My Ethical Beliefs Essay Example for Free

My Ethical Beliefs Essay As I sat down to write this paper, I really struggled to get it started with this definition. It is one of those things that if spoken about, you know what it is, but the minute you are asked to break it down, the task is not easy. I guess I will begin by saying that ethics is what is generally accepted as right, or correct. Even though ethics are usually use simultaneously with morals, I think morals are more inherited and personal while ethics are what the majority of people in one culture deem to be ethical. In a way, ethics are like a set of rules that govern human behaviors and serve as a basis for right conduct principles. After reviewing the ethical approaches, a few stood out to me as being relevant to my personal beliefs. The first that I recognized was the justice approach for its use of fairness. When I am trying to resolve a problem I always try to weigh the good with the bad as in this approach. The justice approach ultimately asks the question, â€Å"Is this a fair distribution of benefits and burdens?†, which I think is just that. You have to consider how much good or harm will come of your decision. I think that this approach is very important to apply in the classroom. I learned that fair and just does not always mean everyone gets what they want. There are going to be plenty of times when a situation will not have a solution that makes everyone happy, but that is where the justice approach comes into play. In the classroom, I think it is important for teachers to sometimes take their emotions out of a situation and really see it for what it is instead of thinking who will be mad or upset about a decision. For example, if there are ten students out of a class of 30 that can not complete a project on the day it was due for any reason even though it had been clearly set with time in advance, then according to this approach, the teacher may push the due date further down since all the students would benefit from it and the students grades would be harmed if it was not changed. However, the teacher might offer the students that did the project on time to have extra credit or might just penalize the ten students slightly in order to keep it fair for everyone. The other approach that sticks out to me was the one relating to virtues. I like to think that I am non judgemental and respect people’s beliefs but when it comes to making my own decisions, I definitely search within my own beliefs to make choices. The virtue approach asks if your decision reflects the person you want to be which or the views of an organization you represent. I try to hold myself up to a high standard of morality and I find this approach matches that concept well. Every teacher has their own unique style of teaching and their own beliefs, and there is nothing wrong with that. It is actually very important for students to experience different type of people as their teachers so that they can experience how different people can be. When it comes to this virtues approach, I feel like this concept could be hard to implement. Not always, but I believe sometimes teachers have to put aside their own morals to deal with certain situations. But, on the other hand, I think going by this approach can also be helpful, if a teacher has good morals, they are more likely to make good decisions. An example of this could be in a situation where a student acts out in class but you know it is a result of a negative situation that occurred in their home. In most cases, a teacher might scold that child and not take anything else into consideration, but if a teacher were to search into her/his own virtues and try to work out the situation with the student since they know it is not coming from a malicious place. There may be much more than just two options offered as a solution in any given situation. For this reason, teachers have the Florida Department of Education Code of Ethics by which we go by. This code of ethics is set up as a way to set a standard. Not everyone has the same set of morals and ethics but by writing this code the department of education they make it clear to all teachers that in order to work as a teacher in the state of Florida, then you must abide by their rules. The code holds teachers accountable for their actions without any gray areas. It is applied to all teachers in the public school system and affects them directly for that reason. As future teachers, we need to accept that even if we do not always agree with it, we have to abide by the rules in the code of ethics. The guide will dictate how to go about many of the situations we may encounter in our classrooms. Therefore, the Florida Department of Education Code of Ethics is vital to our profession.

Electronic Banking in Pakistan | Dissertation

Electronic Banking in Pakistan | Dissertation Electronic Banking in Pakistan 1. PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND 1.1. INTRTODUCTION As the world has entered the twenty first century, one thing has become all too apparent, any organization that wishes to succeed in todays cutthroat competition will have to embrace Information Technology (IT) with fervor. In this age of Information Technology new inventions and innovations are affecting all the fields of life. Almost all kinds of organizations are stepping into the field of IT, in an effort to increase their productivity and expand their customer bank. The same goes for the Banking Sector. Today all the banks of the world are adopting the tool of Electronic Banking. The need of Electronic Banking was felt in South Asia during the last 5 to 7 years. This concept emerged as an essential tool for successful bank management. Financial sector has been quick to recognize this fact, and in Pakistan, most of the banking industry has moved away from the old ledger based system to computers and automation in order to modernize their operations. Although foreign banks were pioneers of bringing this concept to South-Asia but they have yet to start latest Electronic Banking practices in Pakistan Background Electronic Banking Electronic banking is an umbrella term for the process by which a customer may perform banking transactions electronically without visiting a brick-and-mortar institution. It is a form of banking in which funds are transferred through an exchange of electronic signals between financial institutions, rather than an exchange of cash, checks or other negotiable instruments. The growth in use of the Internet world-wide and the development of procedures enabling secure transactions on-line have created the new field of on-line banking, where customers deal with their banks chiefly or entirely through Internet connections. Opening hours or location of branches, unlike the traditional banks does not restrict such services. Both existing banks and new groups are already moving into this potentially very important area. Since on-line banking services can be accessed with equal ease almost anywhere in the developed world, this raises the possibility of banking networks operating without regard to national boundaries, with consequent regulatory problems. Banking on line, commonly called PC banking, electronic banking or Internet banking, has been around in one form or another for a decade or more. Forms of on-line Banking Following can be the ways to bank on-line: 1) Internet Based access to account information through banks web site, via modem, using a standard web browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. 2) Bank Software: Bank provides customers with proprietary software to install in their computers. The software allows customers to connect to banks computers over a secure network. The customer essentially dials directly into the bank instead of through the Internet. 3) Personal Finance Software: Software such as Quicken or Microsoft Money allows customer to exchange financial information with the bank. The software connects to the banks computers via an Internet based set up and downloads financial information from the clients account. Many banks affiliate leading software vendors such as Intuit or Microsoft to make their systems compatible. 4) Pay-by-Phone Systems /Tele banking: Allows a customer to pay by telephone certain bills, or transfer funds between accounts, with instructions to the bank. One must have an agreement in advance with the institution to make such transfers. 5) Point-of-Sale Transfers: Allows a customer to pay for retail purchases with an EFT (or debit) card. In some instances, this card may also be an ATM card. This is similar to using a credit card, but with one important exception: the money for the purchase is transferred immediately — or very shortly — from customers bank account to the stores account. An increasing number of merchants are accepting this type of payment. On-line Banking: a Revolution The thought of today is the reality of tomorrow but the thoughts of Banking on Your OWN TERMS AT YOUR OWN DOORSTEPS, which seemed to be reality of tomorrow, is no a more mystique. What we can do NOW (?) It allows customers to do most of their financial transactions at home on a personal computer. Pay your bills on-line while youre watching TV. Check your account balances from your digital cell phone as you stand in line to board a flight. Consolidate all your financial accounts on-line in one convenient, secure location. Have access to friendly, helpful customer service representatives Why on-line banking? Unfortunately, banking is a necessary evil that can take a large chunk out of already busy schedules. Visiting a branch or ATM, paying bills by paper check (and mailing them) and balancing a chequebook all can be time consuming. Banking on-line, by its nature, can automate many of these processes, saving time and, in many cases, money. One can access his account and do banking when (and where) it is convenient for him. Following can be online banking services offered by various banks Check account balances Make transfers between online accounts Check the status of loans Track investments Apply for loans online Pay bills electronically Download account information to a personal finance software program On-Line Banking Advantages Internet banks are open 7 days a week 24 hours a day In general, you will find lower fees and higher interest rates for deposits due to the reduced cost of operating on-line and not needing numerous physical bank branches. Create a more in depth portfolio of each individual customer of what their needs and expectations are. Be able to provide services to each customer that are customized to their individual preferences You will have easy access to account information and transactions, because any Internet-enabled computer can become your bank terminal. You will generally have up-to-the-minute current bank account information due to the automation of most systems. In many cases, on-line banks offer free bill pay, which can be a big saving in both money and time. You can transfer funds electronically between accounts. Common E-Banking Services Retail Services Wholesale Services Account management Account management Bill payment and presentment Cash management New account opening Small business loan applications, approvals, or advances Consumer wire transfers Investment/Brokerage services Commercial wire transfers Loan application and approval Business-to-business payments Account aggregation Employee benefits/pension administration Current Scenario of Electronic Banking in Pakistan Pakistan is widely considered to be in the Third Wave of developing economies that include countries in Asia, Latin America, the Pacific Islands and the Middle East. These countries started to adopt the Internet from around 1993. Almost all have a state monopoly over the telecommunications sector with low tele-densities per population and high telecom costs, which restrict Internet access to elitist groups in the population. Less than 2 per cent of the population is connected to the Internet. These countries have weak political and democratic institutions where the governments welcome new commercial opportunities. The First Wave countries include USA, Canada, and some Nordic states where the Internet took hold in the 1980s, and became an established feature of social, political and economic life. On average, over 35 per cent of the population are connected to the net, with households always connected online to the net 24 hours in the day in many cases. Both the First and Second wave of counties have much in common; with both involved in the early development of the Internet. The gap between the two is rapidly diminishing. Both have highly developed telecommunication infrastructures, with extensive networks of fiber optic, satellite and ISDN lines that can respond to exponential growth in demand for bandwidth. Knowledge of Internet applications is a mainstream activity, and a prerequisite for commercial credibility. They have highly developed information, dissemination technology and content industries, with a strong export focus. Both have strong government policies that aim to influence the shape of the future information society, with massive investments in research and development, education, training, IT and Internet developed research. E-Banking in Pakistan: Due to advancements in sciences and technology, many foreign banks started offering Electronic Banking services in Pakistan. Electronic Banking offers tremendous opportunities and saves cost and time for both banks and customers. E-Banking in Pakistan is still a relatively new phenomena and is expected to grow now faster with future penetration of computers and internet services in the country, availability of a robust legal framework, removal of concerns about security of electronic transactions and enhanced reliability of communication Unfortunately Electronic Banking in Pakistan is still in the introduction phase and the government with the private sector has to streamline many policies for its further development and success. Although foreign banks took the initiative but now there are private Pakistani banks that are making advancements in E-Banking. The rate of technology transfer from developed to developing countries has been very slow in this regard. In Pakistan the available technology services are NIFT, ATM, ETPoS, Tele Banking and Central Depository Systems. NIFT was established in 1997,it is a technology that uses images with high-speed sorters to automate check clearing. ATMs are automated teller machines that provide facilities for instant deposits and cash withdrawals, and are presently available at around 200 locations in major cities only. ETPoS is a method of payment where goods and services are paid for at the point of sale, and is available in major cities in a few super markets only. Telebanking is telephone banking facility available only in a few banks, and again, in major cities only. The central depository system is a well- established system used in stock exchanges for recording and the transfer of securities. Secure electronic transactions (SET): This protocol was developed jointly by Visa and Master Card and is now baked by American Express. Major players in e-commerce, networking, and computing like Microsoft, Netscape, IBM, etc, are behind specifications of this protocol, and are thus becoming an industry standard for secured payments on the internet. SET provides confidentiality through encryption; message integrity using digital signatures, and authentication of consumer and merchant identity Use of this, method is ideal due to the level of security that this method offers. However, establishment of this protocol will require Internet merchant accounts. Smart cards: It is a digital currency payment, which looks similar to credit cards, but contains a microprocessor and a storage unit. The cards hold prepaid account information. Merchants who accept these records are credited for the transaction amount by card issuers. The use of this technology is safe but expensive to acquire. Pakistan will require building a consensus among major stakeholders to invest in making this technology available in Pakistan. Value-added networks: Pakistan could establish value added networks (VAN) for financial transactions to expedite fast and efficient flow of remittances to all major cities and to enable exchange of electronic documents. These networks will provide shared connectivity, security assurance of data, and reliability of service. These networks will provide bank -to -bank transfer of funds for financial transactions, and will also enable the exchange of electronic documents to facilitate e-trade. These value added networks will also facilitate B2B transactions using EDI systems. The EDI Vans will execute authorized transactions between valid trading partners. These networks will reduce technical complexities and the cost of implementing dedicated connections with a multitude of trading partners. Another advantage out of these networks will be the provision of storing viable information on the networks, so that authorized partners can directly access them without contacting the other parties. This will help in in creasing efficiencies of business transactions in terms of time and costs. 1.2. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM E-banking has entered the Pakistan economy in a big way but, considering the state of development of banking industry in the country and the client-base, there are doubts about the utility and cost-effectiveness of this mode of banking. The research study will examine these points and give recommendations on the subject: An evaluation, theoretically and practically, of the progress of banks which adopted electronic operations, and the prospective role for banks in the future. Discussing problems facing banks in the scope of electronic banking operations. Specifying the concept of electronic banks. 1.3. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY Following objectives have been set forth in conduct of the research: To familiarise public with the subject of ELECTRONIC BANKING, enhance their keenness to remain abreast to the techniques, and modern trends of efficient banking. To induce healthy practices in banking business and profession and to advise suitable measures for their achievement. To encourage and provide Electronic Banking information and to offer education through research report contents to students and consequently to national financial institutions. To print and publish the report for provision to all who are interested in the issue of Electronic Banking. To study Electronic Banking practices of different banks in Pakistan. 1.4. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY E-banking is playing an important role not only in the development of electronic services in the first world countries but also in the developing countries too. Due to advancements in sciences and technology, many foreign banks started offering Electronic Banking services in Pakistan. Electronic Banking offers tremendous opportunities and saves cost and time for both banks and customers. This study will evaluate the electronic performance of banks. This report emphasizes the fact that on-line accessibility, awareness, attitude towards change, computer and Internet access costs, trust in ones bank, security concerns, ease of use and convenience are the major factors affecting the adoption of Internet bank services in Pakistan. 1.5. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY Scope of the study: The research thesis covers the leading banks in Pakistan that have entered the e-banking era and examine its economics. The major limitation of the study is that the concerned banks are reluctant to disclose information with regard to costs incurred on E- banking. Limitations of the study: As the E-banking in Pakistan is at the introduction stage and its efficacy is yet to be tested, adequate literature on the subject is not available. Moreover, the topic under study requires comprehensive research, which is possible if more time is allotted for the project. Banks personnel are reluctant to give information about banks electronic process and problems faced by banks. 2. LITERATURE REVIEW Literature survey is conducted in order to get more insight into the study. Literature survey consists of past studies related to this topic. Which will help and ensure that no important information related to the study is omitted. It includes mostly domestic studies conducted by our own scholars. 2.1. FOREIGN SCENARIO Yoshio, (1999), states that Malaysian banking sector started in the 1970s. However, the first visible form of electronic innovation in the Malaysian banking industry was the introduction of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in 1981. The ATMs to a large extent released banks from the constraints of time and geographical location. Then in the early 1990s, Tele-banking was introduced in Malaysia, which provided yet another delivery channel for branch financial services via telecommunications devices connected to an automated system of the bank by utilizing Automated Voice Response (AVR) Technology. Utsuml, on June 1, (2000), said that the Malaysian Central Bank gave the green light for locally owned commercial banks to offer Internet banking services. On June 15, 2000, Maybank, the largest domestic bank in terms of assets as well as network distribution, http://www.arraydev.com/commerce/jibc/www.maybank2U.com became the first bank to offer Internet banking services in Malaysia. This service is currently provided to individual customers of the bank and the site boasts of the latest 128-bit encryption technology to allay fears of security among consumers. The services provided in this portal include banking enquiry functions, bill payment, credit card payment, funds transfer, and accounts summary as well as transaction history. Customer support service is provided via e-mails as well as via telephone lines and is available daily from 6 am to 12 mid-night. JoseÉ, (2000), said that the Hong Leong Bank commenced its Internet banking operations known as e-Banking, which can be accessed via their web site at http://www.arraydev.com/commerce/jibc/www.hlbb.hongleong.com.my in December 2000. In addition to providing services that were previously included in their Phone banking service, they also offer options of assessing account transaction history in their e-banking. They too provide support services via e-mails and telephones from 7 am to 11.00 pm, seven days a week. Al-Jasser, (1999), states that both the competitive forces as well as the expected benefits are causing concentration and expansion of E-banking services in the country (Saudi Arabia). However, in the long run it would be the actual benefits which the banks would realize in terms of higher profits through reduction in intermediary costs and expanded consumer base due to improved services on a cost effective manner that would determine the role of E-banking in the countrys banking sector. E banking is expected to play an important role in integrating the financial markets of Saudi Arabia globally and banks would ultimately capitalize on these developments. Figures, (2000), states that E-banking Automate critical banking activities and interact electronically with bank with comprehensive tools that help reduce administrative costs, increase productivity, and improve cash management—in a security-enhanced environment. 2.2. LOCAL SCENARIO Mashhood, (2000), states that the role of information technology in financial services is to support operational efficiencies, facilitate customer services, mange risk and support in decision-making. In the IT policy on financial services, the government of Pakistan has asked the State Bank of Pakistan to allow opening of internet merchant accounts to enable inter-bank electronic fund transfer, to re-engineer processes of foreign trade sections, to accept e-orders of value less than $500, to open an e-commerce wing in financial institutions, and to facilitate clearing and e-reporting in al banks. The e-commerce action plans for the financial sector have been established as per directions from the government. The plan is to connect branches of 25 local and foreign banks in 12 major cities. In phase I, branches in one city will be linked with their head office. In phase II, all these banks and other financial institutions will be connected together. In phase III, private and public sec tor stakeholders will be linked and ultimately e-commerce network will include financial, trade and customs networks along with their international links. Ziauddin, (1998), states that In Pakistan, huge investments, recurring costs, and absence of economies of scale are some of the major bottlenecks to invest in online banking. One other problem is that only a few foreign banks are linked with their branches, otherwise all major financial institutions work in isolation. AL-Bader, (1999), said that in the absence of a centralized database linked to branches, banks do not only need the communication software to facilitate communication, but also require modems, routers, controllers, etc. irrespective of the volume of transactions, be it small or massive, huge investments are required to facilitate online banking. Not only the capital investments debut also the recurring costs, such as lease payments to PTCL, ongoing maintenance costs, etc, are discouraging national banks to invest. Giasuddin, (2003) said that there is a need to establish inter-branch and inter-bank networks so that all financial institutions may be linked together to facilitate electronic payment systems, which are among basic prerequisites for establishment of the financial infrastructure for e-commerce development. The next step that is still not clear in Pakistan is the type of electronic payment systems and digital currencies to be used in Pakistan. There are a lot of different methods of payment that are available globally. Pakistan has to carefully decide the most feasible payment systems that can easily fulfill financial requirements, as well as, provide enough confidence to the buyers and merchants for safety and security of such payments. Kazmi, (2000), said that there is an urgent need in Pakistan for establishing value added networks for financial transactions. Without these networks, it will be difficult for business and financial institutions to provide EC solutions with high quality and low costs. Zaidi, (2003), states that there is a need to establish inter-branch and inter-bank networks so that all financial institutions may be linked together to facilitate electronic payment systems, which are among basic prerequisites for establishment of the financial infrastructure for e-commerce development. The next step that is still not clear in Pakistan is the type of electronic payment systems and digital currencies to be used in Pakistan. Shabbir, (2003), said that both the competitive forces as well as the expected benefits are causing concentration and expansion of E-banking services in the country. However, in the long run it would be the actual benefits which the banks would realize in terms of higher profits through reduction in intermediary costs and expanded consumer base due to improved services on a cost effective manner that would determine the role of E-banking in the countrys banking sector. E-banking is expected to play and important role in integrating the financial markets of Pakistan globally and banks would ultimately capitalize on these developments. Naveed, (2003) states that Credit cards are primarily used as convenient payment products and at times a credit facility for short term needs. The State Bank of Pakistan is playing a pro-active role in promoting adoption of technology-based solutions in the banking sector and supporting services based on E-Banking. E-Banking has already taken off in this country and the recent launch by Habib Bank- one of the largest banks in the country has provided a major breakthrough. so the question is not when the facilities will be provided but how rapidly these facilities will expand. Efforts in this direction are focused upon following areas: Creation of a robust legal infrastructure catering to the needs of E-Banking and other payments systems involving electronic settlement of funds. Key step in this direction was the promulgation of Electronic Transactions Ordinance 2002, which provides legal recognition to digital signatures and documentation reducing the risks associated with the use of electronic medium of business. State bank is currently engaged in an exercise to further augment the legal framework for electronic settlement of transactions in the banking sector. Establishing of Payment Systems Development Committee in which commercial banks are members, to guide the development of payment systems in Pakistan. Creation of a dedicated Payment Systems Department in the State Bank dealing with all issues pertaining to payment systems including E-Banking. Creation of a Real Time Gross Settlement System (RTGS) providing an E-Banking solution to banks maintaining their accounts with standard operating procedure (SOP) whereby they will be able to operate these accounts from their own premises via an electronic connection with the State Banks own servers. Commercial banks have been allowed to open and operate Internet Merchant Accounts. Banks are being encouraged to expand the ATMs network through more participation and a wider network of machines all across the country. all banks have been asked to join a SWITCH and interconnection between the 2 existing SWITCHES is being encouraged for further development of the electronic infrastructure . State Bank has already acquired SWIFT connection and has also made it mandatory for banks to acquire SWIFT connectivity for settlement of all cross border financial transactions. Expansion of automated cheques clearing services to all major cities in the country is actively being pursued. The usage of plastic money such as Credit/Debit cards is making good progress Ishrat, (2003), states that introduction of E-banking will improve banking services mainly in terms of the convenience of the customers including, place, time and price, the banks will be able to provide improved services and, consequently, the quality and skills of banking staff will also improve. Although many banking services will be available 24 hours, the need for over the counter services will remain and banks would continue to provide normal services during office banking hours in Pakistan also like in the developed countries where E -banking is prevalent, it has been observed that customers feel much confident in using e-banking services when they can associate it with brick and mortar branches. Purely online banking without physical branch network has not made much headway even in developed countries. In Pakistan, with low rates of literacy the majority of customers will continue to use the 9-5 bank branches. Rizvi, (1999), states that the state bank of Pakistan has constituted various committees such as the Payment Systems Development Committee and the ECH task force for the development of technology based banking services in the country. Besides other matters, these committees also oversee the developments in the areas of E-banking. State Bank of Pakistan coordinates closely with other agencies such as the Ministry of Science Technology (MoST), in initiatives relating to E-banking. Shirazi, (2001), said that the future of e banking is very bright in Pakistan. Many banks in Pakistan have started providing e-banking facilities to their consumers. Over 300 ATMs are in operation in Pakistan the use of ATMs is rapidly increasing. More and more facilities are being provided by the banks electronically including e-statements, funds transfer, bill payment for utilities as well as other purchases. By 2002, almost 40% of the bank branches have been automated and it is expected that this proportion will reach 50% by 2004. The rate of increase is phenomenal i.e. about 318%. Similarly, the number of online branches has doubled during the last 2 years to 570 and by 2004 this number will jump to 1356, representing an increase of 376%. This expansion along with the growing penetration of internet will bring E-banking to more and more of their customers both in terms of numbers as well as geographical locations. Mahmood, (2003), states in order to meet E-banking challenges that State Bank of Pakistan established the ECH Task Force under the leadership of Mr. Naveed A Khan (Country Representative ABN AMRO Bank) to facilitate the development and implementation of E-Banking sector to promote E-Commerce. This Task Force was constituted to facilitate in planning introduction of enabling technologies in the financial sector of the economy having a direct bearing on E-commerce. The ECH Task Force is constituted of various dedicated professionals from the major financial institutions of the country who enrich the Task Force with their experience and expertise with a firm commitment to develop and promote E-Commerce in Pakistan. Ahmed,(2001), states that Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce) is just another business tool, one that enhances business efficiency and effectiveness and allows cost reduction. It is a vehicle to carry out business-to-business (B2B) or business-to-consumer (B2C) transactions. For financial institutions and entrepreneurs, E-Commerce not just makes old processes work better; it also provides a means to break with tradition and create new ways of doing business. E-Commerce has a lot of potential in Pakistan where ideas are rich, resources and labor are cheap, workmanship is excellent, entrepreneurial skill in abundance, and there is a large presence of indigenous and globally appreciated artifacts other tradable goods. However, on a more realistic side, we have a lot of ground to cover before we can reap the benefits of E-Commerce and turn our economy around. These are technical as well as administrative challenges that have to be met and above all we need the basic infrastructure, which fa cilitates and promotes trading through electronic means. 3. RESEARCH METHDOLOGY This chapter presents the basic methodology required in research. It includes the methods of search, type of study and the sources of data. 3.1. METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY The methodology of study includes the different methods that researcher has used to reach to the conclusion. But due to shortage of time the researcher has tried his best to make this report informative, useful and also beneficial for others. The researcher has also gathered a lot of information to cover all types of aspects related to automation and electronic data processing. In this report the researcher has covered first of all the introduction of electronic banking, its background, what facilities and benefits it provide and what is its scope in Pakistan? Secondly the researcher has visited few of the banks offering electronic services. They were very knowledgeable to the researcher basically in explaining their scope in Pakistan. 3.2. TYPE OF THE STUDY The study is descriptive because the intention is to explore the existing values given in problem statement. Descriptive process was believed to be more suited in this kind of investigation because it seeks direct response from respondents. This procedure has been used in many areas of investigations in many fields of academics and scientific discipline. 3.3. GOAL OF DESCRIPTIVE STUDY The goal of the descriptive study, here is to offer a peo

Relative Age Effect in Football

Relative Age Effect in Football Abstract The purpose of the study was to investigate the performance level at which birth date effects selection for performance pathways in English football, as well as examining whether coaches are currently implementing arrangements to limit the relative age effect. The study comprised of 2450 players from performance levels including community, grass root and academy. The birth dates of each player within every performance level were analysed through the use of statistical tools within Microsoft Excel, with interviews analysed through transcription and the highlighting of recurrent themes. The sub-groups were viewed by age group, month of birth and the total percentage of players born within each quartile of the selection year to analyse the birth bias within specific performance levels. The statistical data of each sub-group were then collated to view differences in progressing through each performance level. The main results found an over-representation of players born in the first quartile throughout each performance level. The bias within the community and grass root subgroup was 4.1%, with a 39.9% bias towards the eldest players at academy standard. The evidence highlighted that birth date only has significant impact on selection once the academy standard of play is reached, with minimal difference in impact when progressing through inferior performance levels. Coaches in the study showed high awareness of the effect, with implementation of two strategies to reduce the relative age effect being implemented. The two strategies were found to be ineffective in the reduction of the relative age effect, through implementation occurring after selection. To conclude the academy pathway highlighted the most significant bias, with birth date having minimal impact at inferior performance levels. Strategies to reduce the relative age effect are currently ineffective requiring further research into reducing the bias prior to selection. Introduction Aims To investigate the performance level at which birth date may affect selection for performance pathways in English football. To examine if football coaches are making arrangements to limit the Relative age effect in football Research Question: In English football is there a starting point to the relative age effect and if this is the case then how are football coaches currently taking this bias into consideration when working with children at all levels of football.  Ã‚   Rationale Relative age effect is the difference in ages between children in the same age group. An example being, a child born in the start of the selection period in football i.e. 1st September will be 11 months older than a player who falls in the same age group born on the 1st of August. (Barnsley et al, 1992) Throughout the study research has referred to the relative age effect as birth date and birth bias, all meaning the same. The football world is competitive and making sure that your team are developing young athletes to progress into the first team and national team is very important. This has made the selection and development of children an important aspect in youth football. Studies have progressively shown that in football there are children not given the opportunity, due to a simple aspect such as their age. (Brewer et al 1995; Cobley et al 2008; Delorme et al 2010) The research that has previously been carried out has rarely been specified around the English game with only a minority being carried out in this area. (Simmons Paull, 2001; Musch Grondin, 2001) The research has predominantly been aimed towards a number of different nations across the world. (Glamser Vincent, 2004; Jimenez, 2008; Delorme et al 2010; Campo et al 2010) The limited amount of research on the English game highlighted an area in which further study could be carried out in order to fully understand the impact the relative age effect has within English football. Correspondingly the research into the affect performance level has on the impact of the relative age effect within English football has been under-represented by preceding research. The research specific to this area of ten views different nations or sports. (Mujika et al, 2007; Cobley et al, 2009; Till et al, 2010) The knowledge of how performance level could affect selection will allow understanding of where birth bias is present and predominant, furthermore highlighting the level at which change is needed to reduce the relative age effect. The results will be of great value to coaches within the performance level that the relative age effect is most predominant by raising awareness and creating knowledge for change. Preceding research has also viewed how different organisations and football associations have tried to reduce the impact of the relative age effect in different countries. (Helson et al 2000; Vaeyens et al 2003) Although this research has shown how interventions have been made there has not been a study on how the coaches within the football clubs in these associations are practically trying to reduce the bias or in fact if they are. This is an area of research that is being analysed. This will help compare the current tools being put in place and to see if there is a working intervention to help reduce the birth bias. The context of the study will include raising awareness of the relative age effect to the coaches in which the relative age effect is most predominant within the standard at which they coach. Research has previously highlighted this to be an advantage in reducing the effect, increasing the value of the study. (Baker et al, 2010; Cobley et al, 2009)    The study begins viewing previous research on the relative age effect reviewing specifically topics around the aims and secondary topics in which can affect the predominance of the effect. The second section views the method in which the study carried out the research with reasoning and description, progressing onto the results in which are presented with the discussion following. A conclusion in relation to the aims of the study is carried out in the penultimate section, ending with self reflection discussing the learning throughout the study.     Ã‚   Literature Review 1. Relative Age Effect Children are split into age groups throughout school and whilst they are in education. In England the children are split into age groups running from nursery, primary school with years 1-6, then into secondary schools with years of 7-11. In England the school year starts in early September and runs to August (Direct.gov, 2009). This means that two children within the same year participating in educational studies and sports could have a difference of more than eleven months between them. In sport, the relative age effect was first noticed in Cana ­dian ice-hockey and volleyball. Grondin et al, (1984) found unequal birth-date distributions for males and females at recreational, competitive and senior professional levels for both sports dur ­ing the 1981/1982 season. 2. What age does the relative age effect occur? Simmons Paull (2001) are a set of researches who have previously viewed the relative age effect in England. They found that there was a bias within centre of excellences in England. In 1997 in the age groups of U-15 U16 there was seen to be a large difference within the birth dates of players participating, players oldest within the year consisted of 58.7% with just 12.7% of younger children being within these centres. Glamser, Vincent, (2004); Musch Grondin (2001) found specifically that ‘players in the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Belgium approximately 70% of elite youth players had birthdays in the first half of the soccer year. This shows that there is a bias within English football and shows that the age effect occurs highly in these ages. The relative age effect does not just occur within England. Del Campo et al (2010) viewed the relative age effect within Spain. The research that was carried out found that the relative age effect occurred through age groups including under 11s to 18s. The players within the teams included within the research consisted of a minimum of 45% of players born within the first trimester, with only a maximum of 15% of the players coming from the fourth trimester. This shows that throughout each age group the difference between the players born early in the year and the ones later in the year was 30% in favour to the players born in the early stages of the selection period. Williams, (2009) study on the U-17 World Cup also suggests that the relative age effect is continued into not just the older age groups but also into senior international teams. Williams (2009) looked at all the players participating within the tournament and found a large difference in the months of when the players were born. The study found that, ‘Nearly 40% of the players are born in the first three months of the year while only 16% are born in the last quarter. Dudink (1994) research supports the research carried out by Williams (2009) into evidence that the relative age effect progresses through all age groups. Dudink (1994) claimed that both Dutch and English players born early in the competition year are more likely to participate in national soccer leagues. This research not only suggests that the relative age effect occurs through childhood and adolescence but also occurs through to adulthood. 3. Why does the relative age effect occur? Research has shown many reasons behind why there are biases towards players who are older than their peers. (Delorme Raspaud, 2009: Musch and Grondin, 2001). Musch and Grondin, (2001) suggests that ‘as children are separated into age groups there are regularly cognitive, physical and emotional differences between the youngest and oldest. Research backing up this is seen from Malina et al,(2004) who states there are ‘advantages in body size, fat free mass and several components of physical fitness including aerobic power, muscular strength, power, endurance, and speed. This means that there is a difference within all aspects of a character within players in the same year. It has been sug ­gested that the size of the relative age effect may be affect ­ed by additional maturational variation at ages associated with the onset of puber ­ty, generally applicable at the ages of 13-15 in boys and 12-14 in girls (Musch Grondin, 2001). This meaning that puberty is a large s ection of a players selection/development process in which could affect the number of players who are chosen. Helsen et al (2000) found that relative age effect was present within children aged as young as 8. As players develop differently at different stages this would suggest the younger players would have a larger disadvantage at the stage of puberty. Research from Gil et al, (2007b) found when looking at the selection of young soccer players in terms of anthropometric and physiological factors found that during puberty the players selected were taller, heavier, leaner and faster than the non-selected players and that a high percentage of those chosen were found to be born within the first 6 months of the year. Helsen et al, (2000) looked at the possible difference between two players within the same selection year: ‘A 10-year-old child in the 5th percentile is likely to be 1.26 m tall with a body mass of 22 kg, whereas a child in the 95th percentile who is almost 11 years of age is likely to be 1.54 m tall and 49 kg in mass. This shows that one player could be as much as 0.3m taller and 27kg heavier than a player placed in the same selection year showing a clear advantage physically towards the older player. Along with maturation levels studies have shown that the playing position of a player also has an effect. Ashworth and Heyndels (2007) noted the relative age effect var ­ied according to playing position in elite German soccer. The strongest effect sizes were found for goalkeepers and defend ­ers, with relative age effects not evident for forwards. Research carried out by Gil et al, (2007a) found that goalkeepers and defenders are on average are the tallest players being five centre meters taller than both the midfielders and attackers. This with the research found from Malina et al., (2004) shows that it could be very difficult for the younger players to achieve selection within these positions. Research by Gil et al, (2007a) also progresses on to further back up research from Malina et al, (2004) as when viewing players who were in the selection process, players who had better endurance, were faster and in some instances taller were primarily selected. Although there were stati stical information found within research from Gil et al, (2007a) looking further into the study there were also instances in which the research challenged the statement by Malina et al,(2004) in which they stated players who were faster and taller for example had an advantage. Gil et al (2007a) found that when viewing players who were selected and those not, it turned out that the non selected players were taller faster and had superior endurance. Examples being that the goalkeepers non-selected were four centre meters taller, 0.3 seconds faster than the selected players. The research found that in midfield where players are seen to run the most which in turn means they need to have greater endurance levels the non selected players were found to have lower heart rates after an endurance test. (Gil et al, 2007a) This research highlights evidence contesting the advantages older children are perceived to possess. 4. The effect on participation levels Researchers have also viewed that the relative age effect can make players drop out of sport. Delorme et al (2010), suggests that the players born later within the year ‘experience inferiority and failure within their practice and may be reduced to less playing time. Vaeyens et al (2005) also had similar thoughts and stated that the reason why the relative age effect relates to the players dropping out is due to the older players receiving more playing time than the younger players. This leading to the younger players feeling less competent and increasing the possibility of them dropping out of the sport.   Cobley et al (2009) noted that the size of the relative age effect increased with age un ­til late adolescence, but then decreased in adult sporting contexts meaning that if the players who are born in the younger part of the year, who carry on in sport have a good chance of being selected to play at a high standard, contesting research carried out by Williams (2009) and Dudink (1994). While Musch and Grondin (2001), stated that; ‘The relative age effect is not only thought to generate discrimination in the selection process, but also to lead to dropout among less advantaged players   (i.e. those born at the end of the year) Delorme et al, (2010) found that the rates of drop outs in French football were highest within players in the last two quarters of the year. This means that although Cobley et al, (2009) found that the relative age effect decreases into adulthood the number of the late born players progressing through to that stage is low. Research by Delorme et al, (2010) supports research by Cobley et al (2009) as they found the number of players dropping out in French adult football was higher within the players born early within the year with a number of 1,612 players dropping out more than the late born players.   Although this can be seen from the research, Delorme et al (2010) also show that the number of players born late in the years that are dropping out is higher throughout the ages of 9 15. This means that a high number of players born within the last part of the year have already dropped out implying that as the years progress the number of players that can drop out have reduced significantly. 5. Does the level of play affect the relative age effect? Research from Mujika et al, (2007) views similar areas to the one carried out in this study with the difference of them viewing this within Spanish football. They viewed the difference between the relative age effect at different levels of football within Spain. The levels they viewed were players from La Liga (Spains highest division) club AC Bilbao, Elite youth from AC Bilbao, Regional Youth and School Youth. The research found that players born in the first quarter of the selection period decreased as did the level of football, after the La Liga players group who had 43.9%. Elite youth players consisted of 46.6% of players in the first quarter, the regional youth group consisted of 28.6% whilst the school youth group had the lowest percentage at 27.1%. These statistics show that throughout youth football the relative age effect increases, slightly decreasing when reaching the highest level of football although only by 2.1%. They also found that players in the last quarter were fou nd mostly in the School Youth subgroup consisting 22.9%, decreasing to 21.2% in the regional youth group, then significantly decreasing to just 10% of players within the Elite youth subgroup, finishing with a very slight increase in the number of players within the La Liga group of 2.2% to a total of 12.2% of players being within the last quarter. This again shows that there is a bias throughout the progression in performance level within Spanish football.   Cobley et al (2009) viewed performance level in relation to the size of the relative age effect among similar levels to the current study. Cobley et al (2009) found that the largest bias towards the oldest players was found within players that participate within the representative stage. This stage related to the level below the elite stage which was viewed to be the highest level in the study. Cobley et al (2009) progressed to suggest that the level that players partake within has an effect on the size of the relative age effect. The relative age effect was found to increase within each progression in performance level until the optimal performance level is reached comparable to the findings by Mujika et al (2007) Till et al (2010) viewed the relative age effect within rugby league players, similar to Mujika et al (2007) they found that as the performance level increases as does the impact of the relative age effect.   In the study throughout each increase in performance level there was an increase in the size of the relative age effect. The highest bias towards the eldest players found was 61.34%, this statistic was found within the under 13s age group. The research highlights that the birth bias is affected by skill/performance level not just within football but also other sporting environments.  Ã‚   6. Is being young an advantage? While previous research has shown a bias towards the players born early within a selection period, there is research suggesting that if the later born players successfully progress through and become professional players they can be at an advantage. Ashworth and Heyndels (2007) found that players who were seen as being born in the later period of selection had higher wages than the players born in the early period. When looking at German football players during the 97-98 and 98-99 seasons, players born in the cut off month of August 1st earned 2 million deutschemarks where players born later in the selection period earn up to 2.8 million deutschemarks. Ashworth and Heyndels (2007) stated that this occurred when the later born players played in a high standard soccer education programme. The later born players benefited playing with the early born players or perceived better players, enhancing their development as young players benefit from playing alongside or against superior player s. They further progress to imply that for the later born players to succeed throughout the selection process, when younger they must have above average talent. 7. Can the relative age effect be decreased? Research has viewed the possibilities of whether a change in selection dates will correct the bias that occurs within football. The Royal Belgian Football Association changed their cut off date in 1997 to reduce the impact of the relative age effect, but the shift from August the 1st to the 1st January just meant a shift in the Bias. (Vaeyens et al, 2005) Similarly research has viewed Japans competition year which begins on 1st April and the bias is observed in May and July, Germany and Brazil produce similar distributions with a start date of 1 August. In each case, the season-of-birth bias aligns with whichever quarter is earliest in the competition year. (Simmons and Paull, 2001) Fifa and Uefa have also been seen to prolong the selection period for players in order to make it fairer. Research found that the number of players within teams that were looked at had more players in a wider range of months but there was still a bias to the younger players in the selection process. (Helson et al, 2005) Although footballs attempt to shift the selection dates has seen little or slight improvements in producing equality into the selection process, varying the cut off dates for selection in sports has before been seen as a way of being successful in reducing if not preventing relative age effect. For example in swimming they have no cut off date. Ryan (1989) stated this would be successful if key competitions were avoided within certain months. Although this may work for individual sports such as swimming has been seen to not be applicable in team sports. (Musch Grondin, 2001) This shows that there is a possibility of reducing the relative age effect. The results and interventions found and used in other nations will help when aiming to reduce the impact which may be found within the English game and to see if there are any differences between England and the other Nations. Although these have been used to try and reduce the relative age effect in the sport few research have gone into what the coaches can do. Cobley et al (2009) suggested that just raising awareness of those responsible for the infrastructure and coordination of youth sport may be effective. Baker et al (2010) also suggested that increasing awareness and under ­standing of the relative age effect, as part of coach training and education programs, may help centre coaches attention to the potential selection bi ­as. Methodology Sample The study comprised of a total of 2540 football players, ranging from the under 9 to under 15 age category within England. The players were allocated to one of three sub groups relating to their standard of play within the sport. The Academy group perceived as the highest level within the study consisted of a total number of 416players who played for an academy football team at the time of the study. The Grass root group consisted of 354players who played for a FA Chartered team. The third subgroup contained players who played recreational football within a community scheme that related to the lowest standard of play within the study. The total number of players in the recreational sub group was 1770.   Area 1 The study required the birth dates of football players within age groups from U-9 to U-15. The players were chosen from community football, grass root football to academy football. The players were then sub-divided into secondary groups of grass root team players, community players and academy players. The details of the players were collected through contacting teams from the respective leagues through the use of letters. These letters detailed the information required from the clubs and how the results of the information would be used. Area 2 There were a number of coaches selected to undertake an interview. The coaches were chosen from the category in which the largest relative age effect was found from area one which was within the academy standard. The number of coaches chosen was four and this was due to limited time. The coaches selected were based on accessibility. Prior to interview the coaches were provided information regarding to the research in which is to be carried out. (Appendix 1.1)   Data Collection There are two types of research, these are qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative research involves ‘researches describing kinds of characteristics of people and events without the use of measurements or amounts. (Thomas, 2003). Quantitative research involves ‘measurements and amounts of the characteristics displayed by people and events. (Thomas, 2003).  Ã‚  Ã‚   The data that will be collected will be both qualitative and quantitative. The quantitative data will be collected through primary research. Individual clubs from each area and age group were contacted through a letter which included the details of what the study will involve, the information needed and ethical considerations. The letter was sent to the coaches of the grass root teams, the academy managers and the chief executive of the community scheme. This data collection method was chosen to save time which is limited and through previous research having successfully acquired similar data. (Diaz Del Campo, 2010)   Grass root team players are players from teams who were found to be FA chartered and within division A of their respected leagues. The recreational players came from a local community scheme located in South Yorkshire. The academy players were selected from a number of professional academy teams. The players and teams that were selected were based on accessibility and convenience. The teams that were chosen were local teams based within South Yorkshire, as money and time limitations would not enable collecting data from teams located in different regions.   The teams were presented with a sample research response sheet in which they entered the necessary information required for the study. (Appendix 1.2, 1.3, 1.4) To collect the data from the coaches structured interviews were carried out involving a number of open and probing questions. (Appendix 1.5) Open ended questions were used to allow the interviewee to provide more detail, rather than a one word answer from a closed question. The open ended questions allowed the interviewee to communicate using their own language and this takes you into their own world to view the area from their perspective. (Johnson Christensen, 2011). This would add value to the study information being reliable. (Johnson Christensen, 2011). The interviews were recorded through the use of a Dictaphone to reduce the risk of missing information and this enabled re analysis to ensure all important data was processed. Although a Dictaphone can help in recording the interviews, they can also have changed the behaviour of the interviewee and the answers they gave. (Silk et al, 2005) The interviewer made sure the coach was comfortable before progressing with the interview to enable reliable results could be collected and the coachs responses werent systematic and fictitious.   Structured interviews will be used as the reliability of the interviews will be increased. (Hersen et al 2007) When looking at the purpose of the study which is to see if the coaches are aware of the relative age effect and what they are doing about it, the coaches could diverse into different areas if a structured path is not in place similar to a semi structured interview. (Hersen et al 2007) Although when designing this interview considerations such as making sure all areas needed are covered were considered to ensure the responses did not divulge into unnecessary areas. (Hersen et al 2007). The questions started with short and easy questions in which they could comfortably answer in order not to scare them and make them feel comfortable. (Johnson Christensen, 2011) The interview then progressed onto more sensitive questions in which were placed once the interviewee felt comfortable and had given alot of their time to the interview reducing the possibility of fictitious responses being given. (Johnson Christensen, 2011). Questionnaires were not used as a tool to collect this data as questionnaires could be returned incomplete and also could be found as being ambiguous. This would lead to incomplete data and unreliable sources. (Gratton Jones, 2005) Data Analysis Analysing data from the birth dates of players, each teams data that was collected were placed into the categories assigned for them (Community, grass root and academy). The different age groups were separately analysed to highlight which age group had the largest relative age effect. The birth dates were organised into sub categories, these were the birth months of the players. These sub categories are; September to November, December to February, March to May and June to August. These categories have been used in previous studies, (Simmons Paull, 2001) and using these will give an area of comparison. The statistics will then show in which area the birth bias is evident and the different impact of the bias within different levels of the sport. Percentages of which players are born within each month will be produced giving a statistic which can be easily be compared. The statistical analysis tools within Microsoft Excel were used to create the data throughout the study.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã ‚   The data collected through the structured interviews were analysed by transcription of the interviews, in which throughout this key themes could be formed to help seek whether there are current similarities in how coaches are selecting players and strategies minimizing the impact of the relative age effect. (Appendix 1.6) Any interventions being inputted by coaches were highlighted and used to compare what coaches are doing to overcome the relative age effect in their teams currently. Direct quotes seen as aiding research and results of the research are highlighted within the main body to provide evidence. Ethical Considerations Throughout the research of the study ethical issues will be considered throughout. When collecting data for the birth dates of players, the managers of the grass roots teams, chief executive of the community scheme and academy managers were told specifically what they will be partaking within and what information is needed from them. (Appendix 1.7)To keep the players details confidential all that was required were the birth dates of the child, as this will keep personal details which are not required safe and ensured the research could not be related back to any specific person. Consent forms were included to evidence their cooperation within the study. (Appendix 1.2, 1.3, 1.4) When giving information the use of a data template in which the teams filled out to make sure only the necessary information is given was used. The collection of data for the interviews will include specifically explaining verbally and documenting what the coaches will be partaking within, and where the results of the research will be used with consent forms highlighting their cooperation within the study. (Appendix 1.9)The necessary resources needed to carry out the interviews were accessed prior to the interviews, such as Dictaphones and interview rooms. (Appendix 2.0). The information collected from the coaches was specific to the research needs and the only information needed personally from the coach was of what club they are involved with. The information gathered through the interview was only viewed by the researcher and the MIS Supervisor. Questions were designed prior to the interviews to enable ethical approval on them. (Appendix 1.5) It was made aware to all parties involved within the research project that there was ethical approval approved by an appropriate representative of the Faculty Research Ethics Committee at Leeds Metropolitan University and that if any issues arise they will be informed to ensure confidence in the divulgence of research. This was done through the completion of necessary forms, such as risk assessment (Appendix 2.1) local level approval . The r

Employment Law Essay examples -- Law

Introduction In many countries the state’s role in employment relations is not something that can be ignored. The state, which is characterized by a set of institutions made of the executive, legislature, the judiciary, the local government and the police, is a system of political domination that exercises power with the legitimate usage of violence, money supply and taxation. The presence of the state in any aspect of life of its citizens is pervasive, whether it is through macroeconomic policies or its role as an employer or even through legislation. In the capitalist world we live in today the state cannot be left out in any aspect pertaining to its citizens. The state (government) is applying policies on the basis that other participants in the employment relations system (employers and the trade unions) cannot manage to take control of all the aspects involved in the work system (Palmer, 2007). Since the federal elections of 2004, the policy of industrial relations issue has been all over. The competing goals of the employees and employers are evident through the trade unions and third parties. The managements’ objectives are paramount with regards to market efficiency with limited space for other interests. Therefore, curtailing trade unions’ activities and setting tribunals to regulate conditions and wages in the name of free markets is increasing. The states talks of advocating for democracy, having limited interventions s as to bring about industrial harmony in certain sectors of the economy, but in practice it has intervened in almost all the sectors of the economy (Adams, 200 ). This therefore begs the question, should the state play an intervening role in employment relations, and if so, to what extent and why? .. ...the sectoral and national interests are integrated to increase productivity. The collective bargaining system should also be independent to develop a more equitable and balanced tripartite relationship (Adams, 2001). Works Cited Adams, J. (2001) .Comparative Industrial Relations: Contemporary Research and Theory. London: Harper CollinsAcademic. Creighton, B. & Stewart, A. (2005). Labour Law. Annandale: The Federation Press. Dunlop, T. (1998). Industrial Relation Stystem.New York: Holt. Keller, K. (2001). The Role of the State as Corporate Actor in Comparative Industrial Relations: Contemporary Research and Theory. London: Harper Collins Academic. Ozaki, M. (1999). Negotiating flexibility: the role of the social partners and the state. London: international Labour Organization. Palmer, G. (2007). Employment Relations. New York: Macmillan Education.

Essay --

Heineken’s follows a differentiation business strategy and multi-domestic strategy. Heineken gains a competitive advantage by distinguishing their products by creating Premium Light beer line, portable draught beer system (DraughtKeg), and redesigning their bottles. Heineken Premium Light attracted customers without taking sales away from their other beer selection. The decision regarding the launch of their new product was to raise brand awareness in the U.S. market and react to changes in the growing global market. Major source of Heineken’s revenue comes from their subsidiaries. The mergers and acquisitions of the local beer brands in niche markets such as the recent five brewers in Nigeria have provided a gain in the local market share. Using a multi-domestic strategy, a major source of revenue results from their subsidiaries and they have had an increase in sales since 2006. The raw materials needed to produce the beer are mainly supplied by farmers. Therefore, the bargaining power of these suppliers is high and can affect Heineken’s costs. The consumers in the beer industry ha...

Identifying the Aspects of My Self-Picture Essay

Identifying The Aspects Of My Self-Picture Rachelle Spahr RX1020 Pharmacy Technician August 15, 2013 Professor Broome Identifying the Aspects of My Self-Picture Identifying the aspects of my self-picture that are not working for me wasn’t hard to  accomplish. The things that do work for me on the other hand, are a little more difficult toidentify. I am however, learning how to diminish the negative thinking, to make room for the  positive. Negativity plays havoc on your mindset. I would think things like; I am not smart enough to succeed in furthering my education and I will never amount to anything. Once I failed at something I’d stop trying, believing I can’t fail if I don’t try. Thoughts like these were crippling, keeping me from bettering myself. I have learned quite a bit from reading the Think Build Live Success books. Using the techniques; Challenging negative judgments and replacing destructive judgments, I feel I now have the power to change this self-destructive pattern. I have a lot of past failures and disappointments to learn from. Instead of destructive thinking when I do fail, I will think about what didn’t work and how I can change it for a  successful outcome the next time. In life you have to be open to change, the world changes all the time. Making adjustments in my thinking, will give me the power to make my life how I want it. My failures will strengthen me, but I will no longer allow negative thoughts play their caustic role in my life.

Aat Icas

Nature and structure of Inkwell Limited Inkjet supplies a complete range of re-manufactured Inkjet and toner cartridges that are compatible with all major printers. The company has a head office in Birmingham, where its management and accounts team are both located. It sells its products through a nationwide chain of high street shops or from their 24/7 online shop. The company was formed seven years ago by two of the three controlling shareholders The current shareholding percentages of IWL are: †¢Paul Farnon (managing director) – owns 40% of shares Victoria Dawson (sales director) – owns 30% of shares †¢Anil Gupta (finance director) – owns 30% of shares Two of the founding directors have previous experience in the printer cartridge sector. As a result of their knowledge they knew a strong demand existed for less expensive and more environmentally friendly products. The main objective of the entity is to offer a facility where customers are able to exc hange their used cartridges for a 10% discount against the price of a replacement cartridge.The next step is for Inkwell to send the cartridges to a small number of manufacturers to refill them. Inkwell strives for quality products and make clear to the manufacturers that the yield must be as good as the originals. The company operates a Just In Time policy for their retail shops and holds enough stock in their online to shop to be able to deliver goods the day after purchase. These strategies are aimed to minimize inventory-holding costs. In the period the company has been operating it has seen a stable growth.They currently have a turnover of more than ? 16 million. The number of employees is estimated to be around 180 and all of who are full-time. Inkwell Ltd adopts a hierarchal or ‘tall’ structure (see appendix). A hierarchy is a series of level of people, which each level control by the level above it. These types of organisational structures are typical for a larg e company, where accounting systems are the responsibilities of the finance director, centralised, and strictly controlled. The accounting Function is of a reasonable size made up of eight employees