God And Christian Life Essays - Christian Soteriology,

God And Christian Life A healthy, vibrant, growing and happy Christian life requires a regular routine of communion with God through prayer, study His Word, and in Christian service to mankind. Like eating, sleeping, and exercising, it demands daily attention. And like our bodies, our spiritual life quickly withers and dies without spiritual food. I. Communicating Your Mind with Him The story of Enoch is a great example of a man who spent much time in prayer and communion with God. In fact He kept his mind in tune with God in every respect of his daily living?in thought, in word and in deed. To him prayer was as the breath of the soul; he lived in the very atmosphere of heaven. Because he lived so close to God, he was translated to heaven without seeing death. How can we achieve in our individual life the same holiness that characterized his, a state that will enable God to place us among the 144,000, to seal us, and to take us home with him without seeing death? Friends, only Time Alone With God will give us the experience of Enoch. The disciples had worked hard fulfilling Christ's commitment. But now after their return from their missionary journey. He invited them to retire to a quiet place with Him. They needed to enjoy not only a little rest but also a period of close communion with the Saviour. "And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while" (Mark 6:31). In the close and private setting with the future apostles, Jesus could communicate freely with them, correct their mistakes, encourage them, strengthen them for the great task they were soon to do. As did the disciples, we too require the refreshing company of the source of all power, comfort, and wisdom. Every child of God vitally needs precious moments of private communion with Him. In our hurries and worries of life, even in the work of God, every Christian must have time dedicated to his private devotions. The Master's loving reproach to the busy and concerned Martha also illustrates this point. "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:41,42) Every one of us needs "that good part, which shall not be taken away"?to sit quietly at the feet of Jesus, like Mary, and commune with Him. But the time factor is extremely important. As Enoch spent hours alone with God, we need to devote enough time with Him. We live in an age of hurry. Many voices require our attention. And we try to do everything briefly. Our meetings, our presentations, our articles, our interviews, are short. But one thing still takes time, even in our day. To develop a love relationship we must invest time. The young man who falls in love with a girl wants to spend as much time as possible with her. As he courts her, he does not count time by the watch. Neither does she. And the more time they take to be together, to communicate with each other, the more they know each other, the more they appreciate each other, the more intense their love becomes. Friends, our private hour of devotion alone with God is an absolutely vital need. Every Christian must meditate alone and talk with his Father alone. It was during his hour of seclusion with God when Jacob won his victory, when his character received the needed divine touch and he consequently received his new name. Paul really changed the whole aim and direction of his life during the three days he spent by himself with God after his encounter with Jesus on the Damascus road. Without sight, he had enough time to mediate on the scriptures that referred to the first advent of Christ. And there he yielded completely to the Spirit's voice. During his hour of solitude with God Elijah heard the "still small voice" of the Holy Spirit speaking to his heart and bringing him courage and hope. The Spirit can communicate with us much better when everything is quiet. If we are not constant and regular in our devotional life, we are not safe. May God give us the willingness to cut out the superfluous and secondary things of life in order to dedicate more time to daily communion with God. Only then will we have the strength to win life's battles

The Most Powerful Nation on the Planet

The Most Powerful Nation on the Planet Introduction The recent scientific and technological developments in China have attracted a lot of attention in the international forum. The country’s economy is growing at an extremely high rate and this means that the current advancements will surely be sustained and even made better in the future (Cooper 57).Advertising We will write a custom thesis sample on The Most Powerful Nation on the Planet specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The rate at which the country’s power is increasing with regard to science and technology has led many to conclude that China is the most powerful nation on the planet (Hughes 125). While some people think so, others have remained skeptical about any possibility of China ever becoming a superpower in the new future. This paper aims at presenting argumentative evidence that China is indeed the most powerful nation on the planet when it comes to science and technology while at the same time ana lyzing the arguments of the skeptics who are against that fact. China as the most powerful nation on the Planet in terms of Science and technology Early technological innovations in China With the Chinese mainland being home to the one of the oldest world civilizations, many innovations were, as a result, made in china many years before any other place (Hughes 134). Major inventions such as that of the woodblock and the movable type printing, the magnetic compass, the cast iron and the iron plough, propeller, crossbow, gunpowder among others were made in China many centuries ago (Hughes 135). The major discoveries made in Europe came in the16th century during the scientific revolution, which was very late in relation to the inventions made in China. Science and technology had, however, stagnated in China and many years passed without any significant discoveries and inventions being made. The condition worsened further at the formation of the People’s Republic of China under t he leadership of Mao Zedong and the introduction of communism (Jasanoff 43). In other parts of the world, major scientific discoveries and inventions were being done and perfected while China stagnated. The leadership of Deng Xiaoping in the 1980s set the pace for the current scientific and technological excellence in China. Because of this, the excellence of China and the claim of being the world’s most powerful nation can be defended through considering both the input and the out sides (Lovell 562).Advertising Looking for thesis on asian? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More China as a Science and Technology (ST) superpower Among the many striking features of science and technology trends in China is the high level of commitment that the political class and the Chinese people are giving to science and technology (Jing 5). The elite commitment and support, as well as the popular enthusiasm, are considered a lot by those who are interpreting China’s achievements in the field and as a result award it a superpower status. In order to understand these sentiments, it is important for the modern Chinese quest in the fields of science and technology to be reflected upon briefly. The technological superiority of the Western powers in the and Japan since the 19th century contributed to national humiliations in china which contributed to the desire by the Chinese people to venture actively into the fields of science and technology (Kong, and Agron 127). Political leaders in China since the 1920s embraced the idea that in order to achieve the dream of the ‘wealthy and powerful’ china, modern science and industry needed to be effectively developed. Wars, revolutions and political extremism, however, constantly frustrated China’s efforts of making it globally in the fields of science and technology during the twentieth century. The last three decades have been the best period i n China as far as developments in science and technology are concern. This is mostly since the year 1978 to this day. The political stability, steady growth in the country’s economy, positive reforms in the national institutions and participation in the global forum through the productive engagements with the international society are factors that have led to the rapid growth in science and technology in China to achieve the position of the most powerful nation in the world (Kynge 214). Within that short period, China has managed to achieve the scientific and technological development that has been elusive for over a century. Political elites, as well as the public, have played significant roles in ensuring that the conditions that have ensured the rapid growth in the status of the country and maintained and further developments made. Among the important conditions, which both the general Chinese society and the political elites have sought to provide is financial support. Th e county’s spending on research and development has risen from 0.6% in the year 1996 to 1.82% in the year 2011 (Jeng 6).Advertising We will write a custom thesis sample on The Most Powerful Nation on the Planet specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This figure places China ahead of many countries that are considered powers in terms of scientific and technological developments such as Russia and the OECD countries. This spending figure places China in the class of the most superior nations of the world such as the USA and the fact that the figure is predicted to be more than 2.5% by the year 2020 means that China is expected to top the chart (Jeng 7). The fact that china exhibits high levels of cultivation of human resources and the support of science education (Jing 15) is proof that China stands as the most powerful nation in the world (Jing 14). Because of this, there is an apparent wealth of talent in China. For instance, a surv ey conducted in China in the year 2006 revealed that, among the 1.5 million workers in china, 1.2 million of them were scientists and engineers (Jing 15). In addition, there were about eight million students in the institutions of higher learning. Most of them took science and technology courses such as engineering, medicine, agriculture among others. During the same year, about 20,000 doctorates in the fields of science and engineering were offered which by then placed China in the third position after the US and Russia (Jing 15). The ‘Science Diaspora’ and the ‘brain circulation’ programs have played a significant role in the development of science and technology in China. There are programs that encourage the interaction of the Chinese scientists with those working at home to ensure that the science industry in China is at par with the rest of the world (Jing 15). A conglomeration of these trends has resulted to the transformation of Science and technolo gy industry in China making it younger, results oriented, very productive and extremely cosmopolitan an inline with the world’s prevailing trends in science and technology. The elite commitment in the revitalization of science and technology institutions has ensured that China claims the recently highly ranked position on the planet as far as science and technology is concerned (Jaime 2). Hundreds of government research institutes have been reorganized and underpinned, therefore, revitalizing the RD in the business sector (Jaime 2). For instance, in the recent times, the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been strengthened as part of the Knowledge Innovation Program (KIP). Chinese universities have been reoriented to assume a global outlook, therefore, becoming very important centers of science and technology excellence. The Chinese government has also made massive reforms in the county’s economic policies, therefore, making it possible for foreign investors and multi-nat ional organizations to establish RD activities in the country (Jeng 12). These activities have resulted to the widening of the Chinese technical community to a point whereby it has claimed excellence. In fact, the existing RD activities in China that are sponsored by multi-nationals and foreign investors were more than 1200 by the year 2008 (Jeng 12). These commitments by the MNCs have reinforced the role of China as a very important ‘node of innovation’ in the global arena.Advertising Looking for thesis on asian? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The introduction of the MLP in the year 2006 marks another important effort of the political elite in China in an effort to achieve and sustain power in the fields of science and technology (Li, and Richard 22). The plans have been since then considered as a manifesto aimed at supporting the Science and Technology superpower status that the Chinese Republic currently enjoys. The plan also advocates for China to become an â€Å"innovation oriented society† by the wake of 2020 (Kong, and Agron 130). By such time, it has been predicted that China will have significantly reduced its reliance on foreign technological expertise and will, as a result, be an independent leader in science and engineering. With most of the above claims being in the form of inputs that have ensured that China is considered a global leader in terms of science of technology, there are other claims in the form of the outputs or the achievements that China has done so far which acts as proof of its leadersh ip (Suttmejer 320). Among the major outputs or the significant technological achievements, which China has made so far is its space program. These achievements have brought China in the lime light as one among the few nations of the world that have mustered the sophisticated technologies and integrated them into a complex system. China recently launched the unmanned Tiangong- 1 or the ‘Heavenly Palace’ from China’s Jiuquan Launch Centre (Jaime 22). This marked one of the most significant achievements of China’s technological and scientific ambitions. By the year 2007, China was the world’s leading technocracy (a nation ruled by engineers and scientists who hold the belief that it is only through achieving new technologies that the country can achieve social and economic progress) (Kong, and Agron 135). The innovation system employed by the Chinese may be having its shortcomings, but the fact remains that it has excelled greatly through the rapid res ource mobilization. Most of those who doubt the quality of the Chinese inventions are simply skeptic and engulfed in ignorance according to Yang (21). This is because their doubts are continuously being proven wrong through the highest quality and they are simply finding others to keep the arguments going ahead. The rapid increase in patenting activities in China is another proof that it is the most powerful nation on the planet with regard to scientific and technological innovations. In fact, the country ranks highest when it comes to the production of scientific literature such as SCI indexed papers, EI and ISTP papers (Wong 14). Scientific research and development has produced the best and the most reliable results in China recently considering the rate at which reports of such research activities have inspired new inventions. China has also achieved leadership when it comes to the high-technology exports, which also serve as proof that the nation has already achieved the superpo wer status. In addition to this, China’s domestic market has growth substantially with the penetration of IT suggesting the powerful market pull that will definitely trigger domestic innovations. The Chinese society has become connected by the latest information technology more than any other society in the world. In the wake of 2010, China scientists developed the world’s fastest supercomputer as well as the fastest train (Yang 26). Most of the criticism that the superpower thesis in China faces from skeptics is based on the questions concerning the quality of the research and development ventures that China has indulged in (Yang 12). Most of the critics argue from the grounds of whether or not the money that is used to fund the research and development activities in China is being well spent. The government ensures that there is unquestionable transparency in accounting for the money that is intended to benefit the Chinese technical community. Commissions are formed that ensure that the money is utilized for the planned purposes and the success of such commissions can be seen through the success that the ventures are achieving especially through the output (Yang 36). In a variety of measures, the achievements that China has made in science and technology within the past thirty years are impressive (Sigurdson 569). Political leaders in China, as opposed to those of other nations in the world who have the ambition of seeing their countries to achieving the prestige of science superpowers, pay a close attention to issues concerning research and development. Scientific and technological achievements in China are celebrated by the media more than any other place in the world with makes the entire society to feel like part of the scientific innovations. This fosters a sense of national pride and loyalty among the local people who subsequently strive to achieve more and more (Schwaag 67). China in the year 2010 made the most powerful and responsible s tatement in the world as far as the environment conservation efforts are concerned by investing more money in the production of clean energy. China hit a record of $54.4 billion for the manufacture of wind turbines, solar energy units and other forms of clean technology (Jeng 26). Conserving the environment while the other powerful nations of the world are just increasing the carbon footprint is a major achievement that with no doubt places China above all other nations that claim power in the fields of science and technology in the world. In addition, GE recently made an investment of $2 billion dollars with China in an effort to develop more environment friendly technologies and open up more job opportunities in the country (Jeng 28). Since the emergence of stem cell research in the 1990s, China has been active in the venture. The potential research aimed at coming up with treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and tissue repair (Ho 239). There are currently more than 400 researchers and Chinese experts working in that field now. These experts are spread over in over thirty institutions in the country, which provides proof of China as the nation, which has so far shown the biggest support and improvement for the research (Zing 259). There have been notable achievements so far such as the successful cloning of animal species such as cattle, goats as well as the first ever successful cloning of a rat. There have been established a network of cord blood stem banks in the whole country for both research and clinical use (Ho 243). With China being the largest nation in the world with respect to its human population, it is best placed considering the large workforce and the ready market for the technological and scientific inventions. As argued by Farrell (30), globalization results in the cities and regions competing forever over smaller niches. The most striking aspects of science and innovation strategies of both the Guangzhou a nd Shenzhen are based on how the two build the existing niches. They do this by concentrating more on how they apply science to processing and manufacturing rather than on basic science. This is generally inspired by the desire to satisfy the needs of the populations with affordable consumer products. As a result, the different science and technology cities of China have specialized in different avenues, which reduce the conflicts of interest. Cities such as Beijing and Shanghai have concentrated on basic science while others such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen concentrating entirely on the production of consumer products (Zing 458). This ensures that efforts aimed at achieving excellence from all perspectives are carried along at the same time. For instance, the two-telecom companies in Shenzhen: Huawei and ZTE are becoming serious contenders in the global telecoms arena while at the same time striving to satisfy the needs of the local community (Aho 3). Conclusion China has testified t o the world that it deserves the title of the world’s most powerful nation when it comes to science and technology. This follows the commitment that research and development activities have received in china from both the political elite and the technical community. Other outstanding inputs that China has made in developing and sustaining science and development are above what other nations of the world have done so far or are willing to do in the near future (Jeng 30). The most notable of this is the recent record that China set with regard to the investment it made in the development of clean energy and technology. The other countries of the world instead insist on using organic oils, therefore, increasing carbon footprint. China has set the pace for the other nations who dream of making it in the future of technology to follow (Schwaag 69). The rapid growth in the fields of science and technology as evidenced by the most recent achievements in space science prove chinaâ₠¬â„¢s leadership when it comes to the sophisticated science (Minder 238). The quality of Chinese innovations is par the world standards considering that most of the Chinese scientists and experts were trained in other nations in Europe and America that earlier claimed leadership in the innovations (Jeng 31). Aho, Yeh. â€Å"China lab aims to lead way in research.† Financial Times 8 Dec. 2005. Print. Cooper, Ramo. Brand China. London: Foreign Policy Centre, 2006. Print. Farrell, Daniel, and Aille Grant. â€Å"China’s looming talent shortage.† McKinsey Quarterly 4 (2005): 12-34. Print. Ho, Jia. â€Å"Controversial Chinese gene-therapy drug entering unfamiliar territory.† Nature  Reviews: Drug Discovery 5.1(2006): 235-246. Print. Hughes, Charles. Chinese Nationalism in the Global Era. Abingdon: Routledge, 2006. Print. Jaime, Watts. â€Å"China plans first space walk in 2007.† Guardian 18 Oct 2005. Print. Jasanoff, Samuel. Designs on Nature .Princet on, NJ: Princeton University Press, 2005. Print. Jeng, Sung. â€Å"US$425 million to boost Chinese innovation.† SciDev.net 30 May 2006. Print. Jing, Oliver. Scientific literacy: a new strategic priority for China, 2006. Web. Kong, Dan and Agron Segal. â€Å"The siren song of technonationalism.† Far Eastern  Economic Review 169.2 (2006): 123-143. Print. Kynge, Jean. China Shakes the World. London: Weidenfeld and Nicholson, 2006. Print. Li, Tonny, and Richard Florida. Talent, technological innovation and economic growth in  China. Beijing: Richard Florida Creativity Group, 2006. Print. Lovell, Jameson. The Great Wall: China against the world 1000BC–AD2000. London: Atlantic Books, 2006. Print. Minder, Richard. â€Å"Chinese poised to outstrip Europe on RD.† Financial Times 10 Oct 2005. Print. Schwaag, Serger. China: from shop floor to knowledge factory?’ in M Karlsson (ed),  The Internationalization of Corporate RD. Stockholm: IPTS, 2006. Print. Sigurdson, Jean. Technological Superpower China. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar, 2005. Print. Suttmejer, Richard et al. Standards of Power? Technology, institutions and politics in  the development of China’s National Standards Strategy. Washington, DC: National Bureau of Asian Research, 2006. Print. Wong, Chong. â€Å"China to build 30 new science and technology parks.† SciDev.net 19 Apr. 2006. Print. Yang, Rao, Bain Lu, and Long Tsou. â€Å"Chinese science needs a fundamental Transformation.† Nature 432 18 Nov 2004. Print. Zing, Peng. â€Å"Current status of Gendicine in China: recombinant human Ad-p53 agent for treatment of cancers.† Human Gene Therapy 16(2005): 453-467. Print.

Adaptation and Accountability in the Workplace Essay

Adaptation and Accountability in the Workplace - Essay Example A measure that has been taken in my workplace that aid in the accountability process is that of the adaptation of healthcare marketing materials. In order to better understand the issue of adaptation and the involved accountability process with this, the matter itself must be discussed to the full extent. By thoroughly addressing these subjects of interest, we can gain a more intellectual and knowledgeable viewpoint on the subject at hand. The aim of this paper is to do this, as well as envelop any and all other key related factors. This is what will be dissertated in the following. The issue of the adaptation of healthcare marketing materials is far more than just translating the words; rather it is a complex and diverse situation, and is the translating of ideas and doing so in a manner that the target culture will embrace. The most effective adaptations and translations require extensive testing with the basic target audience during all phases of the development process. Cultural adaptation of preventive materials and messages are used to increase access to, and facilitate the benefits of, the preventive benefits are necessary.

Graffiti the illegal art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Graffiti the illegal art - Essay Example The typically subversive nature of this art thus becomes a tool for the anti-hegemonic resistance, speaking on an individual level with those who live at the street level and perceive that they are being asked to adapt to a world-view that is outside of or in opposition to their own sphere of experience. The excitement of moving outside of the circles of the officially sanctioned, government approved and corporately supported dominant viewpoint of the fabulously wealthy is captured in the graffiti artist’s ability to capture a sense of the observations and triumphs of the common man, beginning to re-establish connections and re-enforcing personal observations that strike against the claims of the powers that be. This ability to speak to the concerns of the common man has re-asserted their impression that their voices are important, too. It is commonly accepted that the graffiti artist is saying something that most of his contemporaries on the street have been prevented from sa ying for any number of reasons – lack of confidence, fear of reprisal, etc. Again, this is accomplished not just through the subject of the art, but also in the way in which the art is practiced. Their message cannot be separated from the art form because of the nature of placing the art upon the unsanctioned spaces of the city. This felonious act screams defiance at the establishment even as do many of the images presented. Graffiti has similarly been demonstrated in case after case to have the kind of individual element.

Teacher Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Teacher - Essay Example â€Å"Performance is a developmental process that needs to be supported and facilitated.† (Maloy & Seidman, P. 28) However, tradition and qualifications on paper alone does not guarantee success in teaching profession. In the case of tradition, learners of today have different learning styles and come from diverse backgrounds. In addition to this, the integration of technology into the curriculum demands a shift in the teaching styles of teachers since new set of skills must be utilized to impart learning. Traditional method is only focused on intellectual learning and it is teacher –centered. Contrastingly, non traditional styles which promotes cooperative learning lead to increased motivation and academic performance ( Johnson, R. T., and Johnson, D. W.p.25). Similarly, academic qualification alone does not guarantee effective teaching. Other aspects as such as teaching styles and behavior which have been acquired through training and experience is more important than academic qualifications. In a study of teachers style published by Grasha, it was reported that teachers who exhibit medium intellectual excitement and high interpersonal rapport â€Å" are generally excellent for any group of students and teaching situation† ( Grasha P.35 ). It is important therefore that teachers do not only have academic qualifications but a set of skills as well as positive interpersonal behavior to be able to perform his role in the school setting. In the modern school setting, the teacher will not only deal with students but with the whole organization as well; thus, making him responsible to all stakeholders in the learning process. Some basic skills required for becoming a successful teacher are; Pedagogical skill, Interpersonal skill, Organi zational skill, Subject matter (content) & methodology skill , Skill in cooperating with colleagues and Skill in cooperating with the

The Organisational Challenges Faced By Debenhams Commerce Essay

The Organisational Challenges Faced By Debenhams Commerce Essay The following report looks at an organisation (Debenhams) the authors employer, its profile, culture and how the current economic climate has affected its profile and culture What is an organisation? Organisations are social arrangements for achieving controlled performance in pursuit of collective goals, Buchanan and Huczynski (1997). The collective goals at Debenhams are aimed at, identifying, creating and maintaining satisfying relationships with customers resulting in value for both the customer and the organisation. Profile Debenhams Plc is a public limited company. Founded in 1778 as Flint Clark, Debenhams operated as an independent company until its hostile takeover by the Burton Group in the late 1980s. In 1998 Debenhams regained its independence when it was demerged from the Burton Group, which subsequently changed its name to Arcadia Group plc. The Groups principal activity is selling of fashion clothing and accessories, cosmetics and products for use in the home. It retails womenswear, menswear, homewares, health and beauty, accessories, lingerie and childrenswear. The Group trades from department stores and small store formats .Brands include Designers and Debenhams, including third-party brands. The Group has 161 department stores including 10 Desire by Debenhams stores, across the United Kingdom and Ireland with approximately 11 million square feet of trading space and around 27,000 employees. The Group has a portfolio of more than 55 own brands such as Debut, Maine New England, Red Herring and Thomas Nash including 25 Designers of Debenhams brands. Company brands account for about 70% of sales. Debenhams also offers a wedding gift service, in-store restaurants and cafes. The company has 51-plus international franchise stores in 19 countries including, Bahrain, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Turkey and will soon be opening 8 in Denmark. Debenhams also extends its customer reach by making direct sales through its website. Debenhams is company that is registered and trades its shares on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). Its registered office is at: 1 Welbeck St London W1G 0AA United Kingdom The companys key people are the Chairman: John D. Lovering, CEO: Rob Templeman and Deputy CEO and Director: Michael Sharp. Structure An organisation structure according to Mintzberg (1979) is the sum total of the ways in which it divides its labour into distinct tasks and then achieves coordination between them An organisation structure determines task allocation, reporting lines, and formal coordination mechanisms and interaction patterns. According to Basset and Carr (1996) an organisations structure should emphasise flexibility of response to market and environmental forces, this is accomplished by appropriate variability in the leadership role to fit the circumstances. As a retail organisation, Debenhams emphasises its structure in response to market and environmental forces by identifying and developing new talents to suit whats happening in the market and the retail and business environment in general. Wright and Burns (1998) state that, organisation structures largely depend on what kind of business the organisation is e.g. primary (e.g. extraction of raw materials, secondary, (e.g. conversion of raw materials to finished goods) and tertiary (e.g. services). The structure of an organisation is also affected by ownership and number of employees in the business. Debenhams is a public owned company. Its functional organisation based on product/brand but has a flat organisational structure headed by a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and organises employees into different departments selling different products The functional structure groups employees together based upon the functions of specific jobs within the organization. Melissa Bushman (2007). The author belongs to the Home department where they deal in home wares including wedding gifts. Other departments include Mens wear and Womens wear. The dividing of employees according to departments in Debenhams allows managers to exert con trol on a smaller number of employees, making it easier to manage, be more efficient and allows for easy communication between employees and management. Culture The culture of an organisation refers to the unique configuration of norms, values, beliefs, ways of behaving and so on that characterize the manner in which groups and individuals combine to get things done, Eldridge Crombie (1974). At Debenhams they have a unique configuration of norms, values and beliefs that characterize the manner in which they work as a group to get things done. They have a way which sets them apart from others. Drennan (1992) defines culture as, how things are done around here. It is how things are done at Debenhams that makes them who they are. Its about their brand, their people and how they market themselves. Schein (1990) suggests a view of organisational culture based on distinguished three levels of culture, from the shallowest to the deepest artefacts and creations, values and basic assumptions. The Debenhams culture is about excellence, its about design and innovation. The culture at Debenhams goes with the times but its traditions remain intact and h ave been so for two centuries. Debenhams culture is based on being a premium department store retailer. A family friendly store who supply designer labels at affordable prices. The best statement to Debenhams culture is its people. Retail is a fast-moving, exciting business where teamwork really makes an impact. At Debenhams they think everyone can have an impact on their success. Wherever you go in Debenhams you will meet friendly, welcoming people who will care about your well being and support your development but also expect you to be a valuable member of the team. If you want to push your boundaries and take the initiative, they help you do it. Whether you are a sales advisor or merchandiser, Debenhams growth and breadth of opportunity and focus on personal development makes it the ideal place to develop your career. From the sales floor where people can influence customers to behind the scenes roles, every person can influence the performance of Debenhams. Our senior management team listens and acts on feedback. At Debenhams they want people who have a real passion for what they do, people who are self-motivated. People who will use their initiative to act on the freedom they are given and will drive their own development. Sutherland Canwell (1997) say if employees share the cultural values of the organisation then they will be more likely to be committed to it. At Debenhams employees are committed to the organisation as they believe and share in its culture and values. Certain organisations stress the importance of personal initiative and achievement; indeed they reward employees for personal performance. On the other hand, other organisations positively encourage competition between departments or sub-division of the organisation, Sutherland et al (1997). The Debenhams culture stresses personal initiative and achievement and at the same time positively encourages competition between departments of the organisation. Both individual and team initiative and growth are encouraged. The culture in Debenhams is one that is caring, daring, enabling and encourages sharing. According to Blanchard and Bowles (1998) and their Gung Ho culture, an organisation should aim to create a culture of committed employees who love what they do by adhering to the following three principles: Worthwhile work driven by goals and values- An organisation should focus on worthwhile work, use of case studies, review goal standards for individuals and team members. Putting workers in control of achieving the goal. Cheering each other on- the power of feedback, rewards and recognition and action planning. The Gung Ho process aims to address the following: Improve morale and productivity Reduce employee turnover Develop a sense of purpose Improve creativity and innovation Improve service to internal and external customers Empower individuals and teams The author feels Debenhams their employer, fulfils principles as described in the Gung Ho process by Blanchard et al (1998). This is so because the work is driven by goals and values. Good standards are maintained through regular training and review of individuals and team members. By setting reasonable and realistic targets workers are put in control and are able to achieve set goals and even outdo themselves by going beyond. The organisation recognises the power of feedback by holding regular meetings where everyone participates. It also recognises the importance of rewards and action planning. Rewards help boost morale and productivity while action planning and develop a sense of purpose. Current Economic Climate and how it might affect profile and Culture The past eighteen months has seen the economy of the UK and the rest of the world badly hit and seriously bruised by the credit crunch. The current economic climate could have great impact on the profile and culture of Debenhams as an organisation. These impacts could be Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental and Legal, shortened to PESTEL. PESTEL Analysis of Debenhams Political changes-E.g. a change in government or a change in government policy. Government plans to implement the scheduled VAT increase (back to 17.5 per cent) on New Years Day. To change every price in all of its 161 stores at that time would take 250,000 man hours. Debenhams has been encouraged by governments decision on Local Employment Partnership Scheme (LEP) to create employment and will create 1200 jobs between 2010 and 2011and receive government assistance in meeting its training needs. Economic changes-Relate to changes in the wider economy such as rises in living standards or the general level of demand, rises or falls in interest rates, etc. UK markets have been affected by economic concerns through the credit crunch. Lower available income will impact and strategic focus may need to change to lower priced basic products with less focus on higher priced brands suggesting a switch in price architecture. The economy is predicted to grow out of recession in the coming year. As the US economy, the worlds biggest has started growing the growth of exports to that country will create more jobs in the UK economy and as a consequence more consumers will buy the Debenhams brand. The continuous fall in the value of the Pound Sterling against the Euro is likely to bring in more tourists from the EU and beyond who will purchase Debenhams products at a competitive price. As most of the world recovers from the current economic crisis. Debenhams are likely to spearhead their expansion into the international market, introducing new customers to new brands in an exciting retail environment. Social changes-Relate to changes in wider society such as changes in lifestyles e.g. more women going out to work, changes in tastes and buying patterns. Debenhams has added customer ratings and reviews to its online shop to enhance its customers online shopping experience and drive sales. Debenhams customers dont just have to rely on a brands professional opinion they will also now be able to hear what fellow shoppers think. The group is also improving its web site, adding features such as social networking capability, video and catwalk/outfit projection, an online outlet that leads to current offers and promotions, a facility that allows customers to shop by size, as well as product reviews and surveys. The call for fair trade is also another thing that Debenhams has to observe. For example Debenhams restaurants now stock only Douwe Egberts Good Original Coffee. Every cup of Good Original Coffee can be traced back to the farm where it was grown and has been certified by Utz Kapeh, a global non-governmental organisation. This is ensuring we are helping farmers look after their workers, their families and the environment in which they live and work. Technological changes-Relate to the application of new inventions and ideas such as the development of the Internet and websites as business tools. New internet and television technology which use special effects in advertising will make Debenhams products known and attractive to more customers as more people are now making use of the internet. Debenhams has opened online stores due to advancement in technology of the internet and can now sell its products without using shop space. This will allow it to compete favourably in this harsh environment. Positive performance online is helping lift yearly profit at Debenhams, this is despite the harsh economic turmoil in the domestic and international market Environmental changes-Relates to what is happening with respect to the ecological and environmental aspects. Debenhams have also joined calls to reduce impact on global warming by driving a Store energy saving plan, reviewing timings for lights, escalators and air conditioning. Overnight shifts have been reduced with light focussed only in the areas its needed. As a result of these efforts the organisation has achieved the Energy Efficiency Accreditation awarded by the energy Institute. Debenhams is now contributing to a national fund which will help to develop specific WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) collection centres to ensure that more WEEE gets recycled. Debenhams offer a collection service on a like for like basis, for example if you buy a washing machine we can take away your old one. All the appliances we collect are then sent to be recycled. More eco friendly measures have to be implemented, for instance Debenhams have developed a more eco-friendly packaging for the bra collars on Lingerie, by using a new type of board and are now able to maintain the print quality, whilst introducing 20% recycled content. Legal changes-Relate to changes in legislation. This may impact employment, access to materials, quotas, resources, imports/exports, taxation etc. Debenhams has been affected by the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive from the government and is doing its bit to help care for the environment. The directive states that as a retailer we are responsible for increasing the amount of WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic equipment) that is recycled in the UK. Debenhams reactions to the current economic climate Trigger events like the credit crunch affect organisations in many different ways. Towards the end of 2008, Debenhams struggled as customers were no longer buying much of their products as the economy slid into recession. The current economic climate is likely to impact on Debenhams profile and culture. The report by Graeme Wearden, in the Guardian of (21st October, 2008) gives a clear example of how the current economic climate has affected Debenhams. Debenhams has slashed its dividends after a sharp fall in sales during the past few weeks as the economy deteriorates, Debenhams is planning cost-cutting measures to reduce debt of  £994m, which it admitted was causing uncertainty over its future. It also plans to strip out  £15m of costs, and is cutting almost  £40m from its capital expenditure. The profile of the organisation might change as it could be more difficult to raise funds for new ventures or expansions and also might reduce the current size of the company as there could be downsizing. The negative trends in the economy also might affect the culture of Debenhams as its employees will be operating in a culture of uncertainty. However, the negative trends in the economy have had some positive effects on Debenhams as reported in the Waterford Today (6th January, 2009). On the day (6th January 2009) Debenhams released its interim management statement for the 18 weeks to the 3 January 2009, it also reported that sales of designer gear normally associated with boom times rather than bust, are back in vogue thanks to a new type of shopper, the recessionista. Spring/Summer 09 at Debenhams draws the latest influences from catwalks around the globe with a strong focus on wearability all with famous name designer influences but with high street price tags. ClickPress (14th January 2009)The retailer reported double digit sales growth across its Designer at Debenhams offer in the run up to Christmas, as well as seeing sales and profits increase and market share gains in all major clothing categories, while reducing its debt. The current economic climate has shaken Debenhams, but the Debenhams culture that encourages initiative has seen them shake off the initial fall in sales which shrunk the organisations profile and brought a culture of uncertainty as Debenhams struggled to survive. Whilst Debenhams is a premium department store retailer the external factors of banks going bust, rising unemployment adversely affected their operations. The public could no longer afford their products. The organisation strategized and came up with the idea of selling designer labels with famous name influences but sold at high street prices. Despite the credit crunch Debenhams has been able to maintain its culture of hard work and excellence through its people. The outgoing Chairmans words sum up the Debenhams culture. John Lovering said: I am proud of what Debenhams has achieved over the last six years whilst I have served as chairman.  We have set direction for a sound future. Debenhams is a well managed, properly financed company with a clear and successful strategy and a number of exciting development opportunities. I hope my successor enjoys the role as much as I have. Debenhams has taken advantage of the recession; its combination of quality, price and design in its products has continued to attract customers. Sky News (17 March, 2009). The companys profile will expand as in 2010 theyll open eight new stores bringing the total number to 161 stores across the UK and will employee 1200 new people. The culture of the organisation has altered slightly as the perceived credit crunch crisis initially shook the organisation and drastic measures had to be implemented, the crisis brought a culture of uncertainty across Debenhams. The measures implemented have seen the UKs second biggest department store chain continue to take market share from its competitors in all major product categories. Sky News (March, 2009). The culture change which has taken place at Debenhams is what Brown (1998) terms, specific evolution, which is the adaptation of particular organisational functions (such as research and development, data processing and marketing), to fit the environment. People at Debenhams had to adapt to the credit crunch and found working ways to rise above the crisis. The Debenhams culture has been sustained through new pattern- maintenance symbols, beliefs and structures. Debenhams has been able to weather the storms of the credit crunch because of proper planning and effectively managing todays business risks. Reuvid (2005) points out that organisations should spend time researching the possibility of a risk occurring and the probability of that risk occurring and interrupting businesss flow, then find ways to reduce and mitigate these risks. The organisation should continuously be evaluating the overall risk management infrastructure and investments necessary to look beyond financial statement, risk to enterprise and external risks should not be undervalued and cannot be underscored enough. The organisation needs to protect itself from excessive risk. This should be top priority for management and the audit team. They should understand the extent to which the company is exposed to financial, operational or strategic risks. Because of its preparedness and strategic use both of its financial, creative talent and its human capital Debenhams has survive d the worst recession in decades and remains standing strong.

Was Shakespeare Really in Love? Essay -- William Shakespeare Playwrigh

Was Shakespeare Really in Love? William Shakespeare is arguably one of the best playwrights of all time, and he is certainly one of the most well-known writers in the history of literature. Shakespeare is a classic example of how art and literature can touch so many people’s lives and hearts. His work has been enjoyed by millions of people for four hundred years, and today, his plays are still being performed daily all over the world. He wrote a total of thirty-seven plays and 154 sonnets in his lifetime. Plays like Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, and Macbeth are recognized by most people, and they, coupled with his beautiful sonnets, are clear evidence that Shakespeare was a romantic man. Over four hundred years ago, Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, about 100 miles northwest of London, in April of 1564. Shakespeare was the first son and the third child born to his parents, John and Mary Shakespeare. His father was a â€Å"glover,† a maker, worker and seller of leather goods, such as gloves, purses, and belts. Most scholars agree that Shakespeare attended the Stratford grammar school, where he learned the English alphabet, as well as reading and writing in Latin. In grammar school, Shakespeare would have been exposed to Latin authors such as Cicero, Virgil, Seneca, and Ovid. It was in grammar school that Shakespeare fell in love with literature, yet when Shakespeare was around thirteen years old, his father was forced to take him out of grammar school to help him with the business at home. Most scholars believe Shakespeare continued enjoying Latin and English literature throughout his entire lifetime. Clearly, he was familiar with such literature, and a life-long student, because many of his plays are modeled after pr... ...Shakespeare. New York: Addison-Wesley Educational Publishers Inc., 2002. Mabillard, Amanda. â€Å"Shakespeare of Stratford.†Shakespeare Online. 2000. http://www.shakespeare-online.com/biography/default.asp. (11/20/2002). Kinney, Sarah. â€Å"Shakespeare’s Marriage – Is it Reflected in His Plays?† http://www.calvin.edu/academic/engl/346/proj/skinney.htm. (11/27/2002). Almasy, Rudolph. Daniel, Rebecca. Gerlach, Jeanne. â€Å"Revisiting Shakespeare and Gender.†Digital Library & Archives. http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/ejournals/WILLA/fall96/gerlach.html Gray, Terry. â€Å"1564 Birth & Early Years.†Ã¢â‚¬Å"1582 Marriage.†Ã¢â‚¬Å"1608 Romance & Reconciliation.†A Shakespeare Timeline. 1998. http://shakespeare.palomar.edu/timeline/timeline.htm Ward, Ian. â€Å"Shakespeare and the Politics of Community.† Early Modern Literary Studies. 1999. http://www.shu.ac.uk/emls/04-3/wardshak.html