocols: CPT codes could also be helpful in conducting remote surgeries. Remote surgeries refer to physicians conducting a surgery from an offsite location using robot technology which is linked up through the internet. CPT codes could help by having standard

Consuming and Fashion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Consuming and Fashion - Essay Example The essay "Consuming and Fashion" discusses the fashion and consuming. The ever increasing tastes and preferences alongside the increased product differentiation and the global practice of trade have meant that the role of marketing within any business entity is very integral; certainly the most crucial. Marketing encompasses the processes of analysis of the target population (market segmentation) to identify trends in consumer needs and wants; new product research and development; product distribution and promotion effort; and the feedback mechanism. The changes in consumers’ tastes and preferences mean that there is a trend in which products and services are in demand at a given time and which are not. This has a direct relation to the sales volume and profitability of an organization. Therefore, fashion in this regard, refers to the popularity in demand for a given product or service at a given point in time i.e. trends in consumption behavior. Fashion styles differ between individuals, and can be reflected in a large group at any given point in time as a measure of both social identification, and distinction (Illomen, 2011). However, this definition has devolved into a limited sense to mean exclusively trendy clothing and other body accessories such as jewelry. Perhaps this is attributable to the huge marketing efforts that are visibly expended into this particular segment of the economy. The mechanics of such a transfer of meaning is a subject not addressed by this report.

The Business Models Used By Dell Information Technology Essay

The Business Models Used By Dell Information Technology Essay Business Models are the one of the most discussed most overvalued and least understands aspects of the World Wide Web. A business model is a concept arising out of e-commerce and the Internet age. A good planned and successful business model will maintain their business in the longer term it will give the business a competitive advantage in its business enabling it to earn more profits than its competitors. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008) Now, Dell Computer Corporation is the worlds leading direct computer systems company, and it grows larger everyday. Dell sells directly to consumers by using Internet. They build products to consumer (customer) to order. Dell eliminates retail mark-ups and costs. They reduce risks associated with large inventories of finished goods. Relationship with consumers is also very important. Direct business model of delivering a better customer experience through direct, general customers relationships, cooperative research and development with technology partners, custom made computer systems built to customer specifications and service and support programs customized to customer needs. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008) Dells believes that the direct model provides it with some clear competitive advantages. First is the model that eliminates the need to the support a well-known network of wholesale and retail dealers, which allows them to avoid dealer mark-ups; and its avoids the higher inventory costs to connected with the wholesale or the retail outlet and the competition for retail shelf space. The direct model also allows them to maintain their study and update the customer database that can be used to manipulate future product gifts, service and support programs. (Awah, Elias, 2004) The Internet lets customers to configure the product by using online, order online, check the status of their order online, and get support, learn and study upgrade service online. Dell enables them to list their product at a sale and order it online. And that is the kind of customers experience that builds a long-lasting relationship between customers and Dell. Affiliate marketing Marketing partner refers consumers to the selling companys web site for a commission. Dell provides affiliate partners the opportunity to link from their Web sites to dell.com. Dell pays about 2 to 4 percent on any qualifies sale made from clicking on Dells link at the partners sites. Many people can click the link that the website provides to understand more about Dell. (Case study and Dell, 2011) Products and Services customization Many of the online stores have expanded their online offerings to include customer reviews and product news in addition to their product catalogs. This means people will visit dell.com to view the online catalogs that offer additional information rather than those that dont offer this product knowledge. It also increases the time the shoppers spend on a website and it increases the chance that they will refer items to their friends. (Victoria Duff, 2010) Supply Chain Management Dell supply chain management Dells strategy is to provide customised, low cost, and quality computers that are delivered on time. Dell takes orders directly from its customers by using online system (services). Therefore, Dell reduces the cost of intermediaries that would otherwise add up to the total cost of computers for the customer. Dell also saves time on processing orders that other companies normally deserve in their sales and distribution system. By directly dealing with the customer Dell gets a clearer indication of market trends. This helps Dell to plan for future besides better managing its supply chain. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2010) 2. Explain the different types of EC transactions used by Dell. EC transactions used by Dell are B2B, B2C, B2E, B2G, and e-learning. a. B2B Business-to-Business is a model in which all of the participants are businesses or other organization. Business-to-business as when one company buys its supplies from another company online. E-business has transformed how the business world operates from the supply side to the selling side and all the banking and commercial transactions in between. This affects everything from small family-run enterprises to international stock exchanges. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008, Awah, Elias M., 2004) Dell delivers business-to-business transactions that allow your organization to lower their procurement costs. With the B2B transaction, you can shop online from within your Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) procurement application and return the contents of your shopping session back to your ERP system by e-mail. No longer had you required to enter duplicate information in the order to purchase the products. The electronic application can now be routed through your standard ERP workflow where it can be approved by e-mail. Once this electronic application is approved, it can become an electronic purchase order and be transmitted straight away to Dell. These orders flow directly go into Dells manufacturing system where your orders are built immediately, this will saving you hours or days in processing time. This brings you the latest technology at the quickest speed. If a customer is not currently able of integrate their procurement systems and processes with their suppliers, Dell ca n provide the necessary hardware, software, and consultation to help build and set up a solution that not only connects the customer to Dell, but one that can to connect to even other suppliers or customers. (Dell, 2010) b. B2C Business-to-Consumer is a model which businesses sell to individual shoppers. Business-to-consumers (B2C), as when you purchase from a shops website (Turban, King, McKay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008, Awah, Elias, 2004). Consumers shop at dell.com by using electronic catalogs. Dell also sell their computer or laptop to consumer (customer), they can search the latest product at the Internet. (Case study) Customers can purchase the product by using online. It is very convinces and easy for customers to purchase a computer by using online services like Dell. Dell provides many different type of computer example: desktop type computer, laptops, printer and so on. Example: Customer can use online services to purchase Dell products. And it is secure for customer to using the payment system that Dell provides. Customer also can make their order easy. We can just sit at home, using the online services to purchase a product or more than 1 product from Dell. After the payment transaction make from the payment system, Dell receives your order they will arrange the time table and send it to you. It is very easy for us to purchase products from Dell. Customers can save their time to shopping, to compare the products, save cost to travel the place and so on. These are the benefits for the customers. (Dell, 2011) c. B2E Business-to-employees is a model which an organization delivers services, information, or products to its individual employees (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008). Dell provides EPP Employees Purchase Program for all the employees that has 1 account number. They can get Best Price to purchase product from Dell. And if have any request the employees can call or chat with Dell expert. (Dell, 2010) Example: employees from Dell. They can enjoy more than 25% discount for any products from Dell. d. B2G Business-to-Government is a model which a government buys or provides goods, services, or information to businesses or individual citizens. Businesses sell goods or services to governments and government agencies (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008, Awah, Elias M., 2004) Dell provides their computers to government. Government will purchase some product with Dell. Example: The U.S. government is at a critical juncture. Citizens are demanding more accountability and transparency, and government agencies are responding by breaking down barriers that have caused inefficiencies. More than at any point in history, IT is expected to be a driving force of change that moves the government forward. IT leaders are under greater scrutiny to spend budgets effectively and are increasingly being measured on project performance. Yet many are dealing with fragmented IT environments that are complex, outdated, and costly to maintain, leading to further challenges with security, interoperability, and manageability. (Dell, 2010) e. E-Learning E-learning is used a lot organizations for training and retraining employees. It is also practical at virtual universities. E-learning is the online delivery of information for purposes of education, training, or knowledge management. Dell provides e-learning for the customers, who dont know how to use their products, installing the hardware or software, and so on. Dell not only provides e-learning for customers is also including employees who need to learn and training (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008) Dell provides some training courseware to employees or even students also can join; they can learn more and detail. (Dell, 2010) Why choose the Dell leaning system? Because employees and students can saves money to help maximize training budget. And E-Learning reduces travel expenses and time away from the office. And it also easy-to-use, the interface through the Learning Management System enables administrators and students to navigate efficiently through e-Learning programs. Dell has 24 hours and 7 days online services; online access to live experts and resources for help with course study, daily work activities, and topics relating to information technology, desktop applications, and business skills. They are many benefits to help you improved. Dell provided. (Dell, 2010) Analyse the competitive advantages Dell has over its brick-and-mortar competitors. Brick-and-mortar retailers are retailers who do business in the non-Internet, physical world in traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Traditional retailing frequently involves a single distribution channel, the physical store. In some cases, traditional sellers also may operate a mail-order business. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008) Dell has operated kiosks in shopping malls in the United States, but the physical stores add a new dimension to their move to click-and-mortar. Various models of computers are ion display in the stores, provide the different model of the computers catologs and Dell staffs are available to recommend or suggestion and support and assist customers in personalizing their purchases. However, the stores hold no inventory, so interested customers must still place their orders online from within these stores (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2010) Online services and Delivery Dell provides online services and delivery services. Online services are customer can purchase products at the online payment system. After purchasing online, the staffs will delivery the product to you. (Dell, 2011) Dell brings products to market faster than its competitor. Dell was able to make computers much faster than it produced earlier. Computers have life cycles of only a few months. Thus, dell enjoys early-to-market advantage. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2010, Dell, 2011) Quick response Dell will keep the feedback from the customer and will reply them if their customer has any problem with the products. Dell has their own database to save all the customers detail. (Dell, 2011) Reduce bullwhip effect Dell provides special web pages for suppliers. Dell let them to view the orders they has made. This allows suppliers to plan based on customer demand. (Dell, 2011) Advertising and Promotion Advertising is very important. Dell provides many different advertising so that everyone is starting to concern its products. In addition to let everyone knows that the products, Dell also hopes to attract more customers and so do a lot of different promotional campaigns to boost turnover. (Dell, 2011) After brick-and-mortar, Dell has made a miracle. Dell do their own business by using internet, customers can purchase products by using online payment system. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2010) Doing online services is more easy and convenient for all peoples. And the most important things in now Dell provides online training, online learning for those who dont know how to use Dell products, or something happen they can just search the information on dell.com to learn more. Is not just good for the employees who know more about Dell products and also good for the student to look for it. (Dell, 2011) E-Commerce is not that easy to control, but the things is we need to learn from the beginning just like the Dell whos done the business with a very good result, they earn profits, and many customers like their products and identify their products. Relate this case to supply chain management improvements. The term of supply chain is comes from the concept of how the partnering organizations are linked together. (Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, 2008) Dell has become famous for its use of the Web to sell computers to individuals and businesses and even government are now started to use; it has also used technology-enabled supply chain management to give customers exactly what they want. Dell reduced the amount of inventory it keeps on hand form three weeks sales to six days sales. Eventually, Dell wants to see inventory levels measured in minutes. By increasing the amount of information it has about its customers, Dell has been able to significantly reduce the amount of inventory it must hold. Dell has also shared this information with members of its supply chain (Schneider, 2007). Now, Dell use internet online and web technologies in managing supply chains has yielded much increased process like example speed, reduced costs, and increased flexibility. All of these attributes combine and to allow a coordinated supply chain to produce products and services that better meet the needs of the ultimate consumer. Just-in-time services When you purchase a product online at dell.com, the system from dell will receives your order. The staffs will delivery your product just in time, with the services that they provide. (Dell, 2011) Online Services E-learning and e-training are provided online at the website dell.com. And there also provides online chat, to chat with the technical assistance. Dell provides 7 days 24 hours for the online services. Customers can online purchase any products. (Dell, 2011) Close to customer Dell gives discount to customer if the customer purchases more products. Relationships with customer and suppliers allow us to know what we must be able to supply in real time and then very quickly and precisely meet that demand while maintaining low inventory. (Dell, 2011) RFID Radio Frequency Identification RFID is suitable to the effectiveness of the information that it provides leading to much better real time data. Dell has plans for the retirement and decommission of the old technologies as a forecasting technique as well. By using the RFID, customers are able to follow the progress of their computers and decide the delivery dates automatically. Due to the fact that Dell now manufacturers almost all of the products that they sell, there can be little to no problems with excessive storage in warehouses. The benefits of RFID and real world awareness aid in keeping Dells supply chain extremely successful. (Goitsolutions.net, 2005) Reference and bibliography Awah, Elias M., (2004) Electronic commerce from vision to fulfilment (second edition) Pearson education Inc United Business2000.ie Available at: http://www.business2000.ie/pdf/pdf_7/dell_7th_ed.pdf [Accessed 28 December 2010] Csulb.edu Available at: http://www.csulb.edu/web/journals/jecr/issues/20014/paper4.pdf [Accessed 3 January 2011] Dell 2010, Business Model [Online] Available at:http://content.dell.com/us/en/corp/d/corp-comm/cr-ca-business-model.aspx [Accessed 27 December 2010] Dell 2010, Dell Business to Business (B2B) E-Commerce Solutions Available at:http://www.dell.com/content/topics/reftopic.aspx/pub/commerce?c=uscs=19l=ens=dhs~section=001 [Accessed 27 December 2010] Dell, 2010, Dell Federal Government Services, Consulting and Discount (Online) Available at:http://www.dell.com/us/en/fedgov/df.aspx?refid=dfs=fedcs=RC1009777~ck=mn [Accessed 27 December 2010] Dell, 2010, Dell Member Purchase Employee Discount Program (EPP) [Online] Available at:http://www.dell.com/content/topics/segtopic.aspx/epp_why_buy_dell?c=uscs=2236l=ens=eep~ck=mn [Accessed 27 December 2010] Ebscohost.com Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/uploads/imported/thisTopic-dbTopic-1074.pdf [Accessed 3 January 2011] Fredman, Catherine. A Moment of Transition: A Chat with Tom Merideth, [Online] Available at: http://www.ee-online.com/oct/oct_qna.htm [Accessed 28 December 2010] Goitsolutions.net Available at: http://www.goitsolutions.net/rfidpaper.pdf [Accessed 4 January 2011] Idiana.edu Available at: http://www.indiana.edu/~tisj/readers/full-text/16-1%20kraemer.pdf [Accessed 28 December 2010] Schneider, Gary, (2007) Electronic Commerce (Seventh Annual edn), Canada, Thomson Course Technology Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, (2008) Electronic Commerce 2008, Canada, United States, Pearson Education Turban, King, Mckay, Marshall, Lee and Viehland, (2010) Electronic Commerce 2010, Canada, United States, Pearson Education Victoria Duff, eHow Contributor, (2010) [Online] Available at: http://www.ehow.com/about_4793990_ecommerce-business-models.html [Accessed 18 Jan 2011]

The Role of the Reflexive Ethnographer Essay -- Anthropology Culture R

The Role of the Reflexive Ethnographer Works Cited Missing The role of the reflexive ethnographer has been constantly defined and redefined since the beginning of the study of anthropology. The use of reflexivity has and will always be questioned in anthropology. Malinowski, who was a pioneer in the field of anthropology, discouraged the use of reflexivity; he, instead, believed that anthropology was scientific and could produce â€Å"concrete evidence† (Malinowski 17). Reflexivity is way in which anthropologists try to get rid of this scientific and rigid anthropology; it is a move towards an emotional and self-reflective anthropology. Reflexivity denies the structuralism which Malinowski and Levi-Strauss attended to. In addition, reflexivity tries to diminish the authority which anthropologists such as Malinowski and Levi-Strauss claimed to have. Thus, reflexivity is an attempt to humanize rather than structure a society. Although reflexive anthropology aims to liberate itself from authority, it often does just the opposite; ethnographers such as Behar and Kondo use their supposedly humane approach to anthropology to position themselves within the field of anthropology. However, their attempts to recreate anthropology by emotionalizing it produce interesting and somewhat effective ethnographies. Visweswaran, another female and self-proclaimed reflexive anthropologist, explores what it is to be a reflexive feminist anthropologist in a fie ld that is dominated by men. Reflexivity is thus a hot topic for past and present ethnographers to discuss. With the help of the women’s movement and the rise of feminism, female anthropologists were able to publish their own ethnographies. However, women ethnographers conti... ...ocially allowed to be anthropologists: â€Å"Anthropologists would only become articulate about borders thanks to the writing of Chicanas like Gloria Analdua and Sandra Cisneros--who had to invent their own borderland anthropology in poetry, myths, and fictions because it didn’t exist in the academy† (Behar 174). The solution to anthropology, according to Behar, is reflexivity. By being reflexive, Behar writes, one can â€Å"respond vulnerably† to others’ writing. Ergo, she pleads for an anthropology that breaks your heart. Behar’s authority lies in this pleading. In this essay, she is implying that she is more vulnerable or more feeling than other anthropologists or literary critics. This establishes her authority as the reader sides with her emotional state. In summation, reflexive anthropology is an anthropology which looks upon the self in relation to the Other.

Individual Writing Assignment Essay

The role of work experience in successful adult learning is a recurrent topic of professional discussion. In their article, Guile and Griffiths (2001) provide the detailed review of what experience is, how it works in different work contexts, and how students learn and expand their practical knowledge through work experience. The authors state that the two main trends of work experience and learning are being discussed in European literature: the first one discusses work experiences of younger students (14-18) as a part of full-time education; the second one is about work experiences in countries with well-developed VET systems, in which apprenticeships serve an alternative to the basic education (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Guile and Griffiths (2001) state that the time has come to reassess the relationship between education and work experience and provide a brief discussion of the concept of â€Å"context† and several models of learning through work experience. The article contributes to the understanding of learning in work settings in several ways. First, the work context is not static but an ever evolving combination of conditions and objects (Guile & Griffiths 2001). The changes in context prioritize learning and knowledge sharing and expand the definition of skill (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Second, work contexts make it possible for individuals to learn and develop through contact with more experienced others (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Finally, earlier approaches to workplace learning are no longer workable: the authors discuss traditional, experiental, generic, work process, and connectivity models of learning through work experience (Guile & Griffiths 2001). These models reconceptualize learning through work experience in several different ways. Guile and Griffiths (2001) suggest the last, connective model of learning through work experience be the one to provide a new curriculum framework and more effective connections between formal and informal learning. Learning through work settings: andragogy vs. pedagogy  What Guile and Griffiths (2001) discuss in their article presents a unique combination of andragogy and pedagogy. Although Guile and Griffiths (2001) do not mention the word â€Å"andragogy† and emphasize the relevance of pedagogic approaches to work experience, the features of adult learning are being present in all learning models. Guile and Griffiths (2001) discuss the models and approaches that are based on need; they are problem-centered, respective to job, collaborative, and mutual between facilitator and learner. These are the features of adult learning which Podsen (2002) discusses in her book. Simultaneously, the process of learning through work experience is not self-directed but is linked to the curriculum, sequenced in terms of content and subject matter and designed to enhance and speed up the transmittal of skills, experience, and information (Podsen, 2002). Although learning through work experience provides students with some degree of autonomy, work experience, according to Guile and Griffiths (2001) is still a part of the academic and vocational programs, which are both directed and evaluated by teachers. Nevertheless, work experience provides better knowledge sharing opportunities compared with the traditional pedagogic approaches to learning. Work experience and work context enable the development and maintenance of arrangements between workplaces and educational institutions (Guile & Griffiths 2001). These models do not simply allow schools and agencies to manage these arrangement more effectively but turn into a valuable extension of traditional school and college curriculums. Unfortunately, pedagogy tends to limit resources available through work experiences and often views work contexts as stable and static. To raise the efficiency of work experiences and learning in work contexts, educational and HR professionals must be open to the benefits of adult learning, which would make learning in workplace settings more flexible, practical, and relevant. The traditional model of work experience In their article, Guile and Griffiths (2001) provide a brief discussion of the traditional model of work experience. The legacy of traditional models of learning through work experience is evident through the prism of traditional apprenticeship programs and general education curriculums in Europe (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Until recently, the basic apprenticeship programs in workplace environments have been designed to help students mould their skills in practical contexts; as a result, the traditional model of work experience emphasized the assimilation and adaptation as the two basic features of education and training (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Today, traditional models of work experience are fairly regarded as a form of the â€Å"launch† perspective on the interaction between learning and workplace settings – traditional models of work experience help to understand and predict what individuals will choose to do in each particular work situation (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Professionals in education and HR specialists can apply to traditional work experience models, in order to set the necessary trajectory of later learning (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Traditional models of work experience can be used to launch students into the real world of work (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Unfortunately, the vision of work experience as the â€Å"launch† into later workplace learning leaves little or no room for determining how students will develop at the later stages of workplace learning (Guile & Griffiths 2001). Traditional models of work experience present few or no opportunities to reframe their content and to make them more flexible and adaptable to the workplace needs of students. Work experience: possible problems and barriers The lack of content reframing opportunities is not the only problem with traditional models of work experience. In their article, Guile & Griffiths (2001) omit considerable information about what barriers students can meet in their way to learning from traditional workplace contexts. First of all, Guile and Griffiths (2001) speak about the traditional workplace model as the â€Å"launch† perspective on learning in workplace contexts. Yet, the authors do not write anything about whether students are prepared to be in workplace environments and what must they must do to integrate with the learning atmosphere in the workplace. Second, the question is in how students will adjust to the contrast between familiar school environments and workplace experiences. Third, Kolb’s model of experiental learning could add value to the traditional model of work experience by providing teachers and HR professionals with a better understanding of students’ learning styles. Students that engage in workplace learning can be activists, reflectors, theorists, and pragmatists (Atherton, 2009). The significance of each particular learning style is in trying to help teachers and students to adjust to their personal and learning peculiarities and the features of their learning style (Atherton, 2009). Obviously, professional negligence to learning style differences can become a major barrier to effective learning. Unfortunately, in their discussion of the traditional model of work experience Guile and Griffiths (2001) do not mention any of these potential problems. To make the traditional learning model adaptable, flexible, and workable, HR professionals must account for these personal and learning differences, to ensure that they can set the necessary trajectory of learning at later stages of work experience. Still, the traditional model in ways Guile and Griffiths (2001) discuss it could be of value to HR professionals, who support the development of a ‘learning organization’. The traditional model of work experience and a ‘learning organization’ â€Å"A learning organization needs people who are intellectually curious about their work, who actively reflect on their experience, who develop experience-based theories of change and continuously test these in practice† (Serrat, 2009). Experience is critical for the success of all learning initiatives in organizations. In this sense, the traditional model of work experience can set the pace and the direction of learning in organizations. HR professionals can apply to the traditional model to ‘launch’ students and to help them integrate with the new workplace environment. The traditional model can set the stage for developing experience-based theories and initiatives at the later stages of learning and to make practitioners more reflective. The traditional model can also help HR specialists learn more about students and their first successes at work, to be able to adjust their learning styles and preferences to the specific needs of the workplace. All these actions will benefit and favor learning in organizations. The traditional model can become an invaluable source of knowledge about learning, which HR professionals will use to develop more effective learning strategies to be used in their organizations. Conclusion Work experience provides students with valuable learning opportunities. Organizations and education professionals step away from the traditional â€Å"static† vision of workplace contexts and position work as a flexible and ever-changing source of practical knowledge. In their article, Guile and Griffiths (2001) discuss a number of work experience models. The traditional model, according to Guile and Griffiths (2001), gives education professionals a chance to set the needed learning trajectory and redirect individuals toward the desired learning goals. However, education and HR specialists must account for the learning style differences and support students, as they are trying to adjust to unfamiliar workplace environments. Otherwise, HR professionals would not be able to use the traditional model for the benefit of learning in organizations.

Death of a Best Friend

It was In a sixth grade classroom with about twenty strangers, where I learned my best friend would not return to school. The sun glaring through the window nearly blinded me as I turned away from the class to hide my tears. Facing away from the quiet room, still knew everyone's eyes were fixed on the teacher as they waited on her to say something else. After sitting in silence for what seemed like forever, the class turned their attention to the school guidance counselor frantically rushing Into the room.I kept my position toward the window until she hurried over to my desk and told me my parent's were there to check me out of school. It was the most unusual feeling I had ever felt. I had been to a few funerals before and I had even lost both of my grandparent's, but losing Alison was different; it was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It seemed so unreal because Just the day before I was sitting in the same seat talking to her. How strange it is that someone can be so full of life, but in Just a short moment God can take them away.In that one short moment I lost so much. I lost the person I could confide In, the first person I told my secrets to, and the one I could be my complete self around. Friends like Alison do not come along everyday. On August 16th, 2006, only the third day at my new school, I found out how strange death is. Though some may not understand because they have never experienced it, the death of a best friend is easily the most painful feeling; it is an experience full of mixed emotions and countless life changing realizations.On that third morning of school, our teacher, Ms. Andy, calmly announced to the class that Alison was in a wreck on the way to school. The only thing I could think about was how mad I had been at my parent's for not allowing me to ride to school with Alison and her brother. The entire school, which could not have been more than here hundred people, met In the gym to pray. Mr.. Skipper, our headmaster, prayed int o the microphone, but while he spoke I did not listen; I prayed a special prayer of my own. After Mr..Skipper said â€Å"Amen,† he proceeded to tell us Alison had to be flown to Birmingham. I knew that meant she was seriously Injured. Then, the bell rang and silently walked to break with some girls Alison Introduced me to. While I sat at the table attempting to eat my breakfast, I could not help noticing the teachers crying. With hope that they were not crying about Alison, I walked nervously to the classroom after the second bell rang. I slowly returned to my seat, where I would soon learn that when Allison helicopter reached the hospital. He was pronounced dead. Seven years ago on August 16th, my life was forever changed. Alison was the type of person that had that effect on people; she made an impact on so many people's lives even before her death. She began to influence my life the day I met her in pre-school and has continued to Influence me after that atrocious day. Ali son taught me so much, but the most precious thing being what a true friend is. Alison was the type of friend hat told me what I needed to know regardless of whether I wanted to hear it or not.She was someone who never got on my nerves even after being together for days. She was the first person I would go to when I made plans, needed someone to talk to, or needed to be cheered up. Alison not only showed me what to look for In a friend, but she also taught me how to be a good friend. Soon after she died, her death 1 OFF away from Him, but when I miss Alison I pray. On earth and in Heaven, Alison has brought me closer to God. Losing her was the hardest thing I have ever done, but it made the most important difference in my life.

Foreign Clultures Example

Foreign Clultures Example Foreign Clultures – Coursework Example FOREIGN CULTURES Over the years, demographics in the United s of America have been used to reveal quite a numberof developments in the country’s population. These trends are known to create a relationship between changes that relate to age, location, gender, marital status, employment status, race, religion and others. In most cases, the above stated trends are used to group people in different social roles.For instance, the current market demographic segmentation can be identified to consist of market divisions that are based on variables such as the above named trends. As expected, the demographic variables are considered the most popular ways of dividing consumer groups. These divisions can be linked to association of business and variables like income and age.Although it is easy to accept that the effects of the trends named above are unavoidable in the community, it is essential to realize that they can cause differences in the society. According to the second email, the people who have low education are associated with achieving low education. Furthermore, the email tries to bring some information about gender whereby most of the lowly educated employers are women.Race is a factor that has contributed to the success or failure of various individuals in the country (DeVita 23). For instance, the minority sub cultures are believed to acquire low quality education, resulting to low paying jobs. Concurrently, the people in that bracket end up living below the poverty line. Although Christianity has dominated in the United States of America, there is lack of equality. In America, the greatest cultural influence is identified with education achievement, income, and wealth.Work citedDeVita, Philip R. America as a Foreign Culture. New York: Wadsworth Publishing, 2001. Print.