Successful implementation of ERP Systems: issues and obstacles

Introduction: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are packaged (but customizable) software applications, which manage data from various organizational activities and provide a fully integrated solution to major organizational data management problems. It integrates all data and processes of an organization into one single and centralized system. These systems comprise of many components of hardware and software, in order to achieve integration from various departments in the organization. With the development of new technologies it’s an essential part of their long-term competitive strategy. ERP software applications can be used to manage product planning, purchase, inventory, interacting with suppliers, customer relationship management service, and order tracking.Discussion: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) packages touch many aspects of a company’s internal and external operations. Consequently, successful deployment and use of ERP systems are critical to org anizational performance and survival. This paper presents the results of a study of the problems and outcomes in ERP, a project which was conducted under the sponsorship of an ERP systems vendor. Enterprise systems (or enterprise resource planning systems – ERP) have been instrumental in advancing efficiency in organizations throughout  the world.However, David Hebert of the Hackett Group stated, â€Å"Only a select few companies have gotten value out of their ERP implementations, and those are world-class companies†. Many companies are radically changing their information technology strategies to maintain a competitive advantage, become more responsive to change markets, and deliver better service at lower cost by purchasing off-the-shelf integrated ERP software instead of developing IT systems in-house. [1][2][3]ERP System: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are software packages that use relational database technology to integrate various units of an organ ization's information system. ERP systems provide several separate, but integrated modules, which can be installed as a package for any organization [4]. Many large corporations use several different and separate information systems, often because they have merged with and/or acquired other companies with varied systems. An ERP system integrates these separate information systems and results in improved data reliability and processing efficiency.ERP systems quickly became popular with large corporations that needed a seamless integration of their business, but are now frequently used by small to mid-sized companies. The excellent ability of ERP systems to simplify business transaction processing, eliminate work that adds little or no value, and simultaneously improve customer service are the main reasons for the outstanding success and popularity of these systems [5] ERP Model:Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are off-the-shelf software packages that support most of the key functions of an enterprise, such as logistics, sales, and financial management. These systems are generic, and the functionality they provide can serve a large variety of enterprises. ERP is a critical strategic tool to achieve business goals. However, ERP adoption is not always successful despite using substantial amount of time and human and material resources. To prevent ERP failures, proper adoption processes and selection criteria should be considered to minimize possible losses. To explain the ERP Fig: Modelin an easily understandable format you have to know about the 4ps marketing  model. Usually the 4Ps marketing model was a general marketing model where the 4Ps originally stood for people, product, promotion and price [6]. Over the years, this model has been changed to become a business model and was modified by replacing promotion and price with process and performance [7]. The modified 4P business model was created to architect the ERP Conceptual model because several people working in management are familiar with the concept of the 4Ps.The ERP model is made of 4 components that are implemented through a methodology. This figure demonstrates the integration between the components. Methodology encircles all four of the components to illustrate that each component is addressed and implemented in an integrated manner. [7] [8]ERP System implementation: With the development of new technologies many companies now consider technological improvements an essential part of their long-term competitive strategy, and consequently try to apply these technologies. Computer technology has brought about many benefits in helping the construction industry meet increasingly complex challenges. It has achieved a wide range of successful applications at the project level such as engineering design, project estimating, scheduling, planning and control, and integrated project management.H. Klaus and G. Gable analyzed the concept of ERP, in order to explain its origin. T hey consider that the designation is not related to the role and characteristics of this system. The integrated system of type ERP is not focused on the resource management and it is not very developed within planning area, as its name may suggest it. It is rather focused on the integration of all organization departments, functions and processes within a single computer informational system, capable of supporting all these areas, with their individual and specific requirements. [8]Design of Evaluation Model for ERP System: ERP allows employees to share information, query data, and run reports. This eliminates the need to store duplicate information in more than one place and reduces the amount of work necessary to gather and analyze information  [9]. ERP systems increase efficiency by freeing employees from performing time consuming, manual work. For example, legacy systems often require hours or days to run reports. With ERP, reports can be produced in seconds. These efficiencie s allow employees to spend time on other tasks; reducing operating expenses. Here’s a proposed evaluation design model for ERP system-The proposed ERP evaluation model [8]Issues in Implementing ERP: A Case Study: Information technology/systems play a major role in improving the competitiveness of organizations. There are numerous enterprise information software packages available in the market. One of them is enterprise resource planning (ERP). ERP can provide signiï ¬ cant improvements in eï ¬Æ'ciency across a company, but only when implemented correctly. Otherwise, an ERP system could be a curse and drag the whole enterprise into spiraling ineï ¬Æ'ciency.Planning for ERP systems and their implementations requires an integrated approach to meet the requirements of various functional areas. With a brief overview of ERP implementations, this paper describes some experiences of an ERP implementation in a water corporation. The case study reveals some of the intricacies duri ng the planning and implementation stages that may occur in any company in any part of the world. Suggestions are oï ¬â‚¬ered in resolving the issues of implementing ERP.The criteria for success (and failure): Whether a system is branded as a success or a failure is a judgment, usually made at some point in time by one or more people with the benefit of hindsight. Most people, for example, consider that the new system at Heathrow airport’s Terminal 5 was a failure when it opened in 2008. Now, however, that same system (more accurately, system of systems) is operating successfully with few reported problems on a day-to-day basis.[10] The judgment of whether a project has ‘failed’ is not a simple yes/no decision. It is common for systems that initially did not live up to expectations to evolve over time to deliver useful services. However, management usually regard a project tends as a success if it meets three high-level criteria:It should be delivered on time It should be delivered within budget It should deliver the expected functionalityIn addition to these should be added the considerations of the users, to make sure that the system fits in with their everyday working: It should be acceptable to the users (and hence used).If a project fails to satisfy one or more of these criteria when it is deployed, it is likely to be labeled a failure. If we closely examine the causes of system failures, we see that most of them are not attributable to failures of the technology. Instead, they are failures of the socio-technical system, often arising because the social and organizational aspects either have not been appropriately considered, or have been separated from the technological aspects.It is important that the social and technical aspects of the overall system are developed in parallel, because they are often interdependent. If they are developed separately, any mismatches may not be detected until late in the project when they are invariabl y expensive and time-consuming to correct, and can even lead to the project being abandoned.The most important problems of ERP system implementation: There are several studies dealing with difficulties in enterprise system implementation. The researchers use different concepts, which have various scopes and meanings. As a result, comparing and integrating their findings is difficult. The number of recognized categories of problems and issues experienced by companies adopting ERP system varies from two through three to five. The identified groups cover issues of various nature and scope, e.g., technical, operational, legal, business/economic, organizational, managerial etc. The respondents opinions regarding the problems observed in ERP system, divided into the described categories, are presented in Table 1. Within each category, various difficulties are listed together with a short description. [11]Table: Problems occurring during ERP system implementation [11] ProblemDetailsOrganiz ational problems: Project goalsLack of clearly defined goals of the implementation project; incorrectly defined goals; lack of prioritiesCompany’s conditionPoor company organization; unclear organizational procedures; unclear strategyCommunication Problems with communication and information flow; different understanding of the same ideas by different departmentsDecision makingProblems with decision making (e.g., regarding personnel); indecisiveness of company representativesPersonnel availabilityKey employees unavailable; workers’ lack of timeConflicts Conflicts between a company’s departments; conflicts during organizational changeImplementationMistakes in project management; lack of risk management; lack of implementation tasks’ coordinationmanagementOrganizational and ownership changes during the project; changes in requirements;Changes in a companychanges in company organizational structure imposed by the introduced systemTrainingInadequate training p hase of a project; cutting trainingSocial problems: Employees’ knowledge and educationLack of management competence; lack of personnel computer literacy; lack of knowledge about company operations, enterprise systems and their implementationTop managementLack of top management support and involvement; lack of project understanding by top managementImplementation teamLack of implementation team members’ commitment; inadequate composition of implementation team (e.g., too few people, people not empowered to make decisions)MotivationLack of employees’ motivation to perform implementation tasks and learn new skillsResistance to new systemResistance of middle management, IT staff, and system users; people avoiding implementation dutiesResistance to changePeople highly accustomed to existing solutions and unwilling to changeProject managerLack of a project manager; inadequate person appointed as a project manager; necessity of sharing time between implementation tasks and organizational dutiesSystem provider’s competenceConsultants lacking competence, knowledge, and experience; problems with the availability of system provider’s servicesProject acceptancePeople not convinced about the project; lack of general acceptance for the project; problem with project acceptance by people not involved in implementation dutiesPersonnel’s fearFear about possible consequences of implementation project: loss of job, position, and statusUsers’ responsibility Lack of responsibility and care among people entering data into the systemTechnical problems: DataProblems with completing and organizing system data; problems with transferring data from legacy systems to ERP systemSystem efficiencyUsers unable to enter data on-line; problems with customer and provider order handlingSystem drawbacksImplementers unaware of program’s errors and shortcomings; lack of efficient application testing;Economic problems: High costsInadequate finan cial budget for the project; loss of financial resources; lack of financial flexibility and resource allocationThe problems discovered in Table 1 refer to practically all stakeholders involved in the project: employees, implementation team members (who are functional departments’ managers in enterprise X), and top management representatives. Next, the organizations suffered from the high costs involved and problems connected with goals definition.Conclusion: There is no silver bullet that can be used to kill off the potential for failure of ERP system development projects. The proportion of failures remains stubbornly high, even though several of the factors that are associated with failures appear to be known. A quick look at several of the  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Top 10† style lists of factors associated with failures (and successes) reveals that no two lists are identical, although there are several factors that recur on many lists.The lack of agreement suggests that the analyses of the reasons for failure may be overgeneralising, by treating all failures as being more or less the same, whereas there are really different types of failure that arise through different combinations of factors. Reference 1. Markus. L. â€Å"learning from adopters’ experiences with ERP: problems encountered & success achieved†, online journal , available at- http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CEUQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.farrell-associates.com.au%2FBPI%2FPapers%2FERP%2520Research.pdf&ei=fWEdUPOyGIWIrAez_oGwAg&usg=AFQjCNFh8bwBuLBbiHMbCVvoLWoej1TJOQ&sig2=Oe695TrVDvjagLr3jWUNbA , accessed on 26th July 2012. 2. Marnewick. C. and Labuschagne. L. (2005),†A conceptual model for enterprise resource planning (ERP)†,Information Management & Computer Security, Vol. 13 Iss: 2 pp. 144 – 155, available at- http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/09685220510589325 , accessed on 1st aug 2012 . 3. Hooks, A. (2002), â€Å"Change management: how to reduce the risk of change†, available at: www.internext-group.com 4. Bae. B. 2004. â€Å"Implemantation of ERP Systems† Journal. 5. Gibbs, Jeff. â€Å"The power of enterprise computing.† Internal Auditor . Feb. 1997. 6. Alexandrou, M. (2002), â€Å"Supply chain management (SCM) definition†, available at: www.marialexadrou.com/glossary/scm.sp 7. Marnewick, C. and Labuschagne, L. (2005),†A conceptual model for enterprise resource planning (ERP)†,Information Management & Computer Security, Vol. 13 Iss: 2 pp. 144 – 155 8. Bryson, K. amd William E. Sullivan, (2003),†Designing effective incentive-oriented contracts for application service provider hosting of ERP systems†, Business Process Management Journal, Vol. 9 Iss: 6 pp. 705 – 721. Available at- http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14637150310506648. Accessed on- 25th july 2012. 9. D.P. Goyal, Gurbinder Randhawa, (2007),†Design of evaluation model for ERP systems: an empirical study of Indian Industry†, Journal of Advances in Management Research, Vol. 4 Iss: 1 pp. 63 – 73 available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/972798108000125. Accessed on 28th july 2012 10. Kakouris, A.P. and Polychronopoulos.G, (2005),†Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System: An Effective Tool for Production Management†, Management Research News, Vol. 28 Iss: 6 pp. 66 – 78 11. Joseph R. Muscatello, Michael H. Small, Injazz J. Chen, (2003),†Implementing enterprise resource planning(ERP) systems in small and midsize manufacturing firms†, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 23 Iss: 8 pp. 850 – 871

My Family’s Immigration

Mountain was the name given to the united States by the people of China looking for new opportunities. The immigration story on my mother's side of the family begins with my great-grandfather's Journey to the United States in search for a better life for himself, his wife, and his four children. At this time, the majority of the population in China was living in poverty. Being able to come to America was the dream of many in the hopes they would be able to become wealthy.However, it was a rough start for my great-grandfather. The language barrier was a major obstacle and job options for foreigners were very limited; the only Job available to him was working at a Laundromat. 10 years later, my great-grandmother Joined him in the United States. Due to the difficulty of getting permission to come to the United States, and the fear of not being able to support them In the US, she was forced to leave her children behind in China: three daughters and one son.My great- grandmother was a ver y intelligent woman, and when she was finally able to contact her husband she settled in San Francisco, she was disappointed to discover him irking such a low paying Job. At her insistence, together, they decided to open a restaurant, and slowly their dreams of a new future began to emerge. My great- grandparent's worked tirelessly to keep their business running. Long hours were necessary to support not only themselves but also their children In China, who received the money they earned shipped overseas.Not wanting their kids to repeat to hard life they had, they were determined to give their children education. In this way, my grandmother was able to get college educated, which was very rare for women. In 1906, a major earthquake struck San Francisco. It sparked a series of fires that raged throughout the city for three days which left over half of San Franciscans population homeless but also destroyed office buildings that held the records and birth certificates of many Immigrants . With the loss of these records, officials asked immigrants to report their family's information.Like many other Chinese, my grandparent's slightly altered their family history. Instead to reporting they had three daughters and one son, they reported they had four sons. In the China, it was usually the men who came to the United States to work for a better living. By having extra birth certificates, my grandparent's were able to sell them to other Immigrants allowing them to come to America, which was very common at the time. Meanwhile, my grandparent's became married in China and using her college education, my grandmother became a professor.Then came the Cultural Revolution. This was an era in Chinese history where intellectuals were looked down upon and even persecuted. Since both my grandparent's were educated, when they gave birth to my mother and uncle they did want them to grow up being unfairly treated because of their Intellectual background. My grandparent's had hopes of moving to the United S Unnaturally, my great-grandparent's and already sold all to the birth certificates to other Chinese immigrants because they never intended to have their children come to America.In fact, they never planned to stay in America in the first place because they intended to move back to China after they saved up enough money. Unfortunately, my great-grandparent's never expected China to become communist country and by moving back they would be stripped of their freedom. At one point, my great-grandparent's missed their children so much that they wanted to see them, but because they were American citizens they could not set foot in China. Instead, my grandmother and my great-grandparent's decided to meet in Hong Kong.It was a huge risk for my grandmother to take because she was leaving China. During the Cultural Revolution, this was viewed as being unfaithful to Chinese government and the person could be subject to public humiliation. Red Guards Nevertheless, they we re reunited for a period of time. Knowing that there was the possibility that they would never see their daughter again after she returned to China, my great-grandparent's pleaded my grandmother to stay in Hong Kong. However, my grandmother knew by doing so she would be regarded as an anti- evolutionist, and her husband would be persecuted for her actions.Once again she was separated from her parent's. Years later, my mother knowing how much her mother wanted to be reunited with her parent's, studied hard to give her mother the chance to come to America. By succeeding academically, she was able to travel to the United States as a foreign college student at the age of 18. After graduating, she became a US citizen and filed the appropriate papers that allowed my grandmother to immigrate to the United States. At the age of 65, my grandmother's family was complete again.

An End to Animal Abuse Essay Example for Free

An End to Animal Abuse Essay â€Å"Animals are dying all over the world and becoming endangered species mostly because of animal abuse and cruelty† (James Gorman). It is a worldwide problem that will continue unless people are concerned about it or stop doing it. There should be more laws regulating child labor. Animal abuse stops scientists from researching animals. Animals become endangered species. It also causes psychological effect. Animal abuse must be abolished. One reason animal abuse must be abolished is because it stops scientists from researching other animals. â€Å"Researching animals helped make medicines for terrible diseases.† (James Gorman). One endangered animal is the chimpanzee, which is endangered because of being trapped in cages. Another reason animal abuse should be abolished is that animals die and become endangered species. â€Å"Breeds of horses face endangerment and extinction because of animal abuse.† (www.horsetradition.com). These horses get slaughtered by people for their meat because people think horses can cure HIV. Some horses are killed because of religion. Last reason animal abuse should be abolished is that animal abuse causes psychological effect. â€Å"This means animals are shy and aggressive because of being injured and hurt. The most negative thing about animal abuse is psychological effect.† (James Gorman). As you can see, there are many reasons why there should be more laws regulating animal abuse. Animals getting injured and hurt badly causes many horrible things. It makes scientists give up on their research on animals, animals get close to endangerment or extinction, and most importantly, it will cause effects when animals are hurt. If you see animals getting abused or treated bad, call the ASPCA. They are professionals and save and find homes for animals every day. An End to Animal Abuse. (2016, Sep 30).

Strategic Human Resource Management Assignment

Strategic Human Resource Management - Assignment Example HRM assumes strategic importance when there is a need for employee commitment to strategic goals concerning efficiency, quality and innovation. A key policy goal underpinning HRM practice is to "maximize organizational integration" (Guest, 1988), where strategic integration refers to "the ability of the organization to integrate HRM issues into its strategic plans" (Guest, 1989). This paper is meant to contribute to the debate by understanding the genesis, concept, approaches and models of SHRM. The paper takes an analytical approach where emphasis is put on the various models of SHRM and its applicability. American firms in the early 1980s had to face stiff competition from foreign companies, who began to export their products to the USA at lower prices than American companies could offer. The cost advantage stemmed from lower labour costs and made it nearly impossible for American companies to survive. They had to look for more efficient and effective ways to use the resources available to them and stay afloat. The ensuing effort gave rise to the concept of Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM). ... It covers macro-organizational concerns relating to structure and culture, organizational effectiveness and performance, matching resources to future business requirements, and the management of change (Hales, 1994). According to Miller (1989), "SHRM encompasses those decisions and actions which concern the management of employees at all levels in the business and which redirect towards creating and sustaining competitive advantage." Wright and Snell (1991) have suggested that in a business, SHRM deals with "those HR activities used to support the firm's competitive strategy." Another way of looking at SHRM is "the pattern of HR deployments and activities intended to enable an organization to achieve its goals" (Wright and McMahan, 1992). Truss and Gratton (1994) define SHRM as "the linking of HRM with strategic goals and objectives in order to improve business performance and develop organizational cultures that foster innovation and flexibility." Ghoshal and Bartlett (1997) see SHRM as a radical new approach to organization, management and employee relations and indeed to the relationship between firms and their host societies and to each other. They advocate a strategy towards HR in which employees are developed and made employable and this keeps the employer honest. Differences between Business Strategy and SHRM Business strategy is commonly understood as the long term planning by a firm to link its external environment with the internal capabilities so that a unique position can be attained in the market and firm's value can be improved. Business strategies can be formulated in line with any of the internal factors of an organisation that best utilises its external opportunities. Unlike conventional

How important was citizen participation in Soviet decision-making Essay

How important was citizen participation in Soviet decision-making - Essay Example 46). Only in the beginning of 1990s, citizens of the former Soviet Union began to speak about the 74 years of Soviet regime as a "blank space" in the course of national history, a blunder, a roundabout way, as something that virtually better hadn't happened. "Now 1991 is referred to as the "collapse" or "falling-apart" (raspad), a word with almost purely negative connotations, even though people also tell opinion-pollers that they would not want to go back to the old order" (Sherman 1990 p. 15). Besides there is no doubt that knowledge in this area is highly disordered disorientation and blurred as for a very long time nearly until the beginning of "perestroika" the Soviet Union remained a skilfully isolated and closed political system (Segal, Batt, Buzan, Duncan, Goodman, Price, Margot, Williams & Womack 1992). In our work we'll investigate the Soviet era itself with its "backwardness". We will view the question through the prism of the course of comparatively recent history from 1917 to 1991. In short, our incentive is not to prove that twentieth century Russia and the whole USSR was backward but to demonstrate how decisive this backwardness was and even is for Russian and Soviet self-understanding (Fitzpatrick 2000, p. 378). Russia's "backwardness" as compared with the Wes... 104) "Russia as third Rome" were still general and common, but even the supporters of such concepts like Slavophiles often had prejudice and concerning the universal Russian intelligentsia's sense of inferiority about west countries that were considered to be more developed (Motyl 1990, p. 211). Marxist revolutionaries as a group of the radical intelligentsia which appeared in the beginning of the 20th century got the name the Bolsheviks. Socialism implies for them a lot, but what appeared to be the most essential, as became clearly understandable after they gain power in the October Revolution in 1917, was the process of "modernization" or "modification" the whole society. Their fundamental incentive was the surmounting of historic backwardness of the country (Drakulic 1987). The Bolsheviks considered that this so-called economic and cultural backwardness was the result of quantity of the non-Slavic peoples of the North and East and "dark" peasantry. "Since Russia's population in the early twentieth century was 80 per cent peasant, and non-Slavs constituted close to half of the population of the state that in 1923 became the Soviet Union that meant that "backwardness" was the prevailing condition" (Fitzpatrick 2000, p. 378). The Bolsheviks considered themselves a vanguard party. Strictly speaking, this implied that they represented the vanguard of the proletariat; and in broader meaning, it implied a vanguard of education with the main aim to steer the public masses out of backwardness. And after the winning of Revolution they declared their vanguard in the whole world (Sherman 1990 p. 14). These events were profoundly based on their Marxist perception of history, with its ideas and postulates

Organizational Culture Assessment of Terre Haute Economic Development Assignment

Organizational Culture Assessment of Terre Haute Economic Development Corporation - Assignment Example The company has an added location advantage which makes it accessible from air, highways, and sea. The company has a high culture by way of integrity and sense of unity among the employees, as well as a â€Å"can do† attitude. Historically, in Terre Haute/Vigo County the economic development has not been smooth and keeping in view the county’s requirement of economic development services, THEDC was originated to provide strategic solutions to economic problems and development. This corporation works jointly with other entities for the all-round economic development and emphasizes on business development, attraction, and retention. Terre Haute/Vigo County is a place where leadership and creativity flourish in the unity between community members and government agencies. The most important matters that need strategic solutions range from growth, management to green living. The sincere efforts of leaders and citizens of Terre Haute are a contribution towards the development of the county. I choose this company for its competency and because it had some very significant successes for the community, and also because it is the Lead Economic Development Organization (Welcome to Terre Haute/Vigo County, n.d. ). In this paper, I put forward interviews taken on 5 people who are currently working in the management body of the corporation. The employees in the corporation are recruited across a range of industries according to their skill, productivity, and experience. THEDC offers workers to other industries at lower wage rates compared to other parts of the county. I have taken interviews of 3 women and 2 men who belong to the age group between 35 and 40 years. I have taken face to face interview with all the 5 people. I visited their office at allotted times after prior appointments.

War Dance response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

War Dance response - Essay Example The ability of human beings to invent fire portrays one of their major uniqueness. Fire was able to change the lives of human beings in numerous aspects which are still witnessed today. Unlike other animals, human beings have unique body structure. For example, they have opposable thumbs and have ability to communicate more efficiently and effectively using different means such as languages, signs, body movements to mention just but a few. Moreover, human beings have strong socials connections and have highly developed brains as compared to other animals/species. This can be substantiated by the fact that they have been able to make the entire world a global village through their creativity and innovation of communication information technology (Zhu and Dasheng, pp.34-35). In addition to this, human beings are social animals; this argument may be substantiated by the fact that human beings like living together in social groups. They tend to live as community members rather than individuals human beings. For example, the emergence of cities is good evidence. Most people move from isolated places such as rural areas and move to cities to look for employment as well as socialize with other people. Based on the traditional human social structure, it can be observed that human beings are social animals. For example, they used to have families whereby, a man could decide to become a monogamous by marrying several wives and having numerous children’s. The family members stayed together in the same house (Zhu and Dasheng, pp.34-35). The poems and stories in War Dance by Sherman Alexie display characters and relationship of various people. The first character that helps to support the stated argument is the narrator of the poem in War Dance. The seats with his father in a lonely room in a hospital after his father had undergone surgery on his

Harriet Jacobs, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Written by Essay

Harriet Jacobs, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Written by Herself - Essay Example It is because in male dominated society, female slaves were the worst sufferers of male lust. Also since women’s financial contribution was equal to their male counterparts’, they were often neglected the allowances which were normally granted to the male slaves. In the narrative, Jacob upholds the fact that the nineteenth century society was, in the first place, very much discriminatory to women. On top of it, slavery would permit the male dominated society to exert their brutal desires over the female slaves to the fullest extent. Such brutal treatment would never hold them accountable. In the narrative, Jacob shows that the evil of slavery puts the despotic males at the control of humanly institutions like motherhood, womanhood, etc. Therefore, the slave-owners not only denied humanity by continuing slavery, but also reached the extent to oppose the most sacred institution of womanhood as well as motherhood. When Jacob says that â€Å"Slavery is terrible for men; bu t it is far more terrible for women†¦Superadded to the burden common to all, they have wrongs, and sufferings, and mortifications peculiarly their own† (Jacobs 23), she refers to a masculine but horrible face of slavery in the context of femininity. In addition to what the slaves, whether they are male and female, suffer from, a female slave has to suffer vehemently from a torrent of emotional anguish first as an object of lust and then as a mother. Different from other slave narratives, Jacob has used the scope to view slavery from a quite different angle. Jacob notes that most of the lave narratives of her era have a common pattern of depicting the graphic details of whipping, physical torturing, etc. Subsequently these narratives uphold a dangerous escape of their slave protagonists to the North. But Jacob depicts a quite different situation for a female slave. She shows that for a female slave, any attempt to escape from the slavery was more of a heart-piercing dilemm a because of their progenies. She could neither endure the torture nor leave their children behind and run away. So, their only way was to submit to their fate. But when other women would let themselves collapse under the crushing torture of slavery, Linda retains her mental strength to oppose Mr. Flint’s desire. Linda’s mental strength is evident in a speech: â€Å"When he told me that I was made for his use, made to obey his command in every thing; that I was nothing but a slave, whose will must and should surrender to his, never before had my puny arm felt half so strong† (Jacobs 46). Indeed, this simple comment of Linda tends to summarize the gist of the whole narrative as well as of the evil of slavery in American society during the early nineteenth century. It can be viewed from different perspectives and angles. As a mother, Linda violently fights against slavery. She wants to save her children from the evil of slavery. She plays hoax on Mr. Flints in ord er to attain freedom for her children, Benny and Elena. She had to spend innumerous sleepless night in the tight attic in which she can hardly stand. But her only pleasure is that she can see her run around her Aunt Martha’s house freely. Indeed, for any male reader, such sacrifice may seem to be something mere, but the pains, sufferings and angst she undergoes during those days of slavery are

Role of Attitude in Organizational Behavior Essay

Role of Attitude in Organizational Behavior - Essay Example For example, the attitude of a person towards a friend can be examined in terms of cognitive component (â€Å"I think my friend is funny and pleasant†), affective component (â€Å"I feel nice when I am around this friend†) and behavioral component (â€Å"I try to spend time with this friend whenever I get an opportunity†). Attitudes of a person are influenced by both values and beliefs. Values reflect a general sense of right or wrong and do not require an identifiable object towards which it is directed (Cheek 2006). Values are therefore deeply rooted views that act as guiding principles for an individual. On the other hand beliefs are assumptions that one makes about oneself, about others and about how we expect things to be (Cheek 2006). Attitudes develop from past experiences or observations and have been found to guide future behavior. Behavior is the way one acts and includes the things that we say or do, like facial expressions, hand gestures, eye contact and choice of words (Standen n.d.). Behavior is usually an outward expression of one’s attitude. However, the two are not always related. Attitudes are only one of the determinants of behavior. It is the predisposition to behave in a particular way in a given situation. However, how one would actually behave in a given scenario, depends on many other factors like immediate consequences of the behavior, perception of others viewing the behavior, personal habits and other situational factors (Standen n.d.). A classic example to describe this is the study conducted by LaPiere (1934) where he went on a tour with a Chinese couple (at a time when Chinese were discriminated against) in the southwest. He asked the hotel proprietors if this couple could stay in their hotel and also if they could eat there.

Village vs City Essay Example for Free

Village vs City Essay Introduction: Village life is the happiest compromise between the natural and the artificial. It is a merry game between man and nature. Hence, village life is the most natural life for the human beings. General description: see more:city life and village life paragraph The village is panorama of the charming scenes of nature. The scenery of the changing seasons has a profound effect on the village life. It brings a divine touch into human mind. Hence, the village life is full of divine beauty. Village life is plain and simple. Villagers are content with the necessities of life. They have no liking for luxury. They manage with a few pieces of clothes. They prefer the plain food. They discharge their social duties in the simplest manner possible. Villagers are mostly field-workers. They take to farming. Some of them are artisans. All of them follow the trade of their respective castes. They take to different callings of life. Some are priests, some are milkmen, some are oilmen, some are fishermen, some are washermen, some are barbers, some are drummers and so on. They are not rich and wealthy. But they have enough for their minimum requirements of life. The village people take part in fairs and festivals. The celebrations are quite plain and simple. They attend the folk dance and the open air dramas. But the aged of them do not attend the functions. They are happy with their house and harvest. The village people lead the life of plain living and high thinking. They think high, because they think in the terms of God and religon. The village temple maintains their social and moral upkeep. The village temple maintains their social and moral upkeep. The village deity is looked upon with awe and faith. Caste-customs are rigidly followed. Rust of remedy: We know that village people have few wants in life. They are content with what is endowed by nature around them. So, they do not like to make any progress. Consequently, the village life has gone rusty. Evils of ignorance and blind faiths have crept in. Un-education and epidemics are rampant. Now, it is our duty to find out a remedy to this state of affairs. Mass education and public health are the primary conditions for the improvement of the village life. Conclusion: It is said that country life is sweet. It is true no doubt. The greatest of the poets have sung the praise of it. Prophets, too have the greatest admiration for the village life. Great thinkers and philosophers have spent their invaluable lives in the countryside. Hence, village life is highly cherished, in all ages by every soulful man.

Overview Risk Management On Construction Company Construction Essay

Overview Risk Management On Construction Company Construction Essay Rapid industrialisation has brought in its wake several problems. One of them is industrial risk, which is taking newer and newer forms ever. With mechanical, electrical, chemical and radiation hazards besetting the industrial world, the Risks to Life, Limb, Health and Wealth are common in this sphere of economic activity. Risks are present in every corner and under every stone. Industrial risks may arise while handling, storage or because of operational errors and violation of accepted safety procedures. The industry, therefore, has to be always prepared for such eventualities. An industrial risk is the one that may affect several areas within the factory or may cause serious injuries, loss of life, and extensive damage to property and disruption to manufacturing activities. Such risks may occur in any industry in spite of best efforts to prevent them. The suffering and damage as a result of the accident is determined by the potential for loss surrounding the event. However, the ris k can be largely avoided if effective action is taken as per pre-planned and practised procedures, utilising the combined resources of the factory and outside emergency services. The construction industry has changed rapidly over the past ten years and some companies are faced with more risk and uncertainty than before. Clients are more likely to engage in litigation when things go wrong. Risk in construction has been the object of attention because of time and cost overruns associated with construction projects. Risk can be defined as an uncertain event or condition that, if it occurs, has a positive or negative effect on a project objective. As the conclusion, most construction company have to analyses their project to eliminating a specific threat, usually by eliminating the cause. The project management team can never eliminate all risks, but specific risk events can often be eliminated. Other than that, from the analysing, it can reduce the expected monetary value at risk events by reducing the probability of occurrence (e.g., using new technology), reducing the risk event value (e.g., buying insurance), or both. Objective Risk Management on Construction Company Most of consultants help business owners and entrepreneurs develop the business objectives necessary to achieve the organizations service, social, profit and growth goals by interviewing the principal leaders. Talking through the vision for an organization helps the leaders vocalize where they want the organization to go. A business objective provides a specific, measurable, realistic, action-oriented and time sensitive statement that, once achieved, propels the organization closer toward meeting one of its goals. The business goals and objectives form the foundation of its business plan. Business owners can follow the same process on their own to develop workable goals, objectives and actions to help their business succeed. There are 2 objective categories in Construction Company which are short term objective and long term objective. Short-term refers to one-year goals and objectives. For instance, if the goal is to open a real estate business, some short-term objectives include obtaining a realtors license, renting office space and purchasing a computer and MLS subscription. Long-term refers to three to five year goals and objectives. Following the real estate start-up example, these may include sales goals and objectives in terms of number of properties sold or dollars, and opening a second office location. One objective for meeting a sales goal of 24 homes in the second year of business would be advertising to reach a larger clientele. As the conclusion, the main objective of risk management is to protect the property, earnings and personnel of the organisation against losses and legal liabilities that may be incurred due to various risks. It minimises cost of the risk and maximises the pro ¬Ã‚ tability. The accidental risks may not only result in unexpected costs to a company but threaten its survival altogether. Thus, it is essential for the management to do some exercise to know about the possibility of a risk event, sources of such event and impact of such event beforehand and consider ways and means of preventing, reducing or minimising the loss . Terms of Reference This report is about the research on issue that relates to Risk Management in Construction Company. The research is focusing on Industrial Construction Company. The report about the research was requested by Miss Kwan Jing Hui. This report is prepared by five students undergoing the subject Corporate Risk Management in Multimedia University Cyberjaya who is Erda Nurakma Binti Zharani, Muhammad Adi Arzri Arshad, Thania Nasiha Md Shariam, Nurul Farahin Husin, Tiara Citra and Nur Atiqah binti Adam. We will like acknowledge Ziestech Company because the cooperation that they have been given to us in the process of completing this assignment. This report is submitted on 16 January 2013. Methods In this report about Risk Management in Construction Company, we are using two methods using the primary data and secondary data. The primary data is based on the interview that we have done based on an industrial construction company that we have chosen for more understanding in the research. The company that we have chosen is the Ziestech Company where we trying to get more information to support our research. We create a short questionnaire to understand more about the risk management of the company. On the other hand, we are doing our research also using the secondary data where we found some journals and other sources that can be helpful to support our purpose in completing this report. Findings Based on Research : Risk Management on Construction Company Risk Management in Construction Industry Risk in construction project is highly related to type of risks that may delay the performance of the project itself. In order to eliminate risks, in construction project should have effective risk management as mentioned by Lee Chun Siang and Azlan Shah Ali (2012). Effectiveness of risk management basically depends on how the project leader identifies and construct anticipation actions to risk that may occur during the life cycle of construction project. In addition, risk have to be analysed and listed out throughout project life cycle, otherwise poor risk management would affect in low performance of project. Refer to effective risk management, it enables to determine assessment of project risk, as well as control potential barrier to the success of the project completion. Construction projects value sometimes reflects to its risk management. Variable risks that related to construction project make it different from other industry. Its due to various variables such as engineering, procurement, technical (The Association of Project Management, 2000). In Malaysia, construction risk management has not been a priority and shows bad reputation based on Hamimah Adnan et al (2008). An attitude from contractor that attend to make simple project, fast process and less expensive methods while they identify risks. Even though in construction industry, its projects might be different from project to project, thats why risk identification also might be different. For the project leader, personal experiences, training speciality on risk management would be needed. However, Norazian Mohd Yusuwan (2008) found that Malaysian Construction Company is not paying much attention on reporting, reviewing and monitoring its risk management activity and still consider unfamiliar method among Malaysian Construction Company. Limited knowledge for risk management in construction project again related to limited budget and they found it will only add for operational cost of project. There is different treatment related to risk management that based on size o f Construction Company. Most of companies that is stable in financial status, well known in public, and hold a big construction project that will have formal risk management. Relationship Between Risk Management And Project Performance Maintain good performance during the project activity in construction will result in less risky for the project and closer to its successful. However, if happen to have failure in risk management it will cause increase in operational financial cost, capital structure amendment, delaying for building activity, overrun budget / higher risk in insolvency, lost in cash inflow, bad quality for final product possible to redo work after completion and many more (Sundararajan 2004). Various potential factors in construction project activity according to Flanagan and Norman, 1993; Akintoye and MacLeod, 1997; Smith, 2003, there are long period, complicated processes, abominable environment, financial intensity and dynamic organization structures. These variables of risk management hold important rule and reflects how the projects performance will be. Researchers found construction project performance determinations can be concluded to cost, time and safety (Chen et al., 2000; Shen, 1997; Tam et al., 2004). People Involve in Construction Project According to one of construction insurance for the Construction Design Management (CDM) 2007, players who involved in construction projects are clients, CDM co-ordinator, designers, principal contractors, contractors and workers. Property developer, and company who has construction project consider as clients. CDM co-ordinator will be chosen to lead the project and as advisor on health and safety issues during project time. Next is designers such as engineers and architects who prepared for building drawings in and out. Person in charge to plan, manage and co-ordinate health safety while project is happening will be the principal contractors. Contractors are people who involved in business construction i.e. civil engineering, mechanical, electrical, demotion maintenance companies. Lastly, workers are anyone who directly carries out the work during project construction, i.e. plumber, electrician and scaffolder. Risk Faced By Construction Industry There is no line item on a construction companys income statement titled Cost of Risk, but this is actually one of the industrys largest and most volatile expense items. Some construction companies pay 5 per cent or more of their gross income for risk related costs. In an industry with tight profit margins, effectively managing risk can sometimes make the difference between making a profit or not, and in some cases, the survival of the business. There are many kinds of risks faced by a construction company. One of the examples is economy slowdown. Recessions usually happen where there is a widespread drop in spending. Recession can give a very big impact to construction companies. This may be triggered by various events, such as a financial crisis, and external trade shock, and adverse supply shock or the bursting of an economic bubble. The other risk face by Construction Company is increasing competition, where, economic growth is the increase in the amount of the goods and services produced by an economy over time. Economic growth is generally distinguished from development economics. The other factor is that increasing in population can get same ideas or product from different people. The same construction will increase in competition such as quality, price, quantity and etc. The other risk the construction company faced is regulatory or legislative changes. Regulatory changes are controls imposed on a company by an authority (usually the government) that generally restricts the natural direction in which the company is moving. Legislative Authority or the power to make laws at the Federal level is vested in the Parliament, which comprises the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the Senate and the House of Representatives. Other than that, Construction Company also facing the risk of injuries to the workers. Occupational injury rates among construction workers are the highest among the major industries. While several injury control strategies have been proposed by various organisations, their effectiveness for reducing the rate of injuries in the construction industry remains uncertain. Cash flow risks also one of risk that Construction Company faced. Some companys available cash will not be sufficient to meet its financial obligations. That is because of the any mismatch asset or quality in the constructions. In construction site, managing the work in time is necessary to avoid any delays and for the companys and investors good. However, employees sometimes forget to put safety first, by doing short cut and due to this result in accidents. Examples of common fatal accidents are falling from fragile roofs, ladders scaffolds, being stuck by excavators, lift trucks, collapsing structures. https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/j8IikJzDRP7KvSYHgn8FVcLGb40uxe1QwXN1EVR8Xp8ktrZEejeGb4yFSUlSxhxT9_H32_uziQYf3fnfEDjQiFSLZ8OetFhOBINTQuGVSJ4PoJCcWsM Based on reported data below from Malaysia Ministry of Human Resource period 1994-2008, major accidents caused in construction held the fifth position on last 2008. Numbers of accidents finally had decreased in 2008 as its lowest number within 12 years. Scope of Policy and Coverage in Construction Industry For purpose of this assignment, we will touched on the two types of risks faced by construction companies, that is, third party liability claims and injuries to workers and on how the insurance policy works to minimized possible monetary loss to the company. Third party liability claims can be in two forms, amongst others:- Claims made by the party whom have awarded the contract to the construction company. It can be a government or private company contract. One of the conditions in the contract agreement will be that the contractor must issue a performance bond to the awarder. Performance bond, normally in the form of an insurance policy gives an undertaking to the awarder of the contract that they will pay the amount stated in the policy in the case that the contractor fails to complete the contract or breached the specifications of the contract. In Malaysia, performance bond is normally within the range of 2.5% to 5% of the contract value. The other type of a third party claims is where claims made by a third party be it an individual or a company to the contractor due the suffering incurred by them which arise from the contract implementation, for example, damages to their property, sound pollution and also loss of earnings. There is normally no specific percentage on the coverage. However, it will be decided by the contractor base on his assumption on possibility and probability of its happening by looking at the nature of the job. Referring to Department of Occupational Safety Healthy Malaysian, below are Occupational Acts summary: Factories and Machinery Act 1967. 2. Employees Social Security Act 1969. 3. Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994. 4. Occupational Safety and Health (employers safety and health general policy statements) (Exception) Regulations 1995. 5.   Occupational Safety and Health (control   of   industrial major accident hazards) Regulations 1996. 6.   Occupational Safety and Health (safety   and   health committee) Regulations 1996. 7.   Occupational Safety and Health (Classification, Packaging and Labeling of Hazardous   Chemicals) Regulations 1997. 8. Occupational Safety and Health (Use and Standards of Exposure of Chemicals Hazardous to Health) Regulations 2000. 9.   Occupational Safety and Health (Notification of Accident, Dangerous Occurrence, Occupational Poisoning and Occupational Disease) Regulations 2004-NADOOPOD. Relation to current practice in Construction Industry in Malaysia Construction industry indeed one of the highest accident occur not only Malaysia but all over the world. Construction is one of the valuable asset to our nation since it brings Malaysia through the world by the recognizance of our building such as Petronas Twin Towers which is one of the highest building in the world, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and Formula One Sepang circuit. This construction is an important part of our economy; it helps our economy by attracting the investors to invest in our country. News reported that incidence of injuries and fatalities rates are high in Malaysia. The company may lose their valuable employees if this frequently occurs. Employers responsibility to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employee The quote of safety first is a common quote that used to ensure that every employee aware of their safety while working. There are several or awareness that have been given to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employee. This is to ensure the company will be able to complete their project on time. When one of their employees injured while performing their work, it is considered as a liability for their company causing their work in progress slowing down. The amount spending for the purpose of safety is beneficial as the consequences are the company would enjoy an effective safety than suffering with the cost. There are several current practices to reduce the risk of accident. There are several effects that the company can get when they ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employee. This can be seen by the company can reduce the accidental cost, when they doesnt have to pay huge amount of money to pay for their employee if accident occur at their working place. The company will enhance the image of company by showing that their company is aware of their employees and following the rules of (Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series) OHSAS 18001. The company also can increase their business opportunity which can be seen when their workers are efficient to finish their project on time. Increase overall profit of project were also the benefit of ensure the safety and health of workers this can be seen when theres no accident occur on their employee, the workers operation run smoothly and employer doesnt have to pay more on accident and get more profit instead. Companies can refer to the authority such as Department of Safety and Health (DOSH), National Council of Occupational Safety and Health (NCOSH), National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) and Local authority about the safeness. Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) For example like Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) under the government was established by Act 520 of Lembaga Pembangunan Industri Pembinaan Malaysia Act 1994 in July 1994 as a statutory body under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Works Malaysia, with CIDB they offered a provide training for the construction companies. The board ensures the company with the responsibility of coordinating the needs and wants of the construction industry, planning the direction of the Malaysias construction industry, addressing the pertinent issue and problems faced by the construction industry, making recommendation in the formulation of policies for the construction industry Department of Safety and Health (DOSH) The board will ensure that their customer would be provided sufficient information on safety and health. Their responsibility are responsibility of administrating and enforcing related to occupational safety and health to ensure that safety, health and welfare of people at work as well as others are protected from hazards resulting from occupational activities in the various sectors which include manufacturing; mining and quarrying; construction; agriculture, forestry and fishing; utilities (gas, electricity, water and sanitary services); transport, storage and communication; wholesale and retail trades; hotels and restaurants; finance, insurance, real estate and business services; public services and statutory authorities. National Council of Occupational Safety and Health (NCOSH) The board was established under Section 8 of Occupational Safety and Health which is their responsibility is to Investigate and make report and also to recommend to the Minister any matters whatsoever related to the objectives of OSHA. To amend or make any change deem necessary for legislations of OSHA. To improve administration and enforcement of OSH legislation. To foster cooperative consultation relationship between management and workers with regards to OSH and well-being of workers. To resolve any particular problems related with OSH and well-being of workers consist of women, handicapped and other group of people in the society. To formulate adequate methods and procedures of controls at workplace for chemical industry. To analyze statistics related to occupational fatality and injury which happen at workplace To provide facilities for health care a workplace. To foster development plans and public acceptance of good industrial codes of practices related to OSH. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) The board main vision is to be the Leading Centre of Excellence in Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSHs responsibility is providing training; consultation services inseminate information and conduct research and development to employees, employers and those responsible, either directly or indirectly in the field of occupational safety and health. Example of companies following the health and safety management guidelines Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OSH-MS) guidelines promotes a safe and healthy working environment by providing a framework that helps organizations to consistently identify and control health and safety risks, reduce the potential for accidents, aid legislative compliance, and improve overall performance. Sime Darby Engineering Sdn Bhd, oil and gas construction industry which practiced the OSH guidelines they are fully concern on the safety health and environment. This company is certified by ISO 9001 OHSAS 18001 and others. Their main objective is to establish a safety and health committee to upgrade the level of occupational safety and health in their company. They are committed to comply with all relevant environmental, safety and health legislation, prevent pollution and accidents, minimize usage of hazardous materials, chemicals and gases, and minimize release of pollutants to air, water and land. , reduce consumption of natural resources., reduce, reuse and recycle of waste, promote environmental, safety and health awareness to all employees, clients, sub-contractors, suppliers and visitors Sustainable Construction practices in Malaysia Several efforts has been given to the construction industry which it lead several changes. Construction waste causes environmental problem towards Malaysia such as water pollution, environmental pollution and others. The concern toward environment has been given only less attention before this however with the increasing awareness of global environment has lead the construction to increase the protection and sustainable towards our environment. This practice may lead to the structure which will enhance our lifes quality, protect the environment and at the same time maintaining a balance between growth in economy and preserving the natural resources and ecosystem. Problems in current practice of Malaysian Construction Industry Malaysian construction industry depends heavily on unskilled foreign labor worker as they considered as cheap, widely available and flexible. Majority of construction industry choosing this way as this might lead to a problem such as insufficient, slow and labor intensive. Growth of policy in Insurance Market of Construction Company Based on daily routine of a firm activity, they might encounter numerous kind of risk on during performing their job. The risk can be predicted before it might actually happen but the firm cant assume that all risk can be eliminated. Thus it comes to consideration of firm to have a proper way to manage their risk. There are three main insurances coverage in todays construction industry, which are: Contractors All Risk Insurance. Contractors All Risk insurance is precisely designed for the purpose of managing risk against any loss and damage during the construction work takes place. This kind of insurance covers any loss related to works, construction plant and any damage arising from the construction process. It a simpler word, this type of insurance policy helps to manage against unforeseen and accidental physical loss or any damage happens to the property during the period of insurance. Contractors all risk Insurance is best to cover all works executed by the contractor whether it is temporary type of work or construction type of work that takes a longer period to accomplish. The basic Contractors All Risk insurance gives protection coverage whether under construction period or maintenance period against: Material damage during the work under construction Loss and damage towards contractors machinery, plant and equipment. Loss and damage on principals existing property. Third party property damage or any bodily injury happens during the contract of work. The insured parties include the principal, main contractor and the sub-contractor. Examples of types of construction project that can be insured under Contractors All Risk Policy are: Civil works such as dams, power plants. General building construction such as industrial, halls, stadiums and residential. Towers, silos Railway line, roads, tunnels, bridges. Electrical equipment installation. Other miscellaneous work. Bonds / Insurance Guarantee. Bonds are widely being used and almost every interaction between inter-personal and inter-corporation use it to guarantee the project accomplishment. The insurance company actually works as a middle person between the two parties because the fact that insurance companies are financial institutions. Thus interference of insurance companies in bonding businesses can generate other type of business such as Contractors All Risk, Public Liability and Workmens Compensation policies. There are few features of bonds, which are; Once bonds are given, it cant be cancelled until its expiry date. Most of government project demand bonds and are worded, thus bond need to be issued by the contractors to satisfy the requirement of tender. Furthermore the demand of bond in such way enables the ability to invoke the bond by the holder without any reason and explanation. Any demand nevertheless any dispute or protest by the insurer, contractor or any third party needs to be settled by the insurer. Workmens Compensation Insurance This policy is being design to give protection for any employee insured against injury, accident or any disease caused from the employment. The employer is the one who need to pay such compensation based on the law set up in the schedule of the policy and common law. Demand for workmens compensation insurance usually comes from: Contractors who are required to have insurance under the requirement of contract with the Principal. Employers that are having foreign workers which are not eligible to contribute to SOCSO but because of (a) above, they usually include these workers in their insurance based on the wage roll of 15% of total contract value. The employer or their sub-contractor should also take note that they are also required to be under the provision of the Workmens Compensation. Findings Based on Interview : Risk Management on Construction Company In this part of findings, we refer to an industrial construction company that has been involved in this industry for a long time. Ziestech Enterprise has been kindly to provide the information needed about their risk management. The company located in Kulim Kedah. Basically, they are an electrical industrial construction company that offer customer electronic and air conditioner service. The manager, Mr Arshad Bin Tasselim has been exposed to us the risk management that company has applied for the workers and business. Ziestech Enterprise is a company that can be categorized as industrial construction. The company has been in the industry almost 10 years. Ziestech Enterprise has been humble in the industry where they have started small then eventually they had grown to become a very successful electrical industrial construction company. Based on our interview session with Mr Arshad, he explains that the company is very high skilled in electrical and wiring for the industrial construction where they have the ability to involve their business in handling heavy electrical job. Furthermore, to perform this kind of task, the company require a very special certificate such as Wireman from Suruhanjaya Tenaga Malaysia. As an electrical construction company, Mr Arshad is aware that their company is facing a very high risk especially the workers safety. The operational task is related with electrical usage and appliances, where they might face the risk of having accident, loss, damage or injury during the construction works takes place. The industrial task is far more dangerous because the workers are exposed to a very high voltage. Mr Arshad explains more about the usage of electrical equipment that has been used in industrial works where it involves with 240V to 450V. Workers that involved in this kind of job, they will be supervised by the expertise that has been hired by the company. Mr Arshad is very aware with the risk that their facing every working day. Ziestech Enterprise is well prepared in managing the risk and decided to buy some of the insurance policies that can reduce the level of riskiness in performing the task. Mr Arshad explains more about the loss and damage during the construction work for example damage to machinery,plant or third party damage that has been insured by Contractors All Risk. The company also concern about the workers that may injured and accident during performing tasks where they pay for Workmens Compensation to insure the employee. Risk management is very beneficial for the company and the current insurance coverage satisfy the needs for the Ziestech Enterprise. Conclusion Risk Management in Construction Industry can be very beneficial to the companies that are applying this because the internal organizations such as staff, supervisors, middle and senior management have a heightened awareness of risks within their work environment. In addition, risk can be identified, assessed and controlled in accordance with the legislative requirements of OHS Act. Besides that, risk management becomes a part of the organizational corporate culture. It reduces the severity of an accident results in an associated reduction in pain and suffering. Moreover, risk management also reduce in the severity and incidence of workers compensation claims, leading to a reduction in associated and hidden costs (such as loss of staff morale, loss productivity, etc.). To conclude, it is a known fact that risk management is a very important tool to be applied by companies in order to ensure their survival. Both the contractor and the insurance company try their level best to reduce their own risks. Wrong judgment may be a fatal blow on the survival of the company. Recommendation The construction industry is a vehicle

american Essay -- essays research papers

The 21st Century American The traits of the typical American have changed drastically throughout the years. Americans have become different in many ways from when they officially became independent in 1776 to the present time in 2001. America is strong, powerful, and influential. Americans exemplify positive values, selflessness, hospitality, and the American way of life. Our values often differ from values of other countries due to cultural contrasts such as with religious, racial, and education issues. We give much more freedom than many other countries do to those of different races and religions. Also, we hold education in a much higher regard than other countries. It is these differences that sometimes make our country seem more appealing to those of foreign lands. Our common American values bind us together as one unit. Americans are often stereotyped as living a fast paced working environment in which they eat fast food and drive fast cars. Some of the aspects of American culture which are typical are: pizza, jeans, sunglasses, baseball hats, name brand clothing, tattoos, cellular phones, bagels, and bottled water. The Popular culture that has developed in America has had a major influence on cultures in countries all over the world. Cell phones have become popular in Europe; name brand clothing has taken off in Asia, and McDonald’s restaurants exist all over the globe. While the American can be looked at as a singular stereotypical entity, it is important to realize the many differences that exist between Americans living in different regions of the country. When people who have lived in America all their lives travel to a different part of the country, they are often just as amazed at the differences in culture as people are who come to America from foreign countries. For Instance, a woman who is a New England native that travels south to North Carolina for the first time will be shocked at the cultural differences she encounters. The New Englander will discover that the natives of North Carolina speak different, eat differently, and even act differently. She discovers what is referred to as ‘Southern hospitality’ when she interacts with people who exhibit a sense of kindness and manners far beyond that of which she is accustomed. On the menu at restaurants she will see items she is unfamiliar with, such as: grits, pigs feet, cheesy w esterns, an... ... his luggage he has a conversation with a man who introduces himself and for some strange reason takes his hand and shakes it. When faced with the decision of what to eat he finds it difficult to decide because of the many different types of restaurants in America. He has trouble deciding whether to eat at a fast food place, southern restaurant, western restaurant, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Indian, or French cuisine. After making his decision he is again amazed that rice is nowhere to be found on the menu. Despite the differences in culture between America and China he realizes he is in a great nation that is full of opportunity. America is a just and free nation. Its greatness is admired by the entire world. Many immigrants come to America to find a better life and for others it is merely a dream. Those who do become citizens are welcomed into the greatest most powerful nation in the world. American is made up of a cornucopia of cultures from around the world. The fact that Americans from different regions are different does not obscure our identity as a nation. Instead, these differences are what unite us as one nation, under God, Indivisible, for liberty, and justice for all. american Essay -- essays research papers The 21st Century American The traits of the typical American have changed drastically throughout the years. Americans have become different in many ways from when they officially became independent in 1776 to the present time in 2001. America is strong, powerful, and influential. Americans exemplify positive values, selflessness, hospitality, and the American way of life. Our values often differ from values of other countries due to cultural contrasts such as with religious, racial, and education issues. We give much more freedom than many other countries do to those of different races and religions. Also, we hold education in a much higher regard than other countries. It is these differences that sometimes make our country seem more appealing to those of foreign lands. Our common American values bind us together as one unit. Americans are often stereotyped as living a fast paced working environment in which they eat fast food and drive fast cars. Some of the aspects of American culture which are typical are: pizza, jeans, sunglasses, baseball hats, name brand clothing, tattoos, cellular phones, bagels, and bottled water. The Popular culture that has developed in America has had a major influence on cultures in countries all over the world. Cell phones have become popular in Europe; name brand clothing has taken off in Asia, and McDonald’s restaurants exist all over the globe. While the American can be looked at as a singular stereotypical entity, it is important to realize the many differences that exist between Americans living in different regions of the country. When people who have lived in America all their lives travel to a different part of the country, they are often just as amazed at the differences in culture as people are who come to America from foreign countries. For Instance, a woman who is a New England native that travels south to North Carolina for the first time will be shocked at the cultural differences she encounters. The New Englander will discover that the natives of North Carolina speak different, eat differently, and even act differently. She discovers what is referred to as ‘Southern hospitality’ when she interacts with people who exhibit a sense of kindness and manners far beyond that of which she is accustomed. On the menu at restaurants she will see items she is unfamiliar with, such as: grits, pigs feet, cheesy w esterns, an... ... his luggage he has a conversation with a man who introduces himself and for some strange reason takes his hand and shakes it. When faced with the decision of what to eat he finds it difficult to decide because of the many different types of restaurants in America. He has trouble deciding whether to eat at a fast food place, southern restaurant, western restaurant, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Indian, or French cuisine. After making his decision he is again amazed that rice is nowhere to be found on the menu. Despite the differences in culture between America and China he realizes he is in a great nation that is full of opportunity. America is a just and free nation. Its greatness is admired by the entire world. Many immigrants come to America to find a better life and for others it is merely a dream. Those who do become citizens are welcomed into the greatest most powerful nation in the world. American is made up of a cornucopia of cultures from around the world. The fact that Americans from different regions are different does not obscure our identity as a nation. Instead, these differences are what unite us as one nation, under God, Indivisible, for liberty, and justice for all.

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The grounds that the Europeans named the Americas were the home of numerous individuals before Columbus. Having relocated from Asia many years prior, the pre-Columbian Americans spread all around the Western Hemisphere and in the long run made extraordinary developments. Around most eminent of them were the Incas in peru, the Mayas, and the Aztecs in Mexico. In the districts north of what was later named the Rio Grande, the human populace was more modest and the developments less propelled than they were more distant south. Indeed in this way, North American locals made a group of human advancement that flourished and extended. There were numerous individuals living north of Mexico when Columbus arrived. When the European contact, there were numerous locals that recently settled in the Americas. In Peru, the Incas were the biggest realm in America. Likewise were the Mexica and the Mayans in Mexico. Mayans were the first to improve a composed dialect, a numerical framework, logbook, a development farming framework, and exchange tracks. In the northern part of America were the Esk...

Communication and Conflict Resolution :: Interpersonal Communication Essays

Today many people still lack on the ability to communicate effectively within interpersonal relationships. It is through teamwork and collaboration that effective communication occurs. By analyzing and studying the communication process we can improve our ability to communicate effectively between one another. To have a successful interpersonal relationship one must first interact with others, which is called interpersonal communication (Hybels & Weaver pg.156). Recognizing emotions in other is a very important first step for building a relationship. If you can’t feel what someone else is feeling then you can’t connect with them on a personal level and that can hinder your relationship process. Interpersonal communication is important because of the purpose to achieve. Whenever we want to keep in communication with another person, we try share ideas and feelings. Also we can give information through a wide variety of verbal and non-verbal cues. Verbal communication has huge effects on many aspects of life, including interpersonal relationships. Communication with others verbally or non-verbally is a necessity for daily life. Verbal communication is organized by language; non-verbal communication is not. Most of us spend working hours communicating our knowledge, thoughts, and ideas with others. On the other hand, most of us don’t to realize that a great deal of our communication is of a non-verbal form as opposite to the oral and written reports. Non-verbal communication includes facial expressions, eye contact, tone of voice, body posture and motions, and positioning within groups. It may also include the way we wear dress or how quiet we are. Person-to-person communications our thoughts are set on different levels simultaneously. If the nonverbal cues and the spoken message are strange, the flow of communication is stuck. Right or wrong, the receiver of the communication tends to base the intentions of the sender on the non- verbal cues one receives. Before a person makes an effort to form an interpersonal relationship they must decide what attracted them about this person and why they want to have the relationship. There are many factors that make up attraction to others. Physical attraction, perceived gain, similarities, differences, and proximity are some of them (Hybels and Weaver, 2007). Most people are attracted to others because of the way they look, same personality and same education. Some people might have different characteristics that one might be attracted too. If a person is not attracted to your appearance they are mostly not come up and have a conversation with you.

Legal Ethics Healthcare Essay

The legal concept of vicarious liability and the Doctrine of Respondeat Superior occurs when the employee commits a tort or civil wrong within the scope of employment and the employer is held liable although the master may have done nothing wrong( Regan 2002). Physicians and other healthcare providers need to be aware of this doctrine in the supervision of their staff and their day-to-day medical practice. The legal relationship between an employer and an employee is called agency. The employer is called the principal when engaging someone to act for him. The person who does the work for the employer is called the agent. The theory behind respondeat superior is that the principal controls the agent’s behavior and must then assume some responsibility for the agent’s actions (Phelps & Lehman 2005). Most medical malpractice suits are filed as result of negligence (ie, a type of tort or civil wrong) – Negligence is defined by what a reasonably prudent person would or would not do in the same or similar circumstance. Negligence can result from the individual medical provider or from some type of agency relationship that exists between two or more health care providers. In general, when we discuss the relationship between agency and malpractice, we refer to the concept of vicarious liability and the Doctrine of Respondeat Superior ( Columbia 2000). In the context of medical malpractice a negligence action is often precipitated by a bad outcome. Numerous cases have involved the concept of vicarious liability and the Doctrine of Respondeat Superior as a successful cause of a medically negligent action. Recent changes in the health care system may contribute to additional causes of action being recognized. As managed care has moved to the forefront of health care, many medical providers have left independent practice and become employees of large health care organizations (HMOs) or hospitals. Some medical providers have formed their own business with health care extenders who perform many of the services previously provided by the medical provider. As a result, HMOs and hospitals have become employers of medical providers, and medical providers have become employers of their health care extenders (Regan 2002). In the past, the relationship with the patient and extensive documentation in the medical record were the most important elements in preventing malpractice litigation. These efforts, while important, may have less of an effect in the evolving health care climate. With these changes, principles of agency and vicarious liability may become increasingly important in evaluating malpractice liability. Both the negligence of a health care employee employed by an individual medical provider and the negligence of an individual medical provider employed by a health care company have given rise to successful malpractice suits. The Doctrine of Respondeat Superior is one to weigh carefully by both plaintiffs and defendants in their current practice of law and medicine. References: Malpractice. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 2000. http://kids.infoplease.lycos.com/ipd/A0401963.html Raines v Mercer, 55 5W2d 263, 264 (Tenn 1932) Regan, J. , & Regan, W. (2002, May). Medical malpractice and respondeat superior. (Review Articles). Southern Medical Journal, 95(5), 545-549. Retrieved January 23, 2013, from Nursing and Allied Health Collection via Gale: http://find.galegroup.com.proxy.davenport.edu/nrcx/start.do?prodId=NRC Respondeat Superior. (2005). In S. Phelps & J. Lehman (Eds.), West’s Encyclopedia of American Law (2nd ed., Vol. 8, pp. 334-336). Detroit: Gale. Retrieved from http://go.galegroup.com.proxy.davenport.edu/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CCX3437703788&v=2.1&u=lom_davenportc&it=r&p=GVRL&sw=w

Three General Orders Essay

When you are on guard you are responsible for everything that occurs within the limits of your post while you are on duty. You are also responsible for all equipment and property located within the limits of your post. The exact limits of your post are defined by the special orders. The special orders should also include every place a guard must go to perform your duties. You will investigate every unusual or suspicious occurrence on or near your post provided that you do not have to leave your point of duty to do so. If necessary, you or the NCO who is on guard with you will contact the chain of command for instructions.While on guard you will remain at your place of duty and continue to perform all duties required until you are relieved by proper authority. If a guard requires relief because of sickness or for any other reason, you to notify your chain of command and wait until you are replaced by another guard or you have permission from the proper authorities to leave your point of duty. If you are not relieved when your time of duty is up, you do not abandon your post. You or the NCO on duty will contact your chain of command for instructions and stay at your point of duty until you are properly relieved.While on guard you will read over your special orders prior to you starting your duty. You will obey, execute, and enforce all special orders pertaining to your post. The commander of the guard is responsible for insuring that all guards understand their special instructions prior to being posted. In addition to your special orders, a guard is responsible to obey and carry out any orders or instructions from the commanding officer, field officer of the day, and officers and noncommissioned officers of the guard.No other persons are authorized to give a guard orders or instructions. Any special instructions for a guard should be issued through the guard's chain of command. When on guard you will pass instructions to your relief when appropriate. The informa tion is also given to the commander of the relief. You will perform your duties in a military manner and serve as an example to others. A guard reports all violations of special orders to the commander of the relief. You may have to apprehend the offender, if necessary. A guard reports all emergencies that occur on or near post.The guard will take whatever action is prescribed in your special orders or guard instructions. Anytime the guard is in doubt as to what action to take, or it is not covered in the special orders, you will call the commander of the relief for instructions or assistance. Sleeping on guard duty is not tolerated by any means. If you fall asleep on guard duty a lot of things can happen. Your post can be over run, the equipment that you are meant to guard could be stolen, or the building you’re guarding could get broken into.You could face a UMCJ action for falling asleep because you’re in violation of FM 22-6 which covers guard duty. You are looked upon to perform your duty at all times and if you fall asleep you fail to do your part and cover all things that are covered in you special orders. Any violations that may occur at your post you can become a part of because you fell asleep while the violations happen. Falling asleep on guard duty prevents you from reacting in a timing manner to an emergency. Over all falling asleep hinders you from doing your job on guard.

Healthcare Issues in America Essay

Some of the healthcare issues that share the limelight with politicians nowadays are the skyrocketing cost of drugs, health insurance system, the ever growing cost of hospitalization fees and the low coverage of insurance for malpractices for doctors. Debates and plans have been made so as to improve the quality of service to the people. But really, are these the real issues that an average American or a politician should give much emphasis on? There is a growing epidemic that is invading the country in silence†¦ And because it doesn’t make much noise as that of an aggrieved patient filing for a case against a physician, who by mistake, has distorted her nose in some way, that doesn’t mean this epidemic is not worth our time. For some reason these issues aren’t given much attention when in fact it threatens the very life of countless citizens therefore endangering the future of the country. Obesity, Alcohol Abuse, Mental Health, unhealthy foods†¦ These are real issues that could very well be the cause of more deaths and unhappy citizens of this country†¦Though these issues have been around for decades much of the efforts to address these problems are often not enough or simply useless. To further impress the gravity of the situation, it is therefore right to discuss these issues one by one. In the next few decades Scientists conclude that life expectancy for an average American could decline by as much as 5 years unless the government do something to decrease the rates of obesity (Dollemore 2005). With the rise of capitalism which gave way to consumerism, more and more goods make it to the hands of an average American. Life has also been fast phased which led to the success of over the counter dinners and lunches, ready to cook meals, watching television , playing video games, using computers and etc. The youth has been living a very sedentary lifestyle which lessens their interest in physical activities. Much worst is that there has been a sudden influx of quality computer games that has taken much of their time. They are also bombarded with fast foods, high fat, high sugar meals which are made available at every corner store. These factors lead to obesity that has taken the world aback with a staggering 20% increase in obesity rates among the youth. Diabetes is one of the complications that can sprout from Obesity. Cardiovascular diseases are also common to those who have diabetes. Emotional stress is also experienced by those who are obese are society tend to discriminate these people giving them less chances to enjoy life. The irony of it is that the government provides services to treat obesity rather than preventing it. It is a growing epidemic and unless we get to its roots, it will continue to rot away the future if countless American youth. According to surveys approximately 11 million current drinkers are in the ages of 12-20. Half of these drink excess to the point of losing total control to the outside environment. These drinkers are the American Youth who at a tender age finds solace in beer bottles. Alcohol abuse can lead to different kind of injuries such as alcohol related accidents, date rape, fire and etc. Automobile crashes, suicides, homicides, and unsafe sex leading to teenage pregnancies are one of the gruesome after effects of teenage drinking that are often overlooked by their fragile minds. Underage drinking is a widespread problem which can be attributed to the free access to liquor by minors. Substance abuse is very much widespread especially in impoverished areas in the country and this eventually lead to mental incapacity.   One need not look deeper to know that these issues are interconnected in someway. Teenage drinking and Obesity are discussed in detail to show that all the rest of the issues find its roots on the two events. The rest are just offshoots from these problems. Given the above issues, I guess it would be more appropriate for the government to give more attention to the cause of the problem rather than spending billions for rehabilitation facilities, diet programs and etc. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. It is indeed pretty much logical to answer the question on why the youth is engaging in substance abuse rather than put them in rehabilitation centers.   The thing is, the government is spending large amount of money to improve healthcare services to the populace not taking into consideration that these ailments that they are treating could not have found its way to the average American citizen in the first place. Now if by the end of the century this epidemic is not yet cured, then worst comes to worst, this country should expect more sickly citizens needing healthcare services to address their plight for good health. This is where my thoughts go in full circle†¦ if the government spend as much time, money and effort in addressing the problem of healthcare improvements and that of actually improving the health of its citizens, then I guess there is better hope for the future Americans. Come to think of it, if the epidemic is not stopped, more and more citizens will need healthcare services from the government. As a consequence, no matter how we try to improve the healthcare services and insurance system it will never be enough. Laws of supply and demand holds true even in this situation. More sick people, more hospitals, more doctors, more healthcare services, more chances for politicians to exploit the scenario by adding â€Å"improved healthcare† in their platforms. This is a vicious cycle, and unless we recognize the need to focus on individual health rather than health care services, we will never be able to actually address the problem of healthcare in this country. References Dollemore, D. (2005). â€Å"Obesity Threatens to Cut U.S Life Expectancy.† Retrieved April 10, 2007, from http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/mar2005/nia-16.htm.

Langston Hughes Essay

Of the major black writers who first made their appearance during the exciting period of the 1920s commonly referred to as â€Å"the Harlem Renaissance,† Langston Hughes was the most prolific and the most successful. As the Harlem Renaissance gave way to the Depression, Hughes determined to sustain his career as a poet by bringing his poetry to the people. At the suggestion of Mary McLeod Bethune, he launched his career as a public speaker by embarking on an extensive lecture tour of the South. As he wrote in his autobiography: â€Å"Propelled by the backwash of the â€Å"Harlem Renaissance† of the early twenties, I had been drifting along pleasantly on the delightful rewards of my poems which seemed to please the fancy of kindhearted New York ladies with money to help young writers. . . . There was one other dilemma–how to make a living from the kind of writing I wanted to do. . . . I wanted to write seriously and as well as I knew how about the Negro people, and make that kind of writing earn me a livin† (Hughes, 1964:31). Alain Locke, the leading exponent of â€Å"The New Negro,† announced that the black masses had found their voice: â€Å"A true people’s poet has their balladry in his veins; and to me many of these poems seem based on rhythms as seasoned as folksongs and on moods as deep-seated as folk-ballads. Dunbar is supposed to have expressed the peasant heart of the people. But Dunbar was the showman of the Negro masses; here is their spokesman (Killens ed. 1960:41). Though much of the poetry Hughes was to write in the thirties and afterward was to differ markedly in terms of social content from the poetry he was producing in the twenties, a careful examination of his early work will reveal, in germinal form, the basic themes which were to preoccupy him throughout his career. Hughes’s evolution as a poet cannot be seen apart from the circumstances of his life which thrust him into the role of poet. Indeed, it was Hughes’s awareness of what he personally regarded as a rather unique childhood which determined him in his drive to express, through poetry, the feelings of the black masses and their questions of identity. In â€Å"The Weary Blues†, Hughes presented the problem of dual consciousness quite cleverly by placing two parenthetical statements of identity as the opening and closing poems, and titling them â€Å"Proem† and â€Å"Epilogue. † Their opening lines suggest the polarities of consciousness between which the poet located his own persona: â€Å"I Am a Negro† and â€Å"I, Too, Sing America. † Within each of these poems, Hughes suggests the interrelatedness of the two identities: the line â€Å"I am a Negro† is echoed as â€Å"I am the darker brother† in the closing poem. Between the American and the Negro, a third identity is suggested: that of the poet or â€Å"singer. † It is this latter persona which Hughes had assumed for himself in his attempt to resolve the dilemma of divided consciousness. Thus, within the confines of these two poems revolving around identity, Hughes is presenting his poetry as a kind of salvation. If one looks more closely at Hughes’s organization of poems in the book, one finds that his true opening and closing poems are concerned not with identity but with patterns of cyclical time. â€Å"The Weary Blues† (the first poem) is about a black piano man who plays deep into the night until at last he falls into sleep â€Å"like a rock or a man that’s dead. † The last poem, on the other hand, suggests a rebirth, an awakening, after the long night of weary blues: â€Å"We have tomorrow/ Bright before us/Like a flame† (Hughes 1926:109). Hughes viewed the poet’s role as one of responsibility: the poet must strive to maintain his objectivity and artistic distance, while at the same time speaking with passion through the medium he has selected for himself. In a speech given before the American Society of African Culture in 1960, Hughes urged his fellow black writers to cultivate objectivity in dealing with blackness: â€Å"Advice to Negro writers: Step outside yourself, then look back – and you will see how human, yet how beautiful and black you are. How very black – even when you’re integrated† (Killens ed. 1960:44). In another part of the speech, Hughes stressed art over race: â€Å"In the great sense of the word, anytime, any place, good art transcends land, race, or nationality, and color drops away. If you are a good writer, in the end neither blackness nor whiteness makes a difference to readers† (Killens ed. 1960:47). This philosophy of artistic distance was integral to Hughes’s argument in the much earlier essay â€Å"The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain,† which became a rallying call to young black writers of the twenties concerned with reconciling artistic freedom with racial expression: â€Å"It is the duty of the younger Negro artist if he accepts any duties at all from outsiders, to change through the force of his art that old whispering ‘I want to be white’ hidden in the aspirations of his people, to ‘Why should I want to be white? I am a Negro – and beautiful! ’† In this greatly thought-out manifesto, Hughes attempted to integrate the two facets of double consciousness (the American and the Negro) into a single vision-that of the poet. His poetry had reflected this idea from the beginning, when he published â€Å"The Negro Speaks of Rivers† at the age of nineteen. Arna Bontemps, in a retrospective glance at the Harlem Renaissance from the distance of almost fifty years, was referring to â€Å"The Negro Speaks of Rivers† when he commented: â€Å"And almost the first utterance of the revival struck a note that disturbed poetic tradition. † (Addison ed. 1988:83). In Hughes’s poetry, the central element of importance is the affirmation of blackness. Everything that distinguished Hughes’s poetry from the white poets of the twenties revolved around this important affirmation. Musical idioms, jazz rhythms, Hughes’s special brand of â€Å"black-white† irony, and dialect were all dependent on the priority of black selfhood: â€Å"I am a Negro/Black as the night is black/Black like the depths of my Africa† (Hughes 1926:108). Hughes wrote in his autobiography: â€Å"My best poems were all written when I felt the worst. When I was happy, I didn’t write anything† (Hughes 1991:54). When he first began writing poetry, he felt his lyrics were too personal to reveal to others: â€Å"Poems came to me now spontaneously, from somewhere inside. . . . I put the poems down quickly on anything I had a hand when they came into my head, and later I copied them into a notebook. But I began to be afraid to show my poems to anybody, because they had become very serious and very much a part of me. And I was afraid other people might not like them or understand them† (Hughes: 34). These two statements regarding his poetry suggest deep underlying emotional tensions as being the source of his creativity. And yet the personal element in Hughes’s poetry is almost entirely submerged beneath the persona of the â€Å"Negro Poet Laureate. † If, as Hughes suggested, personal unhappiness was the cornerstone of his best work, it then follows that, in order to maintain the singleness of purpose and devotion to his art, he would be required to sacrifice some degree of emotional stability. The persona of the poet was the role Hughes adopted in his very first published poem, as the Negro in â€Å"The Negro Speaks of Rivers. † It was a persona to which he would remain faithful throughout his lengthy career. The link between his personal experiences and his poetry has been always evident. References Addison Gayle, Jr. , ed. (1988). â€Å"Negro Poets, Then and Now,† in Black Expression: Essays by and About Black Americans in the Creative Arts, New York: Weybright & Talley Langston Hughes (1964). I Wonder As I Wander, New York: Hill & Wang Langston Hughes (1926). The Weary Blues, New York: Alfred A. Knopf Publishing, reprinted, 1982 Langston Hughes (1991). The Big Sea: An Autobiography. 1940. New York: Hill & Wang Killens, John O. ,ed. (1960). â€Å"Writers: Black and White†, The American Negro Writer and His Roots: Selected Papers from the First Conference of Negro Writers, March. New York: American Society of African Culture