Thursday, October 31, 2019

Nursing Care Plans in the Textile Industry Assignment

Nursing Care Plans in the Textile Industry - Assignment Example It is evidently clear from the discussion that general body malaise and dizziness are the major presentations of inadequate oxygen supply. Since this is a factory interested in high output, precautionary measures should be taken to protect the employees. The reasons presented in the study  justify why respiratory problems should be the first priority. The program will target the secondary level of disease prevention. The primary level would require sophisticated technology to prevent the generation of the tiny textile particles and also eliminate the ones already produced. Such technologies are very expensive hence unattainable to install with the limited resources. The initial purchase and installation aside, technicians who operate the technology will have to be employed. This will make the labor costs skyrocket to unimaginable levels. An approach that would protect the workers from respiratory problems at an affordable cost would be preferable. The perfect approach that can be e mployed is the cellulose nose filter. The filters are cheap and easy to use since only a demonstration is required to ensure maximum protection from the devices hence the decision to approach it. The factory can purchase them in large scale, which will further reduce the costs incurred. Although the filters seem to be very simple, they can help prevent most of the respiratory problems. This program may not be the perfect one, but it will save the company a lot of time lost due to sick leaves. Furthermore, the implementation of the program will be a lower financial burden to the company. This is because the large-scale purchase of the filters is required. The program also has tremendous benefits to the employees in terms of their health and general quality of life. For one their respiratory systems will be protected from the tiny textile particles, therefore reducing their probability of contracting chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.  

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Individual Behavior (Organizations) Essay Example for Free

Individual Behavior (Organizations) Essay Individual behavior is considered as one of the main determinants of the productivity of a given organization. The said relationship is believed to be very important that an entire academic discipline was created to focus on its study. Organizational behavior is a field of study that concentrates on describing, understanding, predicting and controlling human behavior in an organizational setting. It is divided into four sub-fields – individual behavior, group behavior, organizational structure and organizational processes. These allow organizational behavior to study a wide range of topics, such as personality, job satisfaction, leadership, group dynamics and the impact of stress on work (Answers, 2008). Basic Elements of Individual Behavior in Organizations It is true that human behavior varies from one person to another due to their individual differences. However, organizational behavior scientists argued that individual behavior is made up of the same elements. These elements must be identified in order to establish predictability in the study of human behavior. The consistency of these elements result in the development of reasonably accurate predictions of individual behavior (NEU-CBA, n. d. ). Understanding Individuals in Organization Organizational behavior scientists use the psychological contract in their study in order to understand the members of a particular organization. Psychological contract refers to a members expectations based on his or her contributions and the organizations inducements. Contributions are what the member provides to the organization. Inducements, on the other hand, are what the organization will provide the member in exchange for the latters contributions (Abelson, 2006). Personality and Individual Behavior In sharp contrast to psychological contract, the element of personality and individual behavior assert that individual behavior within an organization is determined by â€Å"the relatively permanent set of psychological and behavioral attributes that distinguish one person from another† (Abelson, 2006). One of the most popular personality frameworks is the â€Å"Big Five† Personality Traits. It is composed of the following: a) Agreeableness – A persons ability to establish good relationships with others b) Conscientiousness – The number of goals of which a person strives hard to achieve c) Negative emotionality – The extent to which an individual can remain poised, calm, resilient and secure d) Extraversion – The level of comfort a person has with interpersonal relationships e) Openness – An individuals flexibility in terms of beliefs and interests (Abelson, 2006) Attitudes and Individual Behavior Attitudes are the beliefs and feelings that people have regarding certain ideas, situations or other people. Cognitive dissonance occurs when an individuals encounters other people who does not share his or her attitudes. The element of attitudes and individual behavior believe that members of an organization behave the way they do because it is their means of dealing with people who possess attitudes that are different from theirs. For an organization to be productive, its member must learn how to respect each others differences and work as a team despite their diversity in beliefs, attitudes and values (Abelson, 2006). Work-related Attitudes It must be noted, however, that individual behavior in an organization can also be influenced by attitudes that were developed in the workplace. Some examples of work-related attitudes are the following: a) Job Satisfaction or Dissatisfaction – An attitude that reflects the amount of pleasure or fulfillment that an individual achieves from his or her work b) Organizational Commitment – An attitude that measures a persons degree of affinity with the organization itself c) Affect and Mood in Organizations i. Positive Affectivity – A tendency to exhibit an overall sense of optimism and well-being; sees things in a positive light ii. Negative affectivity – A tendency to exhibit an overall sense of pessimism and gloom; sees things negatively (Abelson, 2006). Perception and Individual Behavior This element defines a persons behavior as a result of his or her perception, or the set of processes by which he or she becomes aware of his or her environment and starts to interpret information about it. One of the most detrimental forms of perception is selective perception, or the practice of disregarding information that a person feels uncomfortable with or goes against his or her own beliefs. Selective perception may lead to stereotyping or the usage of a single attribute to categorize or label other people. Selective perception may also result in scapegoating or making other people take responsibility for ones own faults and shortcomings (Abelson, 2006). Stress and Individual Behavior Stress is â€Å"an individual’s response to a strong stimulus,† called a stressor (Ableson, 2006). The general cycle of the human body experiencing and recovering from stress is the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). Often caused by task, physical, role and interpersonal demands, one of the major effects of stress is burnout, or the feeling of exhaustion produced by undergoing stress for prolonged periods of time (Abelson, 2006). Experts categorized people into two types, depending on how much they can endure stress. â€Å"Type A† people were those who are very competitive, hardworking and are extremely particular when it comes to time. â€Å"Type B† people, on the other hand, were those who were not as hardworking, dilligent and time-conscious. It was said that â€Å"Type A† people were more likely to experience burnout than â€Å"Type B† individuals (Abelson, 2006). Creativity in Organizations This element stresses the importance of an organizations creativity in affecting the behavior of its members. An organization that is always able to come up with new ideas or new perspectives that will improve existing ideas have a greater chance of improving productivity among its members than an organization who strictly adheres to convention and does not welcome innovation. Types of Workplace Behavior The effectiveness of an organization is very much affected by workplace behavior, or the pattern of action exhibited by its members while working. Workplace behavior is categorized into four types: a) Performance Behaviors – The â€Å"total set of work-related behaviors that the organization expects the individual to display† (Abelson, 2006). An organizations performance behaviors is usually indicated in its manual for its members. Performance behaviors are one of the organizations ways of communicating to its members what are its objectives and how will these be attained. b) Withdrawal Behaviors – Characterized by the absence of an organizations members i. Absenteeism – When people develop a habitual pattern of not showing up for work ii. Turnover – When people resign from their jobs c) Organizational Citizenship – When people display behavior that contributes positively and immensely to their organization. d) Dysfunctional Behaviors – Behaviors that are detrimental to organizational performance (e. g. stealing office property, fighting in the office premises, reporting to work in improper attire, etc. ) When a person shows dysfunctional behavior, he or she is sending the message that he or she does not belong to the organization that he or she joined and that he or she has contempt for those who do. In addition, the person who exhibits dysfunctional behavior also has contempt for the organization itself, as well as for its objectives (Abelson, 2006). Conclusion An organization is composed of individual members who have different backgrounds, beliefs, values and principles. Hence, it is very crucial to train them how to work harmoniously with one another despite their differences. By identifying the elements of individual behavior in an organization, employers can establish standards and rules that are firm but at the same time considerate towards the workers needs. Not only will the company prosper; the employees will also become better workers and persons as well. References Abelson, M. (2006). Chapter 15 – Basic Elements of Individual Behavior in Organizations. PDF File. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://wehner. tamu. edu/mgmt. www/mgmt. 363/non-business_363/Chapter%2015%20%20-%20Griffin%208th%20Edition. pdf. Answers. com. (2008). Organizational Behavior. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www. answers. com/topic/organizational-behavior? cat=biz-fin Northeastern University – College of Business Administration (NEU-CBA). (n. d. ). Human Behavior in Organizations: An Introduction. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://web. cba. neu. edu/~ewertheim/introd/introd. htm

Saturday, October 26, 2019

The History of Nigerian Banking System

The History of Nigerian Banking System The existence of banks in Nigeria dates back as far as 1862 when the first Nigerian bank came into being. There was no banking legislation until 1952; at that time, Nigeria had three foreign banks and two indigenous banks with a collective total of forty branches. Despite the set standards by the 1952 ordinance, the growth of demand deposits was slowed down by the Nigerian propensity to prefer cash and distrust checks for debt settlements. 1912 experienced the establishment of the West African currency board which was to help 6 in financing the export trade of foreign firms in West Africa and to issue a West African currency which could be converted to British pound sterling. The colonial policies barred the local investment of reserves, discouraged deposit expansion, precluded discretion for monetary management and did nothing to educate Africans in developing indigenous financial institutions. This led to a motion by several Nigerian members of the house to establish a central bank to facilitate economic development. Though the motion was defeated, the colonial administration appointed a bank of England to study the issue and he advised against a central bank with emphasis on their effectiveness in an undeveloped capital market. Another study was conducted in 1957 and this resulted in the creation of a Nigerian central bank and the introduction of the Nigerian currency. The role of the central bank was to establish the Nigerian currency, control and regulate the banking system, serve as bankers to other banks in Nigeria and carry out the governments economic policy in the monetary field. This policy included control of bank credit growth, credit distribution by sector, cash reserve requirements for commercial banks, discount ratesinterest rates the Central Bank charged commercial and merchant banksand the ratio of banks long-term assets to deposits. Changes in Central Bank restrictions on credit and monetary expansion affected total demand and income. For example, in 1988, as inflation accelerated, the Central Bank tried to restrain monetary growth. During the civil war, the government limited and later suspended repatriation of dividends and profits, reduced foreign travel allowances for Nigerian citizens, limited the size of allowances to overseas public offices, required official permission for all foreign payments, and, in January 1968, issued new currency notes to replace those in circulation. Although in 1970 the Central Bank advised against dismantling of import and financial constraints too soon after the war, the oil boom soon permitted Nigeria to relax restrictions. The three largest commercial banks held about one-third of total bank deposits. In 1973 the federal government undertook to acquire a 40-percent equity ownership of the three largest foreign banks. In 1976, under the second Nigerian Enterprises Promotion Decree requiring 60-percent indigenous holdings, the federal government acquired an additional 20-percent holding in the three largest foreign banks and 60-percent ownership in the other foreign 7 banks. Yet indigenization did not change the management, control, and lending orientation toward international trade, particularly of foreign companies and their Nigerian subsidiaries of foreign banks. At the end of 1988, the banking system consisted of the Central Bank of Nigeria, forty-two commercial banks, and twenty four merchant banks, a substantial increase since 1986. Merchant banks were allowed to open checking accounts for corporations only and could not accept deposits below N50, 000. Commercial and merchant banks together had 1,500 branches in 1988, up from 1,000 in 1984. In 1988 commercial banks had assets of N52.2 billion compared to N12.6 billion for merchant banks in early 1988. In FY 1990 the government put N503 million into establishing community banks to encourage community development associations, cooperative societies, farmers groups, patriotic unions, trade groups, and other local organizations, especially in rural areas. Other financial institutions included government-owned specialized development banks: the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank, the Nigerian Bank for Commerce and Industry, and the Nigerian Agricultural Bank, as well as the Federal Savings Banks and the Federal Mortgage Bank. Also active in Nigeria were numerous insurance companies, pension funds, and finance and leasing companies. Nigeria also had a stock exchange (established in Lagos in 1961) and a number of stockbrokerage firms. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Decree of 1988 gave the Nigerian SEC powers to regulate and supervise the capital market. These powers included the right to revoke stockbroker registrations and approve or disapprove any new stock exchange. Established in 1988, the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation increased confidence in the banks by protecting depositors against bank failures in licensed banks up to N50, 000 in return for an annual bank premium of nearly 1 percent of total deposit liabilities. 1.5.3 Types of Banks A bank is a profit making business providing financial services which includes receiving deposits of money, lending money and processing transactions. There are different types of banks and so do their functions differ. 8 1.5.3.1 Commercial Banks Commercial banks are authorized institutions providing retail banking services to the public. They accept deposits from customers and in turn make loans based on those deposits. They are noted for providing services which includes savings, current and term/fixed deposit accounts, lending, payment and transfer of money which is now facilitated by the recently introduced online banking. They also facilitate the transformation of rural areas by extending banking services. They offer professional advice to their clients on viable businesses and international trade. They are the channel for the implementation of the monetary policies from the central bank and act as authorized foreign exchange dealers in providing such facilities. They are collectors on behalf of other government and non government agencies. They buy and sell securities on behalf of their customers and boost the securities in the capital market and also sponsor companies seeking quotation on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. 1.5.3.2 Merchant Banks They started operations in 1961 with the establishment of Philip Hill (Nigeria) Limited which later merged with Nigerian Acceptances Limited in 1969. Other merchant banks later came along. As a result of the non recognition of universal banking then, merchant banks in Nigeria operate wholesale banking, which involves loan syndication, equity and debt issues, ventures capital and equipment leasing. They play important roles in pooling a consortium of banks, where the borrowing required exceeds availability of funds from commercial or any other bank. They also introduce their big clients to the Nigerian Stock Exchange and handle international transactions through a global network of affiliated banks. The banks are usually sited at urban areas and provide services to large organisations and extremely wealthy individuals. 1.5.3.3 Universal Banks Before the introduction of the universal banking concept by the federal government, operators of merchant banks had complained that their poor performances over the years 9 were due to a banking system that they claimed favoured commercial banks. The clamour for one-stop-supermarket bank became noticed in the mid 1990s when the financial system was swept by the distress in the banking sector. This virtually wrecked havoc on the economy. Many people have observed that the distinction between commercial and merchant banking is out-dated and no longer fashionable in other developed countries. The harmonised banking service is seen as cost-effective for providing a level playing field, where a customer can open an account and engage in all banking and insurance transactions from one bank to the other. The new banking concept offers a wider range of banking services, which include retailed banking, capital market activities and insurance business. The banking environment will no longer be restricted to certain functions. The new banking services commenced in January 2001. 1.5.3.4 Development Banks Development banks were established by the government, to promote national economic development. They tend to address issues of low income, insufficient savings and inadequate investment. The government and multilateral agencies sponsor the banks. The first development finance institution is the Nigerian Local Development Board, which was established in 1946 and charged with the responsibility of giving loans and grants to native authorities, cooperative societies and other public bodies for prescribed development projects (Agene 1990). Notable development banks include, Nigerian Industrial Development Bank, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian Bank for Commerce and Industry, Nigerian Agricultural and Cooperative Bank, Peoples Bank of Nigeria and Nigerian Educational Bank. Others include, National Economic Recovery Fund (NERFUND), Community Banks, etc. In a nutshell, for the long term survival of a bank, they would have to make money in their operation so as to be able to meet up with their expenses. They accept deposits from customers and pay interest which can only be realized from the exchange of money between two parties. One of the ways in which they make money is by charging interest on loans. The money deposited by customers is lent out to creditors. They charge higher interest on money they lend out and pay lower on the deposits. The difference then serves as own realization from the transaction. 10 Also, they operate on fractionalized deposit. They use depositors money to make money by giving loans and earning interest. These loans are usually real estate loans and sometimes car loans. Prior to the depression, banks were allowed to invest in the stock market. As a result of the bank crash, a law was passed to end the practice and force banks and investment institutions to be different entities. 1.5.4 Impact of the Central Bank on the activities of a Bank The Central Bank of Nigeria governs the activities of banks in Nigeria and provides rules and guidelines for the execution of activities in the banking industry. The central bank is charged with the general control and administration of the monetary and financial sector policies of the federal government. Its statutory mandate includes the issuance of the legal tender currency, maintaining of the external reserves, safeguarding the international value of the legal tender currency, and acting as bankers and financial adviser to the federal government; promote monetary stability and a sound financial system in Nigeria. In understanding the monetary policy, it is important to look at it from the perspective of the mandate set for the bank. This includes maintenance of Nigerias external reserves to safeguard the international value of the legal currency, promotion and maintenance of monetary stability and a sound and efficient financial system in Nigeria, acting as banker and financial adviser to the Federal Government; and acting as lender of last resort to banks. Consequently, the Bank is charged with the responsibility of administering the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BOFI) Act (1991) as amended, with the sole aim of ensuring high standards of banking practice and financial stability through its surveillance activities, as well as the promotion of an efficient payment system. In addition to its core functions, CBN has over the years performed some major developmental functions, focused on all the key sectors of the Nigerian economy (financial, agricultural and industrial sectors). Overall, these mandates are carried out by the Bank through its various departments.The roles of the central bank of Nigeria also include the establishment of a national microfinance consultative committee, evolvement of a clear micro finance policy that spells out the eligibility and licensing criteria, provides operational standards and guidelines to 11 stakeholders, adopting an appropriate regulatory and supervisory framework, minimizing regulatory arbitrage through periodic reviews of the policy and guidelines, continuously advocating market determined interest rates for government owned institutions and promote microfinance funds through MFBS, promoting linkage programmes between universal banks, specialized finance institutions and the micro finance banks. 1.5.4.1 Departments of central bank and their activities There a basically three departments in the central bank of Nigeria and they are the banking supervision department, development finance department and other financial institutions department. 1.5.4.1.1 Banking Supervision Department The banking supervision department of the central bank of Nigeria carries out on-site as well as off site supervision of deposit money and discount houses. Its basic functions include reviews and analyses of the financial conditions of banks based on CAMEL parameters using prudential reports, reviews and analyses of statutory returns and other relevant information, monitor trends and development for the banking sector, generate industry reports on a monthly and quarterly basis. It also monitors compliance with the law, guidelines and circulars (BOFIA (banks and other financial institutions act), CAMA, and CBN (Central Bank of Nigeria) Act etc) 1.5.4.2 Development Finance Department The development finance department was established to manage the agricultural credit guarantee scheme fund and finance the marketing operations of the defunct commodity marketing boards. In view of the expected role of the bank in the Nigerian economy, the department was restructured and renamed as the development finance department. They are concerned with identifying development finance market failures, designing strategies and policies for addressing them, formulating policies, regulatory and supervisory framework for micro/rural finance, identifying development priorities, designing and implementing alternative funding sources, monitoring and evaluating the impact of 12 development finance initiatives, advising government and the CBN Management on commodities, SME, and micro/rural finance issues. 1.5.4.3 The Other Financial Institution Department (OFI) The other financial institutions department is saddled with the responsibility of supervising and regulating the other financial institution sub-sector which include the community banks, finance companies, bureau de change, primary mortgage institution, the development finance institutions and the recently launched micro finance banks. The department carries out both on-site and off-site supervision of the other financial institutions. The off-site supervision involves the appraisal and approval of the application for licenses, nominees intothe boards and top management positions, transfer of shares and increase in hare capital, statutory returns from other financial institutions, appointment or exchange of the external auditors. The on-site aspect of the departments function includes pre commencement examination before the grant of a final license to an OFI (Other financial institutions), routine examination which is the regular examination, target examination addresses specific supervisory concerns arising from unprofessional conduct of the operations of an OFI and is carried out as the need arises while spot-checks for quick confirmation/ verification through independent on-site assessment. This includes corporate governance, accounting systems and records, quality of assets, reliability of information provided, internal control system/anti-money laundering controls and procedures, earnings, liquidity, financial condition and capital adequacy. 1.5.5 Effects of the Monetary and Economic policies on the activities of Nigerian Banks Monetary policies refers to the specific actions taken by the central bank to regulate the value, supply and cost of money in the economy with a view t achieving governments macroeconomic objectives. For many countries, the objectives of the monetary policy are explicitly stated in the laws establishing the central bank, while for others they are not. The objectives of the monetary policy may vary from country to country but there are two main views. 13 The first view calls for the monetary policy to achieve price stability, while the second view seeks to achieve price stability and other macroeconomic objectives. The central bank of Nigeria like other central banks in developing countries, achieve the monetary policy goal through the amount of money supplied. In Nigeria, the Central Bank defines money supply as comprising narrow and broad money. The definition of narrow money (M1) includes currency in circulation with non-bank public and demand deposits or current accounts in the banks. The broad money (M2) includes narrow money plus savings and time deposits, as well as foreign denominated deposits. The broad money measures the total volume of money supply in the economy. Thus, excess money supply (or liquidity) may arise in the economy when the amount of broad money is over and above the level of total output in the economy. The need to regulate money supply is based on the knowledge that there is a stable relationship between the quantity of money supply and economic activity and that if its supply is not limited to what is required to support productive activities; it will result in undesirable effects such as high prices or inflation. In summary, monetary policy in the Nigerian context refers to the actions of the Central Bank of Nigeria to regulate the money supply, so as to achieve the ultimate macroeconomic objectives of government. Several factors influence the money supply, some of which are within the control of the central bank, while others are outside its control. The specific objective and the focus of monetary policy may change from time to time, depending on the level of economic development and economic fortunes of the country. The choice of instrument to use to achieve what objective would depend on these and other circumstances. 1.6. History of the banks surveyed 1.6.1 Zenith International Bank Plc. Zenith Bank Plc was incorporated on May 30, 1990 as a private company limited by shares. In July 2004, the Bank became a public company limited by shares and subsequently launched what still remains the most successful Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the history 14 of the Nigerian Capital Market. Its 6,000,000,000 (six billion) ordinary shares of 50 kobo each were later listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange on October 21, 2004. Zenith Bank Plc achieved yet another milestone when it raised N53.63bn in February 2006 by a Public Offer of 3,000,000,000 (three billion shares), one of the largest amount in the history of the Nigerian Capital Market. Zenith Bank Plc is one of the largest and most profitable banks in Nigeria with total assets plus contingents of over N714.5 billion after consolidation. The Bank has continued to record remarkable performance on several parameters. Zenith Banks growth and performance has earned excellent ratings from both local and international rating agencies. Agusto co. ltd has consistently rates the bank Aaa for six consecutive years. Also of repute is the fact that the bank has the lowest non performing loans to total loans ratio of 1.7% against the industry average of 18% and has grown its asset base at an average of over 50% per annum in the last five years. Its service offering covers but are not limited to corporate and commercial banking services, funds and asset management, investment banking and financial advisory services , private bank, treasury and cash management services. In delivering their vision, they put strategies in place which has being their guide in their operation. It sets out to differentiate itself in the banking industry through the quality of service it render, the caliber of their clients and the drive for a unique customer experience. The bank is easily associated with attributes such as innovation, best risk asset portfolio, high quality personnel, consistent superior financial performance and leadership in the use of information and communication technology. The banks overall vision is to make the brand a reputable international financial services network recognized for innovation, superior customer service and performance while creating premium value for all stakeholders. 1.6.2 Guaranty Trust Bank Plc Guaranty Trust Bank plc was incorporated in July 1990, as a private limited liability company wholly owned by Nigerian individuals and institutions. The bank was licensed as a Commercial Bank in August 1990 and commenced operation in February 1991. In September 1996, Guaranty Trust Bank plc became a publicly quoted company and won the Nigerian Stock Exchange Presidents Merit award that same year and again in the years 15 2000, 2003,2005 and 2006. The Bank was also runner-up for the quoted company of the year award in 2005. In February 2002, it obtained a Universal Banking license and was appointed a settlement bank by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2003. Its quest to continue adding value to the businesses of its stakeholders has seen it emerge as a pacesetter and industry leader over the years. This is evident in its introduction of real time online banking in 1990, mobile, telephone and internet banking in 2002, Slip free banking in 2006 and the first fully interactive self service call centre; GT Connect in 2006. The bank was able to meet their financial obligations as they fell due and this got them the recognition of three rating agencies. Agusto Co reaffirmed its triple a risk rating every year fro the last four years, Fitch also assigned the bank a double A minus risk rating in recognition of its strong domestic franchise, good quality assets and sound earnings record and finally, Standard Poors, assigned the Bank a double B minus (BB-) risk rating. The Bank is the only Nigerian financial institution with such a rating, which is the same as the Agencies Sovereign rating for Nigeria. The bank has over the years been a recipient of several awards for superior financial performance, customer service delivery, excellent share performance, management efficiency some of which are the most respected financial institution in Nigeria (2006), the highly commended bank of the year award in Africa (2005), Most Customer friendly Bank (2007), Best Bank for Brand Development 2007. Despite the challenges which characterized the year under review(2006-2007 Financial year), the bank was able to grow its gross earnings by 46% from N34 billion to N49 billion while its profit before tax rose by 50% from N10.5 billion in the previous year to N15.7 billion. In the same period, total asset and contingents increased by 54% from N391billion a year earlier to N603 billion.

Friday, October 25, 2019

New Wave of Internet Technology and the Effects on off-line Relationshi

Abstract There is a new place for exploration in regards to relationships; traditionally we meet people on the street, at bars or by other friends. However, since the vast expansion of Internet users, there have risen new ways of interacting and communicating with others. There are places on line that are specifically made to meet people in different context and environments. Some of these areas include instant message engines, chat rooms, and different other Internet based companies, which provide these services. Along with these new technological advances, as with many other things, there are negative outcomes. There has been research done on how these new ways of communication may cause turmoil to a relationships, through the idea of ~{!0~}Internet Infidelity,~{!1~} Internet infidelity is defined by Shaw, ~{!0~}as taking the sexual energy of any sort thoughts, feelings, and behaviors out side a committed sexual relationship in such a way that it damages the relationship, and then pretendin g that that this drain in energy will affect neither partner or the relationship as long as it remains undercover. (p. 29)~{!1~} Some individuals discount these acts of interactions on line as ~{!0~}non-real,~{!1~} therefore not constituting them as cheating; but through my research and my qualitative inquiries, I have found that ~{!0~}cyber cheating~{!1~} may and has caused dire consequences in relationships. Introduction There has always been a concern about cheating with in relationships. However, the risk seems to have increase with the advances of new technologies, such as the Internet and the services it provides in regards to meeting people. The Internet now offers many opportunities to meet people on-line through services such as on-line personal ads, chat rooms, and instant messenger systems. It is reported that, ~{!0~}national averages indicate that families have wholeheartedly adopted the computer and the Internet access into their homes in relatively short time. The exponential growth of Internet access at home raises questions regarding how Internet sexuality influences couples sexual relationship and sexual satisfaction~{!-~}(Gonya, 2004, p. 386)~{!1~} These new technologies have provided individuals in relationships the opportunity to venture in to a new way of what would be considered ~{!0~}internet infidelity.~{!1~} The reason people get trapped into ... ...relationships, when in a real physical relationship will damage the relationship that is that is not cybernetic. However, I suggest more research to be in this new area of infidelity, in order to give a stronger base to its substitutability. References and Works Cited M. Castro. 2005, May. 21. (Personal Interview, May 21, 2005) Gonya, J. 2004. Internet Sexuality: Clinical Implications for Couples. American Journal of Family Therapy. Vol. 32, Issue 5 P.375 Gwinnell, E., 1998. Online Seduction and Falling in Love with Strangers on the Internet. New York: Kodansha America, Inc. p. 88-121. Leiblum, S. R. 1997. Sex and the Net. Clinical Implications. Journal of Sex education and Therapy. 22. p. 21-27 Patton Q., Michael. Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods 3rd Edition. California: Sage Publication Inc. p.215-225. Powell D.1995, Engendering Infidelity: Essentialist of Social Constructionist Readings of a Story Completion Task. Feminism and Psychology, p. 345-372. Shaw, J., 2001, Treatment Rational for Internet Infidelity. Journal of Sex Education and Therapy, 22, p. 29-34. Whitty, M. 2004, Cyber Cheating. Counseling and Psychotherapy Journal, Vol. 15 Issue 8, p.38.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

A Study of Market Segmentation for Uk Frozen Food Industry Essay

A Study Of Market Segmentation For UK Frozen Food Industry Abstract The objectives of this study are to perform market segmentation for a SME in the frozen food sector. The study could form a basis of segmentation framework for a SME like Eden Farm, the framework once developed from academic literature would help to undertake a market segmentation in the frozen food industry with relevant segmentation criteria which would form a basis of targeting strategy for the company. In this Dissertation, the literature on Market Segmentation is reviewed and relevant criteria for segmentation in an industry are understood. The typology from the literature identifying the variables for segmentation and relevant strategic tools for analysis of the sector is used to develop a framework for segmentation in the industry. The framework is applied to carry out a detailed segmentation of the markets for frozen food, an analysis is carried out to understand the target markets and strategic tools used to identify the target markets. Along with the segmentation of the markets, an analysis of the results is carried out and recommendations are provided for strategic growth of the company. Contents Abstract3 Acknowledgements3 Introduction3 Definition of the Company’s Issue3 Aims and Objectives of the Project:3 Literature Review:3 Review of Academic Literature for Segmentation:3 Market Segmentation:3 Definition of Market Segmentation:3 Segmentation Logic:3 The Segmenting-Targeting Framework:3 Segmentation Variables:3 Segmentation Criteria:3 Academic literature:3 Literature Review on segmentation in the food industry:3 Portfolio Analysis:3 Final Framework for addressing the Research Question:3 Research Methodology3 Research Objectives3 Research Approach:3 Research Strategy:3 Ethical Issues in Data collection3 Recommendations:3 Implementation Issues:3 Critical Reflection and Conclusion:3 Review of Work Process:3 Reflection and critical analysis of the process:3 Limitations of the process:3 Conclusion and discussion of results in an Academic context:3 Bibliography3 List of Tables Page Table 1 Detailed Breakdown of Frozen Food Products37 Table 2 Recommended Customers for EF49 Table 3. a Market Attractiveness for Segments49 Table 3. b Market Attractiveness for Segments50 Table 4 Business Competitiveness Scores for Various Segments50 List of Figures Page Figure 1Market Share for frozen food34 Figure 2Frozen food market share by manufacturers36 Figure3Frozen food market share by products36 Figure4Comparison of market shares of products37 Figure5Market trends for desserts38 Figure6Convenience store sales40 Figure7Convenience store market share40 Figure8Sales of Eden Farm by Market Segment41 Figure9Sales Trends in catering47 Figure10DPM Matrix49 Introduction The project report considers customer segmentation for the frozen food industry and evaluates the opportunities for targeted growth in the sector for Eden Farm, a UK based distributor of frozen food. The retail food industry is dynamic in nature and is very competitive for the distributors. However, growth opportunities exist in the sector when a thorough analysis is carried out and the targeted segments are evaluated. Hence, the study identifies growth strategies in the sector by using segmentation framewor k and relevant analysis. Definition of the Company’s Issue Eden Farm is a distributor of frozen food and ice cream across UK with a strong base in the North East and Yorkshire. The company’s prospect market is wholesale, cash and carry, symbol groups, CTN’s, forecourts, independent supermarkets. At the moment, the company is trying to increase its market presence in various sub sectors of the market. The frozen food retail is represented by many sub sectors and is composed of many market players. The business on the whole is variable across sectors and the levels of risk and opportunities for each sub sector and product is variable in nature.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

A Quiz About Parallel Structure

A Quiz About Parallel Structure A Quiz About Parallel Structure A Quiz About Parallel Structure By Mark Nichol Many writers are thwarted by unsuccessful efforts to express equivalent ideas in phrases that clearly identify the hierarchy and relationships of those ideas. Here are five sentences in which syntactical structure fails to communicate these concepts. Try your hand at resolving the confusion, and then compare your results to my solutions at the bottom of the page: 1. â€Å"Learn to use this art form not only for performance but also to collaborate, exercise, and respect the differences of others.† 2. â€Å"Children enrolled in high-quality preschool programs are more likely to graduate from high school, hold down jobs, and less likely to be on welfare or end up in jail.† 3. â€Å"She will be returned to the same, or a substantially similar, position to the one held prior to the leave of absence, as required by law.† 4. â€Å"They pulled him from his vehicle, beat him, robbed him of his money and equipment.† 5. â€Å"Dedication, hard work, flexibility, a sense of humor, and the interest and ability to learn and improve professionally are some of the positive qualities the company seeks in all employees.† Answers 1. This sentence isn’t strictly incorrect, but it would be clearer if it didn’t lead the reader to infer that the additional benefits of the art form are that participants can collaborate the differences of others, exercise the differences of others, and respect the differences of others. That implication is eliminated if the preposition to is inserted before the second and third items in the list: â€Å"Learn to use this art form not only for performance but also to collaborate, to exercise, and to respect the differences of others.† 2. This sentence has contrasting â€Å"more likely† and â€Å"less likely† phrases, but includes two of one and one of the other, and the second â€Å"more likely phrase† is confusingly cordoned off by commas, leaving it bereft of context. To make the sentence correct, the brace of commas must be omitted and a conjunction added: â€Å"Children enrolled in high-quality preschool programs are more likely to graduate from high school and hold down jobs and are less likely to end up on welfare or in jail.† 3. This type of error is distressingly frequent, considering that it seems obvious that if the parenthetical phrase is removed, the sentence is awkward, therefore the original sentence is awkward. One of several possible fixes is to get the trailing phrase out of the way immediately by moving it to the head of the sentence, then presenting the fully expressed basic statement followed by the alternative: â€Å"As required by law, she will be returned to the same position held prior to the leave of absence, or a substantially similar one.† 4. Here’s another common error the omission of a conjunction before a concluding compound list item. As written, the sentence implies that there were four stages to the crime: 1) They pulled him from his vehicle, 2) they beat him, 3) they robbed him, and 4) equipment. Huh? That’s wrong. Only three things occurred; items 3) and 4) are one step. Because that one step is the final list item, it should be preceded by a conjunction: â€Å"They pulled him from his vehicle, beat him, and robbed him of his money and equipment.† 5. Interest and ability take different prepositions, so they need to be separated into parallel phrases where each word is supported by its own preposition: â€Å"Dedication, hard work, flexibility, a sense of humor, and the interest in learning and improving professionally and the ability to do so are some of the positive qualities the company seeks in all employees.† Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Grammar category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:English Grammar 101: All You Need to KnowCannot or Can Not?The Two Sounds of G