Computers and Digital Basics

1: Computers and Digital Basics TRUE/FALSE 3. Facebook and Twitter are examples of social networking options. F 6. An operating system is an example of application software. F 7. Because of increased versatility, a videogame console is now considered a personal computer. f 8. The purpose of a server is to serve computers on a network. T 9. In the binary number system, 2 is used to represent the value 2. F 10. The number 9 can be considered a character. T 11. Because most digital devices are electronic, bytes take the form of electrical pulses. F 13.A compiler like the one shown in the accompanying figure converts all statements in a program to machine language in a single batch. T 14. An interpreter converts and executes one statement at a time. T 15. The op code specifies the data. F 16. The operand is a command word for an operation. F 17. All computers are case sensitive. F 18. Trojans are computer programs that seem to perform one function while actually doing something else. T 1 9. To assure you can remember your password it is a good idea to base it on information you can easily remember such as your birthday. F 20.You should always use a different password for every account. F MODIFIED TRUE/FALSEIf False, change the underlined work to make it True!1. Digital technology has made it easy to produce copies of music with no loss of quality from the original. _________________________2. Free source projects promote copying, free distribution, peer review, and user modifications. Open3. An area where data can be left on a permanent basis is memory. storage4. The set of instructions that tells a computer how to carry out processing tasks is a computer program. _________________________ 5. Minicomputers were used for small businesses. ________________________6. A(n) supercomputer is a large and expensive computer capable of simultaneously processing data for hundreds or thousands of users. mainframe7. The term server can refer to a combination of hardware and sof tware. _________________________8. A(n) mainframe specializes in compute-intensive problems. supercomputer9. A light switch is like a(n) analog device. digital10. DIPs and PGAs are both shapes of integrated circuits. _________________________11. The results of statements that have been compiled are called object code. _________________________12. A set of machine language instructions for a program is called source code. machine 13. The ALU uses registers to hold data that is being processed. _________________________14. A(n) keylogger is a form of malicious code. _________________________15. A(n) account manager stores user IDs with their corresponding passwords and automatically fills in login forms. passwordMULTIPLE CHOICE1. Digital electronics use electronic ____ to represent data. a. circuits c. transistors b. switches d. components2. Key factors in making electronic devices increasingly smaller and less expensive include ____. . transistors c. both a and b b. integrated circui ts d. neither a nor b3. The first digital computers were built during World War II for ____. a. census taking c. communication b. code breaking d. troop placement4. Initially sales were slow for the personal computer because of ____. a. price c. lack of software b. size d. lack of availability5. In 1982, the percentage of households that had a computer was fewer than ____ percent. a. 10 c. 50 b. 30 d. 706. A global computer network originally developed as a military project is the ____. a. World Wide Web c. Wide-area network b. Internet d. Local-area network7. ____ allow members to post comments and questions that can be read and responded to by others. a. E-mail lists c. Chat groups b. Bulletin boards d. Social networks8. ____ are where people exchange typed messages in real time. a. E-mail lists c. Chat groups b. Bulletin boards d. Online social networks9. ____ provide a space for interacting with friends or friends of those friends. a. E-mail lists c. Chat groups b. Bulletin boar ds d. Online social networks10. A group of computers linked by wired or wireless technology is a(n) ____. a. network c. cyberspace . Web d. Internet11. The ____ is a collection of linked documents, graphics, and sounds. a. network c. cyberspace b. Web d. Internet12. ____ is a term that refers to entities that exist largely within computer networks. a. Web c. WWW b. Internet d. Cyberspace13. ____ is the process of converting text, numbers, sound, photos, and video into data that can be processed by digital devices. a. Digitization c. Scanning b. Digital conversion d. Rasterization14. Technology ____ is a process by which several different technologies with distinct functionality evolve to form a single product. a. volution c. convergence b. rotation d. diversification15. More than ____ percent of cameras sold today are digital. a. 80 c. 90 b. 85 d. 9916. Digital imaging has had an effect in the following areas: ____. a. medicine c. photo processing b. video d. all of the above17. ___ _ tools cloak a person’s identity online. a. Anonymizer c. ID free b. Free ID d. Cloaking18. A computer is a multiple purpose device that can do all of the following EXCEPT ____. a. store data c. accept input b. process data d. think independently19. In a computer, most processing takes place in ____. a. memory c. he CPU b. RAM d. the motherboard20. An electronic component that can be programmed to perform tasks is a ____. a. CPU c. transistor b. microprocessor d. none of the above21. A named collection of data that exists on a storage medium is known as (a) ____. a. memory c. file name b. file d. none of the above22. An area of a computer that temporarily holds data waiting to be processed is ____. a. CPU c. storage b. memory d. a file23. A set of computer programs that helps a person carry out a task is ____. a. an operating system c. application software b. system software d. Windows24.A set of computer programs that helps a computer monitor itself and function more effici ently is ____. a. a software suite c. application software b. system software d. processing software25. The master controller for all activities that take place within a computer is ____. a. application software c. the operating system b. system software d. the CPU 26. A(n) ____ is a microprocessor-based computing device designed to meet the computing needs of an individual. a. personal computer c. ALU b. mainframe d. server27. An ordinary personal computer that is connected to a network is a ____. a. mainframe c. server . workstation d. console28. A powerful desktop computer used for high-performance tasks is a ____. a. mainframe c. server b. workstation d. console29. A compute-intensive problem runs on a ____. a. server c. supercomputer b. mainframe d. super PC30. Data becomes ____ when it is presented in a format that people can understand and use. a. information c. graphs b. processed d. presentation31. The type of data where text, numbers, graphics, sound, and video have been c onverted into discrete digits as represented in the accompanying figure is ____. a. information c. digital b. analog d. none of the above32. The type of data that is represented using an infinite scale of values as represented in the accompanying figure is ____. a. information c. digital b. analog d. none of the above33. The binary number 10 represents ____ in the decimal number system. a. 1 c. 10 b. 2 d. 10034. The type of code that uses only seven bits for each character is ____. a. ASCII c. EBCDIC b. Extended ASCII d. all of the above35. The type of code that uses eight bits for each character is ____. a. ASCII c. EBCDIC b. Extended ASCII d. all of the above36. Digital devices can use ____ as a code to represent character data. . ASCII c. EBCDIC b. Extended ASCII d. all of the above37. You might represent ____ using character codes. a. color dots c. Social Security numbers b. bank balances d. none of the above38. Data transmission speeds are typically expressed as ____. a. bits c . hertz b. bytes d. none of the above39. Storage is typically expressed as ____. a. bits c. hertz b. bytes d. none of the above40. 1,024 bytes is a ____. a. kilobyte c. gigabyte b. megabyte d. terabyte41. 1,048,576 bytes is a ____. a. kilobyte c. gigabyte b. megabyte d. terabyte42. 1,073,741,824 bytes is a ____. a. kilobyte c. igabyte b. megabyte d. terabyte43. A super-thin slice of semiconducting material packed with microscopic circuit elements is a(n) ____. a. integrated circuit c. microchip b. computer chip d. all of the above44. The accompanying figure represents two types of chip carriers. The one on the left is a ____. a. PGA c. PID b. DIP d. GAP45. The accompanying figure represents two types of chip carriers. The one on the right is a ____. a. PGA c. PID b. DIP d. GAP46. The ____ houses all essential chips and provides connecting circuitry between them. a. system board c. circuit board b. ousing board d. chip board47. C, BASIC, COBOL, and Java are examples of ____ programmi ng languages. a. low-level c. system b. computer d. high-level48. The human-readable version of a program is called ____. a. source code c. human code b. program code d. system code49. A(n) ____ converts all the statements in a program in a single batch and the resulting collection of instructions is placed in a new file. a. compiler c. converter b. interpreter d. instruction50. A(n) ____ converts and executes one statement at a time. a. compiler c. converter b. interpreter d. instruction51. A collection of preprogrammed activities such as addition, subtraction, counting and comparison is called a(n) ____. a. compiler code c. machine code b. interpreter code d. instruction set52. ____, as shown in the accompanying figure can be directly executed by the processors’s circuitry. a. Machine sets c. Programming language b. Machine language d. none of the above53. The ____ is a command word for an operation such as add, compare, or jump. a. op code c. ALU b. operand d. instruction code54. The ____ from an instruction specifies the data. a. op code c. ALU b. operand d. instruction code55. The ____ is the part of the microprocessor that performs arithmetic operations, as shown in the accompanying figure. a. instruction pointer c. ALU b. RAM d. control unit56. As shown in the accompanying figure, the ____ fetches each instruction. a. RAM c. ALU b. instruction pointer d. control unit57. The accompanying figure represents the instruction cycle. The first step is Box A and represents the ____. a. fetch instruction c. execute instruction b. interpret instruction d. increment pointer58. The accompanying figure represents the instruction cycle. The second step is Box B and represents the ____. a. etch instruction c. execute instruction b. interpret instruction d. increment pointer59. The accompanying figure represents the instruction cycle. The third step is Box C and represents the ____. a. fetch instruction c. execute instruction b. interpret instruction d. incremen t pointer60. The accompanying figure represents the instruction cycle. The fourth step is Box D and represents the ____. a. fetch instruction c. execute instruction b. interpret instruction d. increment pointer61. In terms of an authentication protocol, the phrase ‘something a person knows’ refers to ____. a. a password c. biometrics b. n ID card d. none of the above62. A ____ is a series of characters that becomes a person’s unique identifier. a. PIN code c. user ID b. password d. all of the above63. In terms of an authentication protocol, the phrase ‘something a person possesses’ could refer to ____. a. a password c. biometrics b. an ID card d. none of the above64. In terms of an authentication protocol, the phrase ‘something a person is’ refers to a(n) ____. a. password c. biometric device b. ID card d. none of the above65. A problem a hacker can cause after breaking into your computer include(s) ____. a. applying for credit in your n ame c. pply for a mortgage using your data b. sending embarrassing e-mails d. all of the above66. A term which can refer to a person who manipulates computers with malicious intent is a ____. a. black hat c. hacker b. cracker d. all of the above67. A ____ attack uses password-cracking software. a. brute force c. phishing b. sniffing d. cracker68. ____ intercepts information sent over computer networks. a. Brute force c. Phishing b. Sniffing d. Cracking69. A hacker posing as a legitimate representative of an official organization such as your bank is an example of ____. a. brute force c. phishing b. sniffing d. cracking70. Password management functions include all of the following EXCEPT ____. a. generating passwords c. providing password strength b. tracking passwords d. recording keystrokes Case-Based Critical Thinking Questions Case 1-1 Karen is trying to get organized and one of her issues is that she doesn’t know what kind of devices correspond to her needs.71. Karen need s an appointment book and is considering one that is digital. For this one piece of equipment, she does not want the device to do anything except maintain her calendar. You suggest she consider a ____. a. PDA c. handheld computer b. smart phone d. BlackBerry72. After you and Karen talk a little longer, she recognizes that she might need a device that in addition to her appointment book will have features such as e-mail, Web access, a built-in camera, and GPS. You suggest she consider a(n) ____. a. iPod c. handheld computer b. regular PDA d. CPU73. If Karen were looking for a device that in addition to voice communications, offers full qwerty keypad, text messaging, e-mail, Web access, removable storage, camera, FM radio, digital music player, and software options for games, financial management, personal organizer, GPS and maps, she might consider a(n) ____. a. regular PDA c. andheld computer b. smart phone d. iPod Case-Based Critical Thinking Questions Case 1-2 Mike and Andre are d iscussing how quickly technology changes. They are discussing how it seems devices are merging to create new products especially in the technology field. They understand this is a process called convergence.74. An example of an old form of convergence is a ____. a. clock radio c. television b. cell phone d. microwave oven75. A great example of convergence in modern technology is ____. a. clock radio c. television b. cell phones d. HD-TV76. A barrier to the rapid deployment of many products resulting from convergence is ____. . rare technology breakthroughs c. people aren’t ready b. legal issues d. both b and c Case-Based Critical Thinking Questions Case 1-3 Jim has just purchased a new computer and it has made him think about how it works. He is particularly interested in how information is processed and stored in his computer. He has come to you for help.77. Jim wants to know why a compiler converts all statements in a program at one time and places them into an object code. You tell him it is so that ____. a. the code is ready to execute b. you can prevent the introduction of new errors c. you can put it on a chip d. one of the above78. Jim knows that a collection of preprogrammed activities is an instruction set. He wants to know what an instruction set is designed to do. You tell him it is designed to ____. a. carry out a particular task b. allow programmers to use them in creative ways for multiple tasks c. limit the number of tasks the computer can perform d. allow the program to run on multiple machines79. Jim wants to know what machine language instructions look like to the machine. You tell him they appear as ____. a. an op code and operand c. basic instructions, such as add b. a series of 0s and 1s d. ll of the above80. When adding two numbers, Jim knows that each number is going into its own register and the control unit provides the instructions such as add. He wants to know where the result of the add goes. You tell him it goes to ____. a. the ALU c. the accumulator b. another register d. the printerCOMPLETION1. An ongoing process of social, political, and economic change brought about by digital technology is the digital revolution.2. At the consumer level, probably the most significant force driving research into fast computers and more sophisticated graphics processing is computer gaming.3.The potential downside of convergence is quality.4. The expectation that a person’s information will not be collected or divulged without permission is confidentiality.5. The ownership of certain types of information, ideas, or representations is intellectual property.6. Worldwide economic interdependence of countries that occurs as cross-border commerce increases and as money flows more freely among countries is globalization.7. A term that refers to the gap between people who have access to technology and those who do not is the digital divide.8. Symbols that represent facts, objects, and ideas are data.9. The manipulati on of data is called processing.10. The concept that a series of instructions for a computing task can be loaded into memory is called a stored program.11. Any software or digital device that requests data from a server is referred to as a(n) client.12. The type of computer that is considered one of the fastest in the world is a(n) supercomputer.13. A special-purpose microprocessor that is built into the machine it controls is a(n) microcontroller.14. The term that refers to the form in which data is stored, processed, and transmitted is data representation.15. In the accompanying figure, the type of sound wave indicated by A is analog.16. In the accompanying figure, as indicated by B, the sound wave has been sliced into samples and so has been digitized.17. Eight bits is a(n) byte.18. A machine language instruction has two parts, the op code and the operand.19. Identifying a person by personal attributes such as fingerprints or retinal patterns is called biometrics.20. Hackers can guess your password by stepping through a dictionary. This process is called a dictionary attack.

Midwest Office Products

Questions for Midwest Office Products 1. Based on the interviews and data in the case, estimate: a. The cost of processing cartons through the facility 80000 total cartons Warehouse expenses = $2000000 Warehouse personnel expenses = $2570000-$250000 (truck driver expenses) = $2320000 Total warehouse processing expenses: $2000000 + $2320000 = $4,320,000 $4320000/80000= $54/carton b. The cost of entering electronic and manual customer orders Manual: . 15 hours setup time, . 075 hours to enter each line Electronic: . 1 hours to verify information on the electronic order 16 order entry operators 840000 in total compensation Each order entry operator worked 1750 hours per year but only 1500 hours per year of productivity 840000/16 = $52500 avg salary per operator $52500/1500hrs = $35 per hour Electronic orders: . 1hrs *$35/hr = $3. 5/electronic order Manual Orders: . 15*$35 +. 075*$35*number of lines= cost per order Input cost=. 15*35 = 5. 25 Cost per line = . 075*35 = 2. 63 c. The cost o f shipping cartons on commercial carriers 75000 cartons shipped $450000 spent on freight $450000/75000 cartons = $6 per carton d. The cost per hour for desktop deliveries vg delivery time=3 hours 5000 cartons shipped 2000 deliveries2. 5 cartons each delivery $250000 total compensation per year $200000 for delivery truck expenses Each driver worked 1500 hours per year $166. 67/hr Driver compensation: $250000/2000 = $125 per delivery Truck expenses: $200000/2000 = $100 per delivery Total cost for desktop deliveries: $225/3 hrs = $75/hr 2. Using this cost driver information, calculate the cost and profitability of the five orders in Exhibit 2. Compare these costs and profitability to those calculated by Midwest’s existing costing system? Exhibit 2| Five Orders| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Order| Â  | Â  | Â  | 1| 2| 3| 4| 5| Price| | | | $ 610 | $ 634 | $ 6,100 | $ 6,340 | $ 6,100 | Acquisition cost| | | | 500| 500| 5000| 5000| 5000| No. cartons in order| | | | 1| 1| 10| 10| 10| No. cartons shipped| | | | 1| 0| 10| 0| 10| Desktop delivery time| | | | -| 4| -| 4| -| Manual order| | | | no| yes| no| yes| yes| No. line items in order| | | | 1| 1| 10| 10| 10| Electronic order| | | | yes| no| yes| no| no| Payment period (months)| | | | 1| 4| 1| 4| 4| | | | | | | | | Warehousing costs| | | | 54| 54| 540| 540| 540| Shipping costs| | | | 6| 0| 60| 0| 60| Desktop Delivery cost| | | | | 300| | 300| | Manual Order cost| | | | | 7. 875| | 31. 5| 31. 5| Electronic order cost| | | | 3. 5| | 3. 5| | | Payment period cost| | | | $ 6. 10 | $ 25. 36 | $ 61. 00 | $ 253. 60 | $ 244. 00 | Total Costs| | | | 569. 6| 887. 235| 5664. 5| 6125. 1| 5875. 5| Profits| | | | $ 40 | $ (253)| $ 436 | $ 215 | $ 225 | | | | | | | | | | Current system profits| | | | $ 110 | $ 134 | $ 1,100 | $ 1,340 | $ 1,100 | 3. Explain the difference in profitability of the five orders calculated by the ABC system and the company’s existing cost system. In the company’s existing system, they markup the acquisition costs by a certain percentage to determine the price that they charge their customers. Using this method, all of the sales appear profitable because only the acquisition cost is directly considered in determining their pricing. However, several other activities drive higher costs for the company and a standard percentage markup does not always capture that cost. In some instances, they could even lose money by making the sale. By using the ABC system, the company can have a more realistic view on how much each order costs them by considering the activities which go into the process (the number of cartons, shipping costs, delivery costs, and order processing costs) and charge for these services accordingly. 4. Based on your analysis above, what actions should John Malone take to improve Midwest’s profitability? John should switch to an ABC system as it provides the proper visibility and clarity into the company’s costs. They can then markup the products based on the total costs instead of applying a standard percentage, which does not properly assess the actual cost to the company, to the acquisition cost. This ability to price based on their actual costs would eliminate some potentially unprofitable transactions (like the desktop delivery where the items price did not cover the costs) .

Literature review- burnout among construction workers

A case of burnout among project managers in the South African construction Industry. Burnout Is a syndrome which Is commonly found among Individuals working In high pressure environments and is defined as a negative experience which results from the interaction between the individual and the environment (Yip and Rollins, 2009).Burnout is known to be a syndrome characterized by three dimensions; these dimensions being emotional exhaustion, cynicism and personal inefficacy; burnout affects individuals in a way that they are likely to feel as if they have a lack of energy, cynical attitude which causes distancing from work and are inclined to view themselves in a negative light causing them to feel dissatisfied with their achievements in the workplace (Miasmal et al, cited in Yip and Rollins, 2009).The construction Industry Is a complex and demanding environment which consists of long working hours and as a result can cause mental and physical exhaustion (YIP and Rollins, 2009). Charac teristics of the construction Industry which Include multilevel subcontracting, time pressure, constant worker rotation and an unstable work environment are what could contribute to the psychological stress experienced y managers in the construction industry; these stress causing factors are what justify studying the prevalence of burnout in the construction industry (Amelia and Bacterial, 2007).The level of burnout among project managers in the construction industry: Existing literature discusses burnout in terms of the three dimensions, emotional exhaustion, cynicism and personal inefficacy, and relates these constructs of burnout to turnover Intention, Job satisfaction, demographic characteristics, work engagement and organizational commitment; the literature also considers the prevalence of runt In the construction Industry and the effects thereof on the performance of employees.Emotional exhaustion occurs when an individual has been under too much burden and as a result their e motional resources have been used up (Kill, Pent and Selves, 2011). Cynicism is representative of the interpersonal dimension of burnout and refers to â€Å"a negative, callous, or excessively detached response to various aspects of the job† (Letter and Miasmal, 2004, p. 93). In addition, Letter and Miasmal (2004) notes that personal inefficacy relates to self-evaluation and refers to linings of incompetence, a lack of productivity and a lack of achievement in the work place.According to COB (cited In Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011) the construction Industry Is a stressful Industry where often, many of the professionals suffer from stress. Project managers in the construction industry take on the role of a middle ground departments, construction professionals, consultancies, contractors, sub-contractors, and suppliers (Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011). Hamilton (cited in Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011), noted that a construction project manager acts as the leader of a empowers construc tion team during the different phases of a project life cycle.In addition to dealing with demanding time schedules, limited site resources and uncertainties, project managers also need to plan, organize and supervise the progress and safety of the work as well as motivate the teams on the construction site (Ritz, cited in cited in Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011). For construction project managers, interpersonal relationships is also needed to accomplish good performance (Disbarred, 1996; Lung et al. , 2009), thus, burnout among construction project managers can be considered to include exhaustion, cynicism, reduced reflections efficacy (Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011).According to Cherries and Brandenburg (cited in Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011), burnout starts with exposure to excessive Job stress which results from long and irregular working hours and produces strain among construction project managers which eventually leads to burnout. This is supported by Bowen, Edwards and Leningrad (2 013) who states that in the construction industry, work hours are long and the inability to meet project objectives is sometimes caused by unexpected events.Based on a study of 108 construction project managers, the results showed that burnout mongo construction project managers occurs as a result of Job stress, the occurrence of burnout then acts as a catalyst for physiological stress (Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011). The study by Lung, Chain and Dungy (2011) correlates with the argument presented by Monster, Peters and Roost (201 1), which states that burnout results from high work demands which need to be dealt with under limited resources which leads to negative experiences which accumulate and results in burnout.Lung, Chain and Dungy (2011) states that it is important for project managers to recognize their Job stress in the early stages, from this point they recommend that takeovers assess the stress shown by the project managers and rearrange the work allocation accordingly; sub sequent to this, firms should regularly monitor the level of stress and burnout shown by the project managers and offer sources of social support which could include non-work related gatherings.Contrary to the views shared by Lung, Chain and Dungy (2011) as well as Monster, Peters and Roost (201 1), which state that long working hours and high demands are what leads to Job stress and ultimately burnout, IBM et al (2011) argue that long working hours is not the main source of stress but rather budget related pressures ND ambitious deadlines. IBM et al (2011) do however agree with Ritz (cited in Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011), that factors which contribute to Job stress include high work volume and safety and security concerns on site.Brand-Leprechauns, Monster and Earthman (2012) discussed that over the past decade, work related well-being specifically related to burnout and work engagement Construction Regulations in South Africa introduced psychological well-being in the Occupational Health Safety Act; the purpose of this Act was to create a framework which ensures higher levels of health and safety in the industry (Deacon and Eke 006, cited in Brand-Leprechauns, Monster and Earthman, 2012).According to Bowen, Edwards and Leningrad (2013), the construction industry is known as a high- stress working environment which affects the health and well-being of the people in it. Based on the literature reviewed for the purpose of this study, it is evident that there are studies which discuss burnout within the context of the South African construction industry, however not many studies have been done to measure specifically the level of burnout among project managers within the South African construction industry. The existing research does however show that there clearly is evidence of burnout within the construction industry.Research done in Hong Kong by Lung, Chain and Dungy (2011) shows that burnout is highly prevalent among project managers in the construction ind ustry and discusses the negative effects it has on the managers and the working environment as well as possible solutions to address the level of burnout experienced. Lung, Chain and Dungy (2011) states that for a study of this nature, questionnaire surveys as a method of data collection proves difficult to eliminate potential errors and therefore and recommend that qualitative data using semi-structured or non- structured interviews be used for rather research.Understanding the effects and consequences of burnout can thus be viewed as a preventative measure and the study thereof is therefore important and relevant in the South African context. Relationship between burnout and turnover intentions: A big question to the management of many firms is what influences an employee to leave the firm. Numerous studies have found that burnout and Job satisfaction are among the major influencer of turnover intentions. According to studies done by researchers such as Cotton and Tuttle (1986), t urnover intention is the likelihood of an employee staying or leaving a company.However, Teeth and Meyer (1993) stated that turnover intention is when the employee is determined to leave the company. In addition, Fishbone and Zen, (1975) found an indication that employees make a conscious choice to leave before actually leaving their Jobs. Bark et al. (2001) discussed that several research that has been done used intent to leave instead of actual turnover as measures for turnover intentions. For example, Cotton and Tuttle (1986) found that people are more likely to leave an organization when their expectations have not been met.However, Ghana and Fen (2011) indicate that many, UT not all factors of both Job satisfaction and burnout prove to be relevant factors affecting turnover intention. Choc et al (2012) found that managing Job burnout is important for decreasing turnover intentions and show that turnover intentions can be explained by the factors of Job burnout: emotional exhaus tion, diversification, and reduced personal accomplishment. Between Job burnout and turnover intentions in various settings. Sings et al. 1994) stated that Job burnout is a generalized construct including emotional exhaustion, diversification, and decreased achievements and proved that Job burnout has did detrimental effects on Job outcomes, through increased employee turnover, reduced Job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and Job performance. Schaeffer and Beaker (2004) stressed that Job burnout specifically including emotional exhaustion and diversification is an important predictor of turnover intentions for companies.The argument by Choc et al (2012) agrees with that of Schaeffer and Beaker (2004) which states that burnout is a predictor of turnover intention, however Choc et al (2012) discusses that all the dimensions of burnout are positively related to turnover intentions. In addition, Letter and Miasmal, (2009) established that burnout and high workload increase the l evel of employee intention. Furthermore, Leather and Mach (2009) discuss that all burnout factors are among the main causes for turnover intentions and that these results are supported by other studies within different industries.However, Demerit et. Al (2001) states that high Job stresses together with lack of resources most likely cause burnout. Briar et al (2013) tested the impact of very stressful Jobs and found that emotional Job demands are causes for burnout, specifically related to exhaustion and cynicism. Lachrymal and Aryan, (1986) and Sorensen Sorensen, (1974) both argue that the reasons for turnover intention rely on the assumption that the basic conflict between loyalties experienced mostly by professionals negatively affects their work attitudes, and hence leads to turnover intentions.Ghana and Fen (2011) show that many but not all factors of Job satisfaction and burnout are applicable dynamics affecting turnover intention. Letter and Miasmal (2009) also found that the re may be limited mediation effects of burnout, mainly through emotional exhaustion, within the impact of Job satisfaction on turnover intention, Choc et al (2012) showed that financial prizes were effective in decreasing turnover intentions under diversification. However, financial rewards increased turnover intentions under reduced personal accomplishment.In addition, career paths were effective in decreasing turnover under both diversification and reduced personal accomplishment. Choc et al (2012) goes on to show how complex it is for managers to implement Just one set of policies to reduce all problems. Many studies that have been conducted, (Briar et al. (2013), Cotton and Tuttle (1986), Cohen(1999), Choc et al (2012)) all conclude that there is a positive relationship teens burnout and turnover intention in which they add that if the burnout factors are not managed properly it is likely to cause an increase in turnover intention.Relationship between burnout and organizational commitment: According to Corded (1993), emotional exhaustion is the main characteristic of burnout. Emotional exhaustion is characterized by a somatic and psychological are depleted, when the possibility of resources being depleted is high, in scenarios whereby an individual's resources are insufficient enough to carry out work requirements or when expected results are not acquired by the resources (Hobble, 1988).Hobble (1989) described these resources as an individual's personal attributes, circumstances, limitations or vigor that represents the individual's ability to achieve work demands. Social support, promotions, the level of participation during decision making processes, independence and reward incentives are all examples of resources (Lee and Seaports, 1996). Wright and Cropland (1998) described compromising situations in the workplace, workload and conflict as work demands.Emotional exhaustion takes place when individuals believe they do not have the adequate resources to meet work demands (Hobble, 1989). Organizational ointment has a negative relationship with an individual's resources that are required to meet organizational demands (Wright and Cropland, 1998). The pressure to meet organizational demands eventually leads to Job stress which, if left untreated, could lead potentially lead to emotional exhaustion (Wright and Cropland, 1998).Emotional exhaustion, in turn, diminishes organizational commitment (Lee and Seaports, 1996). Miasmal (2003) speculated that organizational commitment has a negative relationship with burnout. Individuals who experience high levels of burnout affect their fellow colleagues negatively, bringing about conflict n the workplace and disturbing work activities (Miasmal, 2003). Wright and Cropland (1998), however, argue that despite the fact that emotional exhaustion diminishes organizational commitment, practical evidence for this particular research is lacking.Research on burnout has classically been based on the princ iple that it affects employees' organizational commitment negatively (Lee and Seaports 1996). As is apparent with the research analyses above, studies have obtained evidence that burnout causes decreased levels of organizational commitment Jackson et al. 1987, Letter and Miasmal 1988). However, there are studies which show that the relationship between burnout and commitment could possibly operate in the opposite direction, that is; organizational commitment could possibly cause burnout (Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie, 1998).In a study conducted by Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie (1998), results verify that organizational commitment had equally direct and indirect consequences on burnout. The study, which focused on nurses, demonstrated that a huge commitment to the organization had a positive relationship with levels of emotional exhaustion (Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie, 1998). Put simply, these results maintain the argument that, in extremely demanding work environments, or ganizational commitment may be a major attributer of burnout (Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie, 1998).Schaeffer and Bunk (1996) suggested that employees with low levels of commitment tend to withdraw from the work environment and are likely to experience the penalties of heavily stressed work environment a whole lot more than their fellow employees who are highly committed to the organization. This is quite similar to the results found by Begley and Chukka (1993), which discovered that organizational commitment intensified the correlation teens stress and Job discontentment among nurses.In a study involving technicians, results demonstrated that organizational commitment has varying Gillespie, 1998). Different elements of burnout are not only more outstanding for varying professions, in addition, the possible attribution to burnout and the penalties of burnout could be highly variable (Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie, 1998). Lee and Seaports (1996) asserted that additional research should make the methodical contrast of the burnout occurrence of a variety of professions a focal point of research. Currents studies have several restrictions (Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie, 1998).Finally, while preceding studies have focused largely on the consequences of burnout on employees' level of organizational commitment, other studies have established that it is likewise imperative to take into consideration the effects of organizational commitment on burnout (Goliath, Drilldown and Gillespie, 1998). Relationship between burnout and Job satisfaction: A pleasurable or positive emotional state as a result of Job experience or the appraisal of the Job is known as Job satisfaction (Digitalis, Ketosis's and Toga, cited in Marinas and Van Deer Westernizes, 2013).According to War (cited in Marinas and Van Deer Westernizes, 2013), Job satisfaction can occur as a result of remuneration, work relationships, working conditions, Job security, promotional prospects, training opport unities and the nature of the Job. Marinas and Van Deer Westernizes (2013) who conducted a study based on work well-being in a medical laboratory setting in South Africa, states that the results of the study in this environment found that exhaustion and cynicism which are dimensions of burnout are significantly negatively related to Job satisfaction.Marinas and Van Deer Westernizes (2013) also state that Job satisfaction is the strongest component of well- being in the work place. Oozed, Graciously and Wildfire (2013) agrees with the argument put forward by Digitalis, Ketosis's and Toga (cited in Marinas and Van Deer Westernizes, 2013) which states that Job satisfaction is an emotional state, however according to Oozed, Graciously and Wildfire (2013), Job satisfaction is also a behavioral expression which shows an individual's evaluation of their work, working life and working environment.According to Oozed, Graciously and Wildfire 2013), who conducted a study in Turkey based on the relationship between burnout and Job satisfaction among nurses found that nurses who suffer with emotional exhaustion and diversification have lower scores for Job satisfaction whereas those nurses who experience higher levels of personal achievement have greater levels of Job satisfaction.Thus, the study conducted by Oozed, Graciously and Wildfire (2013) supports the findings by Marinas and Van Deer Westernizes (2013) which states that a negative relationship exists between Job satisfaction and the dimensions of burnout. Similarly, a study conducted by Digitalis, Ketosis's and Toga (2004) among librarians in academic libraries in Greece shows that Job satisfaction is negatively related to emotional exhaustion and diversification while a positive relationship exists between personal achievement and Job satisfaction.To further confirm the findings by other researchers, a study conducted in the hospitality industry in Istanbul by Kill, Polite and Selves (2011) notes that the study of the relationship between burnout and Job satisfaction is important for business managers and practitioners and furthermore found that within this industry, runt. Few studies have been conducted which focus specifically on the relationship between burnout and Job satisfaction among project managers in the construction industry; a study was however conducted based on construction project managers' health in the UK by Love and Edwards (2005).According to Love and Edwards (2005), Job satisfaction among construction workers is defined as a â€Å"match between the rewards offered by the work environment and the individual's preferences for those rewards†. The study by Love and Edwards (2005) used a measurement scale developed by War et al (cited in Love and Edwards, 2005) to assure Job satisfaction; the scale includes the factors of work conditions, management, promotion, salary, Job security and co-workers as variables of Job satisfaction.Recommendations for managing stress, heal th and Job satisfaction among project managers in the construction industry includes training construction project managers to adopt and implement strategies to cope with their stress as well as providing support mechanisms within the firm (Love and Edwards, 2005). A South African study which looks at burnout and Job satisfaction among nurses shows that two factors were yielded when measuring Job satisfaction; these factors include reflections advancement and reward as one factor and leave as another factor (Sloppier et al. , 2012).The results of the study show that the most dissatisfaction was experienced with regards to wages, opportunities for advancement and study leave (Sloppier et al. , 2012). Sloppier et al. (2012) argue that Job satisfaction and burnout are related and furthermore that a positive environment leads to increased Job satisfaction and lower levels of burnout. In agreement with Oozed, Graciously and Wildfire (2013), the study by Sloppier et al. (2012) states that the degree of burnout in he nursing industry in South Africa is strongly correlated to that of Job satisfaction.A review of existing literature on burnout and the constructs thereof show that there are many arguments by various researchers which correlate with each other. In this review, the dimensions of burnout are clearly identified as emotional exhaustion, cynicism and personal efficacy (Letter and Miasmal, 2004). The review of literature with regards to the level of burnout among project managers in the construction industry shows that the complex nature of the Job is likely to cause Job stress which is a predictor of burnout (Lung, Chain and Dungy, 2011).A gap was identified in the lack of literature which exists based on project managers in the construction industry in South Africa and specifically the levels of burnout among them. Furthermore, the review of existing literature shows that researchers have adopted different definitions for the term turnover intentions', despi te this a clear correlation in results exists which shows that a relationship does exist between turnover intention and burnout. Similarly, the review of literature relating organizational commitment and burnout shows that a relationship does exist between the two variables.A clear lack f literature when reviewing the literature based on burnout related to turnover intention, Job satisfaction, organizational commitment and demographic factors is evident. This lack of literature shows that there is a need for further research on these work-related outcomes not only among project managers but within the construction industry in South Africa as a whole. Service employees' burnout levels related to demographic characteristics: According to Miasmal (2003), individuals to the working environment alone.These attributes include demographics, personal traits as well as beliefs that stem from the working environment (Miasmal, 003). Miasmal (2003) affirmed that a number of these attributes are correlated to burnout. The area of interest in this instance is demographic characteristics. Miasmal (2003) put forward that age is the variable that is most constantly correlated to burnout, among the available demographic variables. It was reported that younger employees, under the ages of 30 and 40, experience high levels of burnout (Miasmal, 2003).This is attributed to the fact that age is disconcerted with the individuals level of work experience and it is for this reason that the younger employees experience higher levels of burnout (Miasmal, 2003). Miasmal (2003) allowed up with the sex demographic and concluded that this particular demographic was not an efficient forecaster of burnout. Results from previously conducted research suggested that female employees are characterized with higher levels of burnout, while other results characterized men with higher levels of burnout (Miasmal, 2003).Also, some research results were inconclusive, with very little difference between t he levels of burnout experienced by men and women (Miasmal, 2003). Regarding marital status, Miasmal (2003) discovered that individuals who were not married experienced higher levels of burnout than those who were aired. Furthermore, single individuals experienced higher levels of burnout than divorced individuals (Miasmal, 2003). Miasmal (2003) then explored the level of education and came to conclude that individuals with a higher level of education experience higher levels of burnout than those who are less educated.In a study conducted by Corded (1993), she suggested that there are certain demographic variables that have proven to contribute to the Justification of why certain individuals experience high levels of burnout and why others are somewhat immune to burnout demographic variables. Men and women have frequently reported discrepancies in the levels of burnout experienced, however, there is inconclusive evidence pertaining to the pattern and complications of relationships (Lemmas, Rafter, Purdue, and Ruddiest, 1987).Studies conducted by Anderson and Knick (1984) also suggested that younger employees constantly reported higher levels of burnout compared to employees who were much older. Employees who were more experienced reported extremely low levels of burnout thus concluding that, the older and more experienced an employee, the lower the reported levels of burnout (Anderson and Knick, 1984). Miasmal and Jackson (1985) further asserted that individuals who were married experienced very low levels of burnout compared to individuals who are not married and experienced considerably higher levels of burnout.Individuals who have children experienced lower levels of burnout compared to individuals who had no children and experienced higher levels of burnout (Miasmal and Jackson, 1985). To conclude, Corded (1993) affirmed that based on the available literature today, she believes that the burnout trend requires more consideration by researchers whose focus of study is stress processes in the work environment. Burnout seems to be a extinctive kind of a stress pattern that takes into account the awareness of emotional of reduced personal achievement (Corded, 1993).

International Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

International Paper - Essay Example Any changes in these factors of the economy can lead to the company’s planning to be affected to a great extent. Thus when an organization like Big Drive Auto requires making any specific decision or plan, like increasing the prices for fuel or the vehicles themselves, then it is essential that macro economic data is well taken into consideration. This will allow the company to rightly understand the total variation in the economic market of the country and this allows for the pricing to be more appropriate and allows the company to make higher profits. Thus the operations and the planning become more apt for the organization in terms of the whole economy of the country. There has been a strong focus on the reliability of the forecasts in terms of the macroeconomic variables. The major problems that have been noted are the ability to relate to the balance between the aggregate demand and the aggregate supply. Thus to ensure complete reliability of the macroeconomic variables, it is essential to place a focus on the balance of the aggregate demand and the aggregate supply. This can be the demand side policy which generally seeks to influence the level of spending in the economy and the supply side policy which mainly directly influence the level of production. There are a number of uncertainties that are faced by companies in terms of the macroeconomic forecast. In recent researches there has been a clear that the private sector tends to face issues which are related to the rational bias. The uncertainty of the macroeconomics forecasts can be dealt with, by a thorough study and understanding of the various prices of the number of units sold across different locations. This however requires to be analyzed by choosing a wide range of locations and over a number of years. Also as the value of oil and coolants are affected by the economic condition of the country, hence a focus should be made on the

Business plan Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Business plan - Term Paper Example Its operating hours would start at 5:00 o’clock PM until 5:00 o’clock AM of the next day. Three regular staff would be manning the cafà ©. The owner, as manager, would be in the cafà © during the week and can assist the staff on some tasks, especially is the volume of customers would need additional hand. The target gross income per month is $8,000 that would yield $96,000 in a year. Break-even point and return of investment can be attained in three to five years depending on the actual inflow of customers. With the start-up expense of $100,000 and initial month operational expense of $5,000 ($105,000), the current cash on hand of $80,000 would only require $25,000 that would be sourced out from relatives and friends. Bank loan is not a viable alternative at present since it will incur interest in addition to the burden of monthly amortization (which will not occur in the case of investors). An initial of 20 computer units will initially provide the internet services with a plan to add 20 more units after three years. After five years, there will be expansion in the area, lease another property with larger space or establish a second branch. Hang-out Cyber Cafà © is a one-stop shop business outfit that will offer product and services to customers during nighttime. It will be operating for 12 hours daily from 5:00 o’clock PM to 5:00 o’clock AM for seven days a week. It can offer its internet services and products continuously in a month without interruption. This will ensure continuous earning for the business. Hang-out Cyber Cafà © will offer snacks and drinks for users and shoppers. It will also offer office, school and computer supplies that consumers can purchase conveniently since most of the stores and malls will be closed at nighttime. The supplies would include bond paper, ball pen, pencil, stationery, notebook and pad paper, blank CD and DVD, printer ink, etc. Besides the internet services,

Cause and Effect Essay (Affirmative Action) Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cause and Effect (Affirmative Action) - Essay Example Affirmative action can be considered one of the most effective means of reversing the injustices that were caused by the centuries-old discrimination against people from minority groups as well as women. It can also be said that it is a means through which the white dominated fields in the United States can be leveled to include minority groups. Despite the institution of affirmative action in our nation, however, the legacy of racism and racism still lives on and this is despite those gains, which were made by the Civil Rights Movement. The opportunities available for those who were previously excluded remain very few and this is one of the reasons that affirmative action is still very much needed today. It has been seen that black people are nearly twice as likely to get employment as white people are and this is despite the fact of the presence of Affirmative action. Not only is the unemployment rate higher among minority groups when compared to whites, these groups have been show n to earn much less than what their white counterparts earn. There tends to be very little likelihood of either black or Latino men to be given employment as managers or, as professionals, therefore, these are more likely to get jobs, which only involve labor. This also applies to women who have to work much harder and for lesser pay than their male counterparts do in order to get positions of authority (Phelan 376). To correct this, more needs to be done to ensure that such inequalities do not persist in American society so that the gap that has existed between the different groups for centuries get to be filled and the dream of equality becomes a reality. The main purpose of affirmative action is the promotion of fairness and equality in American society. In the United States, what is popularly known as the American dream is always framed as a race in which the swiftest people always win (Lawson 281). This is a very wrong impression of the American Dream because not everybody in t he United States started at the same level considering that minorities tended to be excluded from some of the most important aspects of American life. Therefore, Affirmative action exists in order to ensure that everybody in American society starts from the same level so that all can achieve their dreams fairly. Therefore, it does not give an advantage to the minorities in discrimination of white people and instead, it is meant to correct those practices, which had conspired to keep minorities behind while others continued with their advancement in society. Affirmative action is in reality a policy of inclusion whose purpose is to ensure that all people have an equal chance to compete in making their dreams and aspirations come true. Previously, minority groups were completely excluded from the majority of economic activities in the United States except for those who were considered labor intensive. Moreover, these groups were rarely ever accepted in the mainstream American life unt il after the institution of Affirmative action. From its very beginning, there has been opposition towards it with those against it stating that it is giving an unfair advantage to minority groups over other people. They further state that affirmative action goes against the spirit of the American Constitution due to the fact

Role Of A Lawyer In Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Role Of A Lawyer In Business - Essay Example Provision of ideas to the client- The lawyer may provide the necessary ideas and the advice to the client. However, the nature and the type of advice may differ depending upon the type of the client. In certain areas, the client may be extremely knowledgeable exhibiting complete mastery over the particular issue. In those cases, the advice may be limited to certain trivial and core operational areas. On the other hand, there are certain businesses where the lawyer assumes a much larger role when compared to the current role. As for example, in the areas where the business is dependent on the IPR (Intellectual Property Rights), the legality of the case become increasingly important. Thus, in cases like this, the lawyer basically plays the role of a business advisor. Other areas that can be included in the following gamut are the businesses that run out of multiple countries or sell products in multiple countries. Implementation of the determined business objectives- The successful operation of any business is dependent on the achievement of the stipulated business objectives. The attainment of those business objectives is a function of proper business decisions in the relevant areas. The lawyer has to get a fair idea about the long term goals, the mission, the vision and the objectives of the business. This may help in the determination of proper steps towards the outcome. The financial implication can also be better understood if the lawyer devises the proper strategy and the roadmap for the same. This will help the businesses to determine what is important, what is relevant and what could be used to achieve those objectives. The lawyer should help in demarcating the business issues from the legal issue so that the necessary steps could be taken without any problem. The lawyer could also look into the possible alternatives for running any business. Thereby, all the stop gap arrangements coul d be done to ensure that the business keeps on running. Protection of the interests of the client- The first and the foremost responsibility of all the lawyers is to protect the interest of the clients. The interests of the clients are varied and different. Therefore, the necessary areas of the contention are also different. The lawyer must always ensure that the proper directions are given to the client. Limitation of risk to the client- One of the most important activities of the lawyer is to ensure that the risk to the business is mitigated at all costs. All the measures should be taken by the lawyer to see that at any point of time, the business does not suffer any kind of loss. The lawyer and the business head must be able to develop a consensus on the business needs. This includes two steps, looking at the ability to diminish the effects of the quantitative risk and the effects of the risk on the business. Therefore, this complete procedure ensures that the clients and the ind ividuals are on the same page in terms of the proliferation of business.

How do gender stereotypes influence the discourses of youth sexuality Essay

How do gender stereotypes influence the discourses of youth sexuality studies by Beres and the forms of sexual coercion among youth studies by Hartwick et al - Essay Example This double standard where sexual initiation and assertiveness is concerned is what propagates the gender stereotype (Hartwick et al 159). The same gender stereotype is discussed in Beres’ article which concerns discourses on youth sexuality especially the unplanned sexual encounter â€Å"it just happened.† In this case, women are portrayed as naà ¯ve where the unplanned sexual encounter is concerned whereas the males are seen as the propagators having had time to contemplate and plan of their moves to the last detail of how they can lure the woman to bed but at the same time making it appear as is if â€Å"it just happened† (Beres 171). It is this assumption that leads to gender stereotype. According to the research carried out by both Hartwick et al and Beres, it is evident that women who engage knowingly in sexual behavior or openly portray their sexual assertiveness are considered â€Å"sluts† by the society. This negative branding of the women is however not accorded to the men. It is actually a benefit and a â€Å"normal† thing for men to have expansive information and knowledge about sexual matters which even guarantees them positive praises from the same society. It is actually deemed â€Å"womanly† when a man is not sexually pervasive or does not plan for a sexual encounter even when it seems â€Å"accidental† to the woman. Based on this and also as a result of this stereotype, it therefore does not come as a surprise that for the sexually assertive women to term the unplanned sexual encounters as â€Å"accidents† or indicate that â€Å"it just happened† than openly admit they also had premeditated the encounter and had even instigated and propelled it to some extent. The lack of belief and even societal pressure for the women to be sexually â€Å"naive† and the men to have sexual â€Å"machismo† is what leads to men becoming irresponsible and even not care about their sexual actions. Based on Beres’ article, men are

WE 5 AL &WE Response CRJ 545 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

WE 5 AL &WE Response CRJ 545 - Essay Example It is clear that gathering enough evidence is the goal of any investigator. However, this cannot be achieved when an investigator(s) overlook some of the evidence such as impression evidence. Such evidence can help in identification of the perpetrator of any crime. For example, such kind of evidence may help in identifying the number of perpetrators and the place of entry and exit of the perpetrators. However, the impression evidence may exhibit some weaknesses. For example, even after gathering such evidence it will only be useful if the perpetrator is available for comparison purposes. The paper helps in highlighting various types of evidence that can be made available in the trial processes. The different types of evidence play a significant role in conviction or acquittal of the accused. One of special interest is the forensic evidence. I have realized that the forensic evidence requires strict handling before it is admissible in any trial process. Any mishandling of the evidence can lead to a person that is guilty being set free. Therefore, extra caution and attention is required when handling this type of evidence. The interview highlights a number of things in the collection and presentation of evidence. The interview has also highlighted several issues for a person that wants to pursue a career in crime investigation needs to know. First, the interview helps in showing the importance of science in conviction or acquittal of a person. For example, DNA technology has played a significant role in the trial of various cases. I have also realized that experience plays a significant role in relevance and collection of evidence. Moreover, it is clear that the medical examiner plays a crucial role in unraveling of murder cases. The paper plays a role in highlighting the essence of incorporating the traditional and modern ways of gathering and analyzing evidence. The latent print examiner has simplified the

Web site in relation to the eLearning age Essay Example for Free

Web site in relation to the eLearning age Essay Electronic Learning, which is frequently called as eLearning is a form of TSL (Technology-Supported Learning) in which the presence of computer technology system is compulsory as the mean of conveying a wide range of information. This paper aims to show advantages of this Web-based or online educational training system through one of the world’s famous wikis—the Wikipedia. Furthermore, it provides an outline with regard to the critical review on the eLearning along with selected empirical items of information or data. Wiki: A collaborative Web site in relation to the eLearning age Wiki (software), from its Hawaiian term for quick developed by Ward Cunningham, accumulates a variety of Web pages for a collaborative works on Web-based educational training or resources (Encyclop? dia Britannica Online, 2009). One of the world’s well-known wikis is a non-profit organization of Wikimedia Foundation—the Wikipedia. According to the official Web site of the Wikipedia, it is a â€Å"multilingual, Web-based, free-content encyclopedia project,† which is written by registered users (freelance writers and online editors) from different parts of the World. As its comprehensible representation in the world of information and communication technology, Wiki is a type of Web-based application (such as Web 2. 0), which is being edited by someone else such as freelance writers who contribute various articles on line and virtual editors who do the editing job anywhere in the real time. For a better comprehension with such a conceptualization, Rob Edmonds’s book entitled ‘Up from the grassroots’ shows the significant and real advantages of the Wiki (software) in the lives of the number of people during the digital era. Major Idea or Essential Part of the Book Through Wiki software, most companies whether for-profit or not-for-profit organizations are able to provide the most methodological and/or advantageous system of fostering a wide range of information from the various resources. Edmonds’s ‘Up from the grassroots’ shows the fact along with the comprehensive data and empirical bases that which concerns the beneficial factors of clinging to the modern style of collaboration. Wiki, according to the conceptualization and personal experience of the author, such a Web-based application or the online educational resources makes every thing easier—from contributing the written articles on line via the Wiki software of a particular Web site to conducting a research of what other members have made and uploaded on the Web site’s system, which uses Wiki. A Critical Analysis on the Conceptualization of Wiki As an analysis of the major points of the author with regard to ‘clinging on the Wiki for certain Web-based applications of eLearning,’ it becomes quite easy to distinguish its beneficial factors to the number of people around the world (â€Å"Up from the grassroots,† 2006). First, even though some of the Wiki applications help people collaborate with the various works on line such as fostering different items of information from published books in the library to digital copies on the Internet, yet, it is considered as â€Å"informal learning† for a reason that learning takes place anywhere. While formal education or learning is done in a school, most users/visitors who stumbled on the Web site, which provides a wide range of data or instructions, are able to learn in any convenient places anytime they want. Nevertheless, such concern does not give more troubles or disadvantages, as the issue with regard to informal learning is concerned; as long as it broadens the bounds of knowledge sharing, it may help support every individual to learn new information. Furthermore, Wiki does not only help support people in terms of online education or eLearning solutions, but it also provides interactive communications for software’s users. Additionally, most companies rely on the Wiki software to provide their clients with the easiest system of creating Web sites and online databases. Hence, as a critical review on the entire conceptualization of the author, it becomes quite easy to distinguish his point of view—the possibility to create a more strategic and systematic way of uploading information from an individual source via this web-based application software. Therefore, as an observation, it becomes quite easy for every individual (particularly the reader) to be well-informed, as the book provides with insightful information and ideas with regard to the Wiki (A collaborative Web site in relation to the eLearning age). Given those world-renowned Web sites and companies used in the book as the reliable sources to represent the author’s perspective, Edmonds’s ‘Up from the grassroots’ motivates every reader to delve into a deeper knowledge of clinging to the Wiki application resources, which provide the easiest way of collaborating with research stuffs such as articles, information, communication etc. Conclusion I have learned essentially from every concept or perspective of the author and it urged me to seek different ways to criticize its objective—why it is written and to whom it is written for. Upon a critical analysis of the entire book, the paper is intended to give more information with regard to the process of online collaboration. It is written for every individual, particularly the people whose passion is to collaborate with one another; conduct certain research strategies and work on various subjects in an easier manner. Moreover, given the insightful explication concerning the various enterprises such as the â€Å"Microsoft, CommSecure, Novell, Bank of America and GlaxoSmithKline,† which cling to this Web-based application software, it gives additional empirical bases on the reliable materials contributed by the book per se (â€Å"Up from the grassroots,† 2006). This means that the materials used in the book shows reliability as to the scholastic issues and contemporary concerns. Moreover, as an analysis of the contents of the book, this is still valid as the issue with regard to the current trends for online collaboration or wikis is involved. Nevertheless, there are changes happened since the book is first published; more Web sites existed and now are apt for discussing the author’s perspective. References Edmonds, R. (2006). Up from the grassroots. E. learning Age. ABI/INFORM Global, pp. 14-16 Wiki. (2009). In Encyclop? dia Britannica. Retrieved March 31, 2009, from Encyclop? dia Britannica Online: Babylon Dictionary and Translation Software Wikipedia: About. (2009) In Wikipedia. Retrieved March 31, 2009, from Wikipedia: http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Wikipedia:About

The History Of Public Relations Worldwide Media Essay

The History Of Public Relations Worldwide Media Essay Public Relations have come a long way all around the world (Lee Johnson, 2005). The term public relations was first used by Dorman Eaton in 1882 (Smith, 2010), when he addressed Yale Law school graduates on the The Public Relations of the legal profession. He used the term to refer to an organisations role in serving the public welfare. But actually, public relations go back even further. It is believed that it has existed in the Antiquity. The Greeks called it semantikos meaning semantics which they defined as how to make people believe things and do things. Another example of public relations is in the Ancient Rome when Julius Caesar wrote the first campaign biography, to convince the Roman he would make the best head of state. Certainly during the early of the twentieth century public relations became more significant. In fact, in 1903 Ivy Lee distinguished himself as the first public relations counselor. Wikipedia states that he is among the founding fathers of public relations. He was a counselor to governments and railroads. One of his famous clients was D.Rockefeller (Smith, 2010). Lee believed that public relations should be about: Telling the truth Providing accurate fact The public relations director must have access to top management and must be able to influence decisions Another founding father that marked the history of Public relations is Edward Bernays, student and nephew of Sigmund Freud ( Wikipedia).In 1918, he advised the President of Czechoslovakia to announce Independence on a Monday rather than on a Sunday, to get maximum press coverage. In 1923, Bernays published Crystallizing Public Opinion, (Smith, 2010) in which he established several public relations principles. He said that public relations had these functions include: To interpret the client to the public, which means promoting the client To interpret the public to the client, which means operating the company in such a way as to gain the approval of the public He also advised public relations professionals to seek out group leaders and other key communicators (opinion leaders), who would be able to pass along ideas to other members of the public. Other Bernays concepts were: Public relations is a public service It should promote new ideas and progress Public relations should build a public conscience Some other public relation pioneers are Elmer Davis, who was a former journalist during World War 2. He coordinated public information from the military and also mobilized public support for the war effort in order to decrease the enemys moral. Pendleton Dudhey was also a pioneer of public relations consultant. In 1909, he opened an agency. He emphasized a lot of the public information model of public relations (Smith, 2010) Later in 1957, Anne Willian Wheaton became the associate press secretary to American President Dwight Eisenhower. Her appointment called attention on the growing role of women in public relations (Smith, 2010). Definition of Public Relations Public relations is defined as being aspect of communications that involves promoting a desirable image for a person or group seeking public attention in the Britannica Concise Encyclopedia. It also states that the purpose of Public relations is to generate good news, be cautious about what to print or to broadcast, to forestall bad news and analyse the situation, minimize the damage and provide the media with information in moments of crisis. The Barrons Marketing Dictionarys definition goes further by adding that apart from seeking understanding, Public relations also seek acceptance from the public and is about building a sympathetic relationship with the latter, and that it is more concerned about issues rather than products or services. The Marketing Dictionary also states that employees, investors, voters are not to be forgotten when building relationships. Grunig and Hunt support these statements by saying that PR is the management of communication between an organization and the public. Rubel (2007), further elaborates that some of the PR activities are to speak at conferences, to deal with the media, to defend the reputation of an organization, to communicate to the employees, and to engage in social media. Phillips and Young (2009), agree with the fact that the engagement in social media forms part of Public relations since they say that communication tools like personal computers, mobile phones, video game consoles can be used for interactive communication and can thus be used for Interactive Public Relations. In contrast to these statements, the World Assembly of Public Relations Associations perceives PR as an art and a social-science which analyse trends, forecast their consequences, provide organizational leaders with advice, and implement planned programs of action which will be beneficial to the organization and the public. Objectives of Public relations As per the statement in the Reference of Business, to bring forth, sustain and defend the image and reputation of a company, are some of the main objectives of Public relations. It also claims that a companys reputation does have an effect on the consumers buying behaviour and consequently affects the sales and revenue. Other goals which it puts forward are, to generate relationships with the employees, the stockholders and investors, the media and the community. Furthermore, there is the aspect of providing the publics with information about a company or its new legislations, or even educating them about the uses of a product. These points are elaborated in knowthis.com where it is said that PR tools such as newsletters, websites and so on can be used to educate the audiences about products and services and that the objective of Public relations can also be to reinforce a brand by building positive relationships with the publics and enhance the image of the company, because this can prove to be helpful especially in moments of crises. Moreover, it supports the idea that Public relations can help increase sales by stating that a good news release can stimulate demand, thus increasing sales. Advantages of Public relations When it comes to the advantages of Public relations, it can be noticed that credibility is a recurrent word. In an article on Drypen, it is said that one of the advantages of Public relations is that it nurtures credibility, unlike advertising. Which implies that the publics are apt to believe in a news release published in the newspaper or in a magazine but, on the other hand, will be quite sceptical about the advertisement of a product in the newspaper or in a magazine. On top of that, PR messages are viewed as news providing detailed information about a product and are more likely to attract the audiences attention. It is also mentioned that Public relations cost much less than advertising and can be more effective, in the sense that, it can be used to reach small market segments, especially for companies with financial problems. Another advantage is that it helps an organization establish a good image which can be of great help to the latter in case of crisis. Knowthis.com furthe r adds that it may happen that other media pick up an article about a company and contributes in spreading the news to different locations. Disadvantages of Public relations One of the disadvantages stated on TutorsOnNet.com is that there may be distortion of information, in the sense that, the company may be deceived with the end result due to the fact that some information written in the draft have been modified in order to suit the news story and other features in the newspaper. Another disadvantage is that, there is the possibility of the public not being interested in the news release because of some other, more serious news such as war, disasters, crime and so on. On knowthis.com, it is also mentioned that, PR campaigns may not necessarily bring high return on promotional expense, especially if the news media does not consider it important or worth running a story brought forth by a company. Moreover, the fact that the impact of traditional news outlets is decreasing, professionals in the Public relations field are compelled to look for new means to attain the target markets. Advantages of In-House Public relations In a research on the Public relations industry, it is said that, some advantages of in-house PR are that it operates on a full-time basis. Thus the PR officer and other staffs in the PR department are able to dedicate much time working on a PR campaign unlike agencies which have to deal with different clients. Another advantage is that the PR officer can be quickly informed about changes or any other information regarding Public relations since the latter is an integral part of the organization. Moreover, there is the aspect of value for money, in the sense that, the PRO can easily have access to research materials, videos, photographic library of the company, which can be used when working on the house journal or even when dealing with the media, thus working economically. PR department initially cost a lot as compared with consultancy fees, but in the long term, it is greater value for money. Disadvantages of In-House Public relations As stated in the study on the Public relations industry, one of the main disadvantages of in-house PR is the lack of impartiality, training and experience. In an article on issuesinimc.wikispaces.com, it is said that, when it comes to in-house PR, there is the risk of the PR manager bringing some elements of bias in favour of the company. It also adds that it is difficult for managers to train employees from different branches if ever a company has many branches, thus resulting in lack of training. According to Jefkins (1993), PR managers being considered as experts in their field, consequently possess a limited public relations experience, that is, they do not have much knowledge of the general public relations practices. Advantages of Public relations Consultancy On careerride.com, it is said that, one of the advantages of PR consultancy is that it cost less. In addition to that, PR consultancy organizations have a wider experience of the general public relations practices and on top of that, they are more familiar with the media and have good media relations, issuesinimc.wikispaces.com. The article on the Public relations industry also includes the fact that external PR consultancy being an independent organization, will not bring elements of bias. Disadvantages of Public relations Consultancy The disadvantage which is stated on careerride.com is that PR agencies deal with several different clients and not only one client and is therefore not available full time. They may also find it difficult to cope with the companys internal culture. In the Public relations industry study, the disadvantage which is stated is the lack of relationship intimacy and that they have to be loyal to different companies at the same time. The article on issueinimc.wikispaces.com, also include the issue of remoteness of the agency from the company. Definition of Litigation PR Litigation public relations  is the management of the announcement process  during the course of any legal dispute so as to influence the outcome or its impact on the clients overall  reputation (Haggerty, 2003). Background study Petitioners and prosecutors have extensively used mass media to get their part of the story out to the public, but the formal practice of litigation PR, a sub-specialty of crisis communication, first appeared in the early 1980s. Since then, the need for litigation PR has grown immensely as media exposure of court cases and the law has increased. Most parties to a lawsuit have important interests that expand beyond legal concerns. Negative publicity about a litigant can cause damage to an individuals reputation that a courtroom win years later may not salvage. Thus, parties to cases, whether civil or criminal, cannot disregard the impact of negative publicity on public opinion (Reber, Gower, Robinson, 2006). Basic Concepts of Litigation Public Relations- The First Concept-Litigation PR  is to influence the outcome of the court case by encouraging early or favorable arrangement or by pressuring the tribunal into bringing lesser or no chargers (Haggerty, 2003). The Second Concept-Litigation PR  is to protect the clients reputation before and during the trail. In this regard, litigation PR is similar to reputation management. Reputation management is about managing public opinion of an organization or individual. It is about attitude toward the individual and not knowledge itself. An essential aspect of reputation management is influencing attitude about the individual and corporation, which can encourage positive foundation to the benefit of the organization (Haywood, 2002). Litigation PR and Media Coverage Litigation PR on the part of defendants is needed, especially in high-profile cases because the media have unnatural bias in favor of plaintiffs and prosecutors. When allegations are made public, the media tend to cast the lawsuit in terms of victim versus villain. News stories regularly lead with the plaintiff or prosecutors allegations. If the defendants responses are included at all, they appear well into the story. Thus, the defendant is forced on the defensive from the outset. In such situation, working with the media to create more balanced, accurate, and less sensational coverage of a lawsuit is necessary element in defending high profile defendants (Hantler, Schwartz, Goldberg, 2004, p.  8). Fitzpatricks Six Objectives of Litigation Public Relations 1. Counteracting negative publicity. 2. Making a clients viewpoint known. 3. Ensuring balanced media coverage. 4. Helping the media and the public understand complex legal issues. 5. Defusing a hostile environment. 6. Helping resolve the conflict (Fitzpatrick, 1996). To achieve those objectives, the first step is to establish reliability with the media as an information source. The next step is to manage the flow of information to the media so that the right message gets out. The third step is to develop a message that supports the clients position and get that message out to the media and the public (Fitzpatrick, 1996, Haggerty, 2003, Reber, Gower, Robinson, 2006). Differences between Litigation PR and Other PR Practices Litigation PR is highly dependent on the media. Although the practice of PR involves far more than just mediated communication, litigation PR remains dependent on the media. It is because of the medias increased attention to lawsuits that litigation PR has become a necessity for many high profile clients (Gibson, 1998). Because typical public relations campaign strategies and tactics may not be appropriate and may even be harmful at certain times during a lawsuit, the legal tactic must take procedure (Schweitzer, 2003). Litigation PR is more regulated than regular public relations because of the potential to prejudice the legal process (Gibson, 1998). Litigation PR is directed with the emphasis of one-way, irregular communication. Because the law is adversarial in nature, creating a win-lose situation, the goal of litigation PR is to strengthen the legal strategy and theory of the case to make sure a win and to diminish damage to the organizations credibility and reputation (Reber, Gower, Robinson, 2006). Public Relations (PR) Strategies Public Relations involve an array of programs designed to maintain or augment a companys image and the products and services it offers. Successful implementation of an effective public relations strategy can be a vital element to a marketing plan (Berry and Wilson, 2000). In public relations practice, strategy typically refers to the overall concept, approach, or general plan for the program designed to achieve a goal (Cutlip, 2006). A public relations (PR) strategy may play a key role in an organizations promotional strategy. A planned approach to leveraging public relations opportunities can be just as important as advertising and sales promotions (Berry and Wilson, 2000). According to Lages and Simkin (2003), plans give focus and direction to every strategy. Smith (2008) highlighted the point that careful planning leads to programs that are proactive and preventative, rather than to activities that are merely reactive and remedial. So, in order to ensure the success of Strategic Public Relations Planning, Cutlip et al (2003) proposed the four-step problem solving process. PUBLIC RELATIONS STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS Four-step Process Strategic Planning Steps and Program Outline ______________________________________________________________________________ Defining the Problem 1. The Problem, Concern, or Opportunity Whats happening now? 2. Situation Analysis (Internal and External) What positive and negative forces are operating? Who is involved and/or affected? How are they involved and/or affected? ______________________________________________________________________________ Planning and Programming 3. Program Goal What is the desired solution? 4. Target Publics Who-internal and external-must the program respond to, reach, and affect? 5. Objectives What must be achieved with each public to accomplish the program goal? ______________________________________________________________________________ Taking Action and Communicating 6. Action Strategies What changes must be made to achieve the outcomes stated in the objectives? 7. Communication Strategies What message content must be communicated to achieve the outcomes stated in the objectives? What media best deliver that content to the target publics? 8. Program Implementation Plans Who will be responsible for implementing each of the action and communication tactics? What is the sequence of events and the schedule? How much will the program cost? ______________________________________________________________________________ Evaluating the Program 9. Evaluation Plans How will the outcomes specified in the program goal and objectives be measured? 10. Feedback and Program Adjustment How will the results of the evaluations be reported to program managers and used to make program changes? Major Public Relations Tools According to Kotler and Armstrong (2007), there exist various tools that can be used in the practice of public relations. One of the major tools is news whereby PR professionals find or create favourable news about the company and its products or people. They argued that news stories can sometimes occur naturally, and at times the PR person can suggest events or activities that would create news. They mentioned that Speeches can also create product and company publicity and that increasingly, companies are giving talks and speeches at trade associations or meetings for building companys image. Another common PR tool is special events which ranges from news conferences, press tours, grand openings, star-studded spectaculars, or educational programs designed to reach and interest target publics (Kotler and Armstrong, 2007). Also, public relations people prepare written materials to reach and influence their target markets. These materials include annual reports, brochures, articles, and company newsletters and magazines. Audiovisual materials, such as films, slide-and-sound programs, DVDs, and online videos are being used increasingly as communication tools. Corporate identity materials can also help create corporate identity that the public immediately recognizes. Logos, stationery, brochures, signs, business forms, business cards, buildings, uniforms, and company cars and trucks all become marketing tools when they are attractive, distinctive, and memorable (Kotler and Armstrong, 2007). Trends in Public Relations Interactive public relations use internet technologies and tools such as search engine, Web 2.0 social bookmarking, new media relations and social media marketing to allow firms circulate information without relying only on conventional publications and communicate directly with the public, existing and potential customers. It is sometimes called social PR which comprises of a combination of search-optimizing press releases, creating social media releases through tools like Pitch Engine and blogger outreach to promote company news and announcements. Even though press releases were distributed online for more than a decade, its only in the last few years that tools and techniques for combining PR with social media have really emerged, and they continue to evolve. It incorporates all forms of communication and is not solely limited to online press releases and bloggers, but instead uses every element of building relationships while maintaining the significance of the spoken word. Social Media It is mostly talked trend in the public relations industry. PR professionals are communications specialists, and blogs, forums, online video and social networking offer the ability to communicate more affordably and efficiently than ever before. Social media channels give PR expert the possibility to gain access to consumer opinions and behavior. Online Press Releases Newsrooms Press release purpose is changing and it is written with keyword-rich content and distributed with the only aim of better optimizing sites for search engines. The formatting and functionality of press releases and online newsrooms are evolving to integrate social bookmarking, video, blogs, podcasts and RSS feeds. Social Bookmarking Social bookmarking is a method for Internet users to organize, store, manage and search for bookmarks of resources online. Basically the file is not shared but they are bookmarked to refer later on. Social bookmarking sites such as Digg, Del.icio.us and Reddit have changed the way PR consume and share news. Search Engine Optimisation Search engine optimisation has aim to guide and improve website rankings on search engines such as Google, Yahoo, or MSN Search. In order to optimise web pages, different methods can be used such as using keywords in the HTML coding, Meta and Title tags, and also Alt tags on images. Good design and easy navigation in the website also helps to optimise it for search engines. However it could be argued that there are some flaws with SEO. There is always the chance of getting too much business. A company with a highly successful website may find that business is moving faster than they can cope. With something such as pay per click advertising, it would be easy to turn off or remove the advertisements, but it wouldnt be as simple to remove a whole website in order to slow down sales. Social networking Social networks are websites that enable individuals to interact with one another via the internet. It allows its users to use this platform to gain interest from web users on a professional or social basis. These websites allow people to not only get to know one another but to also share Photos, music, view TV clips, messages and blogs. In this way Social networks are used by companies in order to promote their brands or products to the public or for general use and as a way of making friends. Examples of social networking platforms are Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Foursquare, etc. These are all online tools companies can use to get more in touch with their customers, create a more personified brand image, and share information about the firm. Sending press releases. Though tied to PR for the past few decades, this is also used in marketing. Press releases are great ways to alert people of new things happening, and great ways to pitch the media. Having a blog. If companies would rather not pitch the media and communicate with their customers through this and social networking, blogs can be a great outlet for information sharing. Hosting forums, chats, chatrooms, etc. This is a means to provide a way for customers to contact you with complaints, concerns, questions, etc. Customers will talk about you anyways, and with the availability of places for them to do so, they have no reason not to. Being more personable. This can be hard to fake, so it takes actual effort, time, and energy. The company needs to utilize the tools above and actually be available and accessible. Going above and beyond expectations. This is something used in customer service, but in PR, you can do the same thing. Customers are used to companies doing the minimum to satisfy their needs, but satisfying and creating loyal customers are very different tasks. RSS Feeds RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feeds, is a family of web feed formats used to publish frequently updated works-such as blog entries, news headlines, audio, and video-in a standardized format. They are very efficient tool to monitor regularly updated online content, such as: blogs, news headlines, forum posts and podcasts. RSS feeds give PR specialist the ability to consume and filter massive amounts of information and news from mainstream and social media sites. Its reader checks the users subscribed feeds regularly for new work, downloads any updates that it finds, and provides a user interface to monitor and read the feeds. RSS allows users to avoid manually inspecting all of the websites they are interested in, and instead subscribe to websites such that all new content is pushed onto their browsers when it becomes available. PR 2.0 PR 2.0 makes use of a combination of social media tools that are available to communications expert to attain and better communicate directly with consumer audiences and influencers. Social Media is a way that allows audiences to drive the communication in their communities. PR expert are starting to incorporate PR 2.0 into their strategy and planning as an effective way to communicate directly to Web 2.0 audiences so as to raise awareness and increase brand awareness. Nowadays these tools are available to reach the audiences who want to control their own communication to know about different brands. Web 2.0 technology combined with an audiences desire to build and share content has transformed the PR industry. PR Podcasts, Vidcasts and Webcasts Podcasts, vidcasts and webcasts are three effective tools available to PR professional whose job is to get the company news to the targeted audiences. Podcasting involves recording to a digital file that can be distributed over the net using syndication feeds for playback on a computer, MP3 player or iPod. Vidcasting is a video-on-demand video clip delivered to computers and can be downloaded and watched at the viewers convenience. Webcasts differ from podcasts and vidcasts in that they can either be live or recorded. Webcasting can be thought of as broadcasting via the Internet.

Roe v. Wade :: Womens Right, Abortion, Pro Choice, Pro Life

Roe v. Wade Facts: Texas enacted a law that made it illegal to procure an abortion, unless, pursuant to medical advice, given to save the life of the mother. Jane Roe was an unmarried, pregnant woman. She was unable to get a lawful abortion in Texas because her life was not endanger by the continuation of her pregnancy. Issue:Whether a pregnant woman has a constitutional right to terminate the pregnancy; and whether the state interests in protecting life are justified under strict scrutiny that the 14th Amend demands? Legal Reasoning: According to the court, the right of privacy under the 14th Amendment is broad enough to encompass a woman’s decision whether or not to terminate her pregnancy. The court further ruled that the right of the woman is not absolute. The state can regulate the woman’s actions in cases where the law serves a â€Å"compelling state interest†. Therefore, in the end, the court ruled that in the initial stages of the pregnancy (before the end of the first trimester) the woman and her physician are free to make their choice about abortion without the interference from the state. For the subsequent stage of pregnancy, the state can regulate the woman’s choice but only to serve the compelling interest of promoting the health of the mother. For the stage after viability, the state in promoting its interest in the potentiality of human life may, if it chooses, regulate and even proscribe, abortion except where it is necessary to preserve the life of the mother.

Obon :: essays research papers

The Japanese cultural holiday Obon is short for Urabon and can be traced etymologically to the Sanskrit word Ullambana, literally meaning to â€Å"hang upside down†. It implies that one must withstand unbearable suffering while being hanged upside down. In the Buddhist script Urabon Sutra, a story is told where a son saves his mother from Hell by making offerings to monks. Through the merits of his actions, his mother was saved from Hell, ascended into divinity, and became a Buddha. Thusly, to save people from Hell (being hanged upside down), one’s family and/or friends must make offerings to the deceased. Obon is held usually in the mid August or July for a week in which the spirits of the deceased are supposed to come back to the land of the living. Being held since the 7th century, it is especially enjoyable to the Japanese people. One of its key features involves offering food items to the deceased. Vegetables, fruits, rice, candy, rice wine, and among others are offered to the deceased. (But not only the deceased receive food; special foods are made to give away to neighbor, friends, and family.) In addition, respect is shown with floral decorations on the altar or gravesite along with incense burning and prayer. Particularly, prayer is said for wayward spirits that have passed away in the recent year, as it’s said they need more guidance to find their way. The Festival of the Dead, as it’s sometimes called, is a celebratory and social event. While this is not a national or public holiday, plenty of people from the city go back to their hometowns to polish up and cle an their ancestor’s gravesites. On the actual day of the celebration, a menagerie of lanterns, in a multitude of colors, are hung all around the town and specifically on houses. The logic is this – since spirits come back, the lanterns will guide them to and from the spirit world. However a more realistic use for these is lighting the area where the bon dances will take place. The bon dances have religious undertones also. In the story above, the dancing signifies the joy and elation the son felt when his mother was offered divinity. Now, in the center of town, a makeshift tower is erected. A Taiko drummer is on top and speakers play special Obon music and dancers below dressed in yukata (summer) kimonos circle below in dance.