High School Cliques and School Violence Essay Example for Free

High School Cliques and School Violence Essay There is an overabundant amount of cliques in high schools throughout the United States. Many teenagers believe the only way to be recognized is to be affiliated with the popular crowd. There are many factors that bring about cliques in high schools. Some are based on wealth, style, and race. But in many cases there are cliques that are a combination of these elements. Socioeconomic status is often a big factor in joining cliques. Realistically, wealthy and the poor do not go hand and hand. The children of wealthy homes often degrade people that are poverty struck. Cliques divide people through class distinction. If you are not rich, you cannot have the latest fashions or be able to spend money as freely as others on things, such as, a tenth pair of Nikes. Fashion is another huge aspect of high school cliques. Nearly every high school girl dresses like a supermodel. They purchase tight fitting jeans with oversized belts and a matching shirt from stores like Abercrombie and Fitch, Guess, and American Eagle. Not to mention all the matching jewelry or bling. Boys, too, are caught in a similar trap. They also dress to impress when purchasing a polo shirt or baggy jeans from Polo, Gap, or Structure. The media influences all of these styles. Magazines, television shows, and especially MTV, influence teens on style. For example, a popular television show like, The Hills, advertises high end clothing by having all their actors model their clothing. Cliques are also formed by race. Far too many times people exclude others because of their ethnicity. I realize that people tend to have more in common with people of similar heritage. However, this is no reason to exclude other nationalities. People should try to regulate this by having diverse backgrounds within a specific group. For example a group can consist of Whites, Blacks, Asians, and Latinos instead of one nationality. This way, new things can be learned from other cultures and backgrounds. Cliques dominate the high school scene across the United States. There is a range of cliques in every high school. Some of these range from cliques of fashion to groups of privilege. Any clique can leave demoralizing imprints on a person who does not fit in. These imprints have led to countless incidents of school violence ranging anywhere from physical fights to trying to blow up an entire school with faculty and students inside or even mass shootings, such as the case that occurred at Columbine High School. Violence in schools needs to stop. Too many innocent people are being hurt and even killed in some cases. One way to stop the violence is to regulate cliques. A simple way to do this is try to make all students interact with one another despite their differences in wealth, fashion, and attitude. This will show the students who normally fit in what it feels like to be an outsider.

Alternatives to Proprietary Digital Forensics for SMEs

Alternatives to Proprietary Digital Forensics for SMEs Realistic alternative to expensive  Proprietary Digital Forensics  and Security products for SMEs. Alan David Blais Abstract Organisations have recently developed an awareness about the necessity of having their systems secure and protected from external as well as internal threats. This sudden awareness is believed to be due to recent major events about breaches and security issues faced by many organisations. The consequences of these breaches and security issues had so many negative impacts that it has created a real awareness. Although the UK is among the leading countries in this regard Europe, it still has a long way to go, according to training director for the Sans Securing The Human Program, Lance Spitzner. (Cybersecurity Awareness SANS 2015) Many organisations have already invested very considerable amount of money into making their systems securer while other are still thinking whether investing money in security has a return on investment (ROI) or not. On the other hand, for small and medium enterprises (SME), it is an entirely different story, with the world financial crisis, it is already particularly difficult for SME to survive, and some of them are struggling to keep their companies running and many of them cannot afford the cost for improving the security of their system as it should be. Most of them, try to use short-term fix like cheap firewall and anti-virus, free patches and updates despite knowing that having a single/some layer/s of security is not enough. Some of the SMEs also uses free available tools and applications but most of these tools are specialised in only one aspect of security, thus several different applications are needed to provide better security. It is difficult to manage several different tools and applications at the same time. This projects aims at finding a solution to solve the above mentioned problem by designing a software/platform for managing different tools and applications remotely using the designed software/platform. 1. Background – 2 Pages 1.1 Introduction According to a new study on the main causes of European privacy, breaches come from organisations own errors, insider abuse and other internal mismanagement issues. The director of the study, P. Howard believe that only 41% of the incidents reported are external attacks by hackers and that 57% of the incidents which were caused by administrative error, exposed online, insiders or caused by missing hardware configuration. (Most European Breaches Caused by Organizational Error, Insider Attacks 2015) Based on the above study findings, we can therefore assume that having proper internal security mechanism within an organisation can significantly reduce the number of incidents. Despite knowing that, some organisations are still not improving their security as it should be. The main reason is the cost associated to security; some people at management level still think that investing on security has no direct impact on the main objective of business which is to make profit. It is true that many organisations awareness about security have recently changed due to the consequences of breaches on other organisations but Cyber Security awareness is still in its infancy in most organisations and not all organisations can afford the cost associated to security, Small and medium enterprises are generally not able to afford it. Moreover, much of the software available on the market focus on one particular aspect of security rather than having a single platform that caters for different aspect of security at an affordable price for SMEs. It seems that a growing trend is growing within SMEs, which is the use of open source software (An evaluation of open source software adoption by UK SMEs in the IT industry.) such as Volatility. But even that, it is not an efficient way to manage several applications all at the same time. A possible solution would be to use an application as a platform for using other open source software with the capability of managing all these remotely. This project is about designing that platform to provide incident response, digital forensics, host and network security as well as malware analysis capability. The platform will provide all the above mentioned capability remotely and having a server-client architecture. 1.2 Relevant past and current work Alien Vault has a software which provides a platform to manage different aspect of security all on one platform called Unified Security Management (USM). The software is a commercial one and provides the management of tools which themselves are commercial software whereas this project aims at using available free software and in-house built features to provide a platform for managing different aspects of security at an affordable price. Below is the management features available in Alien Vault USM and other traditional SIEM. As we can see from both screen capture, many traditional SIEM require 3rd party product to provide some features. Below are the security features provided by alien vault. The USM provides a single platform for managing and monitoring different aspect of security. 2. Project Description – 1 Page 2.1 Project Overview This project aims at designing a platform for managing open source and free applications/tools as well as providing in-house built features. The platform will be dealing with different aspect of security such as incident response, digital forensics, host and network security and malware analysis. The digital forensics capability will be the central part of the project from which incident response and malware analysis will be derived from. The host and network security will be on top of the base structure which comprises the three other aspects. The digital forensics and malware analysis can be split further at a high level view as we can see from the diagram to the left side. Live and static forensics for digital forensics on the other hand Static and dynamic analysis for malware analysis. 2.2 Importance of this project Security should be the concern of everybody, SMEs should be given alternative option to expensive security products to enable them to provide more secure services to clients, which in-directly or directly can affects anybody. This project aims at providing a cost effective solution by providing a platform to manage open source tools and application. The main assumption will be, despite knowing that free applications and tools have limitations, it is a better option than having no security at all or limited one due to having a limited budget for security. 2.3 Aims and Objectives It is important in a project to properly design the aims and objectives since it allows the setting up of the directionthe direction in which the project must go through. Objectives allow us to measure and assess the outcome of the project. Please refer to Appendix A for the aims and objectives. 3. Programme and methodology – 3 Pages 3.1 Spiral Methodology The spiral methodology seems to be the best option to suit the project. The spiral methodology as compared to waterfall methodology has the advantage of demonstrating that development projects work best when they are both incremental and iterative, where the development is able to start small and benefit from enlightened trial and error along the way. The spiral methodology reflects the relationship of tasks with rapid prototyping, increased parallelism, and concurrency in designing and building activities. The spiral method should still be planned methodically, with tasks and deliverables identified for each step in the spiral. Throughout the entire project we are going to use the spiral methodology for the design and development of the software/platform. The next part of this section will be the planning of tasks and deliverables as well as expected Milestone. Why do you think the spiral best suits your project? Not the other methodology give concrete examples. 3.2 Project Management 3.2.1 Budget Planning 3.2.1.1 Milestone The table below is just an estimation of how much time each task will take and gives us enough information to plan the project in a more realistic way. Generally tasks will be performed in parallel rather than in a linear way which has its advantages and disadvantage such as time saving and whereby some tasks must be completed prior to some other tasks. 3.2.1.2 Gantt Chart Please find below a Gantt chart representing the planned tasks over the budget allocated to us. 3.3 Project Approach The first part of the project will focus on the literature review where we are going to analyse tools, applications and process/features which are relevant to the project. The next part, we will be talking about why the features/applications/tools might be important for SMEs and their security from a technical and non-technical perspective. The third step will be to developed the features and integrate the tools/applications within the designed platform. The final step will be the testing and documenting of the results obtained and makes sure that the aims and objectives are satisfied. 4. Ethical and Legal Consideration – 1 page Before starting a project, it is crucial to properly understand the internal policies of the organisation you are developing something for and any local laws that might apply to the project. Some features of the project might invade the privacy of the users which in our case will be employees. It is a good practise to have policies about the possibility of company’s resources being monitored and might be investigated without prior notice or user permission but this might not be enough in a trial. One alternative would be to make sure the company where we are going to implement this project displays a well-defined warning banner. Without a banner, the right to investigate or monitor a system used by employees might conflict with user’s expectation of privacy. The EU and its member nations which include UK impose a strict fine for information that crosses national boundaries without the person’s consent. 4.1 Law in UK According to the UK Government’s website (https://www.gov.uk/data-protection-your-business/monitoring-staff-at-work), it is possible for employer to monitor employees at workplace if the below conditions are met: Be clear about the reasons for monitoring staff and the benefits that this will bring. Identify any negative effects the monitoring may have on staff. This is called an impact assessment. Consider whether there are any, less intrusive, alternatives to monitoring. Work out whether the monitoring is justified, taking into account all of the above. Monitoring employees’ activities on a computer system is cover by the data protection act. Data protection law doesnt prevent monitoring in the workplace. However, it does set down rules about the circumstances and the way in which monitoring should be carried out. Based on UK law, it is also for employers to monitor their employees without their consent for specific reasons. (Please refer to Appendix B for the reasons) 4.2 Ethics The question about whether it is ethical to monitor or investigate on employees can be debate on different point of view which can include the privacy of users, the need to protect client’s data, to provide reliable and trustful services to client by minimising the risks of external as well as internal threats such as insiders. But at the end of the day, the majority always win over the minority, what would be more ethical? Monitoring hundreds of employees or having more than one million client’s credit card details unprotected from insiders? 5. Impact 0.5 – 0.75 page 5.1 National Importance Services provided by SMEs such as data storage, client’s data management, POS information management, companies’ secret industrial process and many others will be more secure since the SMEs will improve on their security using a cost saving solution and providing several layers of security. Risks associated to insiders will be minimised. 5.2 Commercial Impact The platform could be sold at an affordable price or via a donation mechanism. The money can then be used for developing new features, improves existing features and provide upgrades. 5.3 Academic Impact This project can provide a platform for further research opportunity such as: Research can be done about why despite knowing that security is crucial still SMEs are not improving their security? Cost associated with security products? The assessment of the impacts on security in general if security products were cheaper and easily available for on SMEs. Does security improved if managed and monitored using a single platform rather than using several different security products (Efficiency and conflict arise when using several security products). References Cyber security awareness still in its infancy, says Sans Institute. 2015.Cyber security awareness still in its infancy, says Sans Institute. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.computerweekly.com/news/2240234932/Cyber-security-awareness-still-in-its-infancy-says-SANS-Institute. [Accessed 18 May 2015]. Information Security Awareness Training | Cybersecurity Awareness | SANS. 2015.Information Security Awareness Training | Cybersecurity Awareness | SANS. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.securingthehuman.org/. [Accessed 18 May 2015]. Study Finds Most European Breaches Caused by Organizational Error, Insider Attacks | The State of Security. 2015.Study Finds Most European Breaches Caused by Organizational Error, Insider Attacks | The State of Security. [ONLINE] Available at:http://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/latest-security-news/study-finds-most-european-breaches-caused-by-organizational-error-insider-attacks/. [Accessed 18 May 2015]. Brunel University Research Archive: An evaluation of open source software adoption by UK SMEs in the IT industry. 2015.Brunel University Research Archive: An evaluation of open source software adoption by UK SMEs in the IT industry. [ONLINE] Available at:http://bura.brunel.ac.uk/handle/2438/4509. [Accessed 18 May 2015]. Brian Buffett, UNESCO Institute for Statistics (2014)Factors influencing open source software adoption in public sector national and international statistical organisations, [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/stats/documents/ece/ces/ge.50/2014/Topic_1_UNESCO.pdf [Accessed: 18 May 2015]. SME’s help Governments make huge IT savings. — PretaGov. 2015.SME’s help Governments make huge IT savings. — PretaGov. [ONLINE] Available at:https://www.pretagov.co.uk/news/sme2019s-help-governments-make-huge-it-savings. [Accessed 18 May 2015]. How SMEs can drive growth through new technologies. 2015.How SMEs can drive growth through new technologies. [ONLINE] Available at:http://yourbetterbusiness.co.uk/how-smes-can-drive-growth-through-new-technologies/. [Accessed 18 May 2015]. Unified Security Management (USM) Platform. 2015.Unified Security Management (USM) Platform. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.alienvault.com/products. [Accessed 19 May 2015]. James R. Chapman 1997, Software Development Methodology, Project Management Training. [ONLINE] Available: http://www.hyperthot.com/pm_sdm.htm [Accessed 19 May 2015] NELSON, B., PHILLIPS, A. ET STEUART, C , 2010. Guide to Computer Forensics and Investigations. 4th Edition. Course Technology Data protection and your business GOV.UK. 2015.Data protection and your business GOV.UK. [ONLINE] Available at:https://www.gov.uk/data-protection-your-business/monitoring-staff-at-work. [Accessed 20 May 2015]. Monitoring at work Citizens Advice . 2015.Monitoring at work Citizens Advice. [ONLINE] Available at:https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/work/rights-at-work/monitoring-at-work/. [Accessed 21 May 2015]. Appendix – A A1 Aims of the project Please find below the aims of the project: Provide a cost effective IT Security solution. Provide security in its different aspects all under one platform. Provide remote management capability. A2 Objectives of the project Please find below the objectives of the project: Secure communication between server and clients. Ability to monitor and detect suspected behaviour/activities. Ability to remotely manage clients from server (Platform). Ability to capture relevant information from clients to server for investigation. Ability to provide Confidentiality and integrity on clients. More detailed and technical objectives are to be derived at a later stage of the project, which will in-turn be translated into features that will be provided by the platform. Appendix – B B1 – Reasons for monitoring employees To establish facts which are relevant to the business, to check that procedures are being followed, or to check standards, for example, listening in to phone-calls to assess the quality of your work To prevent or detect crime. To check for unauthorised use of telecommunications systems, such as whether you are using the internet or email for personal use. To make sure electronic systems are operating effectively, for example, to prevent computer viruses entering the system. To check whether a communication you have received, such as an email or phone-call is relevant to the business. In this case, your employer can open up your emails or listen to voice-mails but is not allowed to record your calls. To check calls to confidential help lines. In this case, your employer can listen in, but is not allowed to record these calls in the interests of national security.

Cultural Diversity Within The Hospitality Industry Commerce Essay

Cultural Diversity Within The Hospitality Industry Commerce Essay Organizations around the world has realized that the cultural diversity within the organization is not a negative aspect, rather can facilitate organizational stalk for glory (Papers4you.com, 2006). However this is not an easy task to manage employees from different cultural backgrounds. However, there are many policy guidelines that can make the task easier. In a broader perspective, cultural diversity can be managed through communication (creating awareness among all employees about diverse values of peers through communication), cultivating (facilitating the recognition, support and encouragement of success of any employee with all other workers), and capitalizing (linking diversity to every business process and strategy such as succession planning, reengineering, employee development, performance management and review, and reward systems) strategies (Cascio, 1995). There are many different innovative ways that organizations have adopted to manage diversity. For example Tabra Incorporation, a small manufacturer of jewelry and accessories inCalifornia composed of modest size, is the composition of the third world immigrants fromCambodia, China, El Salvador, Ethiopia, India, Laos, Mexico, Thailand, Tibet, Vietnam and other nations. To recognize the importance of their cultural association, at least 10-12 different flags are still hanging from the ceiling of its main production facility, which represent the country of origin of employees. Viewpoint owner is I wish that were a little United Nations for everyone to agree and appreciate the culture of others instead of just tolerating it. (Bhatia Chaudary, 2003) If cultural diversity can be managed effectively, there is potential to use diverse workforce benefits the organization. Cox and Balke (1991) argues that multiculturalism is directly linked to the success of the organization as Effectively managed the culture of many companies have cost effective competitive advantage It helps to promote minority friendly reputation among potential employees Various cultural societies help customers to achieve that with a variety of people Diverse group of employees are perceived to be more creative and effective problem solving compared to homogenous group Ability to manage cultural diversity increases adaptability and flexibility of an organization to environmental changes. Many examples of organization may be taken in this regard. In Australia, for instance, Hotel Nikko in Sydney has one edge that staff in the areas of the user to connect directly speak a total of 34 different languages. Similarly Qantas Flight Catering has sixty-six nationalities on staff, with various persons born abroad leaders. If committed various ethnic cuisines has given Qantas a huge competitive advantage that offers food based on taste and ethnic customer requirements. Moreover Dons Smallgoods through literacy, language and cultural training increased intercultural communication and increased profits while reducing costs at a time. Similarly, The Cheesecake Factory had made special efforts to understand the quality of packaging and Japanese culture as employees in Asia to help leaders understand the Asian flavors so they can target exports to Asia (Nankervis et al, 2002) Hence the discussion suggests that it is important to realize that cultural diversity must be considered as a tool for better organizational progress rather than a management problem and if effectively managed, it can be a key to gain competitive advantage and success. Like other industries in the hospitality sector is facing challenges of diversity and specific opportunities.  In 2003, the Department of Commerce, Enterprise and Employment has issued more permits forty seven thousand workers, migrant workers, this was more than eleven and a half thousand different employers and workplaces.  According to IBEC hotel and restaurant is the major employer of nationals NONEU with about 23% work in the area.  This creates challenges in that the organizations should create and maintain workplaces that evoke a concept of fluidity in their organization will accept and take into account differences in humans.  Achieving this requires leadership diversity, the diversity of organizational structures effective and successful planning and execution of decisions of diversity appropriate and timely.   Research: Through research, a number of focus groups were conducted at various locations throughout the country.  These meetings brought together representatives of properties and organizations operating within (or connected to) the hospitality industry.  Participants included hotel owners, restaurant owners, hotel managers, Catering Managers, human resource managers, supervisors and hotel food and Students Teachers colleges different host.( Bucher, R. 1999) The qualitative study was supported by quantitative research in the form of surveys were completed by participants in focus groups.  To guide and direct the search for a model (developed in both academic literature and practical experience) was used.  As shown in figure one, the framework assesses the extent to which organizations are taking steps to meet the challenges of diversity through assessment and planning dimensions of implementation. Regarding planning for diversity, the analysis criteria focused on Diversity Awareness (or the extent to Whish organizations are aware of diversity and proactively identify opportunities for diversity / challenges in their own contexts  ) and Diversity Options (which basically considers the type of diversity planning and decision making performed by organizations).  Regarding the implementation of diversity assessments have focused on Diversity Imperatives (the extent to which organizations share the responsibility for diversity and the development of rewarding diversity and effective structures of control) and   The variety of interfaces (which considers the extent to which it is internal and external cooperation on diversity and the degree to which assessments of effective structures were developed). While many host organizations have begun to take note of the dynamics of diversity change (such as legislation on equality), there seems to be some problems with respect to the ongoing, systematic collection of information  diversity to feed the decision-making.  For example, some research participants have difficulty identifying the nine grounds of discrimination, while others could not detail the cultural composition of staff within their organizations.  Research indicates that people in the area of May is not the collection of appropriate information and be sufficiently informed about the diverse and changing needs in the area of diversity.  The study also underlines that the host organizations are beginning to bring the dynamic change in the diversity of their own organizations and identify the specific challenges they face.  For example, many research participants acknowledged the importance of effective management and diversity have been able to describe the challenge s inherent in integrating a diverse staff. However, while research shows some recognition of the diversity of challenges there are questions regarding the identification of the full scope and range of the diversity of challenges facing those operating in the sector.  For example, some research participants saw diversity issues in a purely internal (in terms of managing diverse employees) and fails to recognize the diversity of external challenges that exist with regard to clients (under the law  Equality 2000 discrimination against customers on the basis of nine grounds of discrimination is prohibited and may result in legal challenges). Questions have also been highlighted regarding the identification of opportunities for diversity.For example, many research participants were able to describe changes in their organizations had done in order to treat or prevent diversity programs (eg the introduction of training or development of policies to deny  against prejudice).  On the other hand, few were able to describe the actions of their organizations had undertaken to take advantage of opportunities for increased diversity (such as development and marketing services to attract new and different segments, thus increasing  their market share and increase profits). Finally, research shows that if the home many organizations have engaged in gathering information and identifying problems on a reactive basis, which is less in respect of more proactive measures.  For example, some participants in focus groups described how their organizations have made decisions and made changes based on the variety of incidents had already occurred.  As reiterated by a research participant Were training required because we already had a number of cases. However there was less evidence of companies collecting information, identifying potential problems and resolve  these problems before they actually arise. Options Diversity: A number of questions about diversity of options have been identified which are: The study emphasizes that host many organizations are beginning to take decisions and to Diversity  choose effective options for diversity change.  For example, some host companies are now employing a diverse staff, engage in appropriate training in diversity and development of diversity policies. However, there are problems concerning the extent to which diversity plans are fully thought through (decision alternatives are not properly developed and evaluated to arrive at the best option for change) and the extent to which the impact  decisions on the chosen variety of other areas of operation is envisaged.  For example, some research participants said that they had taken the decision to employ staff nonnational they did not consider the impact this would have on existing national staff.  As will be seen by a participant in the research of these organizations now dealing with a whole new set of challenges to the extent that they have to manage how employees react India Although the study indicates an evolution towards the decision of thediversity within the area there are questions as to the whole scope and range of decisions (necessary to ensure compliance and effectively manage diversity) may not be in place. For example, organizations invest in May  resources in tra ining their own employees on diversity issues, but they neglect to ensure that contract staff employed by other agencies (such as door staff) received training sufficient diversity or are not even  aware of the diversity of organizations / equality policies. If this contract staffs are involved in an incident at the diversity of the organization itself can diversity activities softer (such as holding intercultural  or days of ethnic foods), but fail to take difficult decisions diversity around the developing diversity policy and training initiatives. Finally, issues relating to the time perspective in current decision making diversity were raised.Because decision making diversity tends to be reactive the long-term perspective necessary to effectively manage diversity in the future may not be in place.  For example, some hospitality students who attended the awareness sessions small provision has been made to ensure that students entering the industry are trained on diversity issues. The imperatives of diversity: A number of questions were raised about the diversity imperative, which include the following: Research shows that while the host organizations have begun to assign responsibility for diversity  does not appear to B happens on a broad base of organization or even holistic. For example, in diversity, some organizations is entirely administered by the HR staff or supervisors and as such does not form part  all organizational roles. As reiterated by one participant: I leave that to my managers and supervisors to manage   Another problem for the industry centers on the development of reward and effective control structures around diversity.  Research demonstrates that when people are not rewarded or controlled then the decision making or the diversity of behaviors effective diversity does not become a priority for these people.  As reiterated by a research participant Interfaces Diversity: A number of questions were raised about diversity interfaces, which include the following: There is some evidence to suggest that those operating in the sector began to focus on the development of  cooperation on diversity. For example, some host organizations have established committees for diversity while others have regular meetings attended by the diversity of people from different areas and levels of the organization  . However, in companies where the responsibility for diversity is attributed to a single person or a service, interagency cooperation around diversity May be a problem. A similar situation can be found at the industry level where there is little  evidence of the diversity of cooperation between organizations (eg information sharing or sector wide regular meetings to discuss issues). The research also indicates problems in the development of the feedback diversity and effective communication structures.  The continuous feeding information back into the decision-making and effective communication is essential if organizations are to learn and benefit from the experience of diversity in the long term. Awareness of diversity: As indicated in the previous section, research findings indicate a number of questions regarding the Diversity Awareness, which includes gathering information on diversity, identification of the diversity of challenges and  opportunities (as they relate to the specific context) and the development of proactive diversity measures. In addressing these issues, the following measures are recommended: Both industry and the corporate level, it is important that the diversity of information is collected systematically, effectively and continuously.  To achieve this organizations need to establish what type of data that diversity is necessary (such as information on changes in legislation on equality or diversity of best practices at national or international) where the relevant information can  be obtained (eg, quality Authority systems, Island and the Legal Office directly Equality Investigations) and the degree of effectiveness can be developed to ensure that data is captured and stored in a manner that is conducive to effective  decision making. Once the information has been collected, it must be proactively used to permanently identify the full scope and extent of the diversity of challenges and opportunities faced by the particular context.  To ensure a complete evaluation every individual in the context necessary to identify the challenges and opportunities affecting their role.  For example, those in receipt of a hotel may face problems that center on further implementation where diversity as managers earlier in the hierarchy May be more concerned about planning for diversity (  such as developing policies to ensure compliance with equality legislation).  Where there is an effect may lead to legal challenges (which follows in May negative reputation legal or financial results). Options Diversity: As indicated earlier research highlighted a number of Options diversity issues such as identification of alternatives diversity decision, decisions of the diversity and the decision of the  diversity of perspectives over time.  In addressing these questions should be considered: In the decision of the diversity, it is important that decision alternatives are developed, tested and chosen the best option (as opposed to jumping the decision most obvious or simple solution that comes to mind without thinking fully  options through).  In the development of alternative organizations should evaluate the decision other case studies (which have addressed similar problems or opportunities), look at what happens in the sectors of hospitality outside India, engage in problem  diversity issues, brainstorm and try to have representatives of all levels and areas of the organization involved in the process of decision making for diversity. Once a particular change option is selected, it is important to achieve integration and consistency between plans of diversity and other areas of organizational decision making.  In our experience, it may happen that the customer service at odds with the plans of diversity policies or vice versa.  For example, if a customer refuses to deal with an employee nonnational policy diversity in May prescribe a plan of action (whether the customer is informed that this is discrimination and given no choice but to deal with  staff member) where, as the customer service plan may accommodate the customer called at any time.  In achieving coherence between the different body plans, it is important that the impact of the diversity of decisions on other areas of operation is constantly evaluated and that individuals from different levels and areas of the  organization are involved in the process of decision making for diversity. Organizations must ensure that the full scope and range of decisions Diversity (required to ensure compliance with equality legislation) are taken.  Realizing this, it is important that all organizational roles is assessed, including the challenges and opportunities related to these roles are identified and that appropriate decisions are taken on this basis. Outlook appropriate time should underpin all decisions of the range of decisions (eg in some cases, a short-term perspective is necessary if, as in other prospects in the longer term will be necessary). Imperatives of diversity: The search results a number of diversity imperative issues including the allocation of responsibility for diversity, reward diversity and developing control structures and management support of the  diversity. In dealing with these issues, the following are recommended: By implementing effective diversity plans, it is important that responsibility is spread across a broad organizational base and comprehensive (ie all employees should be responsible for diversity in the context of their own role).  In achieving this number of measures are necessary, which include assessment of roles, identification of the nature and level of responsibility appropriate range for each job, the attribution of responsibility to the diversity of individual roles (all employees must be aware of their responsibilities in writing) and consideration of the responsibility for diversity over time .Once people have given responsibility, it is important that there be ongoing evaluation.  In this regard, different reward structures (where people are rewarded for positive diversity staffing decision-making or behavior) must be developed.  In addition, control structures to discourage people from engaging in the variety of negative behaviors (such as jokes in the workplace or other negative forms of discrimination) should be in place.  Political leadership and management support are absolutely critical in facilitating specific responsibilities related to diversity. Interfaces diversity: As indicated earlier research highlights a number of questions about diversity interfaces, which include internal cooperation and external diversity and development of structures of the diversity of feedback. In  dealing with these issues, the following measures are recommended: Interorganizational cooperation is important if diversity must be managed effectively.  For this purpose, the individual host organizations may establish committees of diversity (composed of people from different areas and levels of the organization), the conduct of the diversity of regular meetings and ensure timely and streaming  diversity TwoWay. External communication of diversity and cooperation (ie with other organizations in the sector) may be beneficial.  To achieve that representatives of different industry groupings should look to meet regularly to share information, solve problems and learn from the experiences of each other.  In addition, the information industry of the Cross: Diversity Working Group (to act as a support mechanism for the sector in relation to issues of diversity and assist organizations in moving to meet the  challenges and opportunities presented by diversity) should be considered. The structures must be in place to ensure that the diversity of information is continuously fed back into the hierarchy and in every stage of decision making.  In this way, organizations can ensure they continually learn both positive and negative experiences of diversity. (Wrench, J, 2001) Conclusion and general recommendations: In recent years dynamic diversity change have created new opportunities and challenges for organizations operating in the India economy.  This contribution briefly describes the research that was conducted for the India Hotel and restaurant around the Institute of the diversity of challenges faced by those working in the hospitality sector.  The study stresses that in view of the diversity of this sector is currently facing a series of questions.  Which focus on planning issues of diversity (such as identifying the diversity of challenges, opportunities and make effective decisions for diversity) and aspects of implementation (such as allocation of responsibility for diversity  and the creation of internal / external cooperation around diversity). To meet these challenges (both sectoral and organizational level), the following steps are recommended: Systems must be put in place to enable the ongoing collection and processing of informat ion diversity.  Mechanisms must be developed to facilitate the proactive identification of the diversity of challenges and opportunities over the long term.  Decision diversity effectiveness of decision making must be undertaken (which requires the identification of alternative decisions, choosing the most appropriate option, assessing the impact of decisions on other areas of diversity of the  company and if necessary by taking a long term approach to decision making).  Responsibility for diversity should be allocated to an organizational level and in the context of all the roles.  Reward and diversity of effective control structures should be developed and implemented.  Supporting diversity and leadership must be provided.  Cross-industry cooperation and interaction around diversity should be developed and maintained.  The diversity of structures appropriate information needed to facilitate the learning of the diversity of experiences.  Training in diversity and diversity management must be part of the curriculum in colleges host.  Diversity training and attitude of the company to diversity should be included in the initial training.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Essay examples -- Information Te

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. RFID is the use of a wireless non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data from a tag attached to an object (Wikipedia.com, 2012). RFID is a type of identification system devices that stored data, identification or location of the products. The RFID tag can be put onto an object and used to track and manage inventory, assets, people, etc. For example, it can be put into cars, computer equipment, books, mobile phones, etc. RFID can be used in a variety of applications such as access the management when there is need to access the office. They need to put their identification card that has their details to make sure they pass the security check. It is more to make sure that only authorized people can enter the premises. The tracking of good can also been done with RFID when the company wants to shipping their product somewhere far away and there are tags on the delivery of goods that enable them to track them whenever the goods being taken to. RFID can also track persons and animals as there are tags that can be put into their bodies or accessories. The police often used them to track bad people or when doing the undercover to protect the officer on duty. Tool collection is the often things that you can see closely related to RFID that we people used in our daily life. The â€Å"Touch n Go† is the perfect example of RFID. RFID is also being used in the machine readable travel documents, which is the machine that reads the passport to confirm the identity of the person before they been given permission to go in and out from one country to another. In airport, RFID is also being used in the baggage tracking logistics where each one of the baggage... ...nline] available from (20 April 2012) Thesmartsense.com (2011) VingCard’s ‘Signature RFID’ [online] available from (20 April 2012) Citeseerx.ist.psu.edu (2005) David Molnar, David Wagner - A Scalable, Delegatable Pseudonym Protocol Enabling Owner Transfer of RFID Tags [online] available from (22 April 2012) Autoidlabs.org (2007) Konidala, Divyan, Kim & Kwangjo - RFID Reader Mutual Authentication Scheme Utilizing Tags [online] available from (22 April 2012) Itlaw.wikia.com (2012) Guidelines for Securing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Systems [online] available from (22 April 2012) Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Essay examples -- Information Te RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. RFID is the use of a wireless non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data from a tag attached to an object (Wikipedia.com, 2012). RFID is a type of identification system devices that stored data, identification or location of the products. The RFID tag can be put onto an object and used to track and manage inventory, assets, people, etc. For example, it can be put into cars, computer equipment, books, mobile phones, etc. RFID can be used in a variety of applications such as access the management when there is need to access the office. They need to put their identification card that has their details to make sure they pass the security check. It is more to make sure that only authorized people can enter the premises. The tracking of good can also been done with RFID when the company wants to shipping their product somewhere far away and there are tags on the delivery of goods that enable them to track them whenever the goods being taken to. RFID can also track persons and animals as there are tags that can be put into their bodies or accessories. The police often used them to track bad people or when doing the undercover to protect the officer on duty. Tool collection is the often things that you can see closely related to RFID that we people used in our daily life. The â€Å"Touch n Go† is the perfect example of RFID. RFID is also being used in the machine readable travel documents, which is the machine that reads the passport to confirm the identity of the person before they been given permission to go in and out from one country to another. In airport, RFID is also being used in the baggage tracking logistics where each one of the baggage... ...nline] available from (20 April 2012) Thesmartsense.com (2011) VingCard’s ‘Signature RFID’ [online] available from (20 April 2012) Citeseerx.ist.psu.edu (2005) David Molnar, David Wagner - A Scalable, Delegatable Pseudonym Protocol Enabling Owner Transfer of RFID Tags [online] available from (22 April 2012) Autoidlabs.org (2007) Konidala, Divyan, Kim & Kwangjo - RFID Reader Mutual Authentication Scheme Utilizing Tags [online] available from (22 April 2012) Itlaw.wikia.com (2012) Guidelines for Securing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Systems [online] available from (22 April 2012)

Role of US Military Action in President Bushs War Essay -- September

Role of US Military Action in President Bush's War      Ã‚  Ã‚   An observant 12 year old told the New York Times Magazine not long ago that, "War is not like one attack; it's a big deal." On September 11, 2001, America was the target of an attack that left over five thousand people dead and many more wounded. President Bush has since declared a war on terrorism, but unlike conventional wars, this one has no discrete enemy and must be fought on a number of different "fronts." Fighting a war on terrorism cannot be fought in the traditional sense, by the very definition of terrorism. Various fronts are necessary in America's fight against terrorism, taking the form of economic, political, and military actions. Worldwide cooperation against terrorism has proven to be unreliable, and it will be shown here, that America's insistence on military action, in light of faltering international cooperation, makes the use of force the most important front in President Bush's war on terrorism.    (2) President George W. Bush has said that the "war" against global terrorism is a matter of "good and evil." Evil is presumably to be characterized by "those who conduct terrorist acts against the United States, those who sponsor them, those who harbor them, and those who challenge freedom wherever it may exist." Terrorism however, is not war. War is a confrontation on clear lines between identified parties, where there is sustained and concerted military action by military personnel who use the material, weaponry and military tactics of war. According to President Bush's executive order, number 13224, the term terrorism is defined as:    (3) An activity that involves a violent act or an act dangerous to human life, property, or infrastru... ...k Times Magazines." New York Times 23 Sept. 2001: 77. 2. US Embassy Website. http://www.usembassy.bg/asset.html 3. Yahoo News. http://us.news2.yimg.com/f/42/31/7m/dailynews.yahoo.com/h/nm/20010912/wl/attack_usa_pakistan_dc_4.html 4. Israeli Government Site. http://www.mfa.gov.il/mfa/go.asp?MFAH0k4q0 5. Terrorism. Executive Order 13224 Blocking Property and Prohibiting Transactions with Persons who Commit, Threaten to Commit, or support Terrorism 23. Sept. 2001: 2. 6. Terrorism Website. http://www.terrorism.com/terrorism/sloan.shtml 7. White House Website. http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2001/09/20010920-8.html 8. Lexis Nexis. "Zambia; Abdullah Justifies India's Support of US Action against Afghanistan." Africa News Service, Inc. October 25, 2001. 9. Yahoo News (2). http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/ap/20011029/wl/attacks_saudi_1.html

Riordan Manufacturing Business Analysis

Riordan Manufacturing, Inc. Business Analysis Learning Team B BSA 500 University of Phoenix Instructor: Charlotte Bonner October 6, 2008 * Riordan Manufacturing, Inc. Business Analysis * ****INTRO GOES HERE – DANA WILL WRITE IT AS WE NEAR COMPLETION History of Riordan Riordan Manufacturing Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of plastic injection molding components. Some of the components that it manufactures include: plastic bottles, fans of all sizes, heart valves, medical stents, and other custom plastic parts. Riordan is focused on high standards, long term customer relationships, innovation, and growth. The company was originally founded in 1991 by a professor of chemistry, Dr. Riordan, as an outlet for commercial applications for the high tensile strength plastic substrates that Dr. Riordan had developed. Riordan Manufacturing is now a subsidiary of the Fortune 1000 enterprise, Riordan Industries. The company is headquartered in San Jose California, but also has facilities in Georgia, Michigan, and China. Current large projects include the design stage on an innovative bottle in the shape of a pyramid, and the proof of concept stage on a CardiCare heart valve. Information Technology (IT) infrastructure, serving 550 employees, consists of three Wide Area Network (WAN) lines originating from the corporate headquarters in San Jose (125 employees) to the three manufacturing plants in: Michigan (130 employees), Georgia (45 employees), and China (250 employees). Modules Accounting Modules Riordan Manufacturing’s corporate office has integrated ERP software designed purposely for plastics, processors, and process and assembly manufacturers. During acquisition in Georgia and Michigan, the finance and accounting software’s compatibility issue was not addressed. For this reason, Georgia and Michigan have applications which are not compatible with the current financial system. The following is a list of additional modules that should be connected to the accounting system: Inventory Modules The Inventory module will help Riordan Manufacturing with the physical management of their stock (until used up or sold). It will perform a sound cataloging procedure by assigning item numbers that the accounting system can process. Asset Management Modules Asset Management will help Riordan Manufacturing with physical maintenance, tracking of assets, and financial management. Physical maintenance includes the asset location, condition, and the assignment of asset management to specific individuals. Cash Management Modules Cash Management will help Riordan Manufacturing manage and control the cash cycle. It will ensure liquidity and enhance profitability. Benefits of this module include multi-currency capabilities, cash balancing, bank reconciliation, and cash forecasting. Web Applications Modules Web Applications will help Riordan Manufacturing in many ways. Customers and salespeople alike can enter orders through the web. This â€Å"real-time† web configuration will shorten the order cycle, and enhance customer satisfaction. Employees of Riordan will be able to use this medium for expense reporting, supply requisitions, and communication between employees. Multiple Currencies Modules Since Riordan has a joint venture with China, the Multiple Currency module will be of considerable help. Financial transaction with China will be recorded in the sub-ledgers and converted into the â€Å"functional currency† by using current exchange rate information. The transactions will be recorded and maintained in the accounting data. Riordan’s â€Å"functional currency† will be in US dollars. Payroll Modules The Payroll module will apply human resource data to salaries and benefits and determine the amount of pay and how to get the disbursement to the employee. It will take into consideration national tax codes and worldwide regulations. The system can also track and do calculations for data such as sick time, leave of absence, and vacation. Travel/Expense Reporting Modules Because Riordan has multiple offices within the United States and a joint venture with China, travel budgets and expense reporting of trips can be documented into the travel/expense reporting module. Riordan employees and management can use this module to document information such as cost of plane tickets, vehicles, food, and supplies while employees are traveling. General Ledger Modules The accounting process begins with general ledgers. Therefore, this module will help organize Riordan’s financial reports from the first steps. This will make information readily accessible and more easily processed. Accounts payable/receivable Modules Like the general ledger module, this module will help organize Riordan’s accounts payable and receivable, which will better organize their balance sheet. Systems to be connected to the Accounting System Sales and Marketing All of the sales to past customers have been annotated using written methods. Riordan has requested that all past sales records, made up of diverse databases, paper files and microfiche be inputted into a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. The information recorded in these records is largely made up of information that can easily be entered into a CRM database for easy distribution and reproduction between departments. The CRM package will also benefit Riordan by providing the customers access to a front end server (extranet), to be able to create accounts, check account status, pay bills and place orders. Having a single CRM database will provide sales personnel or customer service representatives with the ability to quickly check customer accounting information without having to search through various paper work, microfiche and out of date or inadequate databases. Internally, employees will be able to keep track of various vendors who have a proven track record of discounts, reliable shipping and product innovation. In the past, individual sales employees have managed customer records, and no standard of data recording has been established. Operating in this manner doesn't allow for a cohesive sales team, which is going to be critical for the new team selling approach being implemented by Riordan. A standardization and consolidation of customer records needs to be implemented for the sales team to be more successful in the future. The CRM will consolidate the sales team into one unit rather than individuals servicing specific accounts. Customer relations will be proficient due to the ability of multiple sales personnel being able to acquire and update account information rather than a single person maintaining individual account records. Not to mention when a sales person is not available due to health, personal issues or vacation, another employee will be able to provide information and support. The CRM will then be connected to the Finance & Accounting System. Human Resources Riordan Manufacturing’s Human Resources system should be connected to its accounting system because the Human Resources department handles the employees’ salaries, benefits, employee recognition programs and training programs. These programs do not bring in revenue, however, they are considered costs for the company. Accurate bookkeeping of these activities and incorporation of the figures into the accounting equation is crucial to painting an accurate financial picture of Riordan. Operations The Operations system should also be connected to the accounting system since it outlines inventory, supply and production. Inventory is part of a company’s assets, which is a core part of the accounting equation. In determining its financial state, Riordan needs to have knowledge of its inventory, how much it costs to obtain, how it is used and the cost of operating, or manufacturing products with that inventory. Just like assets are a core part of the accounting process, Operations is a core part of Riordan’s process. Legal Legal systems need to be connected to the accounting system in order to maintain legal watch over the system. One example of how Legal could benefit from a connection to the accounting system is that it would be able to monitor inventory and approve where Riordan products are being sent. This would make sure export laws and restrictions are being met. Legal can also interact with Human Resources, Finance, Sales, and Operations over the accounting system to make sure that all aspects of the legal requirements for corporate accounting are followed. Reports and policies could be put in place by Legal in the system to ensure integrity and ethics. Information Technology IT has many reasons to be connected to the accounting system. Ordering, policy implementation, monitoring, and support are just a few of the aspects of business that would benefit from the Information Technology system being connected to the accounting system. Monitoring, policies, and support are a huge reason for IT to be connected. Accounting is one of the most important aspects to running a business. IT needs to carefully monitor and support validity and integrity within an accounting system as well as ensure proper policies, established in conjunction with legal, are in place. Income Statement Analysis In reviewing the Income Statement for Riordan Manufacturing, there are some concerns on cost expenses that managers will need to adjust. Even though the sales revenue from 2004 to 2005 has increased 10. % from $46 million to $50 million, a combination of direct cost of goods sold and operating expenses has caused the net profit to decrease during the same period. The direct cost of goods sold increased 12. 2% from $37. 5 million to $42 million. A possible cause for this increase may be that Riordan may have abundance of inventory on hand as a result of ordering above the ordering point. Despite the high increase in cost of goods sold, t he gross margin still increased, but by only 2. 6% from $8. 6 million to $8. 8 million. In addition to the 12. % increase in cost of goods sold, the operating expenses also incurred by Riordan Manufacturing increased 8% from $5. 3 million to $5. 7 million. These two big increases in costs incurred compared to the small increase in the gross margin proved to be too much, resulting in a decrease in profit before interest and tax expenses. The profit before taxes and interest expenses decreased 6. 3% from $3. 2 million to $3 million. In addition to the negative figures, there are some positive figures to bring into the mix. Despite the profit before taxes and interest expense decreasing by 6. %, the net profit only decreased by 1. 7% from $2 million to $1. 95 million. The reason for the smaller decrease in the net profit was a 13. 5% decrease in non-operating expenses including tax and interest expenses from $1. 3 million to $1. 1 million. The main focus to increase profits from 2005 t o 2006 would be looking into decreasing the cost of goods sold and some of the operating expenses while continuing the trend in decreasing the non-operating expenses or at least keeping the cost manageable. What the company is doing wrong Riordan’s Inventory accounts for a large share of its current assets (54%). On the surface this may represent a weakness however the company has an inventory turn of 5. 35 (cost of goods sold annually/inventory) which means the company goes though its inventory 5. 35 times per year or every 68 days. Riordan’s products are not perishable and enjoy a very long shelf life so this turnover rate of relatively good. This relatively high turnover rate allows for it to maintain relatively low cash balances as it can raise cash quickly from sale of inventory. This is reflected in the high balance of the accounts receivable. In addition, the company continues to carry a significant long term debt without a noticeable attempt to lessen that debt. Analysis of shareholder equity shows that the value of the company’s shares is greater than the total shareholders’ equity, a sign of deficit. The debt to equity ratio is fairly high at 56%, this a potential sign of weakness as well. While the company has maintained a gross margin of over 8. 5 million for the past two years, its operating expenses have increased during the same period affecting its profit margin. This is a sign that Riordan is not doing well in keeping its costs low to be more profitable. The opportunities would be to focus on increasing sales at the same decreasing general and administrative costs. To achieve this, the company needs to invest in IT systems. Eliminating incompatible systems and consolidating information at it’s headquarter will help in reducing administrative costs. References Riordan Manufacturing. 2004. University of Phoenix. Accessed September 2008 from https://ecampus. phoenix. edu/secure/aapd/CIST/VOP/Business/Riordan/Internet/IndexPort. htm

Cell Cycle Essay

cell growth, normal functions What occurs in G1 in the cell cycle? Cell cycle What is the series of events that cells go through as they grow and divide? G1 What is the longest stage of the cell cycle called? interphase During what stage does the G1,S,and G2 phases happen? Mitosis During what phase of the cell cycle does mitosis and cytokinesis occur? Mitosis During what phase of the cell cycle does cell division occur? S (synthesis) During what phase of the cell cycle is DNA replicated? G1 During what phase of the cell cycle does the cell grow? G2 During what phase of the cell cycle does the cell prepare for mitosis? 4 How many stages are there in mitosis? Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase Put the following stages of mitosis in order: anaphase, prophase, metaphase, and telophase G1, S, G2, M Put the following stages of the cell cycle in order: G2, S, G1, M Cell grows, DNA replication, cell prepares for mitosis, cell division Put the following actions in order: DNA replication, cell grows, cell division, cell prepares for mitosis. For efficiency, the process would take too long if it was bigger Explain why cells don’t just continue to grow larger as organisms grow larger. Why do cell divide? (Write in complete sentences) DNA replication What occurs in S phase of the cell cycle? cell prepares for mitosis What occurs in G2 phase of the cell cycle? cell division What occurs in M phase of the cell cycle? nuclear membrane disapears, spindle fibers form chromosomes condense What occurs in prophase phase of the cell cycle? chromosomes line up at equater What occurs in metaphase phase of the cell cycle? sister chromatids pull apart What occurs in anaphase phase of the cell cycle? chromosomes have separated/ ribosomes begin to form What occurs in telophase phase of the cell cycle? Interphase- G, S, G2 normal cell growth/prep for division Missing from this are Interphase and Cytokinesis. What are they, and when do they occur? (Interphase) physical splitting of the cell Missing from this are Interphase and Cytokinesis. What are they, and when do they occur? (Cytokinesis) D Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): cells at end of mitosis H Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): cells at end of meiosis D Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): liver cell H Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): sperm H Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): egg D Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): skin cell H Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): gamete D Identify whether they are haploid (H) or diploid (D): somatic (body) cell 1 copy of every cell What is a haploid? 2 copies of every cell What is a diploid? 46, 23 Human cells: diploid # ____ haploid #_____ 1. crossing over/ mixing DNA from parents 2. produce gamets Explain how meiosis increases genetic diversity in 2 different ways: 2 # cells produced in Mitosis 4 # cells produced in Meiosis replace cells+get bigger Reasons for occurrence in Mitosis making gametes for sexual reproduction Reasons for occurrence in Meiosis 1 # of divisions in Mitosis 2 # of divisions in Meiosis no Includes crossing over (Y/ N) Mitosis yes Includes crossing over (Y/ N) Meiosis somatic Kind of cells using it (Mitosis) gamets Kind of cells using it (Meiosis)