Utility and relevance of operational management topics to the contemporary business environment
Order Instructions:
Evaluate the utility and relevance of any one of the operations management topics to the contemporary business environment.
you must demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical concepts and frameworks in the chosen operations
management topic, this assignment requires a critical evaluation/ analysis of a topic “very important”
I need more analytical material rather
than descriptive material, one or two diagrams if required only
Please ask the writer to send me a couple of topics to choose from and the structure of the research paper as well to confirm before starting.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Characteristics of quality:
• Performance
It includes the main attributes of the product. The features should conform to customer’s expectations and needs.
• Aesthetics
feel, smell, taste and appearance should be unique and customer oriented to have a high market penetration since the competitors are also trying to follow the same plan.
• Special features
special features such as extended warranty, specific customer design including specifications such as printing customers name on a t-shirt or the cup of coffee.
•Conformance
How well the product conforms to design specifications. The product should be of standard as per designer’s requirements and customers’ expectations. The way a product is designed translates to good or poor quality.
• Reliability
Consistency of performance. Customers expect that a product will meet their needs. When the product is reliable, the customers will be loyal leading to more production, new market entrance, and consequently a high market share in the dynamic market environment
• Durability
The useful life of the product. A durable product is a quality product. Customers always seek for quality products as they seek to increase their savings and reduce expenses. The customers always remain loyal to an organization that assures them of quality products.
• Serviceability and responsiveness–
After sale service is a form of quality assurance. Managers should ensure proper tools are in place to handle customer’s complaints.
• Consistency
Good quality products should always be present.
Quality management is not a one-time process and it’s influenced by many factors. It is therefore through total quality management that quality is assured. Every person in the organization has a role to play in bringing out all the needed quality features.
Masaaki (2015) also added that Quality is determined by design, conformance, ease of use, and after sale services:
Design quality:
It refers to the decision by designers to either include or exclude attributes in a product. The design of the product is the starting point for product quality. The size, shape, and place of the issue is determined in the design phase. Quality is assured when the designers seek customers view on products before designing. Another features in the design phase are the costs incurred in the production, availability of machinery, the time taken for design, safety. When the design phase is expertly handled, quality of the product will be assured, the poor quality design can cause the company a lot in terms of costs as well as image and market share. (Masaaki, 2015)
How easy it is to use the product:
Another feature of quality is the ease of use. The easier to use a product or service is, the higher the quality of the product. When designing the product, attention for the use of the product should be put in place. Consumers like products that are not complicated and time-consuming in terms of use. When there is no ease of use, an organisation will lose consumers, sales will decrease, will get return of goods, or even face legal problems as a result of injuries. Directions for use of the product, assembling, unpacking, maintaining, adjusting the product and what to do in case something goes wrong should be included. The easier to use a product is, the higher the quality of the product and the higher the chances of survival of the organisation in the modern market. (Masaaki, 2015)
After-sale services
Services that are offered to customers after the sale of the product are also determinants of product quality. Demonstration on the use of the technical products should be done by sales people or the technicians to avoid product failure or injuries. At times when a product fails, after-sale service is needed. The service can be in the form of repair of the product, replacement, recalling the product, adjustment or evaluation of service use. Consumers appreciate organizations that are dedicated to offering after sales services. To have after sale service is a good reputation of the company and it improves the image of the company. (Masaaki, 2015)
Benchmarking
Hoyle and David (2007), argue that if a company wants to meet the current market requirements, quality control managers have to benchmark themselves against competitors. Apple Inc being the second largest telecommunications company would have to compare its production strategies with Samsung Company. After benchmarking, the firm will need to come up with unique ways that will differentiate its products with the competitor. The steps used in benchmarking are:
Identification of the process that need improvement: Going through the phases a product goes through to identify the loophole that needs fixing. It might be design, production, or sales process. (Hoyle and David, 2007)
Match the need for improvement in the organization that is best at the process: Identify the organization that known for producing good results in the process that need to be improved
Research the organization
Gathering information the other organization uses for the process
Analyse the information
Assessment of the information is done to determine the most effective way to go about the improvement process
Improve process
Having come up with a strategy gap, assessment is made on how to go through the implementation of the new idea for quality improvement. To stand out in the market, expertise is needed so that the new idea brings out a unique form. Correct implementation leads to quality improvement and consequently better chances of outdoing the main competitors in the market.
High quality gives an organization a competitive edge and ensures that it remains profitable in the current market. Other advantages of good quality are;
Improvement in the company’s reputation in the market leading to high productivity.
The liability costs are minimized since the company can pay its debts.
Increase in customer loyalty and customer satisfaction that leads to increased sales and profitability. (Hoyle and David, 2007)
The main contributors for the total quality management are the senior managers. In the operations department, quality control managers come up with strategic plans for quality, implement tools necessary for quality improvement, guide and motivate employees.
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Personally, I would like to choose no ( 14 ) but I want you to choose before I decide.The attached is the assignment. please read all of them properly,
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a concept that has gained prominence in many companies including extractive ones. CSR is one of the business strategies that these companies are using to participate in the sustainability of the environment as well as the community. It is one way of giving back to the societies in which they operate.
In developed countries, the scenario is considerably different. Such countries have an already developed infrastructural and social sector. They are therefore involved in well-established CSR programs which have international set standards. These programs’ main aim is to enhance the competitiveness of these extractive industries in the international market. In addition, developed countries unlike the developing countries have readily adopted these CSR policies and strategies with great support from their government. An exemplary country with well-established CSR programs in its extractive industries is the Canadian gas and oil mining industries. This paper deliberates on whether extractive industries embrace CSR to best of their abilities and any performances variations in developing and developed countries. Development and definition of CSR are incorporated as well as critical examination of various literatures on the mining industry among many other aspects relating to the topic.
CSR and its Origin
According to McWilliams & Siegel (2001), the term Corporate Social Responsibility even though has been in the public domain for many decades, it became popular in the 1960s and is nowadays used indiscriminately in organizations more to further moral and legal responsibilities. Definition of the term CSR is both complicated and complex because of the context and nature of the problems. The complexity arises from the fact that CSR is intimately involved in the society, ecology, and economic systems that are high complex dynamic systems (Sheehy, 2015). Regardless of these complexities, in general CSR is defined as a form of corporate self-regulation entrenched in the business models of companies. Its main role is to act as a self-regulatory mechanism through monitoring business to ensure that they comply with the spirit of law, national or international norms, and ethical standards. Some firms that have implemented CSR have gone beyond compliance to engaging in acts that promote social good, and beyond the interests of the firm (Sheehy, 2015). CSR as well involves the corporate actions aimed at encouraging positive impact on the stakeholders including employees, consumers, investors, communities and others as well as impacting on the environment.
Literature review
According to Littlewood (2014), different people, ascribe different meaning to the term CSR. In 2001 European Commission Green Paper, CSR is defined as the concept where “entities integrate social and environmental concerns in their operations as well as their interactions and association with stakeholders on a voluntary basis” (Littlewood, 2014, p. 17). CSR in the mining industry therefore, ought to be on voluntarily basis if this defining is to go by.
Various institutions and initiatives have also been advanced to ensure that mining industries remain compliance and engage in social corporate responsibilities. Such initiatives include the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) and Mining and Minerals Sustainable Development Project (MMSD) (Littlewood, 2014). Other initiatives include corporate reporting on companies’ websites and engaging with ISO 26000 social responsibility performance measurements, development of best practices, toolboxes, and guidelines relating to CSR issues such as mining community development and sustainability and mine closure among many others (Littlewood, 2014).
Despite the growth of CSR initiatives in industries, many questions remain about the role of mining in economic and social development remain unanswered (Du Venage, 2015). A good case is South Africa where despite discussion of CSR in the industry, there are still questions on the depth of the adoption and implementation and the extend this has impacted on the social and economic industry in South Africa.
According to Littlewood (2014), mining industry in Namibia contributes around 16 percent of the GDP and close to 50 percent of the merchandise exportation. This means that it is a central industry in the economy of Namibia. Mining began between 1884-1915 under the Germany colony. Copper mining started in 1906 in the northern region also known as German South West Africa at that time. Diamonds were also found in the South West in 1906. Mining since 1970 has become diverse in Namibia and more minerals such as gold and zinc are mined. Companies involved in mining have managed to deal with issues of community sustainability and viability after mining through their CSR. This has been done in different ways. The government also has laws that require compliance to legal requirement. For instance, after mining, all structures and buildings are removed as per the license terms (Littlewood, 2014).
According to Kirschke (2014), mining industries are impacting negatively on the lives of many people especially is DRC, a top cobalt and the sixth copper producer nation. Kirschke (2014) further argues that CSR activities of some of these companies are not working as expected and therefore what they do can be described as, “Greenwash”. He argues the companies have caused community displacement, and caused environmental wreckages.
According to Arko (2013), mining industry in Ghana has been in operation for close to one hundred years. The companies to a large extent have been doing well and this has enabled them to participate in corporate social responsibilities. They have supported the communities in different ways through CSR. Nevertheless, the support provided by these companies has been small and has not made any substantial differences. The Ghana Chamber of Mines reports of these expenditures exemplify this fact. The way forward, is to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to ensure that these companies participate in CSR (Arko, 2013).
Stakeholder in the mining industry such as the government, mining companies, civil society, international financial organizations among others have a role to play in the operations and CSR engagements of mining industries (Yakovleva & Vazquez-Brust, 2012). Mining companies have to develop plans that will ensure that they do not pollute the environment and contribute to climate change. They have as well to ensure that they support the welfare of the people in the community. The level of commitment of different countries when it comes to implementation of CSR has varied. These variations are because of different reasons such as the negative perception in relation to the industry, controversial nature of many mining investments, social and environmental externalities that for decades have been associated with the mining industry. Other reasons are the weak legislations and ability of states to monitor the activities of mining companies across the globe (Kirschke, 2014).
Basic components of Corporate Social Responsibility -extractive industries
Different extraction companies have adopted different CSR programs basing on the type of the environment they are based upon. A CSR program has to be formulated with regard to the situation at hand. A typical CSR program should encompass the main areas of the community including social, environmental and the economic factors of a community.
A CSR policy entails the approval of the company by the local community. Furthermore, an extractive company ought to be involved in the community activities, such as involvement in local charities as well as supporting the local growth and sponsoring the community events. Adopting a CSR program entails the consideration of the three aspects including people, the planet, and the profits. The deviation in the corporate motives from profits oriented operations to adopting the CSR program can be associated to the worldwide change in the conscience of the corporate (Kirschke, 2014). The deviation entails that the corporates exercise four particular responsibilities in addition to generating profits.
The main environmental factors that the policy should encompass include the sustainability of the environment through waste recycling as well as proper waste management strategies. Other approaches include provision of clean water for use, the establishment of renewable sources of energy and the recyclable materials. It is the role of the extractive industry to maintain an appropriate working environment as well decent social appearance.
As much as CSR strategy is aimed at the voluntary social responsibilities, it is also important to make sure that the economic aspects of the community are take account of. A good CSR program should seek to promote the economic status of the community and at the same time that of the extractive industry. The economic roles apply particularly to the developing countries that are in the verge of establishing development for their countries. For instance, an appropriate CSR strategy for extractive industry in developing countries is the establishment of infrastructure and improvement of the communication networks in the regions.
Requirements for CSR strategies and reasons for engaging in CSR
One s the strategies is sustainability whereby Corporates establish a foundation and come up with ways of avoiding harmful effects of the mining activities in the environment t they operate in. The CSR program should have the capability of sustaining the environmental as well as the economic aspects of the community. License is another important aspect as each extraction industry should be legitimate and should satisfy all the legal requirements. To prove the legitimacy the company should obtain a letter of approval accompanied with a license for operation.
In addition to the license for operation and sustainability, the CSR should also comprise of a moral obligation meaning that it has responsibility to do the right thing, uphold the ethical values pertaining to all the activities the company is involved in. The company’s long-term commitment to social responsibility is also important when ascertaining the well-being of the company to the commitment to CSR (Kirschke, 2014). The establishment of a good past relationship is important in ensuring that the extractive company is well acquainted to the CSR responsibilities.
In addition to the effectiveness of branding, companies have developed a new trend in enhancing their CSR programs. Companies with well-developed CSR programs are perceived more positively than those with poorly developed CSR programs. It is important to have a mission and vision that goes beyond the profit driven purpose. Such companies give the stakeholders as well as investors a warmer and better image and an impression that it will be easy to interact with (Arko, 2013).
Extractive corporations engage in CSR programs so as to have an easier time when dealing with the government regulations (Arko, 2013). The better the relationship a corporation will establish with the immediate society, the better the perception of that corporation in both the legal as well as in the public perspective. The participation of the extractive corporation in the society’s social responsibility will also bar the company from harmful activists that may launch against it. Lastly, one of the main benefits of CSR in the workplace is the appropriate working environment created for the employees as well as for the occupants of the society. CSR creates a sense of community and teamwork between the society, stakeholders, and generally the overall corporation(Kirschke, 2014).
Extend of CSR initiatives and level of performance in developed and developing countries
A number of international CSR initiatives and associations that promote CSR policies in the extractive industries include the United Nations global contact initiative where the extractive companies perform self-evaluations and report their performance in regard to the ten principles. Another international initiative is the Europeans commission strategy for CSR and sustainable consumption sustainable industrial policy (Miningfacts.org, 2015). The global committee on mining and metals is managed by the largest mining companies and comprises of a number of programs to improve sustainable mining. Extractive companies additionally, have started pursuing certifications such as ISO 14000 which is an environmental certification. SA 8000, which is a working standard certificate, and also AA 1000 which is accountability certificate (Miningfacts.org, 2015).
Canada
Canada is one of the developed countries that have embraced CSR programs in its extractive industry. The Canadian extracting industries has laid out a foundation to ensure that there is greater rationality in the advancement of the sector’s in the Canadian extractive sector is a well-defined strategy as pertains to other developed countries (Andrews, 2007). The CSR strategy for the enhancement of business and prosperity consists of four major provisions. Examples of CSR strategies implemented include promoting the industry, securing access to global markets, improving infrastructure among others.
The government of Canada has enhanced international performance guidelines for the Canadian extraction companies. Such guidelines include first, the social and the environmental sustainability for the mining projects with potentially harmful environmental and social repercussions (Miningfacts.org, 2015). Secondly, the guidelines on voluntary principles on human rights and security for projects involving public or private security forces (Miningfacts.org, 2015). The global reporting initiative for CSR is the other guideline for reporting by the mining sector. Canada has therefore, succeeded in its CSR initiatives in this sector.
Developing nations in Africa and Asia have also embraced CSR initiatives in extractive industry due to various reasons such as prevention of pollution, conserving environment, adhering to international codes, take advantage of the natural resources to achieve economic and social development as well as protect its environment among other reasons (Mzembe, and Downs, 2014). Most of the African countries have devoted their CSR efforts in protection of the environment, social economic development, and improvement of infrastructure (Smith, 2008). Various African countries that have adopted the concept of CSR include; Mali, guinea, Tanzania South Africa and Nigeria among others (Mzembe, and Downs, 2014).
South Africa
In the recent past, CSR has become globally popular accompanied by widespread management methodologies, technologies, and new ideologies. The impact of the CSR in South Africa has seen great developments with increased social responsibility and sustainability of the countries mining industries. The CSR initiatives in South Africa’s mining industry have resulted to increased communities growth as well as infrastructural development. The major impacts CSR in South Africa’s mining industry include; increased efficiency in the societal gains pertaining to the aspects energy and water usage. In addition, safeguarding of the environment has been more efficient following the establishment of CSR policies by the mining industries. Furthermore, safeguarding local employee’s safety has been more addressed (Mzembe, and Downs, 2014).
Advocates of CSR believe that CSR is a major breakthrough to solving majority of the social issues that the government has failed to address. In addition, they also argue that knowing that an institution is morally and socially responsible will attract more investors. However, the opponents of CSR argue that the most important goal of a business if profit generation and not social development. Other critics argue that corporate industries are not institutions meant for moral purposes (Mzembe, and Downs, 2014).
South Africa has played a major role in defining and enhancing the CSR initiatives. Nevertheless, for the CSR to be fruitful and to be properly executed in South Africa, it is important to lay emphasis on the liability and equality of businesses CSR practices. CSR is viewed as exclusively associated to big businesses which explains why there has been reluctance in smaller companies in complying with the CSR measures since they feel that their operations will go unnoticed (Bond, 2008).
Nigeria
Nigeria is one of the largest nations with the largest economy in Africa classified under developing economies. The country had enjoyed its oil and gas extractions that have contributed to its economic growth.
The country has various policies that companies must adhere to when engaging in their activities. CSR is one of the ways that oil and Gas Company give back to the society through their CSR initiative. In a study conducted by Gabriel (2007), most of the multinational companies in Nigeria dealing in gas and oil participate actively in the corporate social responsibility. The company contributes to the society through various as including, measures to curb environmental pollution, sponsorships, community services among many others (Watts, 2004). Many of the host communities in Nigeria have higher expectations in community development initiative. However, pressure from the community keeps on piling up because some of the companies do no keep their promise (Frynas, 2005).
Most of the community members are interested in the social projects that give them hope of a stable and prosperous future. The companies in Nigeria have as well embraced development initiatives to portray to the people how socially responsible they are. In some areas in the Niger Delta, they are marred with unstable environment as there is ethnic disputes and conflicts over oil revenues (Gabriel, 2007). Companies such as Shell and Oil have participated in the CSR to resolve the conflicts. Recommendations to solve the problems have as well been made. These recommendations includes, enhance further cooperation with the Nigerian government to ensure that the situation is peacefully resolved. There is also need to improve transparency in order to avoid human rights violations as well as resource exploitation. Shell has the duty to continue handling the situation to see if there would be any positive outcome.
It is therefore, evident that both developed and developing countries have embraced CSR initiatives in their countries to foster change and to achieve certain goals and aims. Countries such as Canada have put in place various measures to ensure that it protects its environment as well as contribute to social and economic development of their people. Most African countries such as South Africa and Nigeria have also embraced the concept of CSR and is transforming their them on different frontier. Even though, most developing nations have lagged behind on this area, the concept is gaining momentum on daily basis.
Conclusion
Creation of awareness is a major trend occurring in most extractive industries all over the world. Integration of the CSR programs with the functioning of the extractive industries has resulted to development of multiple benefits in both developed and developing countries. In addition, there has been contribution of the implementation of CSR policies by the international community. Some extractive companies in the developing countries however, have remained reluctant to adopting CSR strategies as a component of their conventional business. Most developed countries have successfully implemented CSR strategies to advance different interests. The developing countries such as Congo, South Africa and Botswana among others are in the process of putting in place such strategies to impact positively on the society, and environmental.
There has been great impact in integrating CSR into the business strategies of the extractive industries .The benefits of such integration has resulted to robust impact on both the appearance and the accomplishments of a company. Extractive industries all over the world continue to seek opportunities to comprehensively capture a greater proportion of the benefits of resources extraction and at the same time ensure that they develop the community that they operate in. Local governments should support their extractive industries so as to ensure that they in the best way reap the benefits that accompany the implementation of such. Upcoming small and medium sized industries should also be encouraged to adopt such strategies. Besides, large mining industries should be taught on the benefits that accrue the implementation of CSR industries.
References
Al-Tuwaijri, S. Christensen, T. and Hughes, K. (2004). The relations among environmental disclosure, environmental performance, and economic performance: a simultaneous equations approach, Accounting, Organizations and Society Journal, 29( 5-6), pp. 447-71.
Andrews, T. (2007).National Roundtables on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Canadian extractive industry in developing countries. [Ottawa, Ont.: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada].
Asgill, S. (2012). The Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI): Tool for Conflict Resolution in the Niger Delta or Arena of Contested Politics? Critical African Studies 7:4-57.
Bayoud, N. (2012). Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure and Organizational Performance: The Case of Libya, A Mixed Methods Study. Unpublished PhD Thesis, University of Southern Queensland.
Benomran, N., Haat, M., Hashim,, H., & Mohamed, N. (2015). Types and motives of corporate social responsibility and environmental reporting in Libyan companies. Internatioanl Journal of Finance &Sccounting Studies, 3(1). 1-17.
Boele, R., Fabig, H., Wheeler, D. (2001). The Story of Shell, Nigeria and the Ogoni People – Environment, Economy, Relationships: Conflict and Prospects for Resolution. Sustainable Development. 9:74-86.
De Witte, M., & Jonker, J. (2006).Management models for corporate social responsibility. Heidelberg. Frynas, J. (2005). The False Development Promise of Corporate Social Responsibility: Evidence from Multinational Oil Companies. International Affairs 81(3):581-598.
Gabriel, E. (2007). “Multinational oil companies’ CSR initiatives in Nigeria: The scepticism of stakeholders in host communities”, Managerial Law, Vol. 49 Iss: 5/6, pp.218 – 235
Haufler, V. (2010). Disclosure as governance: the extractive industries transparency initiative and resource management in the developing world. Global Environmental Polis, 10(3), 53-73
Heritage oil plc. (2012). Corporate social responsibility report 2012.
Hilson, G. (2012). Corporate Social Responsibility in the extractive industries: Experiences from developing countries. Resources Policy, 37(2), 131-137.
Miningfacts.org,.(2015). Corporate Social Responsibility & Mining – Mining Facts. org. Retrieved 8 October 2015, from http://www.miningfacts.org/communities/what-is-corporate-social-responsibility/
Mujih, E. (2012). Regulating Multinationals in Developing Countries. Farnham: Ashgate Publishing Ltd.
Mzembe, A., & Downs, Y. (2014). Managerial and stakeholder perceptions of an Africa- based multinational mining company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The Extractive Industries and Society, 1(2), 225-236. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.exis.2014.06.002
O’Faircheallaigh, C., Trebeck, K., Haley, S., Magdanz, J., Coumans, C., Howitt, R., …& Yakovleva, N. (2008). Earth matters: Indigenous peoples, the extractive industries and Corporate social responsibility. Greenleaf Publishing, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
Porter, M. E., & Kramer, M. R. (2006). The link between competitive advantage and corporate social responsibility. Harvard business review, 84(12), 78-92.
Slack, K. (2012). Mission impossible?: Adopting a CSR-based business model for extractive Industries in developing countries. Resources Policy, 37(2), 179-184.
Smith, G. A. (2008). Introduction to Corporate Social Responsibility in the Extractive Industries, An. Yale Hum. Rts. & Dev. LJ, 11, 1.
Watts, M. (2004). Resource Curse? Govern mentality, Oil and Power in the Niger Delta, Geopolitics 9(1):50-80.
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Imagine you are a service-disabled veteran and have made your hobby of building model airplanes into a small business that produces very small remote control aircraft capable of long sustained flights. You are ready to expand your business by competing for Department of Homeland Security contracts.
Write a two to three (2-3) page paper in which you:
1. Determine at least three (3) specific programs created by Congress that benefit your business.
2. Analyze the small-business programs created by Congress and provide details of how they will benefit your company over large multinational organizations that build aircrafts (e.g., Lockheed Martin).
3. Use at least three (3) quality resources in this assignment. Note: Wikipedia and similar Websites do not qualify as quality resources.
Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements:
• Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; citations and references must follow APA or school-specific format. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
• Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student’s name, the professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page and the reference page are not included in the required assignment page length.
The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are:
• Differentiate between business sizes and analyze the opportunities for small businesses.
• Evaluate common small-business preference programs.
• Use technology and information resources to research issues in contract administration and management.
• Write clearly and concisely about contract administration and management using proper writing mechanics.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Small Business Preference
Small business is responsible for many of the job opportunities that exist in the United States. Therefore it becomes imperative that the small problems be given a preference when it comes to certain matters in business. The Congress decided to come up with an initiative and passed specific laws that saw the incorporation of small business compete effectively with the large corporations for the business space. The small business act of 1953 states that a fair proportion of the federal contacts should go to the small business. Also congress set aside 23% of the contracts to go to small business while 5% would go to small disadvantaged groups. Additionally another 5% would go to women owned small business and the last 3% would go to historically neglected business zones. The small Business administration is in charge of all the above programs as permitted by the congress law (Calof, 2006).
The small set aside program is one of such programs implemented by small business administration. It is one of the most suitable socioeconomic programs that have been put forward by the Unite state. For example, only small business is eligible for contracting under such a program. Big business and firms who might have applied for the same contract are rejected since they do not meet the required set standards by the program. A business is considered to be small when it does not have more or close to five hundred employees and its revenue is way beyond $ 7 billion annually. Additionally the small business under this program are much likely to benefit from subcontracting as they are able to cut down or reduce on the costs required in the purchasing of certain items (Dachis,& Lester n,d). For example they are only required to cater for 50% of the total cost making it more favorable for them. In this case such a program provided will enable small companies to be able to contracts without fear of competition from the big companies such as Lockheed Martin
The second congress plan that favours small business is referred to as small disadvantaged business. The rules that fall under this category essentially lock out most of the large multinational countries. For example it requires that the business be identically small as put across in the small business acts and by the small business administration. Also it requires that the business be about 51% owned by the individuals who are socially disadvantaged in this case refereeing to either one being black American, Hispanic , native American or east pacific American (Maher, 2015). Furthermore, it classifies the disadvantage as either being physically handicapped in terms of gender or age and lastly that the net salary is less than $ 750,000 which categorically fits into the company I intend to model. Additionally such a program is provided if only you fall under specific categories as outlined by the law. In this case, the contract would fall under the transportation system.
The service disabled veteran program is the last law that exclusively falls within the scope. First I qualify because I am already a disabled veteran. The awards in this case are made at a fair market price and the contracting officer ensures that at least two or more service disabled officers can raise the required amount. A contract can also be awarded on a solo basis if the contracting officers realises that no two service disabled officers can raise the required amount to be given the contract. Basically, the contract has same features as the Historically Underutilised Business zones.
The above three laws shows the difference between small business and large business. It also shows the opportunities that are presented by the preference programs. Large companies are those which have a great number of employees and can therefore be comfortably be able to raise more revenue in this case greater than $7 billion. Because small programs cannot raise such revenues that are provided by an equal opportunity to be able to compete effectively in the market. The small preferences programs that have been put across reduce the monopoly that is normally a practise of the large corporations. The awarding of the specific contracts as seen from the above features follows strict management policy. A contract is only given to the small business provided it meets the set criteria that have been established by the various laws. Each contracting officer is required to follow the laid down stipulations in following the laws and if a small business is not identified in the process the contract is given to two small business owners who come together to join their business and raise the required funds.
In conclusion laws that have been enacted by congress promote an equal chance for competition between the small companies and the established large incorporation. Since majority of the people in the United States have smaller business the law serves to protect them against monopoly that is commonly associated with the large corporation. Lastly it is only fair enough for the small business to be protected to avoid their extinction in the market and also since they contribute to more jobs in the United States.
Dachis, B., & Lester, J. Small Business Preferences as a Barrier to Growth: Not So Tall after All. SSRN Electronic Journal. http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2609527
Maher, C. (2015). Social enterprise manager’s career path preferences. International Journal Of Globalisation And Small Business, 7(1), 59. http://dx.doi.org/10.1504/ijgsb.2015.069032
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Imagine you made your hobby of building model airplanes into a small business that produces very small remote control aircrafts capable of long sustained flights. You are ready to expand your business by competing for Department of Homeland Security contracts.
Write a two to three (2-3) page paper in which you:
1. Analyze how the federal act supports and favors your business over large multinational organizations that build aircrafts (e.g., Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation).
2. Create an organizational chart that would best support working within the federal contracting system and explain the value of each position (i.e., internal contracting officer) to your proposed business.
3. Use at least three (3) quality resources in this assignment. Note: Wikipedia and similar Websites do not qualify as quality resources.
Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements:
• Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; citations and references must follow APA or school-specific format. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
• Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student’s name, the professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page and the reference page are not included in the required assignment page length.
The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are:
• Explain the basics of how and from whom the federal government buys what it needs.
• Apply the rules of federal government contracting.
• Compare the government’s key players and describe their main functions.
• Use technology and information resources to research issues in contract administration and management.
• Write clearly and concisely about contract administration and management using proper writing mechanics.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Rule of the Road
The American government is the world’s biggest purchaser of services and products. Purchases by civilian and military installations total almost $500 billion annually (Johns, 2015). Small firms countrywide can and need to make the most of contracting opportunities since such opportunities could actually be an essential revenue source that would help them in growing, innovating and creating employment opportunities. This paper provides an exhaustive analysis of how the federal act supports and favours the small business over big multinational corporations such as Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation which build aircrafts. In addition, an organizational chart is developed which would best support working within the federal contracting system and the value of each position to my proposed business is explained.
Federal agencies by law are required to formulate goals of contracting in such a way that 23 percent of all government purchases are procured from small businesses. Additionally, there are contract goals established for small disadvantaged businesses, businesses owned by women, companies owned by disabled veterans and businesses situated in HUBZones. These government-wide goals are 5 percent, 5 percent, 3 percent and 3 percent respectively although they are at times not attained (Government Contracts USA, 2015). They are vital since federal agencies have a constitutional duty of reaching out and considering small firms for procurement opportunities. As such, it is up to the small business owners to market and match their business services and products to the federal agencies’ buying needs (Government Contracts USA, 2015).
Small business contracting is a top priority for President Obama. The President established an inter-agency taskforce that came up with suggestions for increasing small business contracting. Moreover, he signed the Small Business Jobs Act that increases the access of small business to contracting opportunities and levels the playing field (Johns, 2015). It is notable that these initiatives have really made a major difference. Within the last 2 years alone, the number of contracts which have gone to small firms has increased steadily. In 2014, nearly 23% of all federal contracting funds went to small companies (Johns, 2015).
The Office of Government Contracting has the function of creating an environment for full participation by women-owned, disadvantaged, and small firms in federal government contract awards. The Office of Government Contracting advocates for small businesses in the federal procurement (U.S. Small Business Administration, 2015). The mission of U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is to promote and stimulate economic development by way of providing help to new firms to get started and established businesses to expand and grow. The SBA could help small firms overcome significant barriers which they typically encounter when they try to win federal contracts. This is because the U.S. Small Business Administration works directly with other federal agencies and America’s major federal contractors to make sure that small firms actually get a fair share of subcontracts and contracts of the federal government (Government Contracts USA, 2015).
Organizational chart
There are various responsibilities and roles within the federal government as regards federal contracts.
Internal Contracting Officer (CO): individual who is in charge of negotiating or directing changes to Period of Performance, Statement of Work, delivery schedule, among others. The value of this federal government employee to my proposed small business is that he/she will authorize reimbursement of costs, that is, he or she is in charge of approving invoices. On the whole, a Contracting Officer has the role of awarding and administering the contract to my proposed business. The individual also has the role of terminating contracts, delivery orders, purchase orders, task orders and modifications. They also have role of obligating federal finances, and make findings as well as determinations. All these roles are subject to the Contracting Officer’s Certificate of Appointment (Federal Acquisition Institute, 2014).
Contracting Specialist (CS): with approval of the Contracting Officer, the person holding this role carries out procedural steps. The value of this federal government official to my proposed business is that he or she will carry out pre-award functions: the individual plans the acquisition strategy and prepares solicitation documentation. The individual will also perform contract award functions: this individual evaluates responses, negotiates terms of the contract, and prepares award documentation. He or she will also perform post-award functions: the individual modifies contracts, monitors performance of the contract, and closes out contracts (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2015).
Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): the individual in this role performs specific contract management duties pertaining to technical oversight as well as administration of a given contract. The value of this individual to my proposed business is that he or she monitors technical progress. He or she also recommends changes in requirements to the CO. The COR will ensure that as a contractor, my small business actually meets the commitments of the contract. The federal employees in this role are typically the first ones to know when a given contract or program is underperforming (Federal Acquisition Institute, 2014).
Inspector: the person in this role has value to my small business since he/she has limited quality assurance responsibility of: determining whether supplies of my small business comply with the legal requirements and requirements of the contract; preparing correspondence, and reports of investigations or inspections; and making necessary suggestions for legal or administrative authorities. He or she also has the role of examining and testing the services or manufactured supplies of the contractor, including intermediate assemblies, components as well as raw materials. The inspector also inspects materials and equipment owned by the government which are in the contractor’s – my small business – hands in order to prevent irregularities such as theft, damage and waste (Federal Acquisition Institute, 2014).
References
Federal Acquisition Institute. (2014). Contracting Officer’s Representative. FAI.
Global Economic Environment and Marketing
A. Project question
A major multinational corporation has appointed you as an economic advisor. You are requested to compile a report regarding the macroeconomic environment in two countries where the firm operates and explain how it might affect the company’s economic activity.
B. Project specifications
1. You may choose to focus your analysis on any existing multinational firm.
2. The two countries must be chosen from section C below as follows: one country from List 1 and one country from List 2.
3. Your report must include:
a. A brief description of the company.
b. A comparative analysis of all major macroeconomic indicators (see section D below, excluding 5 and 7) for the two countries and their overall impact on firm’s economic activity.
c. An analysis of the market structure in which your company operates for the two countries.
d. An analysis of the monetary and fiscal policy for the two countries andtheir impact on the firm’s economic activity.
e. An analysis of the foreign trade policy (international trade agreements)for the two countries and its impact on firm’s economic activity.
1
C. Country Lists
List 1 List 2
Australia Brazil
Austria China
Canada India
Italy Mexico
Sweden Russia
D. Macroeconomic indicators1 to be analysed (the last available 10 years):
1. GDP growth rate
2. GDP per capita at constant prices
3. Inflation rate
4. Unemployment rate
5. Interest rates (Monetary Policy Rate)2
6. General government balances (% of GDP)
7. Balance of Payments (% of GDP)
8. Exchange rates (national currency/USD OR National Currency/Euro)3
1 We recommend that you use the IMF database to collect your data for most of these macroeconomic indicators.
2 Data available from the relevant Central Banks websites
3 ibid
2
E. Project 1 Submission Guidelines
Length 2,500 words, +/- 10% (excluding tables, graphs, footnotes and references)
Presentation Arial 12 fonts, 1 ½ spacing, justified text
References A minimum of 20 references using Harvard Referencing
System (textbooks, official data and information sources)
F. Marking criteria and weights
CRITERIA WEIGHTS
Brief description of the company and analysis of the market structure in which the company operates for the two countries
20%
Data collection, comparative analysis of major macroeconomic indicators and impact on firm’s economic activity
25%
Analysis of the monetary, fiscal and foreign trade policy for the two countries and their impact on firm’s economic activity
40%
Report structure, presentation and references 15%
SAMPLE ANSWER
With the increasing globalization, it is important for a business organization to understand all the macroeconomic factors that may affect their business operations in different nations. Understanding the macroeconomic environment of the nation in which a business operates is important for the organization to develop marketing and business strategies that will work successfully. Marketing strategy should either be standardized or localized to suit the specific market in which a business operates. There are different factors that may affect how a business operates such as interest rates, inflation rates, GDP and the level of unemployment. This paper will provide a detailed analysis of the macroeconomic environment of Canada and India and how these factors might affect Wal-Mart economic activities in these two nations.
Wal-Mart Company Overview
Wal-Mart Company is an American Multinational retail store founded in the year 1962 by Sam Walton. The company runs a chain of warehouse stores and discount department stores in different countries. The company headquarters is in Bentonville, United States. Walmart was incorporated in the year 1969 and began selling its shares to the public in 1972. The company operates in three trade sections Wal-Mart US, Sam’s Club, and Wal-Mart Superstores. The company has over 11,000 outlets in 28 different nations.
The Fortune Global 500 rated Wal-Mart stores to be the world largest company in terms of revenue and similarly it is rated the biggest private employer in the globe having about 2.2 million workers. Wal-Mart marketing strategy is selling quality products at low prices to improve the lives of their clients and both the clients and the community to save money and live a better live.
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. supply diverse assortment of products, services and brands in the market. Some of the products the company offers include beverages, dry and wet grocery, food, clothes, electronic accessories, furniture, clothes among others. The corporation offers a great selection of high-quality merchandise, welcoming services under their “Everyday Low prices” strategy. The industry in which Wal-Mart Stores operate is the retailing industry. In the retailing industry, companies offer merchandise and products for sale at a fixed location such as a store, online, or by mail.
Comparative analysis of major macroeconomic indicators in Canada and India
Canada is positioned as the 11nth major in the globe in terms of Nominal GDP and the 14nth largest when it comes to Purchasing Power Parity economy in the globe. Canada is part of Group of Seven (G7) as well as the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and is among the globe wealthiest countries (Nicoletta et al., 2010). The Canada is a developed economy chiefly controlled by the service, logging and oil industry. The company also tops in the seafood and fishing industry as well as entertainment and software industry.
On the other hand, India is positioned as the seventh in when using Nominal GDP and 14nth in relation to Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) (Ahluwalia, 2012). India is among the newly industrialized countries. It is a member of BRICS having an average growth rate of 7% for the last twenty years. India economy is rated among the fastest growing major economies in the world after China economy. India boasts of a young population, healthy savings and investment rates, low dependency ratio and high globalization rate. The primary source of revenue in India is the service sector. In fact, India is the major exporter of BPO services, software services, and other IT services followed by agricultural and industry sector.
GDP Growth Rate: This economic metric measure the rate at which the nation’s Gross Domestic Product over a period of one year. In Canada, the GDP annual Growth rate has increased by 1% in the second quarter of 2015 as compared to the previous year (IMF, 2015). Ranging from 1962 to 2015, the GDP annual growth rate in Canada averaged 3.24%. The GDP highest value was 8.80% attained in 1962 and a record of -3.98% in the year 1982. Statistics indicates that the wholesale trade dropped by 0.4% and the retail sector increased by 0.7%. This poses a mixed impact for Wal-Mart as it engages in both wholesale and retail trade. Therefore, Wal-Mart should concentrate more on the retail sector in Canada. The average GDP from 1998 to 2015 is 1.6% with an unsurpassed high of 5.30% in 2009 and a record low of -1.70% in at the beginning of 2009.
In India, the GDP annual growth rate has also increased but at a rate of 2.06 in the second quarter of 2015 as compared to the previous year. The retail industry has been enjoying a high growth rate in India paltry because of the high population consisting of young people and working population (Mohan & Chitradevi, 2014). Therefore, India is a favorable market for Wal-Mart as most of its operations are in the retail sector of the economy.
GDP per capita at constant prices: This metric refers to the measure of the total output of a nation computed by dividing the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with the sum of all the people in the country. This metric is paramount for indicating the relative performance of different countries. It is imperative to note that an increase in per capita GDP indicates positive economic growth.
According to International Monetary Fund, the value of GDP per capita at constant prices was 38184.62 Canadian Dollar in the year 2009(IMF, 2015). Canada GDP per capita income has been on the rise since 2009. Projections indicate that the GDP per capita income is expected to be 41765.85 by the end of 2015 which is an improvement by about 6,000 Canadian Dollar. This positive outlook indicates an increase in economic growth in real terms and, therefore, may present more opportunities for Wal-Mart because the people purchasing power has increased.
On the other hand, International Monetary Fund reported the GDP per capita at constant prices in India to be at 31464.97 Indian Rupee in the year 2009. International Monetary Fund project that this value will increase to 46723.21 by the end of 2015. This indicates that Indian economy is growing at a faster rate as compared to Canada. Therefore, Wal-Mart should concentrate on increasing its operation activities in India as compared to Canada.
Inflation Rate: inflation refers to the continued and persistent increase in the common level of prices of commodities and services in an economy. Inflation is felt greatly in the retail industry because an increase in inflation results in the decrease in purchasing power of the currency circulating in the economy. The inflation rate in Canada has been increasing gradually over the years. The consumer prices in Canada increase by 1.3% in the year that ended in August 2015. The inflation rate in Canada values at 3.19% in the period between 1915 and 2015. The highest inflation rate ever felt in 1920 which hit an unsurpassedhigh of 21.60% in 1920 and a record low of -17.80% in the year 1921 (Beers & Nadeau, 2014). This macroeconomic metric indicates that the cost of goods in Canada has been increasing over the years, and thus it is not favorable for Wal-Mart Supermarket. This trend is because of an increase in inflation rate results in the decrease in purchasing power of consumers.
The inflation rate increased by 3.66 percent year-on-year as at August 2015, a slight decrease from 3.69% increase in July this concurred with the market expectations. In fact, the inflation rate hit a record low this year in August; the current inflation rate is below the set target of the central bank that is 6%. This is a good indicator of a thriving economy and good news for the retail sector because decreasing inflation rate results in an increase in the purchasing power of the consumers.
From the above comparison, it is evident that India is favorable as compared to Canada in terms of the inflation rate. The inflation rate in Canada is on the rise while the inflation rate in India has been dropping significantly. Therefore, Wal-Mart should expand its operation in India to take advantage of the decreasing inflation rate and increasing the purchasing power of consumers living in India.
Unemployment rate: Unemployment rate also has an impact on the economy performance especially on the retail sector. Unemployment rate determines the consumption level in a country and marketers should understand the trends in their market before making an investment decision. The rate of unemployment in Canada increased from 6.80% to 7% between August and July 2015. The unemployment rate had an average of 7.73% over the last ten years with an unsurpassed value of 13.10% in December 1982 and a record low value of 2.90% in June 1966. This indicates that the changes in the level of unemployment is fairly balanced and does not fluctuate.
Consequently, the rate of unemployment in India has been declining over the last five years. The unemployment rate in India declined from 5.20% in 2012 to 4.90% in 2013 (Mohan & Chitradevi, 2014). The unemployment rate in India averaged 7.32 percent in the last 30 years with an unsurpassed value of 9.40% in 2009 and a record low of 4.90% in the year 2013. This trend indicates that the Indian economy can create employment opportunities annually to absorb the vibrant new workforce to the economy. Therefore, the purchasing power of individuals in India is high. As such, Wal-Mart should utilize these investment opportunities and invest in the Indian market as compared to the Canadian market.
Interest Rates: Interest rates refer to the cost of using an asset. That is the sum charged by a lender to a borrower for the exploitation of an asset. An interest rate is often expressed as a percentage of the principal value (Mohan & Chitradevi, 2014). Interest rates have different effects that ultimately reflect in consumption and investment in an economy. High-interest rates increase the cost of borrowing and thus may limit the expansion of Wal-Mart through the use of credit facilities. On the same note, the interest rate has an impact on consumption, an increase in interest rates result in a fall in consumption. Therefore, it may affect the volume sold by Wal-Mart in the Respective economies.
In Canada, the general interest rate is at 0.5% as at September 2015. This value is lower than the average interest rate of Canada which is 5.98%. This indicates that the cost of borrowing is low, and Wal-Mart can utilize the resource to expand their operations in the Canadian market. The consumption level is also high, and this may result in increasing demand for Wal-Mart goods and services in Canada.
On the other hand, the interest rate in India has been decreasing over the years the current interest rate is 6.75% as at September 2015.This value is slightly higher than the value of the average interest rate that is 6.71 in the period between 200 and 2009. The slight increase may be felt in the decrease in consumption level as the cost of borrowing has slightly increased and may result in fall in the general consumption in the Indian economy.
In terms of the General Government Structural Balance, the potential GDP in Canada was reported to be -2.04% of the potential GDP in the year 2009 (Beers & Nadeau, 2014). The International Monetary Fund projects that the General Government Structural Balance of the potential GDP to be 0.05%. The value of the general government structural balance comprises of asset prices movements, temporary financial sector, and expenditure items. The metric evaluates the government cyclically adjusted balance from nonstructural elements beyond the economic scope. On the other hand, the Indian government experienced a budget deficit of 4.50% of the GDP indicating that the government has to allocate more money for financing government activities in the country (Mohan & Chitradevi, 2014).
The Balance of Payments: refers to a financial metric that is sued to summarize a nation’s transaction with other nations. The balance of payment looks into the transactions between a nation’s residents and non-residents in terms of transfer of goods, services, income and financial claims. In Canada, the have a current account of -17398 CAD Million in the second quarter of 2015. This indicates that Canada is experiencing a current account deficit. However, the average value of the current account was valued at -1808.71 indicating that the nation current account has been improving. Canada international policies encourage foreign trade and foreign direct investment of multinationals in their region. These policies may prove beneficial, and Wal-Mart should seize the opportunity to invest in Canada.
Exchange rates also have effects on firms that export goods and import raw materials. A devaluation of currency is beneficial to multinational firms as it will reduce the exporting rates while an appreciation in exchange rates increases the cost of export. The Canadian Dollar has been trading at 1.30654 against the US Dollar. This indicates a moderate gain against the euro as the industrial production gained as a result of QE program. On the other hand, the Indian Rupee trades at 65.049 against the US Dollar indicating that the value of Canadian Dollar is higher compared to the Indian Rupee.
Recommendations and Conclusion
From the extensive research on the macroeconomic indicators in Canada and India, it is worth noting that investing in India is more profitable as compared to Canada. This notion is because India is categorized as one of the newly industrialized countries and one of the world’s fastest economies (Mohan & Chitradevi, 2014). Macroeconomic metrics indicates a moderate long-term economic growth prospective because of the Indian young population, low dependency ratio, decreasing interest rates and a positive GDP growth rate as compared to Canada.
The unemployment rate has been declining in India indicating an increase in Per Capita income. This trend is good as it will result in a rise in the general level of consumption as people purchasing power will increase. This is contrary to the Canadian unemployment rate that increasing over the years. The population is also low and thus the market share in the retail industry is lower as compared to India.
Therefore, Wal-Mart should focus on increasing its business operations to take advantage of the positive economic outlook for the Indian economy. The company has a potential of increasing its market share because of the high population in India. This population will provide market for the Wal-Mart goods and services and on the same note provide cheap labor and hence cut down cost of production.
Nicoletta Batini, Thomas Dowling, Grace Bin Li, Evridiki Tsounta (all WHD), & John Kiff (MCM). (2010, November 24). Selected Issues Paper; IMF Paper Issue. Retrieved from http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2010/cr10378.pdf
Ahluwalia, I. J. (2012). India’s economic reforms and development: Essays for Manmohan Singh. Oxford University Press.
Burnett, K., & Newman, L. (2014). 2 Urban policy regimes and the political economy of street food in Canada and the United States. Street Food: Culture, Economy, Health and Governance, 46.
Beers, D., & Nadeau, J. S. (2014). Database of Sovereign Defaults, 2015 (Revised May 2015). Bank of Canada.
Mohan, C., & Chitradevi, N. (2014). IMPACT OF MACRO ECONOMIC FACTORS ON BANKING INDEX (CNX BANK) IN INDIA. International Journal of Trade & Global Business Perspectives, 3(1), 722.
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Coding of the Interview and Theme Analysis
You must have learn about the core elements of qualitative data analysis. Coding the data is the first step. In this process, you reduce the data gathered into segments, assigning names as you go along. Your assignment for this week is to code your interview transcript to find themes. Be sure to consider your research question as you begin to code.
Your assignment should contain the following elements:
1. Your research question for this interview
2. A list of the codes you developed for your interview transcript
3. A description of your thinking or working process, explaining how you developed your codes, including any evolution of your coding system
4. In-text coding for your interview. This means that you are to select chunks of data and apply the codes to your interview transcript. Keep your interview transcript intact as a whole and show where you have applied the codes to the text.
SAMPLE ANSWER
The qualitative analysis is necessary after the preparation of the interview transcript. Thematic coding will be the form of qualitative analysis that will involve the identification and recording of the texts or images that are linked to the specific themes (Joffe, 2011). In this case, the information will be categorized to create a framework of thematic ideas relating to it. Coding of the interviews will make it easier to retrieve the coded labels for further analysis and comparison (Vaismoradi et al, 2013). The interview concerns the research on the relationship between the college behaviors and actions in while considering past experiences and memories in high school. The interview questions include the following.
What are your most outstanding memories in high school?
How did it make you feel about the school?
What are the memorable experiences with the students either pleasant or unpleasant?
Do you recall any unpleasant smell associated with your high school?
What are the memorable visual images about your high school?
Are there outstanding images between your college as compared to your high school?
Has the high school experiences compare to those in college?
These are some of the questions used to interview the sample population in the research study. The responses to the questions were categorized to either be events or persons. The code 1 and 2 were used to represent the negative and positive responses respectively. The answers given were coded to be visual, auditory, olfactory, gustatory, tactile or unclear depending on the question’s structure. The respective codes used would be 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e and 1f for the nature of the answer given. The alphabetical letters would be used to categorize the level of agreement e.g. A for agreeing, D for disagree, SA for strongly agree and also SD for strongly disagree. The percentage of agreement was also considered when it came to the categorizing of answers given after the interview (Vaismoradi et al, 2013).
The working process was followed in development and evolution of the coding system. In this case, identification and coding of the themes would be made possible and easier(Joffe,2011). Defining of the coding categories is the first step undertaken e.g. the respondents will either be classified as male or female. The same definitions are used in coding of similar interview materials. Assigning of category symbols will be necessary when it comes to analyzing the qualitative data (Decuir et al, 2013). The color, letter or the geometric shape may be used. The assigned symbol will indicate both the answer category and also the question dimension. The measuring reliability that is closely related to the percentage of agreement is crucial when it comes to the development of the codes. The sources of unreliability will be easily detected by proper checking of the interview transcript. The level of agreement or disagreement will be considered while developing the codes for the responses given (Decuir et al, 2013). The procedure followed would start at fully describing the different types of responses and later on the analytical coding of the interview data. Making of records about the ideas and the thoughts relating to the codes of the interview is necessary. Accurate numbering is crucial in the generation of the coding system (Vaismoradi et al, 2013).
The open coding system was developed in categorizing of responses acquired for the interview. The accumulation of the variables will lead to the emergence of the themes. The questions would be labeled 1 to 7 with sub-categories of the questions named as 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 e.g. for question one. An example is a response to the question, Are there unpleasant smells associate with your high school? The yes represented by 1 and No represented by 0 would be used. The value two would represent the code for non-response. The female and male will be categorized as F and M respectively. The coding of the data to get the themes will mainly involve the breaking down of responses given into first level concepts or the second level categories (Decuir et al, 2011). Categorizing of the chunks of data will make it easier to interpret data and also efficient analysis.
References
DeCuir-Gunby, J. T., Marshall, P. L., & McCulloch, A. W. (2011). Developing and using a codebook for the analysis of interview data: an example from a professional development research project. Field Methods, 23(2), 136-155.
Joffe, H. (2011). Thematic analysis. Qualitative methods in mental health and psychotherapy: A guide for students and practitioners, 209-223.
Vaismoradi, M., Turunen, H., & Bondas, T. (2013). Content analysis and thematic analysis: Implications for conducting a qualitative descriptive study. Nursing & health sciences, 15(3), 398-405.
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Small-Scale Qualitative ResearchProject—Conduct the Interview
Order Instructions:
For this paper the writer will have to reference to 113375, 113394, and 113444 to be able to complete this paper as it is a continuation of what was done on those previous papers. The writer has to properly transcribe the interview and it should not be more than 20 minutes as mention.
Small-Scale Qualitative Research Project—Conduct the Interview
This week you will be conducting an interview based on the interview guide you completed in Week 2.
For this assignment,
• Review the media resources for planning and conducting interviews in preparation for conducting your interview.
• Your interview should last 15–20 minutes and must be audio-recorded since this is the standard for good practice in qualitative research interviews. Please save your interview audio-recording in case your Instructor asks to review it.
• You will then transcribe the entire interview from beginning to end. (If your interview lasts longer than 20 minutes, transcribe only 20 minutes maximum.)
SAMPLE ANSWER
Interviewer: How are you?
Emily Lawson: Good. How are you?
Interviewer: I am fine. Thank you for agreeing to have this interview with me. I will not take much of your busy time. The interview normally takes about 15-20 minutes. Your confidentiality will be maintained and I will give you a sample of the transcript before publishing. As I told you before, I am conducting a research to get an idea on the management practices for future business management and production. Do you have any questions before we begin?
Emily Lawson: No. Just go ahead.
Interviewer: What are the common human resource management techniques that can motivate employees to work hard without any financial compensation?
Emily Lawson: Generally, employees are motivated by appraising them on work done, including them in overall company projects, as well as involving in major decisions that affect the company. They feel appreciated which motivates them to work harder.
Interviewer: What policies in HRM can optimize productivity?
Emily Lawson: The best policies in HRM that can maximize productivity are; paying employees well, constant promotions of the employees, giving out bonuses to employees for extra work done, and giving commissions especially to sales people. Other non-financial policies include team work activities to make employees part and parcel of the organization as well as periodical on-job training.
Interviewer: Give examples of the policies that have succeeded in increasing productivity in your current or previous position?
Emily Lawson: Since we specialize in provision of qualified personnel to potential recruiters, we normally focus on the job training to the prospective employees. We train the employees on what is expected of them while in the job and provide both theoretical and practical skills that will make them experts in their field.
Interviewer: Provide details of human resource management strategies those employees would positively prevent staff turnover and possibly attract employees from other rival companies besides financial or monetary compensation.
Emily Lawson: A strategy that is mostly effective is the lean approach. When employees are entrusted with the firm’s activities and decision making, they are likely to feel secure in the company and not have the need to resign. Also, ensuring that an employee gets promoted after reaching a certain minimum target or years of work will highly influence employee retention as well as attract employees from rival companies.
Interviewer: Can you outline stock options strategies that can motivate employees without diluting the company’s stock values?
Emily Lawson: One strategy is setting a portion of the stock to be bought by desiring employees and making them shareholders. Another way is giving the employees a clue on the next price for stock before making it public.
Interviewer: Can you explain how making employees shareholders act as a motivator?
Emily Lawson: I will. Shareholders receive value for their investments in form of dividends. If the company is performing poorly, no dividends are available to be given out. But when the company is performing well, returns are generated for the shareholders. When the employees are shareholders, they will be motivated to perform better so as to improve the company value and eventually increase their share value.
Interviewer: Last question for this interview, how often do you review your HRM policies?
Emily Lawson: As often as possible. We make sure we are up to date with the changes both in the internal and external environment for sustainability. The policies have to be reviewed so as to maximize productivity.
Interviewee: Thank you for your time Emily. I really appreciate.
Emily Lawson: It’s my pleasure. You are welcome.
Interviewee: Thank you. Do have a good day.
Emily Lawson: Thank you. Good day.
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500 word Essay addressing:
o What skills and qualities do you bring to the Nurse Practitioner role?
o What are the most important things you need to learn to be a successful Nurse Practitioner?
o How does the Lewis University mission integrate with your personal and professional identity?
I am attaching my resume as well to connect it to my skills.
Thank you
JULIA GRIGORIAN, RN
308 E 11th Ave
Naperville, IL 60563
917-945-1595
yuliyagrigorian@yahoo.com
NURSING EXPERIENCE
Coney Island Hospital Brooklyn, NY
Case Management Department March 2013-June2015
Care Manager
Provided care coordination services to a select group of patients during transition from acute care to the next level of care and community. As an Inpatient Care Manager, I was involved in patient’s one on one education on disease process and flare up symptoms prevention measures, follow up appointment scheduling and transitional telephonic follow up according to the components of the Re-Engineered Discharge (Project RED).
Educated the patient/family about her or his diagnosis and disease management, how to prevent the flare up symptoms of chronic diseases throughout of hospital stay, provided the patient and family with the educational booklets and materials, assessed patient’s or family degree of understanding with Teach Back method, organized post discharge services, coordinated and planned patient’s appointments with physicians, follow up tests and studies, instructed on discharge medications and provided telephonic reinforcement of the discharge plan. Utilized my advanced clinical skills to facilitate the provision of care including the assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation of patient care. Promoted and evaluated the effective utilization of resources using my clinical knowledge, awareness of community services to achieve optimal clinical and resource outcome.
Compassionate Care Hospice Brooklyn, NY
Nurse Liaison Intake Dept June 2011-October 2013
The Hospice Nurse Liaison act as an advocate for area hospice programs and providing education for healthcare professionals. Serves as a liaison between referral sources, patients and families, advocate for hospice patients to ensure receipt of entitled benefits. Work with physicians, social workers, and other medical professionals to educate about Hospice Medicare benefit program and hospice philosophy and criteria of hospice admission. Assess each referral to determine the appropriateness for hospice admission, based on individual hospice criteria. Inform patients and their families about the hospice philosophy, goals and services to meet patient’s needs. For patients deemed appropriate for hospice, conduct a full assessment and admission to hospice services. Encourage timely consideration by physicians for hospice referrals as an alternative mode of care, assisting in identification of appropriate patients for the purpose of improved palliation of symptoms and supportive care for terminally ill patients. Perform other duties as per request.
St.Mary’s Healthcare Lombardi New Hyde Park, NY
Care Coordinator June 2010-March2011
Responsible for arranging and coordinating the continuity of care for pediatric and adult patients referred for Home Care, maintaining clinical records in accordance with New York State and Federal regulations, and Home Care policy and procedures, providing Home Care nursing service in accordance with the plan of treatment signed by the physician, making the initial evaluation visit to the patient and coordinating the total plan of care, evaluating, and regularly re-evaluating the nursing needs of the patient, teaching and counseling the patient and family regarding nursing procedures, evaluating the Home Health Aides on a continuous basis, creating and reviewing 485 Forms and f/u with physicians, families and all other disciplines, planning the budget with Medicaid HRA representative.
Caring Hospice Services Brooklyn, NY
Case Manager/ Intake Nurse February 2010-June 2011
Provided direct nursing care with special emphasis on control of pain and other symptoms to the Hospice patients. Implemented plan of care based on nursing process. Performed ongoing assessment of patient’s condition, physical care needs and needs of family for support in giving care. Train, supervise and support the family in provision of care to the patient.Referred patient and family to other appropriate Hospice discipline and other community resources as appropriate. Participated in team meeting to enhance team communication, coordination and quality of services. Provided palliative care and wound care to Hospice patients.
North Vista Hospital April 2009- Sept.2009
Medical-Surgical Unit Las Vegas
Working in Medical Surgical Unit, focusing on direct care for medical surgical patients. Provide acute care, including pain control, blood transfusions, wound care. Provide assessment and planning for individualized patient care. Educate patients on effect of surgery and rehab methods, provide discharge planning and teaching. Monitor patient conditions, updating physicians and family as needed. Respond quickly and accurately to changes in condition or response to treatment. Accurate documentation and charting medical records, reporting to the next shift with all necessary information.
Visiting Nurse Service of NY Brooklyn, NY
VNS Choice MLTC March 2007-Oct 2008
Nurse Consultant/Case Manager
Provided care management through a collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation, and advocacy to geriatric patients. Maintained members in an independent living situation. Ensure consistent care along entire health care continuum by assessing and closely monitoring member’s needs and status. Provided nursing services and authorized/coordinated services within a captivated managed care system. Collaborated with primary care practitioners, interdisciplinary team and family members to develop a patient specific plan of care. Reviewed patients records for state requirements. Provided palliative care and wound care to oncology patients.
New York Community Hospital Sept 2006- Jan 2007
Medical-Surgical Nurse
Duties include:
Care of cardiac and telemetry patients, diabetic and dialysis patients, cancer patients, patients with PEG and NG tubes, preoperative and postoperative patients and other patients with all kind of precautions. Administration of patient medications including cardiac drugs and insulin, patient treatments, IV insertion and therapy, Foley catheter insertion, performing of EKGs, telemetry interpretation and monitoring telemetry patients, wound care. Patient and family teaching of pre-op and post-op for any kind of surgery, providing discharge patient planning, teaching and instructions. Proper documentation and charting in medical records, reporting to the next shift with all necessary information.
EDUCATION:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Chamberlain College of Nursing, Illinois, 2015
Master of Computer Science, Pace University, New York, 2002
Associate degree in Nursing, Tashkent Nursing School, Russia, 1997
Bachelor of Science in Linguistic, University of World Languages, Russia, 1995
LICENSURE & CERTIFICATION:
New York State License of Professional Registered Nurse No 575878
Nevada State Board of Nursing License No RN 61716
IV Certification Course, 2006
BCLS Certification 2009
NYS Mandated Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting, 2003
Infection Control and Barrier Precautions , 2015
PRI Certificate , 2014
SKILLS: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and other programs. Fluent in English and Russian.
REFERENCES: Available upon request.
SAMPLE ANSWER
The Nursing Career
My experience and skills will be valuable for me to take the Nurse Practitioner position. I understand that my skills and experience such as coordination of nursing services; provision of education/ information to the patient/ family concerning their diagnosis or conditions; symptom prevention/ management and following up on patient progress will be helpful to the new role. I have also managed chronic diseases and their associated symptoms. I am capable of planning, organizing and coordination of patient appointment services. I can work in the assessment, planning, intervention and the evaluation of the patient care services.
The other personal and professional qualities that I can offer are as follows. I can actually optimize the use of available resource designed for maximum patient gain or benefit. I don’t comprise on the wastage of resources, they are limited and hence should be used wisely and optimally. Earlier, I had worked as an advocacy officer to oversee that patients’ rights were being obeyed and their benefits offered in its entirety.
I am competent in organizing, planning and provision of continuity of care services in accordance to existing laws and guidelines. My scope of experience is not only limited to inpatient care, but I can also handle outpatients and home care services to a satisfactory degree of success. Hospice patients normally require specialized services. I have worked with them, largely by managing their pain, educating their caregivers, offering palliative services and wound management services.
I have also interacted and provided service and care to surgical patients. This involved the provision of urgent services such as blood transfusion, pain management, wound management and changing treatment intervention plans when deemed necessary. In this time was responsible for charting medical records, providing patient updates to their family members and the physicians in charge.
Nurse Practitioners are expected to offer safe, quality and effective healthcare services. These are the three basic skills I have to master effectively. I am expected to achieve patients’ satisfaction and positive feedback outcomes after the provision of healthcare services. This will be a hard endeavor to attain as patient satisfaction due to the fact that its success depends on a lot of factors. But I have to do my best to the best of my knowledge, skills, experience and in accordance to the existing professional codes of conduct. I have to be assessing myself always based on the outcomes, safety, quality, and on the effectiveness of care. Training needs and recommendations will be based on the same (Stanik-Hutt, Newhouse, White, Johantgen, Bass, Zangaro, Wilson, Fountain, Steinwachs, Heindel & Weiner, 2013).
The Lewis University (2015) provides an environment for a busy and complex nursing environment. It also provides for a training based on the current nursing challenges in accordance to current knowledge and evidence based studies. The training will also focus on the safety of healthcare service and current approved therapeutic intervention measures. The training in the university will also boost my career based o the quality of services I will offer; performance based on viable evidence; and to systematically address clinical patient issues (Lewis University, 2015),
References
Stanik-Hutt, J. Newhouse, R. P., White, K. M., Johantgen, M., Bass, E. B., Zangaro, G., Wilson, R., Fountain, L., Steinwachs, D. M., Heindel, L., & Weiner, J. P. (2013). The Quality Effectiveness of Care Provided by Nurse Practitioners. Journal of Nurse Practitioners, 9(8), 492 – 500.e13.
Topic: Analysis of the David-Bathsheba story.
write a 1400 word paper. You must follow current Turabian format and present a analysis and discussion of the chosen topic. A minimum of 7 scholarly sources must be used when writing this paper. Biblical evidence and explanation of key biblical texts is essential. Sources that are cited, referenced, and/or quoted must be footnoted, and the paper must be your original work. In light of the length of this paper, avoid lengthy quotations and make sure that the paper stays on topic. Use headings to mark off the major sections of your paper. A bibliography of sources used must be included.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Introduction
The story of David and Bathsheba as given account of in 2nd Samuel 11 provides an illusion of the beginning of King David’s failures and compromises echoed for the generations that are to come. The scriptures depict a narrative that is full of tension, deceit and irony with the aim of painting a picture of how the human heart can be corrupt following a devastation that results in the event that one of Gods servants turns his eyes from the Lord[1]. David as referred to in scripture was considered a man after Gods’ heart, a factor that brings controversies about his adulterous relationship with Bathsheba.
David’s deceitful attempt to cover up this sin eventually lead to another atrocity that saw Uriah who was Bathsheba’s husband murdered a crime that displeased the Lord and resulted in immense consequences[2]. To many, this analogy remains a story of judgement and condemnation while others see it as a story of grace, hope and restoration. However, those who admit the element of sin and accept the judgement of God, restoration and grace remains the essence of this account. This paper, therefore, aims at analyzing the story of David and Bathsheba as depicted in scripture.
Analysis of the David-Bathsheba Story
The books of Samuel reveal David as a highly spoken of the king also inferred to as the skillful player, a man of war and valor who was considered prudent in speech. Scriptures also mention that the Lord was with David I everything he did. However, the author of the book begins in 11; 1 with a statement that contradicts the motives of David. The story of David and Bathsheba begins in 2nd Samuel 11; 1[3] in which the scripture mentions the kings battling while David stayed back in Jerusalem. It is essential to note that at the very root of David’s issues, he is portrayed as a King who wasn’t where God had planned for Him to be in the beginning. Thinking of this, if David took the initiative to engage himself with other kings in the battlefield where he ought to have been instead of remaining back in the palace peeping at naked women, chances are this incidence would never have occurred.
According to some scholars, David may have been presumed as undergoing depression or passing through a middle life crisis, a factor that caused him not to be where he belonged. This according to my opinion marks the first step in falling[4].In as much as Bathsheba is an important character in this account, very little is given in this account to provide the readers with the understanding of who she was at first. Scripture only mentions of her beautiful physic and in verse 5 she is depicted as sending word to David of her pregnancy. This, therefore, gives a vague description of Bathsheba. However, the Bible reveals much of Bathsheba’s husband known as Uriah. Uriah is painted as a faithful King, who served in the battle against the Amorites, and was included in the list of David’s mighty men in chapter 23 who managed to lead the Warriors[5].
As the author of the book gives a description of David and Bathsheba’s adultery and the victims attempt to conceal this sin, Uriah is shown as an honorable, committed and loyal man who remained obligated to David’s kingship. David, therefore, took advantage of this and slept with Uriah’s wife. Scriptures, therefore, show the irony of Israel’s spiritual leader battling issues of loyalty from one of his servants, an element that leaves the readers of these books disillusioned as to why a God-fearing leader would stoop so low in hiding his transgressions that yielded judgment upon himself[6]. David takes another advantage of causing Joab to sin by asking him to put Uriah to death. Joab, in this case, is depicted as obedient to the orders of David rather than those of God, a factor that entangles him in this sin as well.
One thing that comes into my mind that needs a critical answer is in understands the role of Bathsheba in this. At some point, I am tempted to think Bathsheba was an innocent victim who feels pray to David’s abuse of power. Another aspect that challenges my thought is the reason behind the narrators attempt to provide a vague image of Bathsheba’s character through the account. This draws me into digging into the culture of David’s period and how the community viewed women[7]. Through this, it is essential to note that women were considered as unequal compared to the men. In many instances, women were seen as property. This would perhaps shed some light on the thought that Bathsheba could have been an innocent woman who was subdued by the power of King David and in abiding by the culture; she was forced to submit to David’s authority. This could be the reason as to why little is mentioned by the narrator on the character of this Bathsheba.
In as much as this thoughts may be substantial, the only truth that can never be justified is in the fact that both David and Bathsheba committed sin. In the next chapter, the author of this book courageously records the objections of a woman who fell upon the evil advances of a man. The scripture reveals David’s son Ammon in his attempt to woo his sister into lying. The Bible shows that Ammon’s sister refused to this request asking his brother not to violate her for such a thing had never been done in Israel. If at all Bathsheba was innocent then why doesn’t Tamer mention Bathsheba in her conversation with her brother? Well in my view, it could be possible to determine that Bathsheba may not have offered herself to David but consented to the desire of this King.
Application of this Story
To begin with, it is essential to mention that this account teaches the believers today about God. God hates sin at all times and has zero tolerance on those who choose to sin, a factor that reminds us of how the writer of Hebrews described God. The author mentions God character as one that loves righteousness and hates wickedness[8]. In line with this, God, therefore, subjects those of His with harsh disciplinary actions on those who disobey Him. God carried out disciplinary measures on David by bringing the death of his sons include the illegitimate son as well. This action was attributed to the fact that God did not want the sword to leave David’s house.
No matter how dreadful the sin we commit or the manner in which the punishment is harsh, God’s grace wipes away the penalty of sin from us just like in the instance of David. This can be depicted in Nathans words to David that the Lord has put away his sin. God’s grace is, therefore, sufficient to save the humankind.
Secondly, it is vital to take note that unconfessed sin that is concealed would lead to greater sin. David was so concerned about his image, a factor that prevented him from repenting and stopping his wickedness. He, however, decided to conceal this sin and went into greater depths that resulted in the mushrooming of more sin. It is, therefore, essential for the contemporary Christians to repent of their sin than conceal the sins.
In addition to this, it is also worth of learning for the Christians today to refrain from idleness. If David were at the right place that the Lord required him, he would not have been entangled in this sin. We need to avoid idleness by taking advice from the writers of the New Testament that mentioned we ought to be watchful and sober-minded by setting our minds on the things above and to be filled by the power of the Holy Ghost.
Conclusion
This narrative, therefore, gives a depiction of how we need Gods Anointed one Jesus Christ in order to atone for our sins, a factor that reconciles us with God. The corruption of David’s heart in this gives a picture of how man’s heart can turn deceitful. Like David, we all fall short of the glory of God[9]. This clearly points out to the fact that we need Jesus Christ more than we do any other thing in this life.
Bibliography
Estep. 2013. “David & Bathsheba.” American Record Guide 76, no. 2: 104-105. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
Garroway, Kristine Henriksen. 2013. “Was Bathsheba The Original Bridget Jones? A New Look At Bathsheba on Screen and In Biblical Scholarship.” Nashim: A Journal Of Jewish Women’s Studies & Gender Issues no. 24: 53-73. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
Kibble, David G. 2003. “Nathan Rebukes King David.” Expository Times 114, no. 10: 340. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
Kilgore, Robert. 2014. “The Politics of King David in Early Modern English Verse.” Studies In Philology 111, no. 3: 411-441. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
Kim, Uriah. 2002. “Uriah the Hittite: A Context of Struggle For Identity.” Semeia no. 90/91: 69. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
Lowery, Richard H. 2003. “David, Bathsheba, Nathan, and War.” Tikkun 18, no. 2: 23. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
Snyman, S. D. (Fanie). 2014. “Some thoughts on the relationship between Old Testament studies and systematic theology.” Verbum ET Ecclesia 35, no. 1: 1-7. Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost (accessed October 6, 2015).
[1]. Estep. 2013. “David & Bathsheba.” American Record Guide 76, no. 2: 104-105.
[3] . Snyman, S. D. (Fanie). 2014. “Some thoughts on the relationship between Old Testament studies and systematic theology.” Verbum ET Ecclesia 35, no. 1: 1-7.
[5]. Kilgore, Robert. 2014. “The Politics of King David in Early Modern English Verse.” Studies in Philology 111, no. 3: 411-441.
[6]. Kim, Uriah. 2002. “Uriah the Hittite: A Context of Struggle for Identity.” Semeia no. 90/91: 69.
[7] . Lowery, Richard H. 2003. “David, Bathsheba, Nathan, and War.” Tikkun 18, no. 2: 23.
[8]. Garroway, Kristine Henriksen. 2013. “Was Bathsheba The Original Bridget Jones? A New Look At Bathsheba on Screen and In Biblical Scholarship.” Nashim: A Journal Of Jewish Women’s Studies & Gender Issues no. 24: 53-73
[9]. Kibble, David G. 2003. “Nathan Rebukes King David.” Expository Times 114, no. 10: 340.
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Six reader response journal entries; three for each novel.
Two character development charts.
SAMPLE ANSWER
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Journals
My first impression after reading the novel mainly on Hassan was on how the author described him. His perfect round face that is described to resemble a China doll. His face has a flattened nose and eyes that were narrow and slanting his eyes were of varying colors from sapphire, to gold or even green. He is described by the author to have a pointed chin. Hassan is said never to deny Amir anything he desired. The author paints a picture of a man who would go to the edge in order to assist a partner or friend.
Hosseini uses a hyperbole in his descriptions of Baba. He tells of how the character wrestled a bear with no weapon but his bare hands. The story portrays baba as a strong individual. To drive the point home, the author indicates that had this story been of someone else the people would have dismissed it as untrue. The character is depicted in the novel to hold a lot of power and respect of all people. Everyone believes what he or she hears from him. The author further depicts him as a “Hurricane” who would uproot a willow tree or even kill the devil by his glare alone.
The author shows greed in Amir who wants Baba all for himself. He avoids all cases of Hassan being present fearing he can impress Baba and snatch him away from him. As a reader, I understand that Amir is like an unwanted child who works exceedingly hard to please his father. To Baba, the only unlawful thing is theft and therefore what Amir has been learning in school is not helpful. He wishes to see Amir as businessperson or a wealthy man in the future.
Rahim Khan – Baba’s best friend and business partner Amir’s uncle
Hassan – Amir’s best friend and servant
Ali – Hassan’s father
Complicated Kindness by Miriam Toews
Journals
The term “Mennonite” to modern people, has differing meanings. However, according to the author, the area that provides the novels background is in Russia. It focuses on people from Mennonites in Manitoba. My understanding is that the author tries to paint a picture of a society that will give the readers a point to think about as they read her work.
Naomi Nickel is portrayed as a protagonist in the novel. My attention was drawn by her curiosity and defiance. She gives me the idea of normal sixteen years old who is very inquisitive. Her nature is similar to other teenagers who often find themselves in conflict with the society they live in. she later learns that her sister ran away with her boyfriend which further drives her curiosity.
The novel also gives me the picture of a family living in a village, where everyone is expected to do as those in authority tell them. Naomi becomes a victim of these beliefs where she has to conform or live in opposition with the society and her family. Her nature makes her a target of confrontations between hospital staff, her teacher Mr. Quiring and her father. Eventually her father gives her the freedom to do as the desires. The life of Naomi makes readers think of the sacrifices parents have to make. It also depicts what teenagers go through and the life lessons of their endeavors.
Character Chart
Naomi nickel also Nomi – main character and a protagonist
Raymond Nickel also ray – Naomi’s father who is reserved. Caught in conflict between family and society
Natasha nickel also Tash – Naomi’s older sister,
Travis – Naomi’s broadminded boyfriend
Hans Rosenfeldt – Naomi’s uncle, poster conservationist
Lydia Voth – Naomi’s friend from a conservative family
References
Hosseini, K. (2009). The kite runner.Review. London: Bloomsbury.
Toews, M. (2014). A complicated kindness.
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