Global Business Cultural Analysis China free essay sample

China Terry Lushbaugh BUSI 604 International Business Liberty University Abstract The following examines the nation of China and its trade relations with the world, particularly the United States. The focus is primarily on China’s culture and how it impacts business dealings with other countries. Areas examined include: Religion, Management Philosophy, and Business Etiquette. Also discussed is China’s growing status as a world super power and how that has impacted the global business landscape. Likewise, various trading partners are examined and the effects of doing business with China, specifically for the United States. Points of concern for the United States are things such as the outsourcing of jobs and domestic unemployment. China has become the 2nd largest trading partner for the United States. The majority of that trade is in Imports of Chinese goods to the US. With all of the tension between the two nations, past and present, it is a relationship that is extremely volatile in nature. We will write a custom essay sample on Global Business Cultural Analysis: China or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Global Business Cultural Analysis: China A nation’s culture has a profound impact on how that nation does business globally. An intricate segment of any nation’s culture is its religious beliefs. Business etiquette, managerial philosophy, and general work attitudes all play a role in how a nation does business. When all of those elements in the nation of China collide with other nations in the global business landscape, what is the outcome? Four key questions will be addressed regarding China and how these elements play a role in business endeavors: what are the major elements and dimensions of culture in this region? How are these elements and dimensions integrated by locals conducting business in the nation? How do both of the above items (elements and dimensions of culture) compare with U. S. culture in business? And, what are the implications for U. S. businesses that what to do business in that region? Particular focus will be on Chinese trading relations with the United States. This relationship that began in 1979 has built up to the present where China has become the United States second largest trading partner. The vast majority of that trade takes place in the form of imports of Chinese goods to the United States. Some believe that this has been a detriment to the U. S. economy. Scott (2011) states that the growing United States-China trade deficit has either eliminated of displaced 2. 8 million jobs between the years 2001-2010. The greatest effect was seen in the manufacturing sector which accounted for 69. 2% of the total jobs lost for the period. This is seen by the U. S. government as a huge concern, especially if the trend continues. China and the United States have a history of volatility that continues to the present day. The growing involvement of China in the U. S. economy as the largest holder of publicly held debt makes for an even more interesting study. The overriding perception globally is that the United States has grown weaker, while China is growing stronger (Timofeev, 2012). That pendulum of super power status seems to be swinging. Like it or not, the United States has to come to terms with its diminishing global status in comparison to China. What are the Major Elements and Dimensions of Culture in This Region? Background The U. S. Department of State, Background Note: China (2011) offers some background information for China to begin our discussion. Geographically speaking, China’s land mass covers approximately 3. 7 million miles with the capital city being Beijing. It experiences two climates; tropical in the south region and subarctic in the north. China’s population as of July 2011 is estimated to be 1,336,718,015. Life expectancy is 72. 68 years for men and 76. 94 years for women. The government of China is a Communist party-led state. China does have a constitution which was enacted December 4, 1982. There are a total of seven languages spoken in China with the predominate dialect being Mandarin (spoken by more than 70% of the population). At the core of any nation’s culture are its religious beliefs. In China there are the â€Å"Three Jewels† Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism, as described in Lopez (1996). There are small numbers of people practicing other religions such as Christianity and Islam, but these are the three dominant beliefs of the region. While they are separate in content, they have coexisted for several thousand years. Lopez (1996) goes on to say, â€Å"Historical precedent and popular parlance attest to the importance of this threefold division for understanding Chinese culture†¦Buddhism is the sun, Daoism the moon, and Confucianism the five planets†¦suggesting that although they remain separate, they also coexist as equally indispensable phenomena of the natural world. † Each belief system stands alone, and at the same time needs the other(s). Confucianism The religion of Confucianism begins, of course, with Confucius whose Chinese name was Kong Qui and who lived from 551 B. C. to 479 B. C. Surprisingly Confucius was merely a low level government worker. He did not exactly view himself as the founder of a school of thought. Regardless, Confucianism is the most influential belief system in Chinese culture. It provides the rules which govern the social behavior of the individual. The basic teachings of Confucius are grounded in the Five Constant Virtues: humanity, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faithfulness. Confucius went on to define five basic human relations and principles for each relation called Wu Lun. Sovereign and subject (master and follower): Loyalty and duty. Father and son: Love and obedience. Husband and wife: Obligation and submission. Elder and younger brothers: Seniority and modeling. Friend and friend: Trust (Fan, 2000). Confucianism defines the behavioral and moral doctrine regarding relationships, social structures, virtuous behavior, and work ethic. Daoism Those who practice Daoism live in reverence of the Dao, which is translated as the Way. The point of a Daoist way of life is to strive for harmony with the Dao, who is the essence of everything that exists. Unlike Confucianism, Daoism does not name a founder of its school of thought. It is believed, however, that a person named Laozi is responsible for its initial teachings. He wrote one of the most prominent early texts associated with Daoism, â€Å"The Classic on the Way and Its Power. † The Daoist attitude toward life can be seen as carefree and accepting, which is a stark contrast to the moral and duty conscious teachings of Confucianism. Daoism also has a positive view as well as being active in metaphysical activities and the occult, which is also in contrast to Confucianism. While Confucianism touts its principles for the proper way that individuals should interact, the tradition of Daoism is that all beings and things in the universe are fundamentally the same and the natural order of things cannot be manipulated or predicted. It needs only to be embraced (Fan, 2000). Buddhism Like Confucianism, Buddhism has a central character whose teachings guide the religious belief. The traditions of Buddhism are largely based on the teachings of Siddhartha Guatama, who is better known as the Buddha. In Sanskrit, Buddha is translated to â€Å"the enlightened one. † Buddhasenlightened onesare unusual because they differ from other, unenlightened individuals and because of the truths to which they have awakened. Most people live in profound ignorance, which causes immense suffering. Buddhas, by contrast, see the true nature of reality (Lopez, 1996). The Buddhas have the ability through their â€Å"enlightenment† to do what the rest of us cannot, solve the mysteries of the human existence. Other Religions While statistics show that there are a large number of Christians practicing in China (nearly 23 million), it’s not clear how many houses of worship there are because so many Christians practice in unregistered religious gatherings or â€Å"house† churches, primarily due to the fear of persecution or the possibly imprisonment. Being a practicing Christian in China can be a dangerous prospect. The next highest religious population is the Muslims at 21 million. Of Chinas 55 officially recognized minorities, 10 groups are predominately Muslim. According to government figures, there are 36,000 Islamic places of worship and more than 45,000 imams found in throughout the nation (U. S. Department of State, 2011). Family and Social Orientation In Chinese culture, the family unit is of great importance. Re-examining the human relations and principles under Confucianism, it is clear how much of an emphasis is put on family. Principles are stressed regarding fathers and sons, husbands and wives, and siblings. Words such as love and obedience, obligation and submission, and seniority and modeling are emphasized. Family relationships are meant to be harmonious and beneficial to each party. Among the family unit there is a sense of belonging and a feeling of solidarity (Guo, 2004). Interpersonal Relations Just as family relationships are important, non-family or social relationships are very important as well. Confucius also talks about trust between friends. Trust is a vital part of any Chinese relationship (the same can be said of any relationship from any country). Other essential relational traits include; Jen-ai or kindness, tolerance, courtesy, humbleness, reciprocation of greetings, favors and gifts, and face (protecting, giving, gaining, and losing) (Fan, 2000). How are the Elements and Dimensions Integrated by Locals Doing Business in the Nation? Business and Work Attitudes Chinese attitudes toward conducting business are very strict and proper. For instance, there is no â€Å"Casual Friday† to be found on the calendar. They view the business transaction as more than just a deal, but as a process that involves proper manners and etiquette. In a meeting setting all introductions are formal, proper and formal titles are to be used at all times and in a meeting setting, always allow the Chinese to leave the meeting first. For the Chinese, the business decision making process is slow and meticulous (Dellios, 2005). There are no quick off the cuff decisions made. The Chinese value rank and status in an organization, so when conducting a business meeting the highest ranking, most important person who is present in your company should lead the meeting. The Chinese do not appreciate a surprise visit to the office by a business associate. Appointments are a must. To not do so would be considered rude. Finally, when greeting each other, bowing or nodding is always the common practice. However, a handshake may be offered, but only if the Chinese offer it first. Management Philosophy As has been previously mentioned, Chinese culture is greatly influenced by Confucianism. Love, integrity, loyalty, and conscientiousness toward others are characteristics that are present not only in everyday life at home, but in the business world as well. Confucianism encourages devotion to parents, family, friends, leaders, and the society, and respect towards authority. Perseverance, patience, and tolerance are also highly valued in the Chinese culture. Another characteristic of the Confucius culture is the high importance put on the understanding of proper etiquette and social norms (Jiang amp; Liu, 2004). In a Chinese corporation, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the ultimate leader as well as decision maker. Given the Chinese belief in loyalty in respect of superiors, this role becomes even more amplified. Chinese Business Etiquette In a 2012 Interview of a Chinese businessman by the International Business Center, the following question was asked: What is the single most common business etiquette mistake that Americans make in your home country? Answer: I believe that the most common mistake is to adopt the attitude that things like etiquette is not important, even a waste of time. Only discussions and negotiations of the technical and financial matters are of value. This view, in my opinion, reflects the assumption that every transaction stands on its own, without considering subsequent trade. Many societies (including many Americans) do not view business this way. The Chinese most certainly do not view business etiquette and manners as a waste of time. They parallel in importance with the actual business dealing at hand. Here is a sampling of some of the specific behaviors and manners expected to be demonstrated when dealing with the Chinese as offered by the International Business Center (Williams, 2012). Appearance * Conservative suits for men with subtle colors are the norm. * Women should avoid high heels and short sleeved blouses. The Chinese frown on women who display too much. * Subtle, neutral colors should be worn by both men and women. * Casual dress should be conservative as well. * Men and women can wear jeans. However, jeans are not acceptable for business meetings. Revealing clothing for women is considered offensive to Chinese businessmen. Manners * Do not use large hand movements. The Chinese do not speak with their hands. Your movements may be distracting to your host. * Personal contact must be avoided at all cost. It is highly inappropriate for a man to touch a woman in public. * Do not point when speaking. * To point do not use your index finger, use an open palm. * It is considered improper to put your hand in your mouth. * Avoid acts that involve the mouth. * It is more acceptable to give gifts either in private or to a group as a whole to avoid embarrassment. Quality writing pens are considered favored gifts. Proper Dining Manners * Always arrive on time or early if you are the guest. * Do not discuss business at meals. * Do not start to eat or drink prior to the host. * As a cultural courtesy, you should taste all the dishes you are offered. * Sample meals only, there may be several courses. * Do not drop the chopsticks it is considered bad luck. * Do not eat all of your meal. If you eat all of your meal, the Chinese will assume you did not receive enough food and are still hungry. * Women do not usually drink at meals. Tipping is considered insulting, however the practice is becoming more common. As you can see, there is no shortage of etiquette and manners in Chinese business settings. It would be incumbent upon anyone who plans on doing business in China to take the time to become familiar with Chinese culture and customs and by all means, take it very seriously (Williams, 2012). How do Both of the Above Items Compare with U. S. Culture and Business? China as a Superpower One of the most important aspects of China’s presence on the global business landscape is the rise of China as one of the worlds Superpowers. As the new century unfolds, in all probability so will Chinas prospects unfold as a global power, not just a regional one. Consider once again Chinas contemporary dimensions an enormous country with the worlds largest population and military establishment. Its economy is among the worlds fastest growing. It is expected to become the largest by the year 2025. Historically too, it is imbued with greatness†¦inheriting 5,000 years of civilization (Dellios, 2004). Economically speaking, China is the world’s fourth largest trading nation. That status has progressed from thirty-second in 1978 and tenth in 1997. Its economy has grown at an average of 9. 5% annually since 1985. Its Gross Domestic Product ranks second only to the U. S. at 13% of the world’s output. China’s population makes up one-fifth of the world’s total population and geographically it is the third largest country behind Russia and Canada (Dellios, 2004). The influence of China over the world’s economy has continued to grow in recent years. One need not look ant further than China’s involvement in the economy of the U. S. to see that demonstrated. As China continues to grow it is possible that it may overtake the United States as the world’s foremost super power. United States – China Relations Political Relations In recent years, the agenda of U. S. China relations has changed dramatically. Current U. S. -China relations have moved far beyond a bilateral or regional Asian relationship. The current presidential cycle in the U. S. essentially differs from the periods of Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Indeed, in his statements during the election campaign Clinton concentrated on violations of human rights in China, and accused his predecessor of foreign policy anemia following the Tiananmen Square massacre. It also differs from the George W. Bush’s considering of China as â€Å"not a strategic partner, but a strategic competitor. † Under the current circumstances of the global financial and economic crisis, the agenda of bilateral dialogue between Washington and Beijing focuses mainly on economic problems (Timofeev, 2012). Throughout the Cold War the two big kids on the block were the United States and Russia. In recent years Russia has been replaced in its position by China. Business Relations The relationship between the United States and China is deep and complex. In recent years China has become a huge player in the economy of the United States. The Department of the Treasury reports that China owns about 8% of U. S. publicly held dept equal to $1. 7 trillion. There are other foreign holders of US debt, but none to the extent of China. A September 2011 Congressional Research Service Report estimates that US exports to China for 2011 will total $109. 2 billion and imports will be $410. 64 billion. The net result is a trade deficit of $301. 4 billion. The same report outlines the historical figures of trade between the US and China dating back to 1980 when exports to China stood at $3. 8 billion and imports were $1.1 billion. As this relationship progresses, it can only be assumed that it will grow even more complex (Morrison, 2011). In a speech given at a luncheon hosted by the American Bankers Association on December 8, 2003, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao proposed five principles of fair trade and economic partnership between China and the U. S. : â€Å"First, mutual benefits and win-win results. Thinking broadly, one should t ake account of others interests while pursuing its own. Second, development first. Existing differences should be resolved through expanded trade and economic cooperation. Third, greater scope to coordinating mechanisms in bilateral trade and economic relations. Disputes should be addressed in a timely manner through communication and consultation to avoid possible escalation. Fourth, equal consultation. The two sides should seek consensus while reserving differences on major issues, instead of imposing restrictions or sanctions at every turn. Fifth, do not politicize economic and trade issues. † (Timofeev, 2012). Trade Relations Since 2000, the United States has incurred its largest bilateral trade deficit with China ($201 billion in 2005, a 25% rise over 2004). In 2003, China replaced Mexico as the second largest source of imports for the United States. China’s share of U. S. imports was 14. 6% in 2005, although this proportion still falls short of Japan’s 18% of the early 1990s. The United States is China’s largest overseas market and second largest source of foreign direct investment on a cumulative basis. U. S. exports to China have been growing rapidly as well, although from a low base. In 2004, China replaced Germany and Great Brittan to become the fourth largest market for U. S. goods and remains the fastest growing major U. S. export market (Lum amp; Nanto, 2007). Some items that the U. S. imports from China include: computer equipment and parts, toys and games, communications equipment, apparel, and audio and video equipment. In contrast, the U. S. imports to China include: oilseeds and grains, waste and scrap, semiconductors, aerospace products (aircraft), and resin and synthetic rubber. The most dramatic increases in U. S. imports from China have not been in labor intensive sectors rather in technology sectors. U. S. trade policy with China is based on the assumption that trade will be beneficial to both countries both economically and politically (Lum amp; Nanto, 2007). The developing Chinese economy gives the U. S. an opportunity to be a part of a large and expanding market. What are the Implications for U. S. Businesses That Wish to Conduct Business in That Region? Chinese Global Trading Partners China runs a trade surplus with the world’s three major economic centers: the United States, the European Union, and Japan. We have previously documented the trade figures between the U. S. and China. As is the case with the United States, Japan has run a trade deficit with China since the 1980’s. Japan’s trade with China dropped from a surplus of $6 billion in 1985 to a deficit of nearly $6 billion in 1990. Japan’s trade deficit with China reached a peak of $26. 5 billion in 2001 and was surpassed in 2005 ($28. 5 billion). Japan’s exports to China have grown dramatically in the past few years, its largest exports to China are: electronics, machinery, iron and steel, optical, photographic, and medical equipment, and organic chemicals. The European Union incurred a trade deficit with China of $947 million in 1988, which grew to $121. 8 billion in 2005. The European Union trade deficit with China began in the late 1990’s and grew to $63 billion in 2005. Compared to the world’s two other major economic centers, the U. S. trade deficit with China at over $300 billion is the largest, followed by the European Union deficit with China at $121. 8 billion and Japan at $28. 5 billion (U. S. Department of State, 2011). United States – China Trade Issues The Growing U. S. trade deficit with China cost 2. 8 million jobs between 2001 and 2010 by Robert Scott, EPI’s Director of Trade and Manufacturing Policy Research, finds that all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico suffered jobs lost or displaced as a result of the growing U.S. -China trade deficit†¦it eliminated or displaced 2,790,100 jobs, or about 2% of total U. S. employment over that period. (Scott, 2011). The U. S. trade deficit with China grew from $84 billion in 2001 to in excess of $300 billion in 2011. As a rule, increases in U. S. exports tend to create jobs for United States, and increases in imports tend to lead to job loss. Thus, the growing trade deficit signifies growing job loss. China’s economic reforms and rapid economic growth, along with the effects of globalization, have caused the economies of the U. S.  and China to become increasingly integrated. Although growing economic ties are considered by most analysts to be mutually beneficial overall, tensions have risen over a number of Chinese economic and trade policies that many U. S. critics charge are protectionist, economically distortive, and damaging to U. S. economic interests. These include China’s resistance to adopting a market-based currency; its mixed record on implementing its obligations in the World Trade Organization (Morrison, 2011). Another great concern is Chinese manipulation of its cur rency (Yuan). Many U. S. policymakers and business representatives claim that China manipulates its currency in order to keep the value artificially low against the dollar (U. S. Department of State, 2011). They claim that this action results in a subsidy for Chinese exports to the United States, and results in a tariff on Chinese imported U. S. goods. They complain that this policy has particularly hurt several U. S. manufacturing sectors that are forced to compete against low-cost Chinese products, and has led to the loss of hundreds of thousands of U. S. jobs.

Essay Sample About How I Met My Husband In School

Essay Sample About How I Met My Husband In SchoolMy friend who is about to start high school is writing an essay about how I met my husband in school. She has to use her first name for obvious reasons and that makes this kind of assignment a little harder than it might otherwise be. As the author of the 'article' she has the privilege of actually getting to present the main idea behind the essay to her teacher for approval.There's nothing more demoralizing than reading an essay that is riddled with spelling and punctuation errors, a lousy structure, and faulty logic. This isn't a good thing to see. One must always ensure that they are writing an article that is full of clarity and well constructed sentences. I won't get into details here, but rest assured that the basics for essay writing can be found by doing some research.That said, the essay should be written from the perspective of the writer, or should it? My friend is a writer as well and, besides being a graduate student, she is also the mother of two children. Therefore, she really doesn't have any life experience to share.The answer is no. It's really not necessary. There are plenty of great examples of essays that were written from the point of view of their authors without any common experience. Or there is, in fact, some great stuff on the internet that will help you learn how to write from the perspective of the author as well.If your essay is going to deal with a very personal experience, don't assume that it has to be a 'life experience'. If you take a look at an essay like this, where the life experiences that are included are very limited, you'll realize that it is almost impossible to talk about the experience in a way that makes sense. You'll find yourself retelling a story or a legend and then having to justify the 'tradition' of the story. It is easier to write about something from a 'different point of view' than to write from the author's point of view.Writing about your experiences does not have to be limited to telling stories, either. Of course, you could do that, but the point is that you will be able to write more clearly and express yourself better if you allow yourself to write from a different perspective. When you're actually writing, you'll see how easy it is to do.Don't limit yourself to sharing your own experiences. Make it part of your essay that you're able to present the author's point of view and how the story came to be. You could even encourage your readers to think about the stories that they've heard and write about them, too. You'd be surprised how the power of imagination can help you develop your essay.Even if you don't include personal experiences in your essay, at least don't have it structured like one. In fact, the only way to fully appreciate how to write from the perspective of the author is to write from their point of view in a completely original piece. And that's something that no one else is ever going to be able to write.

Battle of Paardeberg in the Second Boer War Battle

Battle of Paardeberg in the Second Boer War Battle Battle of Paardeberg - Conflict and Dates: The Battle of Paardeberg was fought between February 18-27, 1900, and was part of the Second Boer War (1899-1902). Armies Commanders: British Field Marshal Frederick RobertsLieutenant General Herbert Kitchener15,000 men Boers General Piet CronjeGeneral Christiaan de Wet7,000 men Battle of Paardeberg - Background: In the wake of Field Marshal Lord Roberts relief of Kimberley on February 15, 1900, the Boer commander in the area, General Piet Cronje began retreating east with his forces. His progress was slowed due to the presence of a large number on noncombatants that had joined his ranks during the siege. On the night of February 15/16, Cronje successfully slipped between Major General John Frenchs cavalry near Kimberley and Lieutenant General Thomas Kelly-Kennys British infantry at the Modder River fords. Battle of Paardeberg - Boers Trapped: Detected by mounted infantry the next day, Cronje was able to prevent elements from Kelly-Kennys 6th Division from overtaking them. Late that day, French was dispatched with approximately 1,200 cavalry to locate Cronjes main force. Around 11:00 AM on February 17, the Boers reached the Modder River at Paardeberg. Believing that his men had escaped, Cronje paused to allow them to rest. Shortly thereafter, Frenchs troopers appeared from the north and began firing on the Boer camp. Rather than attack the smaller British force, Cronje inadvisably decided to form a laager and dig in along the banks of the river. As Frenchs men pinned the Boers in place, Roberts chief of staff, Lieutenant General Horatio Kitchener, began rushing troops to Paardeberg. The next day, Kelly-Kenny began planning to bombard the Boer position into submission, but was overruled by Kitchener. Though Kelly-Kenny outranked Kitchener, the latters authority on the scene was confirmed by Roberts who was in bed ill. Possibly concerned about the approach of Boer reinforcements under General Christiaan De Wet, Kitchener ordered a series of frontal attacks on Cronjes position (Maps). Battle of Paardeberg - The British Attack: Ill-conceived and uncoordinated, these assaults were beaten back with heavy casualties. When the days fighting ended, the British has suffered 320 dead and 942 wounded, making it the single costliest action of the war. In addition, to make the attack, Kitchener had effectively abandoned a kopje (small hill) to the southeast that was occupied by De Wets approaching men. While the Boers suffered lighter casualties in the fighting, their mobility had been further reduced by the death of much of their livestock and horses from British shelling. That night, Kitchener reported the days events to Roberts and indicated that he planned to resume attacks the next day. This roused the commander from his bed, and Kitchener was dispatched to oversee the repair of the railroad. In the morning, Roberts arrived on the scene and initially desired to recommence assaulting Cronjes position. This approach was resisted by his senior officers who were able to convince him to lay siege to the Boers. On the third day of the siege, Roberts began to contemplate withdrawing due to De Wets position to the southeast. Battle of Paardeberg - Victory: This blunder was prevented by De Wet losing his nerve and retreating, leaving Cronje to deal with the British alone. Over the next several days, the Boer lines were subjected to an increasingly heavy bombardment. When he learned that women and children were in the Boer camp, Roberts offered them safe passage through the lines, but this was refused by Cronje. As the shelling continued, nearly every animal in the Boer lines was killed and the Modder became filled with the dead carcasses of horses and oxen. On the night of February 26/27, elements of the Royal Canadian Regiment, with assistance from the Royal Engineers, were able to construct trenches on high ground approximately 65 yards from the Boer lines. The following morning, with the Canadian rifles overlooking his lines and his position hopeless, Cronje surrendered his command to Roberts. Battle of Paardeberg - Aftermath: The fighting at Paardeberg cost the British 1,270 casualties, the majority of which were incurred during the February 18 attacks. For the Boers, casualties in the fighting were relatively light, but Cronje was forced to surrender the remaining 4,019 men in his lines. The defeat of Cronjes force opened the road to Bloemfontein and severely damaged Boer morale. Pressing towards the city, Roberts routed a Boer force at Poplar Grove on March 7, before taking the city six days later.

Dear Mrs. Ghosson Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Dear Mrs. Ghosson - Essay Example Our main concern is the registration of Xella at the Kuwait Stock Exchange. The registration process has not been completed since November although all documents have been provided by us in time. We are very concerned as to when the registration will be completed. You will kindly recall that the registration was a precondition for further dealings between us. Our experience in the past on similar projects has been that the 'as-built' situation sometimes differs from the drawings. This happens due to constraints on the site which were not foreseen while preparing the drawings and the drawings were not updated. These differences can lead to major complications during erection. Therefore, two of our engineers will visit the site in Taiwan next week to check the actual as-built situation against the drawings supplied by them. We had some misunderstanding with our contractual partner in Taiwan and had to postpone this site visit several times. Despite confirming to us that all required drawings have been sent it is only now that the drawings are adequate for preparation of final drawings. The general layout, equipment arrangement drawings and floor plans are 90% ready. If our engineers find the as-built situation to be very close to the drawings, and no major alterations are required we shall be able to send the drawings by the 9th December, 2005. If changes are required we shall send the drawings a couple of days later. During their visit to Taiwan our engineers will also discuss, in detail, the dismantling of the equipment and its transport to Kuwait. Thereafter the dismantling program will be executed jointly with our contractual partner on site. The goal, of course, is to adhere to the scheduled key dates for delivery. We are very sorry for the situation which has arisen due to factors totally beyond our control and assure you that we will make all efforts to ensure that the project schedule remains unchanged. Best regards Olaf Michelswirth Deputy General Manager *************************************************************** Intercem Engineering GmbH Simmeriss 59302 Oelde Germany Tel. 0049 2522 920 58 14 Fax. 0049 2522 920 58 20 Mobile 0049 170 73 41 275 Email O.Michelswirth@intercem.de *****************

Appraising The Performance Of An Organizations Employees Essay

Appraising The Performance Of An Organizations Employees - Essay Example Indeed, making a business successful in a particular setting demands crucial and detailed studies and examination of the factors that will generate the best results that will serve the aims and objectives of the company. In this light, owners of big business organizations operating in a competitive business environment should be in constant look out with its competitors and the overall status and events in the industry. Taking advantage of the opportunities and intensifying the strengths while minimizing the risks and weaknesses of a business firm greatly helps in predicting the success in business enterprise. Graphic rating scale can be used in appraising the performance of an organization's employees. Ranking employees from best to worst on a particular trait, choosing highest, then lowest, until all are ranked. Another method is the Alternation ranking method - An appraisal method that aims at combining the benefits of narrative and quantified ratings by anchoring a quantified scale with specific narrative examples of good and poor performance. (bars) . Paired comparison method - Keeping a record of uncommonly good or undesirable examples of an employees work-related behavior and reviewing it with the employee at predetermined times. (critical incident). While in forced distribution method, uses a scale that lists a number of traits and a range of performance for each. The employee is then rated by identifying the score that best describes his or her performance for each trait. Similar to grading on a curve; predetermined percentages of rates are placed in various performance categories. (forced distribution) Management by objectives (MBO) - Involves setting specific measurable objectives with each employee and then periodically reviewing the progress made. Management By Objectives (MBO), is a traditional management approach to directing the efforts of managers and the organizational units for which they are responsible. It is intended to motivate stronger performance on the part of managers and employees through goal setting, participative decision-making, and objective feedback (Rodgers and Hunter, 1992). In its broadest construction, it is seen as a planning and control system which is designed to encourage self-control over an individual's work while assuring that managers' efforts are aligned with the organization's overall goals and priorities. According to Swiss (1991), the heart of a full-fledged MBO process is the negotiation between a higher level manager and a subordinate manager of a performance contract that has the components such as major objectives to be accomplished by the subordinate manager within specified completion dates, resource commitments to support these objectives, action plans and milestones for accomplishin g these objectives, periodic meetings of the manager and subordinate to review progress and make midcourse corrections if necessary, and an assessment at the end of the MBO cycle of the subordinate's performance, which should feed into both personnel appraisal processes and MBO planning for the next cycle. Swiss (1991) characterizes MBO as being particularly useful for providing direction and control over project oriented agencies where workloads shift and priorities tend to change frequently, as opposed to another major management approach, performance monitoring, which may be more appropriate for managing the continuing operations of organizations whose outputs are relatively stable. LearnInMotion.com: The Performance Appraisal Jennifer and Mel disagree over the importance of having performance appraisals. Mel says it's quite clear whether

The Mongols Essay Example for Free

The Mongols Essay The Mongols swept across Asia and Europe in a bloody rampage. Killing over 6,107,000 people from the years 1220-1258. Treating women like a piece of meat meant to fulfill the pleasure of men. But how Barbaric were the Mongols on a scale of one to ten? Well the Mongols were very barbaric because they were uncivilized, brutal, yet conquered much territory. â€Å"Come out so that we may count on you according to our custom.† And when the people come out to them they seek out artisans among them and kept these. But the others with the exception of those they wish to have as slaves, they kill with the axe†¦This statement proves in many ways that the Mongols were uncivilized. Also soldiers would execute prisoners by shooting them with arrows or by burying them alive upside down in the dirt and tying there arms so they cant dig themselves out. Causing a slow excruciating bereavement of suffocation. Even the Mongol Yasa (laws) and Bilik (rules) were barbaric men were allowed to cheat on women having as many wives as they please but women could only have one husband and if a dad was to die then it was okay to marry all of his wife’s except for his own mother. Could you imagine our society if Mongols were in control? (Doc: 5, 10) â€Å"†¦Severed the heads of the slain from their bodies and heaped them up on piles†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Sounds Brutal doesn’t it? Can you imagine the people who could kill someone cut there heads of then pile them up like some piece of rubbish? Well the Mongols sure were brutal no doubt about it. They were so brutal they killed over 6,107,000 people from the years 1220-1258. In fact, it was commanded that the town of Nishaphur should be laid waste in such a manner that the site could be ploughed upon; and that †¦. Not even cats and dogs should be left alive. Also thief’s, did not exist in the Mongol life because they were so scared of the consequences of robbery that even the poorest sole wouldn’t dare think about steeling. Could you imagine how scary it must have been to be a Mongol or even one of there rivals? (Doc: 4,7) Finally, Under Genghis Khan the Mongols were great conquerors. They subjugated over 4,860,000 square miles. The Mongols had revolutionary war tactics such as, before a fight they would surround the enemy. Having there people (men, women, children, and some times dummy’s) on horses to make the other army think they were fighting a huge crowd causing panic among them as the Mongols came closer and closer attacking their enemy. With this tactic and many others Mongols both brought an onslaught and conquered a large amount of Asia and Europe. No wonder why the Mongols ruled the largest empire known to men for nearly 300 years. (Doc: 1, 6, 3) In conclusion the Mongols on a scale of one to ten were about a seven when it came to how barbaric they really were. Mostly Because of there strategies of war, laws, rules, execution of prisoners, conquest, and finally how brutal all together they were as a group of people. This is true due to the fact the Mongols were crude, atrocious, yet conquered a great deal of terrain.

Music Censorship :: essays research papers

Music Censorship Although is clearly states in the first amendment that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances," censorship in America still exists in a big way. "Music censorship is the term used to describe the act of editing, altering, or preventing the listener from hearing the music as the artist created it in order to either deny certain information or to act as a moral gatekeeper of potentially harmful material" (http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/~barndollar/courses/spring98/students/fabfive/index.html). The Censorship of music in the United Stated is documented as far back as 1954, when "Michigan congresswoman Ruth Thompson introduces a bill in the House that would ban mailing of any pornographic recording, punishable by five years imprisonment and a $ 5,000 fine" (http://ericnuzum.com/banned/fifties.html). Even Elvis Aaron Presley, ‘The King of rock-n-roll’ was once thought of as obscene. In 1957, when he appeared on the Ed Sullivan show for the third time, the cameramen were told to only film him from the waist up. "Elvis’s dancing was considered lewd" (http://ericnuzum.com/banned/fifties.html). In 1964, "Indiana Governor Matthew Welsh asks the State Broadcasters Association to ban the song ‘Louie, Louie’ by the Kingsmen because he considers it to be pornographic." (http://ericnuzum.com/banned/fifties.html). This trend has continued all the way up to the nineties, and I’m sure it won’t stop any time soon. In the past ten years especially, music has been under attack by many law makers, prosecutors and critics of morality and good taste. One attack on this freedom comes from parental advisory stickers. These stickers are used as a form of censorship against an artist and their lyrics. If a label will produce an album, I don’t think there should be any reason that the consumer can’t decide for him or herself if lyrics contained in the album are found obscene or otherwise unsuitable. In order to begin the debate on whether or not parental advisory stickers serve as a form of censorship, one must consider what the word censor implies. The word censor means "the power to suppress publications or excise any matter in them thought to be immoral, seditious or otherwise undesirables"(Webster Dictionary 227). The question of what constitutes "proper" language and obscenity has been greatly forced upon the music industry.