Business Organisation and Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Business Organisation and Policy - Essay Example Strategic management has commonly been portrayed as revolving around the discrete phases of formulation, implementation, and control, carried out in almost cascading steps (Mintzberg, Ahlstrand and Lampel, 2008). These are three steps of the planned corporate approach to strategy involves a formal process to strategy formation: problem awareness, the development of solutions and the selection of a solution (Forbes and Fletcher, 2006). In the same context, Marlo (2006) denoted a planned corporate strategy comprising of a declaration of specific and expressed intentions, supported with formal controls. Jauch and Osborn (2006) commented with his realization that towards a successful outcome of the strategy, a firm structure is necessary for an organization. Hence all decisions made from the top management can be carried out throughout the organization, with the "people" convinced and act in ways that are expected to create desirable results ad hoc to the plan. Therefore, strategy-making authority rests with top management, committing a centralized power in an organization. In view of the forward looking nature of a planned corporate strategy, Mazzolini (2008) observed that goals or objective fulfillments are the critical outcome of the strategy. In a foresight, Snow and Hambrick (2007) notes that the planned co... Harrison and Philips (2006) found out that a planned corporate strategy is often billed as a future oriented activity, merely projecting the recent past into the future. Through this process, it carries out operational planning, project planning and strategic planning constantly, making sure that top management holds the influence and control for the undertaking in the future. The basic concept behind planned corporate strategy is just exactly what the name implies meaning that it is planned corporate therefore at best a guess/forecast which then is the basis for any type of decision making. Typically, organisations will "plan"/forecast variables that they foresee that will have an future impact on their business, so they anticipate certain events to occur in the future, and as a result of this anticipation they design and implement a strategy to effectively allocate the proper resources in place to either minimise or maximise respectively the negative or positive effects of the event. In essence, it allows an organization to "see the bigger picture" of the challenges and opportunities ahead of them. Any form of planned corporate strategy will contain some element of contingency planning, though not much, but these contingencies are not the focal point of planned corporate strategy. Opponents of this type of strategy believe that this strategy is at best a guess, which could be totally wrong. An example of such a strategy failing was the lack of business planners to adequately factor "terrorism issues" in their business planning, The business planners in the airline industry were hit the hardest during 9/11, as their planned corporate strategy had no contingency to

Types of writing Essay Example for Free

Types of writing Essay Compare and Contrast This type of writing allows the writer to point out similarities and differences about topics, subjects or objects. Compare means to identify how your topics are alike or similar. You state what they have in common. On the other hand, contrast means to identify what is different about your your topic. When contrasting, you state what makes the topic, subject or object unique or one of a kind. In writing to compare and contrast, you include both the similarities and the differences into the one piece of writing so the reader can grasp the big picture. In this type of writing, you might be asked to compare and contrast two animals you find in Africa. Comparison and Contrast A comparison and contrast writing is going to have two topics usually. A comparison is going to show the similarities among ideas, situations, people, and things, whereas contrast is going to show the differences. There has to be a reason for the comparison or contrast. There should be several points which are being compared between the two subjects. This type of writing can be organized by using either the point-by-point method or the whole-to-whole. Four Types of Writing: There are four types of writing or four writing styles that are generally used. Knowing all these four different types of writing and their usages are important for any writer. A writer’s style is a reflection of his personality, his unique style, his voice and his way to approach his audience and readers. Generally there are four different types or styles of writing. Following are their names and details: 1. Expository Writing: Expository writing is a subject-oriented writing style, in which the main focus of the author is to tell you about a given topic or subject, and leave out his personal opinions. He furnishes you with relevant facts and figures and does not include his opinions. This is one of the most common type of writing styles, which you always see in text books and usually â€Å"How – to† articles, in which the author tells you about a given subject, as how to do something. Expository This is a fancy way of saying explain or inform. So, this is writing that explains something. You may be writing how to make  a peanut butter and jelly sandwich if you are asked to write an Expository essay. In Social Studies, you may be asked to inform readers of how a war began or about how pyramids ever came to be. You are informing readers. Like Descriptive writing, you see Expository writing in books, magazines, and newspaper articles. Key Points: * Expository writing usually explains something in a process * Expository writing is often equipped with facts and figures * Expository writing is usually in a logical order and sequence 2. Descriptive writing: Descriptive writing is a style of writing which focuses on describing a character, an event or a place in great details. It is sometimes poetic in nature in which the author is specifying the details of the event rather than just the information of that event happened. Descriptive Like the word says, you describe. Use your senses to describe the people and places you are writing about. What do you see, hear, smell taste and feel. The more detail you can add the better your descriptive writing becomes. Create a picture for readers through description so they can step into your story and be a part of it. This type of writing is frequently used and may be found in books as well as magazines and newspaper articles. Description A description is going to describe a topic while giving a general impression of the topic. Examples are going to be used which help shape the readers view of the topic. Sensory details should be used to support the examples. This will make the reader feel like they are actually at the place, or seeing the person or object. Example: In descriptive writing, the author will not just say: â€Å"The vampire killed his lover† He will change the sentence, focusing on more details and descriptions, like: â€Å"The red-eyed, bloody vampire, flushed his rusty teeth into the soft skin of his lover, and ended her life.† Key Points: * It is often poetic in nature * It describes places, people, events, situations or locations in a highly-detailed manner. * The author visualizes you what he sees, hears, tastes, smells and feels. 3. Persuasive Writing: Persuasive writing, unlike ‘Expository Writing’, contains the opinions, biasness and justification of the author. Persuasive writing is a type of writing which contains justifications and reasons to make someone believe on the point the writer is talking about. Persuasive writing is for persuading and convincing on your point of view. It is often used in complain letters, when you provide reasons and justifications for your complaint; other copywriting texts, T.V commercials, affiliate marketing pitches etc. are all different types of persuasive writing, where author is persuading and convincing you on something he wants you to do and/or believe. Persuasive Has a friend ever tried to get you to change your mind about something? Then, that person was trying to persuade you. If you wrote out your conversation, that would have been Persuasive writing! With Persuasive writing, a writer tries to change your mind or your point of view. Using facts and opinions, the writer tries to get you to see things his/her way. Politics overflows with writing and speeches by people trying to persuade others to their way of thinking. Sometimes, in newspapers and magazines, you see Persuasive writing in articles called editorials. Key Points: * Persuasive writing is equipped with reasons, arguments and justifications * In persuasive writing, the author takes a stand and asks you to believe his point of view. * If often asks for a call or an action from the readers. 4. Narrative Writing: Narrative writing is a type of writing in which the author places himself as the character and narrates you to the story. Novels, short stories, novellas, poetry, biographies can all fall in the narrative writing style. Simply, narrative writing is an art to describe a story. It answers the question: â€Å"What happened then?† Narrative This is the kind of writing where you get to tell a story. Everyone loves to hear story, especially about themselves, which would be a Personal Narrative. A story will use literary elements like characters, a setting, a plot and a theme. From  novels to screenplays to plays, they are all narratives because they tell a story. Narration A narration is basically the telling of a story, but it should have some moral or some other reason why it is important. The narration needs to have a main idea which will be supported by the events of the story. A good narration is also going to have plenty of details about all of the events that occurred within the story thats being told. Another rule for narration is that events should be in the order that they actually happened. The writing shouldnt skip around in time. Key Points: * In narrative writing, a person, being a narrative, tells a story or event. * Narrative writing has characters and dialogues in it. * Narrative writing has definite and logical beginnings, intervals and endings. * - Narrative writing often has situations like disputes, conflicts, actions, motivational events, problems and their solutions.Top of Form Bottom of Form Analytical Writing, or, What Makes Something What It Is. This type of writing makes a detailed examination of something in order to understand its nature and its essential features. In an English Literature essay about Thomas Hardy’s poetry, it isn’t good enough to say ‘The Darkling Thrush’ is a powerful poem. You need to say how and why the poem is powerful by looking at its component parts – e.g. adjectives, images, rhymes – and saying how they work individually and how they work together to achieve particular effects. In a management essay asking you to analyse the relevance of a particular theory to modern organizations, you would need to outline the essential features of the theory and relate them to organizational examples. Chronological Writing, or, What Happened And When. This type of writing relates a sequence of events. An obvious place this is used is in history essays but you would also use it in an English Literature essay if you need to say briefly what happens inOliver Twist or King Lear. To cite to an example discussed elsewhere in this resource, you would also use it in a psychology essay that asked you to describe the development of scientific paradigms. Compare And Contrast Writing, or, How Two Things Are Similar And  Dissimilar. This type of writing examines two things and the similarities and differences between them. It is a very common type of writing e.g. ‘Compare the treatment of love and power in two of the Shakespeare plays studied this semester’. Or to use an example closer to home: ‘Compare how essay writing skills are taught to new students arriving at universities in the UK and the USA’. This type of writing can involve several of the other types of writing discussed in this section: chronological, descriptive, analytical etc. Descriptive Writing, or, What Something Is Like. This type of writing gives a picture of the main characteristics of something. For example, ‘How are essay writing skills taught to new students arriving at universities?’ This seems like a very straightforward type of writing. However, you should remember that there may be more than one view or description of a subject; and that saying what something is leads inevitably to saying how and why it is i.e. to analytical writing. Evaluative Writing, or, How And Why Something Is Important. This type of writing makes a judgement about something. For example: ‘Evaluate the effectiveness of how essay writing skills are taught to new students arriving at universities.’ However, in contrast to other sorts of judgement – ‘That meal was fantastic’ or ‘Terminator 3 was rubbish’ – you have to say why and back up your judgement with evidence. Evaluative writing can involve several of the other types of writing in this section. For example, you would probably want to compare different ways of teaching essay writing skills and say which worked best. Summary Writing, or, The Key Features Of Something. This type of writing gives a brief account of the important features of something. For example, ‘Describe the important features of how essay writing skills are taught to new students arriving at universities.’ You will probably do this sort of writing at least once in every essay you write because university essays are usually designed to assess and test your understanding of a particular topic, writer or concept. Some subjects, such as psychology, will ask students to produce short seminar reports about a particular area of study. Introductions and conclusions to essays are types of summary. To Sum Up: There are distinct varieties of essay that require different types of writing. You can often spot which type of writing you are being asked to do from the way the essay title is phrased. However, remember that a well-written, effective essay will probably use several of these different  types of writing. For example, you have to say what something is like – descriptive writing – before you can say whether or not it’s important or valuable – evaluative writing. Conclusion: These are the four different types of writing that are generally used. There are many sub-types of writing which may fall in any of those categories. A writer must know all these styles, so as to identify his very own writing style, in which he feels comfortable, or which his audience likes to read. In developing writing and argument skills, it is necessary to be able to approach a topic in different ways. A student may find that some methods are more effective than others depending upon the circumstance. The nine patterns of writing are cause and effect, argument, illustration, narration, process analysis, classification, definition, description, and comparison and contrast. Cause and Effect A cause and effect paper is going to center around a particular event. From there, the writing is going to tell what happened before the event as well as what happened after. The writer also needs a purpose for writing this assignment. Details of the examples are going to be useful for shaping the argument as well. Argument An argument needs to have punch to it in order to be effective. It is an argument and the job of the writer is to persuade the reader to share the same point of view. This writing starts with a strong position on a topic. Evidence should be used and reasons should be given for the position. Another important thing to address in the writing is opposing views. Illustration An illustration is a writing pattern which uses examples to show, explain, or prove a point. For this type of writing, there is going to be a main point which the writing is trying to illustrate. The writer does this by giving examples and giving lots of details to support the examples. There should also be enough examples to really reinforce the main point. Process Analysis A process analysis tells others how to do something or how something works. It is going to give all the major steps in the proess and explain each of the steps using lots of details. Its also important to list the steps in chronological order. Classification Classification seeks to understand people or things in some way by putting them into different categories. There has to be a purpose for the sorting. The writer should explain how the categories were organized and give details about the things that are in each one of the categories. Definition A definition is going to explain the meaning of a term or concept. The first step in a definition is to let the audience know what is going to be defined. This should be followed by the definition. Examples will allow the definition to be explained more thoroughly. More details will be necessary to make sure that readers understand the examples.

James Fenimore Cooper :: essays research papers

James Fenimore Cooper was born in Burlington, New Jersey on September 15, 1789. He was the eleventh of twelve children born to William and Elizabeth Cooper. When James was one year old the family moved to the frontier, and his father established the settlement of Cooperstown at the head of Susquehanna River. 	Cooper attended a private preparatory school at Albany, New York, and was then admitted to Yale in 1803. He was expelled from there during his junior year because of a silly prank. His family allowed him to join the navy as a midshipman, but he soon found that more discipline was present in the Navy than at Yale. In 1810 Cooper took a furlough, and never returned to active duty. 	After Cooper's father passed in 1809, he received a nice inheritance. Cooper quickly squandered his inheritance, and at thirty was on the verge of bankruptcy. He decided to try his hand at writing as a career. Carefully modeling his work after Sir Walter Scott's successful Waverly Novels, he wrote his first novel in 1820 called Precaution. A domestic comedy set in England, lost money, but Cooper had discovered his vocation. 	Cooper established his reputation after his second novel, The Spy, and in his third book, the autobiographical Pioneers (1823), Cooper introduced the character of Natty Bumppo, a uniquely American personification of rugged individualism and the pioneer spirit. A second book featuring Bumppo, The Last of the Mohicans written in 1826, quickly became the most widely read work of the day, solidifying Cooper's popularity in the U.S. and in Europe. Set during the French and Indian War, The Last of the Mohicans chronicles the massacre of the colonial garrison at Fort William Henry and a fictional kidnapping of two pioneer sisters. Cooper knew few Indians, so he drew on a Moravian missionary's account of two opposing tribes; the Delawares and the "Mingos." Although this characterization was filled with inaccuracies, the dual image of the opposing tribes allowed Cooper to create a lasting image of the Indian that became a part of the American consciousness for almost two cen turies. His public was simultaneously touched romantically at the doomed Indians' fate and justified in abetting their extermination. The hero of the novel, Natty Bumppo, was incredibly popular, a rebel heroically opposed to industrial society, he was a hero who never married or changed his ideals. 	Cooper was a prolific writer, publishing 32 novels, 12 works of nonfiction, a play and numerous pamphlets and articles.

Childrens Books and Popular Myths about the First Wave of Feminism :: Essays Papers

Children's Books and Popular Myths about the First Wave of Feminism What is the First Wave (1) of Feminism? How is it portrayed as a â€Å"suffrage† movement? Does the average study of First Wave feminism look at issues outside of suffrage: consent laws, marital rape, education, women’s right to own property, divorce rights, and so on? I wanted to look at the portrayal of the â€Å"heroes† of the first wave – Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony – as well the movement itself, through books aimed at children. Children’s books seem like an obvious way to look at how the movement is popularly seen and understood. If we set aside condescending ideas of needing to â€Å"dumb down† ideas to introduce them to children, or needing figures to be purely heroic. Then, we assume that most people, who do not actively pursue it later in life, receive the bulk of their information on the First Wave of feminism from kindergarten through high school history education. The Book Choosing Process The sources cover a variety of age ranges and publishers. There was no science in the selection, they were simply the easiest to find at the downtown public library in Syracuse, New York (2), which to me indicates they are the most likely to be picked up by a student doing a report or reading for enjoyment. The sources are not supposed to represent the â€Å"worst† by any standards – they are children's history books, all of which do in depth studies of suffrage. These are not coloring books or propaganda, which, perhaps, is why the information is so dangerous. Brill, Marlene Targ. Let Women Vote! Brookfield: Millbrook, 1996. (aimed at ages 9-12), Davis, Lucille. Susan B. Anthony. Mankato: Bridgestone, 1998. (aimed at ages 4-8), Nash, Carol Rust. The Fight For Women’s Right To Vote in American History. Springfield: Enslow, 1998. (aimed at ages 9-12) Parker, Barbara Keevil. Susan B. Anthony: Daring to Vote. Brookfield: Millbrook, 1998. (aimed at ages 4-8) Five Major Questionable Facts About the First Wave in Children’s History Books 1. Women Asked For Rights. â€Å"This cartoon shows Elizabeth [Cady Stanton] speaking to the New York legislature. She asked [emphasis added] legislators to give women equal rights.† (Davis) 2. Susan B. Anthony Is the First Wave of Feminism. â€Å"Susan had prepared other women to work for women’s rights. They took up the fight. In 1920, the 19th amendment was passed. Many people called this law the Susan B.

A Crude Awakening: the Oil Crash

A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash A majority of North Americans depend on oil, unaware of an inevitable oil shortage that threatens to collapse our industrialized nation, in the foreseeable future. If we continue ignoring our dependence on oil and not realizing its significance in almost every part of our lives, it will be the end of our society, as we know it. The documentary A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash focuses on exposing an imminent problem. Revealing that our dependence on oil and insatiable consumption of it threatens to exceed supply, namely focusing discussions on the peak oil theory.The film establishes that oil is a precious, non-renewable, free source of energy that we use for almost everything. The movie illustrates that oil is a catalyst for war and often holds more power than money. The film explains the peak oil theory and provides evidence of our obvious slump in oil supply versus our unquenchable demand for cheap energy. The film concludes that alternative sources of energy are â€Å"band aide† solutions at best and that ultimately if we continue down the path we now tread, without researching alternative sources of energy, life, as we know it will be unsustainable.The directors of the film are successful in creating a convincing argument. Accomplish this by incorporating interviews with professionals whom are specialized in this area; also, the film has obvious emotional appeal using persuading imagery to influence the audiences emotions, and by developing a logical organization of the documentary. Throughout the film, the directors use various expert sources, ranging from professionals in the oil industry, to government officials to university professors. The directors’ post each sources title, causing instant credibility, because the information is from highly qualified sources in the oil industry.These professionals relay their messages in a unpretentious way. Allowing viewers to identify with them, where in some instances these authority figures may seem â€Å"superior†, and not be as trusted. They even describe their own fears and uncertainties regarding the issue, further bridging their connection and commonality with the audience. They make a point of not pretending they know the outcomes of the predicament, providing evidence so the audience can make an informed decision for themselves. The directors make the issue personal by using emotional impact with graphics, exaggerating their point.The directors’ choice to illustrate images of towns that were once flourishing communities, but now are baron wastelands, makes for a powerful representation. These towns once incredibly oil prosperous, now inhabitable and futile, makes the unfathomable real. It is a great tool used by the directors playing on the emotions of the audience, as the images speak for themselves. The directors portray the looming issue as having no apparent positive outcome, never â€Å"sugar coating† the evidenc e. Leaving the viewer with a â€Å"now what? † sentiment.I believe that this creates a sense of urgency and a powerful message that might encourage the audience to look to rectify the situation themselves. The film encompasses the idea of no hope for the future, unless research of alternative energy sources is initiated, resonating a strong message that serious action must be taken. The directors employ a logical structure throughout the film, making it easy to understand and follow. The film presents infinite support, good pace and great editing explaining how peak oil will affect the nations of the world.The film follows a logical pattern, progressing from past, present to future, making it easy to follow, and making a dramatic effect. As mentioned earlier, the directors’ post the interviewees names and titles throughout the film and use a variety of evidence. This foundation of support makes a concrete argument, causing the viewer to follow the linear structure effo rtlessly. The film is organized under logical segments, providing a mental break between sections. These breaks are important for allowing the viewer to ponder what they have just observed.This is imperative to not overwhelm or scaremonger the viewer; rather letting them reflect and consider the evidence throughout the film. The film was successful in convincing the audience that the issue of peak oil should be at the forefront of your consciousness, and that our insatiable dependency on oil will accelerate the fall of the epoch of cheap energy, causing our industrialized societies to become unsustainable unless we do something to repair the problem. The directors’ arguments appeal to the viewers due to the number of credible sources, the use of emotional appeal and by the great use of logical organization.

MADRID Surname Meaning and Family History

MADRID Surname Meaning and Family History The Madrid  surname was often used to denote  someone  who came from Madrid. During the Middle Ages when the  surname came into being, Madrid was a modest-sized town; only becoming the capital of Spain in 1561. The origin of the name is uncertain, but possibly  a derivative of Late Latin  matrix, meaning riverbed. When Jews converted to Christianity in Spain in the 15th century, whether voluntarily or by force, they often took a last name based on their town or city or origin. Surname Origin:  Spanish, Jewish Alternate Surname Spellings:  Lamadrid, De La Madrid Famous People with the Surname MADRID Miguel de la Madrid  - President of Mexico from 1982–1989Juan Madrid - Spanish writer Places the MADRID Surname Is Common The Madrid  surname is most prevalent in Mexico, according to surname distribution data from Forebears, where it ranks 449th in the nation. Based on population percentage, however, it  is most common in Honduras, where it ranks as the nations 58th most common surname. Madrid is also a frequent surname in many other Hispanic countries, including  the Philippines, Spain, Chile, Colombia,  Venezuela, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Panama. WorldNames PublicProfiler identifies the Madrid surname as being somewhat common in Spain, especially in the regions of Murcia and Castilla-La Mancha, followed by Andalucia, Communidad Valencia, Cataluna, and Castilla Y Leon.  Madrid is also found in more significant  numbers in northwest Argentina and the southwestern United States, particularly in the state of New Mexico. Genealogy Resources for the Surname MADRID 50 Common Hispanic Surnames Their MeaningsGarcia, Martinez, Rodriguez, Lopez, Hernandez, are you one of the millions of people sporting one of these top 50 common Hispanic last names?Get started researching your Jewish roots with this guide to basic genealogy research, unique Jewish resources and records, and suggestions for the best Jewish genealogy Web sites and databases to search first for your Jewish ancestors.How to Research Hispanic AncestryExplore these 10 steps to help you uncover your Hispanic ancestors, including the basics of family tree research in Spain, Latin America, Mexico, Brazil, and other Spanish speaking countries.Madrid  Family Crest - Its Not What You ThinkContrary to what you may hear, there is no such thing as a Madrid  family crest or coat of arms for the Madrid surname.  Coats of arms are granted to individuals, not families, and may rightfully be used only by the uninterrupted male-line descendants of the person to whom the coat of arms was original ly granted. MADRID Family Genealogy ForumSearch this popular genealogy forum for the Madrid surname to find others who might be researching your ancestors, or post your own Madrid query.FamilySearch - MADRID  GenealogyExplore over 270,000  historical records which mention individuals with the Madrid surname, as well as online Madrid family trees on this free website hosted by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.DistantCousin.com - MADRID Genealogy Family HistoryFree databases and genealogy links for the last name Madrid.GeneaNet - Madrid  RecordsGeneaNet includes archival records, family trees, and other resources for individuals with the Madrid  surname, with a concentration on records and families from France and other European countries.The Madrid  Genealogy and Family Tree PageBrowse family trees and links to genealogical and historical records for individuals with the last name Madrid  from the website of Genealogy Today. Sources: Cottle, Basil.  Penguin Dictionary of Surnames. Baltimore, MD: Penguin Books, 1967.Dorward, David.  Scottish Surnames. Collins Celtic (Pocket edition), 1998.Fucilla, Joseph.  Our Italian Surnames. Genealogical Publishing Company, 2003.Hanks, Patrick, and Flavia Hodges.  A Dictionary of Surnames. Oxford University Press, 1989.Hanks, Patrick.  Dictionary of American Family Names. Oxford University Press, 2003.Reaney, P.H.  A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press, 1997.Smith, Elsdon C.  American Surnames. Genealogical Publishing Company, 1997. Back toGlossary of Surname Meanings Origins

Customer Relationship Management Helps Chase Card Services Manage Customer Calls Essays

Customer Relationship Management Helps Chase Card Services Manage Customer Calls Essays Customer Relationship Management Helps Chase Card Services Manage Customer Calls Essay Customer Relationship Management Helps Chase Card Services Manage Customer Calls Essay If you have a credit card, theres a good chance that it is from Chase. Chase Card Services is the division of JP Morgan Chase which specializes in credit cards, offering a vast array of credit card products such as the Chase Rewards Platinum Visa card. As one of the [argest credit card issuers in the United States, the company fields a correspondingly large amount of calls from people seeking customer service for their credit card accounts.Each of Chases 6,000 call center agents worldwide at the companys 11 call centers fields field up to 120 calls per day. The company handles slightly less than 200 million calls each year from a customer base of 100 million. Even a small reduction of 1% to the amount of calls received results in savings of millions of dollars and improved customer service for Chase. Achieving such a reduction is easier said than done, however. Li. 2006, Chase Card Services attempted to accom- plish this by improving first-call resolution. Fi rst-call esolution is when a call center agent is able to resolve a customers issues during the initial call to customer service without requiring additional calls. The problem was that the companys record keeping did not give an accurate account of current rates of first-call resolution. Chase had previously tried tracking first-call resolution rates oy having agents log the content and results of each call they received. But this task was time- consuming and was not standardized, since agents :ended to record results subjectively and not in a iniform way.Company policies for some customer requests were also far from ideal for increasing First-call resolution. For example, agents were only able to process balance transfers for customers calling from their homes, and the fee structure inderwent multiple changes over a short span, prompting repeat calls. Po improve call center efficiency, Chase contracted with Enkata technologies to implement a oerformance and talent management syste m. The system monitors and tags each call with the :opic and length of the call as well as the length of time the agent that handled the call has been orking. It doesnt require agents to perform any lotion to acquire this information; it tracks calls automatically by keeping track of the keyboard strokes of each agent. As soon as an agent clicks on the feature of the account that the customer is calling about, the Enkata system automatically identifies the reason for the call. Proprietery algorithms match the reason and caller identification to the amount of time predetermined for each type of call. The system then monitors discrepancies in call time, depending on the reason for the call. For xample, a call from a customer requiring card activation should be a quick call, so the system will pinpoint card activation calls that take longer than normal, or fee dispute calls that are shorter than normal. But sometimes customers have multiple reasons for calling, which would have been ve ry difficult to track prior to the implementation of Enkatas system. Now Enkata separates each individ- ual reason for calling and organizes them into a sequence, so that a call with multiple issues to resolve is analyzed using the appropriate time frame.By separating and organizing reasons for calling into distinct categories, Chase is able to determine criteria for declaring particular calls resolved For example, a card activation call will be considered resolved after only a few days without a follow-up call, but a disputed fee call wont be considered resolved until the customer received another statement without any complaints. This method gives Chase much more accurate data on first-call resolution, a feat which is regarded as very difficult and impressive in the industry. Enkata compiles this data and distributes it toChase Card Services in the form of weekly reports on call type and length, call handling times, repeat call rates, and other performance measures that allow both agents and supervisors to monitor their performance. The system also connects reports with call recordings to assist managers in coaching and evaluating their agents. When the system was still being implemented, Enkata used historical call data gathered prior to the implementation to create initial reports. Chase Card Services executives considered this initial upload of data to be the most time- consuming part of the implementation.Once the implementation was complete, the company hoped that improvements in the interpretation and management of this information would lead to improvements in agent pertbrmance, customer satisfaction, and customer retention. The results speak for themselves. Chase Card Services improved its first-call resolution rate to 91%, an increase of 3%, in its first year after the imple- mentation of the Enkata system. That represented a total savings of $8 million. Approximately $2. 5 mil- Lion of that total savings was a direct result of the average call time decreasing by two seconds.The company hopes to reach its goal of 95% within the next few years. A perfect rate of 100% first-call resolution is not feasible because some additional calls after the first are acceptable under certain circumstances, such as a customer remembering a charge that he or she had initially disputed. CASE STUDY QUESTIONS 1. What functions of customer relationship manage- ment systems are illustrated in this case? 3. Why is the call center so important for Chase Card Services? How could Chases call centers help it improve relationships with customers? . Describe the problem at Chase call centers. What management, organization, or technology factors contributed to the problem?3. How did using Enkata improve operational perfor- mance and decision making? Give examples. E. What management, organization, or technology factors would have to be considered in implement- ing the Enkata solution? Within three months time, 30% of agents that had scored below the accept able rate for first-call resolution improved to an acceptable rate. And although the number of active customer accounts grew by 5. % in the six months after implementation of the system, call volume decreased 8. 3% over that same span. Encouraged by these successes, Chase Card Services is now looking to expand the capabilities of the system to classify calls into even more cate- gories, and to link their collected data to marketing programs to foster cross-selling and upselling. Sources: Marshall Lager, Credit Where Due, Customer Relationship Management, April 2008; Michele Heller, How Chase Got Control of Call-Center Expenses, American Banker, February 26, 2008.

Major General Lafayette McLaws - American Civil War

Major General Lafayette McLaws - American Civil War Lafayette McLaws - Early Life Career: Born in Augusta, GA on January 15, 1821, Lafayette McLaws was the son of James and Elizabeth McLaws.   Named for the Marquis de Lafayette, he disliked his name which was pronounced LaFet in his native state.   While receiving his early education at Augustas Richmond Academy, McLaws was schoolmates with his future commander, James Longstreet.   When he turned sixteen in 1837, Judge John P. King recommended that McLaws be appointed to the US Military Academy.   While accepted for an appointment, it was deferred a year until Georgia had a vacancy to fill.   As a result, McLaws elected to attend the University of Virginia for a year.   Leaving Charlottesville in 1838, he entered West Point on July 1. While at the academy, McLaws classmates included Longstreet, John Newton, William Rosecrans, John Pope, Abner Doubleday, Daniel H. Hill, and Earl Van Dorn.   Struggling as student, he graduated in 1842 ranked forty-eighth in a class of fifty-six.   Commissioned as a brevet second lieutenant on July 21, McLaws received an assignment to the 6th US Infantry at Fort Gibson in the Indian Territory.   Promoted to second lieutenant two years later, he moved to the 7th US Infantry.   In late 1845, his regiment joined Brigadier General Zachary Taylors Army of Occupation in Texas.   The following March, McLaws and the army shifted south to the Rio Grande opposite the Mexican town of Matamoros.  Ã‚   Lafayette McLaws - Mexican-American War: Arriving in late March, Taylor ordered the construction of Fort Texas along the river before moving the bulk of his command to Point Isabel.   The 7th Infantry, with Major Jacob Brown in command, was left to garrison the fort.   In late April, American and Mexican forces first clashed beginning the Mexican-American War.   On May 3, Mexican troops opened fire on Fort Texas and commenced a siege of the post.   Over the next few days, Taylor won victories at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma before relieving the garrison.   Having endured the siege, McLaws and his regiment remained in place through the summer before taking part the Battle of Monterrey that September.   Suffering from ill health, he was placed on the sick list from December 1846 into February 1847.    Promoted to first lieutenant on February 16, McLaws played a role in the Siege of Veracruz the following month.   Continuing to have health issues, he was then ordered north to New York to for recruiting duty.   Active in this role through the rest of the year, McLaws returned to Mexico in early 1848 after making several requests to rejoin his unit.   Ordered home in June, his regiment moved to Jefferson Barracks in Missouri.   While there, he met and married Taylors niece Emily.   Promoted to captain in 1851, the next decade saw McLaws move through a variety of posts on the frontier. Lafayette McLaws - The Civil War Begins: With the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter and start of the Civil War in April 1861, McLaws resigned from the US Army and accepted a commission as a major in the Confederate service.   In June, he became colonel of the 10th Georgia Infantry and his men were assigned to the Peninsula in Virginia.   Aiding to construct defenses in this area, McLaws greatly impressed Brigadier General John Magruder.   This led to a promotion to brigadier general on September 25 and command of a division later that fall.   In the spring, Magruders position came under attack when Major General George B. McClellan commenced his Peninsula Campaign.   Performing well during the Siege of Yorktown, McLaws earned a promotion to major general effective May 23.   Ã‚      Lafayette McLaws - Army of Northern Virginia: As the season progressed, McLaws saw further action as General Robert E. Lee commenced a counter-offensive which resulted in the Seven Days Battles.   During the campaign, his division contributed to the Confederate victory at Savages Station but was repelled at Malvern Hill.   With McClellan checked on the Peninsula, Lee reorganized the army and assigned McLaws division to Longstreets corps.   When the Army of Northern Virginia moved north in August, McLaws and his men remained on the Peninsula to watch Union forces there.   Ordered north in September, the division operated under Lees control and assisted Major General Thomas Stonewall Jacksons capture of Harpers Ferry.       Ordered to Sharpsburg, McLaws earned Lees ire by moving slowly as the army re-concentrated prior to the Battle of Antietam.   Reaching the field, the division aided in holding the West Woods against Union attacks.   In December, McLaws regained Lees respect when his division and the rest of Longstreets corps resolutely defended Maryes Heights during the Battle of Fredericksburg.   This recovery proved short-lived as he was tasked with checking Major General John Sedgwicks VI Corps during the final stages of the Battle of Chancellorsville.   Facing the Union force with his division and that of Major General Jubal A. Early, he again moved slowly and lacked aggressiveness in dealing with the enemy.    This was noted by Lee, who when he reorganized the army after Jacksons death, declined Longstreets recommendation that McLaws receive command of one of the two newly-created corps.   Though a reliable officer, McLaws functioned best when given direct commands under close supervision.   Upset by perceived favoritism to officers from Virginia, he requested a transfer which was refused.   Marching north that summer, McLaws men arrived at the Battle of Gettysburg early on July 2.   After several delays, his men attacked Brigadier General Andrew A. Humphreys and Major General David Birneys divisions of Major General Daniel Sickles III Corps.   Under the personal supervision of Longstreet, McLaws pushed Union forces back capturing the Peach Orchard and beginning a back and forth struggle for the Wheatfield.   Unable to break through, the division fell back to defensible positions that evening.   The next day, McLaws remained in place as Picketts Charge was defeated to the nor th.          Lafayette McLaws - In the West:    On September 9, the bulk of Longstreets corps was ordered west to aid General Braxton Braggs Army of Tennessee in northern Georgia.   Though he had not yet arrived, the lead elements of McLaws division saw action during the Battle of Chickamauga under the guidance of Brigadier General Joseph B. Kershaw.   Reassuming command after the Confederate victory, McLaws and his men initially took part in siege operations outside of Chattanooga before moving north later in the fall as part of Longstreets Knoxville Campaign.   Attacking the citys defenses on November 29, McLaws division was baldy repelled.   In the wake of the defeat, Longstreet relieved him but elected not to court-martial him as he believed McLaws might be useful to the Confederate Army in another position. Irate, McLaws requested a court-martial to clear his name.   This was granted and commenced in February 1864.   Due to delays in obtaining witnesses, a ruling was not issued until May.   This found McLaws not guilty on two charges of neglect of duty but guilty on a third.   Though sentenced to sixty days without pay and command, the punishment was immediately suspended due to wartime needs.   On May 18, McLaws received orders for the defenses of Savannah in the Department of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.   Though he argued that he was being scapegoated for Longstreets failure at Knoxville, he accepted this new assignment. While in Savannah, McLaws new division unsuccessfully resisted Major General William T. Shermans men that fall at the conclusion of the March to the Sea.   Retreating north, his men saw continued action during the Carolinas Campaign and took part in the Battle of Averasborough on March 16, 1865.   Lightly engaged at Bentonville three days later, McLaws lost his command when General Joseph E. Johnston reorganized Confederate forces after the battle.   Sent to lead the District of Georgia, he was in that role when the war ended. Lafayette McLaws - Later Life: Staying in Georgia, McLaws entered the insurance business and later served as a tax collector.   Engaged in Confederate veterans groups, he initially defended Longstreet against those, such as Early, who attempted to blame the defeat at Gettysburg on him.   During this time, McLaws did reconcile to some degree with his former commander who admitted that relieving him was a mistake.   Late in his life, resentment towards Longstreet resurfaced and he began to side with Longstreets detractors.   McLaws died in Savannah on July 24, 1897, and was buried in the citys Laurel Grove Cemetery.  Ã‚   Selected Sources Gettysburg Generals: Major General Lafayette McLawsCivil War: Major General Lafayette McLawsLatin Library: Major General Lafayette McLaws

Issue 14 no 2510 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Issue 14 no 2510 - Essay Example Every child has the right to quality education. In the rural parts of the Kenya, the preference to educate the boy child over the girl child is the essence of this big may hem. This cripples the girl child mind. Rights to education and training should be available to all and at the right time, (Ghai p 291). The arguments of the girl will get married and get a comfortable life wherever she is married are arguments that should be thrown to the bottom lake of fire. With the right education in place, the women are able to brain box their opposite gender for an equal share. In the lake region for instance the ‘luos,’ geographically located at the Lake region along the river Nile, traditionally practiced wife inheritance. The women lived in great agony after their husbands’ death. The rights to own property and make decisions were nowhere near the script, (Ghai p 292). This polygamous life was the birth of psychological torture. The exposure the sexually transmitted killer diseases could not be ruled out. Thanks to civilization that this never happens. In central Kenya where ‘bantus, kikuyu, the embu’ and the ‘meru’ tribes owned huge chunks of land. On the death of the husband, this property was illegally taken by the brothers to the deceased. This left the family to languish in poverty. The daughters of these rich tycoons were unfortunately not inheriting any form of property or land. The land was meant for the sons, (Ghai p 293). The belief that the women would get portions of wealth wherever they got married is an act that is highly condemned. This paper is in agreement that women have a reason to smile in Kenya today. The new constitution was promulgated towards the end of August 2010 have brought new tidings to the women in Kenya. The right to own property and the enactment of a trusted functioning judicial system is something to be proud of to the Kenyans. The general praise from

To what extent should the financial reporting practices of public Essay

To what extent should the financial reporting practices of public sector organizations differ from those used by companies in the private sector - Essay Example Hence the financial accounting system is to be very strict to ensure the uniform justice. Making them profit driven is crucial for the whole nation as will add further to the gross domestic product of the country and for generating higher employment. In addition the reforms in public sector are needed for following factors which also decide the style of financial reporting in public enterprises. The financial reporting analysis studies indicated that majority private firms get involved in cost reduction activities and hence their efficiency is higher and hence public sector can follow this by implementing cost reduction measures with out affecting the social objectives. Matsumari and Matsushima (2004) conducted an investigation on mixed duopoly, in which a public enterprise with social objectives competes with a profit-maximizing private firm. The use of a Hotelling-type spatial model helped them in product differentiation. Similarly the production costs were reduced by following cost-reducing activities. It was also noticed that the private firms engage in excessive strategic cost-reducing activities and hence their production cost becomes lower than the public firm. It was also felt that privatization of the loss making public firms will result in reducing the operational losses and converting them in to profit making enterprises. The second factor that is to be kept in mind is that the source of funds for the public sector is from the public mainly where as the source of funding in private sector is from private individuals. Hence the public sector enterprises should be held highly responsible for the financial performance. It does not mean that the private sector should be neglected but it suggests that the private sector needs a separate style of financial reporting system. The users and stakeholders are another crucial

The Picture of Dorian Gray Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Picture of Dorian Gray - Essay Example There are so many parallels that can be drawn between Dorian’s character and today’s generation and particularly youths. For instance, just as today’s youth are generally innocent in the initial day of their life, their innocence eventually disappears mostly under the influence of today’s ‘role models’ who ironically worship vices instead of virtues. This is perfectly in line with Dorian’s character and especially the influence of Lord Henry Wotton, who influences Dorian in entering a â€Å"life of sensual indulgence (Wilde, 1908).† In fact, the path that he takes in his life is perfectly in line with today’s youths from similar background. Hailing from a dysfunctional family, where Dorian maternal grandmother conspires to have his father murdered because of his displeasure with the marriage, Dorian like majority of today’s youths from such dysfunctional family had no inspiration in life and hence his subsequent rio tous nature in life. In fact, his story is a common feature in our ghettoes today where kids in care of their maternal parents are increasingly embracing violence and all sort of extreme vices. Put in the context of today’s life, the overall picture of Dorian life and especially that of murder in the most part, makes him a perfect example of a child growing without any emotional support not only in his generation but in any of the subsequent generations. There is no doubt that Dorian would behave exactly the way he behaved if he found himself living in the 21st century. Dorian picture represent that found in the ghettoes. The murder of Basil for instance, which can be blamed in most part on his emotional build-up can be likened to majority of today’s violence and senseless murders that are being perpetuated by youths of his age in poor neighborhood where the family institution is no longer existent. Dorian life of vices instead of virtue seems to be consistent with the desires of the youths of today, a desire that is particularly driven by the pop culture propagated by the entertainment industry. His life of extremes particularly makes the character Dorian appealing to today’s youth if today pop culture is anything to go by. This appeal is also manifested in Hollywood’s effort since the 1900s at integrating Dorian character and lessons in a good number of their films. Even the struggles that Dorian undergoes in asserting his character to his contemporaries are synonymous with today’s youth obsession with bad-boy image, a classic example being rapper Eminem, who has made a career out of bashing his mother. Another example of the elevation of Dorian character can be found in both the film and print version of the movie The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Today extreme obsession with sensual beauty and youthfulness, which informs the growing list of beauty products and even cosmetic surgeries, borrows a lot from the book†™s theme on the worship of beauty and youth. There is no doubt that just like Dorian’s obsession with beauty, the modern man and women will spend large amount of resources (time and money) on maintaining the perfect mirrored image of him/herself. This feeling about reality of the 21st century man and woman is consistent with Dorian’

Bmg Entertainment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Bmg Entertainment - Essay Example There is competition from other major record companies such as: - Sony Music Entertainment Universal Music Group Warner Music Group WEAKNESS Decisions about how to organize and operate the company With BMG Entertainment, three of the 25 units within the division were making losses. High prices charged at the store. PORTER'S FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS The bargaining power of the customer is high. The customers have tendency of switching to another product without incurring high cost of switching. There are so many customers for the music. The customers are responsible for the supplier's revenue realized as they buy a large portion of the industry's output. The bargaining power of the suppliers is not high. Availability of substitute products. There is low switching cost created by suppliers' products. There are few suppliers for the product. A large customer of suppliers comes from individual buyers. The buyers' market place success does not determine the suppliers' goods. The threat of new entrants is not too high. The industry requires high capital to start. There are economies of scale. Product differentiation is moderate. The threat of substitute products is high. The existing product has the same quality and performance to that of the substitute product. The substitute products are offered at lower prices. There is few switching cost incurred by the buyers. The intensity of competitive rivalry among competitors is high. Switching costs incurred are low. The growth in the music industry is high. Diversification is moderate. Fixed costs are too high. Competitors for the industry include: Sony, Universal, EMI, BMG and Warner Music Group. VRIS MODEL Resources/Capability V R I S Performance Good...For this case, BMG Entertainment is supposed to use differentiation strategy, as what the customer need is a variety of music at a low price. The company should not be left behind technology wise; hence in order for them to retain their customers, they should introduce Online retailers to sell music at low prices. BMG Entertainment should develop websites whereby their customers will be able to download music at low prices. By adopting the technological change, BMG Entertainment will be in a position of producing a variety of products and selling at relatively low prices. This is more convenient to customers in term of price as its low and they will prevail in the market against its rivals. BMG Entertainment can prevail in the market if they upgrade their website system. They should invest heavily on digital technology for the sake of handling their digital customers professionally. They should introduce more Online retailer store that will make download of music cheap. BMG should use Joint Venture, Multi domestic and related diversification strategies. Joint Venture will expand rapidly at low cost, shared risks and less competition.

Article Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Article - Research Paper Example The court house is already pact to the capacity which only the absence of the trial judge commonly referred to as the Lord High Chancellor who is expected to arrive at any time to proceed with the case. The extreme weather has extended to the court house where fog has made it difficult for the judges to view crucial documents and have to use lanterns despite the fact that it is still day time. The Court of Chancery is described to be in a poor and dilapidated state and is linked to all kind of evil in the society ranging from corruption and inequality. The case at hand for determination is commonly known as Jarndyce and Jarndyce and it is a known phrase in which most people draws very little understanding. An old woman who is belived to be of unsound mind is thought to be the plaintiff in the case that has been brought before the court in several occasions. This time, she is very optimistic that the judge will deliver a ruling in her favor. The main theme being addressed in the article is the theme of corruption which is well spread in the entire society. It is being advocated and propagated by those in high places. The courts that are expected to deliver fair judgment have fallen short of the expectation. Inequality is very rampant in the society and justice is based on what one can offer to the high

Bmg Entertainment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Bmg Entertainment - Essay Example There is competition from other major record companies such as: - Sony Music Entertainment Universal Music Group Warner Music Group WEAKNESS Decisions about how to organize and operate the company With BMG Entertainment, three of the 25 units within the division were making losses. High prices charged at the store. PORTER'S FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS The bargaining power of the customer is high. The customers have tendency of switching to another product without incurring high cost of switching. There are so many customers for the music. The customers are responsible for the supplier's revenue realized as they buy a large portion of the industry's output. The bargaining power of the suppliers is not high. Availability of substitute products. There is low switching cost created by suppliers' products. There are few suppliers for the product. A large customer of suppliers comes from individual buyers. The buyers' market place success does not determine the suppliers' goods. The threat of new entrants is not too high. The industry requires high capital to start. There are economies of scale. Product differentiation is moderate. The threat of substitute products is high. The existing product has the same quality and performance to that of the substitute product. The substitute products are offered at lower prices. There is few switching cost incurred by the buyers. The intensity of competitive rivalry among competitors is high. Switching costs incurred are low. The growth in the music industry is high. Diversification is moderate. Fixed costs are too high. Competitors for the industry include: Sony, Universal, EMI, BMG and Warner Music Group. VRIS MODEL Resources/Capability V R I S Performance Good...For this case, BMG Entertainment is supposed to use differentiation strategy, as what the customer need is a variety of music at a low price. The company should not be left behind technology wise; hence in order for them to retain their customers, they should introduce Online retailers to sell music at low prices. BMG Entertainment should develop websites whereby their customers will be able to download music at low prices. By adopting the technological change, BMG Entertainment will be in a position of producing a variety of products and selling at relatively low prices. This is more convenient to customers in term of price as its low and they will prevail in the market against its rivals. BMG Entertainment can prevail in the market if they upgrade their website system. They should invest heavily on digital technology for the sake of handling their digital customers professionally. They should introduce more Online retailer store that will make download of music cheap. BMG should use Joint Venture, Multi domestic and related diversification strategies. Joint Venture will expand rapidly at low cost, shared risks and less competition.

New Business Venture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4750 words

New Business Venture - Essay Example Entrepreneurship and new business launch is always associated with meeting the challenges successfully. However, in order to achieve the success in creating a new business and successfully manage it is critical that the overall idea behind the creation of the business is commercially viable and can provide the desired returns. The analysis of the factors such as PESTLE provide a critical insight into the changing nature of the external environment and how entrepreneurs can actually take advantage of such changes to materialize them into successful businesses. This paper also presented a discussion on the particular mindset and individual characteristics which are required to successfully spot the new opportunities and convert them into the new businesses. Entrepreneurship and new business launch is always associated with meeting the challenges successfully. However, in order to achieve the success in creating a new business and successfully manage it is critical that the overall idea behind the creation of the business is commercially viable and can provide the desired returns. It is always important that the new ideas should be properly addressed and developed into successful business provided they have the potential to become successful business. Idea creation is one of the key areas for the new entrepreneurs and it is critical that the idea is properly transformed successfully. However, in order to achieve this, it is critical that the overall attractiveness of the products and services which will be delivered as a result of the new ideas, timeline involved, product value and durability of the products and services to be created as a result of this should justify the introduction of a new product, service or business. (Sorensen, La ssen., & Hinson,2007). This memo will deliberate on a new business opportunity which author considers as an important and believes that can add value to the firm. However, in order to convince the management of the firm and to present the ideas in the more meaningful manner, this memo will attempt to discuss different factors which may affect the new business opportunity for the firm. Apparently, this memo will deliberate on these factors and provide an objective analysis of how these factors can actually contribute towards the successful development of the new business opportunity into a commercially viable business. Description of the product It is a important that a complete description of the product is provided in the memo. The manager must include the relevant and important characteristics of the product to convince the manager that the proposed product can actually add value to the organization. Following information can be included regarded the description of the product: â €Å"The product to be developed and subsequently marketed by the firm is based upon a software program which can add value to the firm’s existing portfolio of software products. This new software will be based upon cutting edge technology and will attempt to offer the features and attributes which are not available in the

Key Practices of Performance Management Essay Example for Free

Key Practices of Performance Management Essay The requirement for effective performance management: The performance management acts as a key measure to ensure that the goals and objectives are being consistently met that too in an effective and efficient manner. The management of performance focuses on the performance of the overall enterprise, all departments, employees and even the products or services. However, it does not just stop here as with performance management companies can align their resources, systems and employees which will help them attain their objectives and priorities. The goals of performance management programs: Only when the employee and the system align with one another can they ensure the delivery of strategic and operational goals. Some skeptics argue that there exists a relation between the use of performance management programs or software with improved organizational results. When considering the public sector, the performance managers changes from negative to positive which suggests that the difference in the characteristics of the system, and the different context that they are implemented play an important role in success or failure of the performance management. Sometimes using an integrated software rather than a spreadsheet based recording system will help in delivering a significant return of investments through the range of direct and indirect sales benefits. Measuring the operational efficiency will help in unlocking the latent potential of the employees that work. The benefits will include everything from the direct financial gain to a motivated workforce to the improved management. For the financial gains, it will grow sales, stop the overrunning of projects, and align the enterprise in direct manner to the CEO’s objectives. For the motivated workforce, it simply means optimization of incentive plans that defines the objective even for the over achievement and not for just the business as usual. Lastly, in the improved management control, the employees become more flexible and open to the management needs. They also display data relationships and helps audit to comply with the legislative requirement. Lastly, the process enables careful documentation and scenario planning. Types of performance management implementation Erica Olsen noted that in many businesses, even the ones with well made plans actually failed to implement appropriate strategy. For most, the issue lay in the ineffective management of the employees even with a business plan in place. Of course, they have conducted the necessary survey and collected the data, and also ensured management retreats to decide their organizational direction, but even with an expensive software in place, their plan can fail. Most of the time, their performance management and appraisals overlap and three types have been so far identified: Long cycle performance management: Usually done on a annual or a biannual or quarterly basis, from implementing this management, this the area that has received the most attention. These techniques predate the use of computers and therefore do not need any expensive software. Short cycle management performance: This overlaps with the principles of the agile software development which is mainly done on a week, monthly or bi-weekly basis. Usually this kind is industry specific. Reference: http://classof1.com/homework-help/human-resource-management-homework-help

Can Nanotechnology Transform Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars?

Can Nanotechnology Transform Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars? Juan Manuel Vargas Ferreira    Can Nanotechnology convert hydrogen fuel cell cars into mainstream vehicles?   Ã‚   Section 1: Abstract The aim of this report is to determine whether Nanotechnology can transform hydrogen fuel cell cars into mainstream vehicles through improvements in the cost of catalysts (Section 4:A) plus hydrogen production (Section 4:B); battery life (Section 4:C) and the safety of hydrogen storage (Section 4:D). The word mainstream for this report means that there will be at least 1.15 million hydrogen fuel cell cars on the worlds roads [the number of electric cars in the the planet (Carbon brief, 2016)] Section 2: Introduction      Ã‚   Nanotechnology is about observing and manipulating matter occupying the nanoscale, which is ranges from 1 nanometre to 100 nanometres (Nanodic.com, nd). A nanometre is one billionth of a meter or 100 000 times smaller than the width of human hair (DigPhilosophy, 2013). Nanotechnology is a principle factor in improving hydrogen fuel cells, which are devices that harness the energy of hydrogen to make electricity via a chemical reaction without combustion (CHFCA, nd). These devices will be crucial as they are utilized to make zero carbon footprint cars. Reducing the carbon footprint of humanity will reduce the far reaching effects of global warning, which encompass ecosystems and agriculture among other variables (Barret, nd). Therefore, the development and implementation of hydrogen fuel cell cars will have a great influence in safe guarding life in our planet. [DS1] Section 3: Methodology Financial Sources for Research For any project to go forward to the physical research stage there must be internal and/or external sources of finance. Some examples include government grants, companies and non profit companies (Understanding Science, nd). For my own research, the most appropriate source of finance would be familys income. This is because I will solely be carrying out secondary research. Creating a budget for Research[DS2] The budget required for my research entails the consideration of the following: Cost of broadband (SKY, 2016) Cost of electricity (sust-it, 2015) Cost of leasing of a computer (HARDSOFT, 2016) Cost Specification Monitory Cost (pounds) Broadband 16 Electricity 0.34 Leasing a computer 65 Total cost 81.34 Research procedures and techniques In order to carry out the necessary research I used the Internets extensive database. The techniques involved in this kind of research are web browsing, which involves writing the topic or question you wish to explore in a search engine and extracting revelation information from the sources that appear. The other technique involved is referencing with the world renowned Harvard referencing model. Ethical Issues: Nanotechnology[DS3] Although Nanotechnology has an array of very useful applications some ethical concerns were raised against its implementation. Such concerns revolve mainly around the fact that it is not yet clear whether nanoparticles can, in fact, interact negatively with our cells. There are already examples of other types of particles of similar dimensions causing harm to our bodies. Such an example would be car fume particles being deposited in our lungs (techNyouvids, 2013) and possibly causing cancer, cardiovascular diseases and asthma attacks (Nairaland Forum, 2013). It is therefore only logical to question whether nanomaterials will have the same or worse effects on our health. As a result, more research would have to be carried out if Nanotechnology is to be an established discipline with common practice within society. Section 4: Results and Discussion A: Reducing the cost of the catalysts Nanotechnology can reduce the cost of the catalyst (normally Platinum) used in a hydrogen fuel cells as less of the catalyst would be used (Soutter, 2016). In order to scale down traditional catalysts, the top down manufacturing process can be used, which involves breaking down material of larger dimension into the desired nanomaterial (GrennFacts, 2016). Notable disadvantages of this process include the fact that a lot of material is wasted ([2] Nano.gov, nd). and that approximately 250 complex steps are required to have the finished product (NanoScale Systems, 2015). An alternative technique is the bottom up manufacturing process, which entails building nanomaterials by constructing single atoms and molecules (GrennFacts, 2016). Additionally, since the catalyst is at nanoscale it will have a greater surface area; increasing the reactivity of the catalyst and so the speed of the fuel cells chemical reaction (Nano.gov, nd). The benefits can be further developed by the introduction of porous nano support structures such as nanotubes, which would make the platinum nanoparticles even more accessible for reacting (Soutter, 2016). This would mean that electricity would me delivered to the motor more quickly and so increase the acceleration of the hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Such an improvement would definitely make it more competitive in the market and aid fuel cell cars to enter into mainstream industry waters. Furthermore, the development of nitrogen doped nanotubes can replace platinum catalyst. Hence reducing the cost of hydrogen fuel cells since the cost of the catalyst amounted for 25% of the overall fuel cell cost (Soutter, 2016). The cheaper cost of nanotube catalysts is not the only advantage they offer; they will also provide the fuel cell with the same or greater power output compared to the standard platinum catalyst. It is also important to consider the fact that nanotube structures are also stronger than conventional catalysts meaning they are not compromised by carbon monoxide when reacting chemically to create electricity. Such improvements would mean that fuel cell cars are even cheaper; more powerful and have a longer running life. As a result, Nanotechnology is certainly aiding this emerging car technology to enter the main road of the 21st-century commercial vehicle industry. B: Reducing the cost of hydrogen production Around 75% of everything in our universe is in fact hydrogen (Dnews, 2015). As result utilizing this abundant element to fuel our cars seems like a well-funded idea. Its production is also not in its infancy of development as the U.S creates 9 million metric tones of hydrogen annually (Dnews, 2015). However, current methods of hydrogen production are not ideal. An example would be that the method of obtaining hydrogen by breaking natural gas with high temperatures and pressures produces carbon dioxide. Another procedure involves splitting oxygen and hydrogen atoms in water with electricity, formally known as electrolysis (Dnews, 2015). Unfortunately, electricity for electrolysis is mainly obtained through the combustion of coal that is another carbon dioxide emitting process. The process of hydrogen production is also a notoriously expensive procedure, which is part of the reason for the lack of implementation of hydrogen fuel cell cars. Interestingly, however, creating new catalysts can also reduce the manufacturing of hydrogen. Since hydrogen can be produced by decomposing natural gas, which requires being passed over silicon or aluminum catalyst (BBC Bitesize, nd), a decrease in the price of the catalyst would directly reduce the cost of manufacturing hydrogen. C: Extending fuel cells life once fully charged There have been numerous collaborations in order to improve the durability of batteries. One exciting development are nanowire batteries, which are now said to be able to withstand 200, 000 rounds of charging due to work at the University of California Irvine. Nanowires are made from gold and future developments could potentially provide the world with the first battery that does not require recharging. Another type of battery using nanotechnology has been developed by the MIT that last three times as long as current options on the market and it can be fully charged in just 6 minutes; they have named it nano yolk (Pocket lit, 2016). Such developments would not only mean hydrogen fuel cell cars become mainstream vehicles but the main way of transport for our ever growing population (Pocket lit, 2016). D: Increasing the safety of hydrogen storage A recent paper (ACS Nano) has suggested Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as an absorptive storage compound for hydrogen. The paper by leading author Dr. Kondo Francois Aguey Zinsou also stated that NaBH4 can absorb hydrogen so that it gives hydrogen fuel the same energy potential as that of petrol in a similar fuel tank. This would improve the safety of hydrogen storage since the compound NaBaH4 doesnt release hydrogen significantly at cabin temperatures, ranging from 57.3 degrees Celsius to 60.5 degrees Celsius (Manning, R., Ewing, J., 2009) [DS4]However, the compound does have to be engineered in the nanoscale and it has to be engulfed in a nickel shell. Moreover, the sponge-like compound (NaBH4) only releases hydrogen predominantly at 350 degrees Celsius (The A Register, nd). Section 5: Conclusions[DS5] In order to determine whether Nanotechnology can transform hydrogen fuel cell cars into mainstream vehicles, the possibility of 1.15 million hydrogen fuel cell cars being part of the worlds roads must be analyzed. A theoretical perspective on the matter is provided by the US setting the target of having at least 15% of all of Californias cars to be zero emission vehicles be 2025 (Dnews, nd), that translates to 4.2 million cars [In 2012 there were 27.7 million registered cars in California (Reference, nd)]. That most certainly exceeds my target of 1.5 million, which suggest Nanotechnology is on its way to make fuel cell cars mainstream vehicles in America at least. Therefore, I can conclude that Nanotechnology will turn hydrogen fuel cell cars into mainstream vehicles. It is just a matter of time and whether it will be sooner rather than later. Section 6: Evaluation[DS6] Overall the micro research project was carried well. I managed to acquire information from the Internet related to my chosen topic. Although a modification I would make for future report-writing would be to explore my general and then specific subject area before writing my report. I would do this because it will provide me with greater focus from the preliminary stages. In order to further the research work in this report, I would like to carry out primary research on the topic of producing hydrogen with no greenhouse emissions and on whether water vapor is a worse greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Section 7: References[DS7] Barett, J.T. (nd) How Does the Release of Car Exhaust Fumes Cause Global Warming Available at:http://education.seattlepi.com/release-car-exhaust-fumes-cause-global-warming-3682.html (Accessed 30 August 2016). BBC Bitesize (nd) Fractional distillation Available at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/guides/zm2v4wx/revision/2 (Accessed 2 September 2016) CarbonBrief (2016) IEA: There are now more than 1 million electric cars on the worlds road Available at: https://www.carbonbrief.org/iea-there-are-now-more-than-one-million-electric-cars-on-the-worlds-roads (Accessed 30 August 2016). CHFCA (nd) What is a fuel cell Available at: http://www.chfca.ca/education-centre/what-is-a-fuel-cell/ (Accessed 30 August 2016). DigPhilosophy (2013) What is Nanotechnology? What applications can it be used for? Available at: https://youtu.be/WOqEk440JZ8 (Accessed 29 August 2016). Dnews (2015) How Hydrogen Fuel Is Made Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5b6SthDbsE (Accessed 2September 2016) GreenFacts (2016) Bottom-up vs Top-down (in the context of nanoparticle formation) Available at: http://www.greenfacts.org/glossary/abc/bottom-up-top-down.htm (Accessed 31 August 2016) HARDSOFT (2016) Lease and Hire the iMac 27 Retina 5k Available at: https://www.hardsoftcomputers.co.uk/apple-macs/apple-desktops/imac-27-retina-5k (Accessed 31 August 2016) Manning, R., Ewing, J. (2009) Temperature in Cars Survey Available at: https://www.racq.com.au//cars%20and%20driving//0814_temperature_in_cars_su.. (Accessed 3 September 2016) Nairaland Forum (2013) Do You Know How Dangerous The Car Exhaust Is To Your Health Car Talk Nairaland Available at: http://www.nairaland.com/1461704/know-how-dangerous-car-exhaust(Accessed 30 August 2016). Nanodic.com (nd) Nanoscale Available at: http://www.nanodic.com/general/Nanoscale.htm (Accessed 1 September 2016) Nano.gov (nd) Whats So Special about the Nanoscale Available at: http://www.nano.gov/nanotech-101/special (Accessed 30 August 2016). [2] Nano.gov (nd) Manufacturing at the Nanoscale Available at: http://www.nano.gov/nanotech-101/what/manufacturing (Accessed 31 August 2016) NanoScale Systems (2015) Top Down vs Bottom Up: 3D -Printing of sensors on the nanoscale Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1GepWC4WQ0 (Accessed 31 August 2016) Pocket lit (2016) Future Batteries, coming soon: charge in seconds, last months and power over air Available at: http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/130380-future-batteries-coming-soon-charge-in-seconds-last-months-and-power-over-the-air (Accessed 2September 2016) Register (nd) How many vehicles are in California Available at: https://www.reference.com/vehicles/many-registered-vehicles-california-52c20f61bcb10e9d (Accessed 2 September 2016) SKY (2016) Sky Broadband Fibre and Talk Available at: http://www.sky.com/shop/broadband-talk/ (Accessed 31 August 2016) Soutter, W. (2016) Nanotechnology in Fuel Cells Available at: http://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=3032(Accessed 30 August 2016). sust-it (2015) Electricity Cost Calculator Available at: http://www.sust-it.net/energy-calculator.php (Accessed 31 August 2016) Understanding Science (nd) Who pays for science Available at: http://undsci.berkeley.edu/article/who_pays (Accessed 30 August 2016). techNyouvids (2013) Manufactured Nanomaterials: Health, Safety and the Environment Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkpcUpattE8 (Accessed 31 August 2016) The A Register (nd) Scientists find a new way to store hydrogen Available at: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2012/08/17/safe_hydrogen_storage/ (Accessed 2nd of September) Section 8: Acknowledgements I would like to thank the University of East London for hosting the STEM4TECH lectures that enabled me to understand and apply common practice in academia regarding report writing. I would also like to thank Dekkel Simmons for delivering the lectures and Andre Mozert for supporting the STEM4TECH project. [DS1]Good [DS2]Good [DS3]Good. [DS4]Not consistent with Harvard referencing. [DS5]Good [DS6]Good [DS7]Good

Placental Ruminants and Herbivorous Marsupials of Australia Essay

Placental Ruminants and Herbivorous Marsupials of Australia The marsupial animal species that have evolved on the isolated continent of Australia are unique compared to the rest of the animal kingdom in many ways due to the harsh and distinctive environment found on the continent. The major area of marsupial biology that distinguishes them from all other eutherian mammals is their mode of reproduction. However, it can be said that there are many other areas in which unique differences can be seen between marsupials and eutherian mammals; one such area of adaptation is in the anatomy and physiology of digestion, which distinguishes them from many other similar animals worldwide. The foregut fermenters, such as kangaroos and wallabies, evolved in regions of poor forage quality to be able to extract the most nutrients out of the poorest feeds. Fermentation in the foregut has many advantages over hindgut fermentation, which is seen in marsupials such as the koalas and wombats. The anatomy and physiology of the digestive tracts of both types of fermenters, however, are uniquely suited to their individual modes of nutrition. It can be suggested that the foregut fermenters of the marsupials are very similar to the eutherian ruminants, as both types of adaptations are designed to increase fiber digestibility and increase nutrient absorption. However, there are many major differences between the two groups. Ruminants have developed a four-chambered stomach system, which is not seen in the marsupials, as well as a rumination cycle which allows for the rechewing of previously ingested meals. While regurgitation may be evident in marsupials, it is, however, not analogous to rumination, and is instead called â€Å"merycism.†... .... 23 March 2004. Milewski, A.V. and R.E. Diamond. 2000. Why are very large herbivores absent from Australia? A new theory of micronutrients. Journal of Biogeography. 27(4): 957-978. Russell, J.B. 1988. â€Å"Ecology of Rumen Microorganisms: Energy Use.† In Dobson, Alan, and Marjorie J. Dobson, eds. Aspects of Digestive Physiology in Ruminants: Proceedings of a Satellite Symposium of the 30th International Congress of the International Union of Physiological Sciences. Cornell University Press: Ithaca, NY, pg 74-98. Stevens, C.E. and I.D. Hume. 1995. Comparative Physiology of the Vertebrate Digestive System. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Strahan, Ronald, ed. 1995. The mammals of Australia. Smithsonian Institution Press: Washington, DC. Van Soest, Peter J. 1994. Nutritional ecology of the ruminant. Ithaca: Comstock Publishing. Placental Ruminants and Herbivorous Marsupials of Australia Essay Placental Ruminants and Herbivorous Marsupials of Australia The marsupial animal species that have evolved on the isolated continent of Australia are unique compared to the rest of the animal kingdom in many ways due to the harsh and distinctive environment found on the continent. The major area of marsupial biology that distinguishes them from all other eutherian mammals is their mode of reproduction. However, it can be said that there are many other areas in which unique differences can be seen between marsupials and eutherian mammals; one such area of adaptation is in the anatomy and physiology of digestion, which distinguishes them from many other similar animals worldwide. The foregut fermenters, such as kangaroos and wallabies, evolved in regions of poor forage quality to be able to extract the most nutrients out of the poorest feeds. Fermentation in the foregut has many advantages over hindgut fermentation, which is seen in marsupials such as the koalas and wombats. The anatomy and physiology of the digestive tracts of both types of fermenters, however, are uniquely suited to their individual modes of nutrition. It can be suggested that the foregut fermenters of the marsupials are very similar to the eutherian ruminants, as both types of adaptations are designed to increase fiber digestibility and increase nutrient absorption. However, there are many major differences between the two groups. Ruminants have developed a four-chambered stomach system, which is not seen in the marsupials, as well as a rumination cycle which allows for the rechewing of previously ingested meals. While regurgitation may be evident in marsupials, it is, however, not analogous to rumination, and is instead called â€Å"merycism.†... .... 23 March 2004. Milewski, A.V. and R.E. Diamond. 2000. Why are very large herbivores absent from Australia? A new theory of micronutrients. Journal of Biogeography. 27(4): 957-978. Russell, J.B. 1988. â€Å"Ecology of Rumen Microorganisms: Energy Use.† In Dobson, Alan, and Marjorie J. Dobson, eds. Aspects of Digestive Physiology in Ruminants: Proceedings of a Satellite Symposium of the 30th International Congress of the International Union of Physiological Sciences. Cornell University Press: Ithaca, NY, pg 74-98. Stevens, C.E. and I.D. Hume. 1995. Comparative Physiology of the Vertebrate Digestive System. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Strahan, Ronald, ed. 1995. The mammals of Australia. Smithsonian Institution Press: Washington, DC. Van Soest, Peter J. 1994. Nutritional ecology of the ruminant. Ithaca: Comstock Publishing.

Gettysburg: Movie and History Essay

The American Civil War has captured the imagination and the hopes and fears of the American people. It is the only major war fought within the borders of the United States. It was a bloody war fought during the time of President Lincoln, considered as the greatest President of the US. Gettysburg is the historical landmark where the result of the Civil War was decided. The Gettysburg movie was based on Michael Shaara’s novel â€Å"The Killer Angels. † It follows the events of the Battle of Gettysburg, which decided the turnout of the American Civil War. Ronald F. Maxwell directed the film. Gettysburg film is an important movie in that the National Park Service allowed, for the first time, a movie to film battle scenes on the very Gettysburg Battlefield. The movie needed thousands of people as volunteers for the battle scenes. As such, thousands of Americans participated in the battle scenes. Gettysburg was not very successful commercially in the theaters. But when it was released in VHS and DVD format, it gained popularity. The film also featured several appearances from media personalities such as Ted Turner, the media mogul and Ken Burns, a documentary writer and filmmaker. The film runs for an astounding 4 hours and 15 minutes. Synopsis of the Movie The Gettysburg film essentially chronicles the defense of Little Round Top as well as Pickett’s Charge. It portrays the chaos of the battlefield but presents clearly the strategy of the battle. The battle was for three days and the movie presented speeches of generals and officers as well as the personal reflections of the men in the battle. On the first day of battle, the movie focuses on John Buford as he selects the battlefield. On the second day, the scenes shift to the manner in which Joshua Chamberlain defended Little Round Top. On the evening of the second day, the army prepares for Pickett’s Charge. The movie presents different perspectives from both Confederates and Union soldiers and officers, thereby presenting a better view of the Civil from the trenches. Interestingly, the film also shows the different conflicts of soldiers such as Longstreet and Lee who differed on how to go on with the battle tactic. Armistead on the other hand is fighting against his own friend Hancock and the Chamberlain brothers. What Truly Happened at Gettysburg The Battle of Gettysburg claimed the most casualties during the American Civil War. During this war, the attack of Robert E. Lee with his Army of Northern Virginia was repulsed by Union Major Gen. George Gordon Meade with the Army of the Potomac. Gen. Lee positioned his army at Gettysburg. Confederate corps helped Lee’s forces and Union forces were forced back to retreat. The Union Army continued to suffer losses as Lee’s forces fought at the Light Round top, the Wheatfield, Peach Orchard, and Devil’s Den. In spite of these losses, the Union soldiers held their ground. The dramatic Pickett’s Charge with 12,500 Confederates attacked the Union line. Yet, with the rifles and the artillery of the Union soldiers, and the Confederates lost badly. With this defeat, Lee led the Confederate Army back to Virginia. More than 50,000 Americans fell on the fields of Gettysburg on that three-day war (Stackpole, 1956). Gettysburg: Movie and History The movie is historically accurate as it presents only the battle scenes of the American Civil War. Although it is difficult to verify some of the statements that the officers and generals uttered to their men, the overall effect still provides an accurate description of what truly happened during the Battle of Gettysburg. The movie presented an amazing flurry of battle scenes, dialog and military tactics in the film. Although the movie was a little too long, it was necessary to present the complexity, the confusion and the difficulties that soldiers faced at the trenches. What is lacking, however, is a deeper analysis of why the battle was fought and what its implications are in the American society. Perhaps the filmmakers left it to historians and to teachers to deal with the historical aspect of the film. Conclusion In terms of capturing the drama, the tension, and the chaos of the Battle of Gettysburg, the movie has succeeded. What it lacks in deeper historical analysis may be supplemented by historians and teachers. Students who will watch the film will come to appreciate history better and will develop a greater appreciation for Gettysburg and indirectly, for what Lincoln has brought to the American nation. Reference Stackpole, Gen. Edward J. , â€Å"They Met at Gettysburg†, Stackpole Books, 1956.

Summary of Globalization

* Review Gail Wyatt's research on heterosexual's Black women's sexual experience (notes from slides). * According to the article â€Å"Married to the Holy Spirit† and class notes what are some potential consequences for attempting to maintain a faith-based abstinence life style? * What are some of the characteristics of different gender presentations of Black lesbians (e. g. , â€Å"femmes†, â€Å"studs†). * Identify the ways that Black lesbians deal with sexual prejudice in their lives (article: â€Å"It ain't all as bad as it may seem†). * Define â€Å"sexual concurrency. How does it influence male-female relationships and rates of HIV. Black motherhood * According to Chaney, how do Black women define â€Å"womanhood? † * How do parents, peers, healthcare workers, and the media influence Black women's sexual practices and attitudes toward delaying early pregnancy as they pursue their education (Dilworth article). * How has Black women's reproduction been controlled throughout history (Flavin article and notes). * Identify some specific socialization messages that Black women give to their daughters (Thomas article). Community Violence/Homicide Review the statists on community violence and homicide. What are some specific types of homicide? * What community characteristics increase the probability of community violence? * Discuss at least 3 different factors (they could be historical, social, or economic) that make Black women more vulnerable to violence or make it more difficult for them to recover. * Explain Black mothers' cognitive process and ways of finding meaning after the loss of a child to homicide. * What are some ways that Black women coping with community violence in housing projects. Sexual Assault/Intimate Partner Violence * According to a Black feminist perspective, what factors do researchers consider when explaining intimate partner violence (Potter article). * What are some factors that make the recovery process more challenging for Black victims of sexual harassment? * Regarding sexual assault, identify the characteristics of survivors and their assault, risk factors, and physical and mental health consequences. What are some culturally sensitive responses to treating Black survivors?

The Life of Sgt. Dillon Black Foxx

Sgt. Dillon B. Foxx Born Dec. 2nd, 1987 in Traverse City, MI Died Feb. 5th, 2010 in Badghis Province, Afghanistan serving during Operation Enduring Freedom Sgt. Dillon Black Foxx of Traverse City, Michigan spent his early years living in Tennessee. When he was 17 he moved to Michigan where he graduated from Traverse City West Senior High School in 2006. Sgt. Foxx changed his name and used to go by Robert Dillon Lentz. He enlisted in the Army in May 2006 at the age of 18. When he did, his friends thought he was crazy. They reminded him the country was at war. Nope, he said, he wasn’t crazy; he was doing exactly what he needed to do. An awesome soldier with a free spirit, he maintained the same personality he carried his whole life into the military: a self-starter and someone others could count on. Dillon had attended One Station Unit Training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Basic School at Fort Benning Georgia. When he finished his training, Dillon reported to Fort Bragg, where he was assigned to the 1st Battalion of the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment. In January 2007, he deployed with the unit to Afghanistan for 15 months. He returned in April 2008. He was promoted to sergeant in January 2009 and went to Afghanistan in August for his second deployment, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, his duty as a forward observer. He died February 5th in Bala Murghab, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. Dillon received numerous awards including an Army Commendation with Valor Device, the Army Commendation with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Combat Action Badge, the Basic Parachutist Badge and the Purple Heart posthumously. Dillon will be remembered by those who had the opportunity to meet him, serve with him or love him. Dillon is survived by his mother, Trina Pfau of Manton; father, Robert Lentz of Tennessee; his seven-month-old son, Kaiden Levi Foxx; Kaiden's mother, Jessica Cross; two brothers, Chad (Andrienne) Stewart and their son Blake, currently stationed with the United States Marine Corp in California, Dale Blakeslee of Manton; two sisters, Savannah Lentz and Lenzy Blakeslee, both of Manton; grandparents, Linda Stewart, Linda Gale and Walter Lentz; great-grandmother, Fern (Ben) Chupp; his uncle, Chuck (Bonnie) Stewart; an aunt, Alisha (Les) Wormell; and many other loving family members, friends and comrades of the service. The Governor ordered flags down to half staff across the state to honor the northern Michigan soldier. Memorial services with Military Honors took place at 11 a. m. on Friday, February 19, 2010 at the NMC Hagerty Center, with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Justin Grimm did Officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Sgt. Dillon Foxx Memorial Fund, c/o Traverse City State Bank, PO Box 192, Traverse City, MI 49685. Please share thoughts with the family at Dillon's online guestbook at www. reynolds-jonkhoff. com. The family is being served by the REYNOLDS-JONKHOFF FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, (231) 947-6347. The more than hour long service began with a reading of a poem written by Sergeant Foxx. The first line read, â€Å"If I ever go to war Mom, please don't be afraid. There are some things I must do, To keep the promise that I made. † Every stanza there after reminded family and friends never to worry while their loved one was off at war. It was a tearful service, but it showcased the absolute best of Sgt. Foxx through anecdotes and memories. During the memorial service, Army personal presented Sergeant Foxx's family with military honors including a purple heart and a flag presentation. 9&10 News talked to the family after the service at a luncheon at the VFW Hall in Traverse City. They said they were overwhelmed with the support from the community. â€Å"We would like to express our thanks for the outpouring generosity that has been tremendous and overwhelming,† says Stewart. â€Å"Friends and strangers alike have just been so supportive. † His family described him as a â€Å"quick learner† who picked up new tasks easily and worked hard to get the job done, whatever the job was. The family wanted to thank everyone for their support, including family and friends in Tennessee, Ohio, Michigan, Florida, Fort Bragg, the local V. F. W. and the military I send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of SGT Dillon B. Foxx. May the Lord comfort you in the difficult days ahead. Godspeed Dillon†¦.. Godspeed†¦.. Those we love remain with us For love itself lives on†¦ Cherished memories never fade Because one loved is gone. Those we love can never be More than a thought apart†¦ For as long as there is memory, They live on in our hearts. Traverse City Soldiers post Posted by Lisa McQueen, Harbor Springs – Sunday, February 07, 2010 at 8:15 p. m. Our military family shares in your pain, this community supports you in grief and this country is grateful for your sacrifice. We are humbled by the service of your son. Thoughts and prayers to you during this most difficult time. Posted by J Meadows, TX – Tuesday, February 09, 2010 at 10:56 a. m. RIP Airborne! St. Michael, Guide this Paratrooper to a waiting formation of the Jump Master in the Sky! From: Diablo A staff sergeant and captain who worked with Foxx describe him as a self-starter and someone they could always count on. Foxx’s brother made a statement when asked about his brother â€Å"He did what he did,† says Chad Stewart, Foxx's brother. â€Å"It's just like anyone else that deploys†¦ unfortunately it was him, but he did what he wanted to do. † TRAVERSE CITY — Flags lined the walkway of Traverse City's Hagerty Center early Friday morning. A somber mood, yet a patriotic spirit as people paid their respects to 22-year old Sergeant Dillon Foxx. A fallen soldier is being remembered as a local hero. â€Å"I just think it really brings it home that it's somebody in your own backyard that was in Afghanistan and has passed away,† says Dan Brady of Traverse City. This young man lost his life. He gave the ultimate sacrifice fighting for our country. My heart goes out to his family,† says Traverse City resident, Marianne Abramson. â€Å"My son also serves in the 82nd Airborne. This is his second tour in Iraq and he is 22 years old and it just really hits close to home. I feel for this child's family. I do. I can't imagine my son not coming home,† says Elk Rapids resident, Mary Gallagher. â€Å"He laid down his life for us and I know the family but it's my way of showing support. I believe in what their son did. Being a veteran of the Gulf War myself is something I feel compelled to do,† says Midland resident, Jim Johnston. It's personal stories like this that brought out people from around the state, even complete strangers simply to say, â€Å"thank you. † â€Å"It's just a reminder that our freedom is really not free. There's soldiers dying every day for our freedom,† Soldiers who are thousands of miles away just like Sergeant Foxx putting our country before themselves. Now, a community is stepping up to show its support for his sacrifice. *Tribute to Sgt. Dillon Foxx* SGT Foxx was one of the best kind of people to know. Smart, funny, brave, compassionate, and extremely outgoing. For us paratroopers lucky enough to work with him on a daily bases, this loss shook us to the core. The loss of a true friend, mentor and brother will never be forgotten. I love you man past, present, and future. From: Jarmacus Smith. While I didn't know Sgt Foxx personally, my husband is currently serving in Iraq on his 2nd tour, my best friend of 18 years was killed in action in Iraq, 3 years ago this may 23rd, and I have several friends and family in the military. I thank Sgt. Foxx from the bottom of my heart for his selfless service to this country. And to his family, I will always have you in my thoughts and prayers. May you find peace in knowing that he will NEVER be forgotten. From: Rebekah Marie Lane. God bless the family and thank you Sgt. for keeping my family safe. Your selflessness is what separates you from the average civilian. Thank you. From: Dave Wylie. Here is a poem I found that I think the family would like to read in regards to their loss and their feelings at this time â€Å"Life Is A Fragile Thing†: â€Å"Life is a fragile thing And it can change within an instant Nothing is safe from the effects of change No person or possession we're given The only things we can hold forever Are the memories in our hearts The loves we share upon this earth Before it comes our time to part So choose a pathway that brings you joy Take time for quiet moments each day Appreciate the challenges that strengthen your soul And the blessings God sends your way Don't let your heart be ruled by anger It's just not worth the stress For the tumult will only expand in your heart And crowd out happiness Live each day with wonder and gratitude For the beauty that surrounds you And share your abundance generously It'll ensure future blessings will surround you Meekly accept that life's journey will include Unexpected, soul-wrenching heartaches That will bruise your soul and alter the course You always imagined your life would take And when that happens you'll have the choice To embrace hope or hopelessness You can't avoid grief, but you can refuse to accept A lonely future of bitterness So choose to be grateful for each moment With the loved ones you've been given†¦ † I also found some pictures of Sgt. Dillon Foxx that will put a face to the story. ? Sgt. Dillon Foxx Military Picture ? Dillon Foxx & His Son ? Sgt. Dillon Foxx on duty. ? Sgt. Dillon Foxx is being carried to his funeral in his casket. I found this poem which I feel explains Sgt Dillon Foxx and his selflessness he showed with the way he lived his life and giving of himself to the military. â€Å"This fundamental truth of the self can be realized only if the individual is willing and courageous enough to follow to some natural conclusion this moment of experience, this facing the unknown and participating with the total commitment of the self. Such expression, such passion for life may emerge in written, spoken, graphic or aesthetic forms in relation or in isolation; in I-Thou encounters; and in silent, inner experience. A compassionate willingness is required – as is the courage to live before the fact, before the understanding, before any rational support or certainty, to live the moment to its natural peak and conclusion, and to accept with dignity whatever joy, grief, misfortune, or unexpectedness occurs. I think that I found a quote that explains how Sgt Dillon Foxx felt since he stated it to his family and friends that he was doing what he wanted to do. â€Å"I have lived on a razors edge. So what if you fall off, I'd rather be doing something I really wanted to do. I'd walk it again. † I would like to say to Sgt Dillon Foxx’s family and anyone else that has lost a love one, Do not cry over your loss but celebrate the life they once lived. Remember them for all the good times you shared, rather then dwell on what will never be. When you keep them in good memories and thoughts it makes it easier day by day to get through. God is always willing and ready to help you through your hurt and pain all you have to do is call upon him and ask for his help. For those of us who do not have family or friends in the military or that take everyday for granted, please remember it is people like Sgt. Dillon Foxx that scarify their lives everyday to help us live free.