CVM and Managerial Leadership Samples †MyAssignmenthelp.com

Question: Talk about the CVM and Managerial Leadership. Answer: Presentation The contending esteem structure is a viable apparatus used by the associations for deciding the effectiveness of the general association and proficiency of the individual in question. This as indicated by Quinn et al., (2007) was at first created for understanding the exhibition of the association. The device has utility for understanding different authoritative and individual wonders like hypothesis of viability, hierarchical culture, capabilities of administration, hierarchical structure, authoritative quality, phases of life cycle improvement, authoritative plan, monetary system, influential position, mind capacity, and data preparing. Administrative initiative then again is a basic piece of authoritative administration. Organisationalmanagement is the joined procedure of arranging, sorting out, driving and controlling the assets held by the association with the point of picking up efficiency to achieve the destinations. Henceforth, the directors are engaged with a huge scope of d uties to satisfy the business needs. The duties of the supervisor surpass past arranging or hazard evaluating and incorporate provide guidance to the workforce towards the point of the association. This requires the administrators to create different sorts of initiative style for tending to different work environment circumstances. This report will concentrate on distinguishing the significance of contending esteem system in the association with specific spotlight on the administrative authority. Contending Value Framework The assurance of the authoritative productivity that is recognized utilizing contending esteem system is determined under two significant measurements that are hierarchical concentration and hierarchical inclination for structure. Productivity of the association under each measurement is resolved between two degrees under each measurement. The hierarchical center fuses interior accentuation and outer accentuation. Interior accentuation represents the prosperity and improvement of the individual partners inside the association; though, the outer accentuation centers around the prosperity and advancement of the association itself. The favored structure on opposite spotlights on the two differentiating end, which are adaptability and control or steadiness (Quinn et al., 2007). This structures hide quadrants of the model that aides deciding the condition of the association. It is significant for an association to be adaptable for adjusting quick change in the general public in the seriou s market. Notwithstanding, it is likewise significant formanagement to have huge authority over the business procedure, which makes a Catch 22 condition in the associations. Four majormanagement models, for example, human connection model, open framework model, discerning objective model and inward procedure model again speak to every one of the quadrants. The main model lies between the adaptability and inward accentuation and strains on the spirit, union, and human asset improvement inside the association. The open framework model then again remains among adaptability and outside powers. This spotlights on the outer components that are development, preparation, asset procurement and outside import with increasingly adaptable methodology. The sane objective model as distinguished by Lavine (2014), centers around the outer components of the association with a progressively controlled methodology. This requires the chiefs in planning plan, defining objective, and expanding profitability and effectiveness so as to build the affectivity. In conclusion, the interior procedure model as referenced by Ferreira (2014) speaks to the inside elements with more note worthy control. This is helps in correspondence, data the board, strength and control. Administrative initiative Pioneers and chiefs are extensively isolated from one another and they are characterized independently because of their job and approach taken. The duties of a directors lies with controlling, coordinating and dealing with the exercises in the association that assists with accomplishing explicit objectives of the association. The jobs played by the pioneers are progressively moving that helps in propelling the subordinates and guide them all through the work. The contemporary pattern and circumstances in the market make it progressively important for the supervisors to consolidate initiative methodology so as to achieve the objective of the association. Administrative initiative, as characterized by Galvin et al., (2014) is the blend of both that empowers the administrator to reshuffle their jobs relying upon the interest of the circumstance. It is significant for the administrative pioneers to create adaptability, unassuming and sensible methodology as authority may include fuse of culture, conviction and morals. The pioneers should esteem subordinates sentiments and conviction to build up a solid administrative relationship in the working environment. Disregarding others esteems and culture can prompt clash in working environment. Administrative pioneers can receive any of the accessible styles of authority according to the necessity of the circumstance. Significance of Competing Value Model in Managerial Leadership The contending esteem model has its value and can be executed in different grounds in an authoritative setting. One of the significant territories of usage of CVM structure for both distinguishing proof of the effectiveness and advancement of the procedure is the administrative positions of authority. This further aides in growing better getting likenesses and contrasts of the initiative relevance in different grounds. Galvin et al., (2014) in his examination depicted eight unique classes of jobs. The rule of a powerful pioneer is to build up the capacity in playing these numerous and contending influential positions. Translation of CVM for Managerial Leadership As portrayed before, the CVM system has two significant measurements that are authoritative concentration and hierarchical inclination for structure. This can be actualized if there should be an occurrence of administrative authority, which can additionally be concentrated in agreement of the four quadrants referenced. As conveyed by Melo, Silva and Parreira (2014) the four quadrants or model of CVM speaks to eight positions of authority. This helps the supervisors under any associations to proficiently dealing with the vulnerability, interruption and contending requests. The human relationship model as imparted by Melo, Silva and Parreira (2014) looks for the supervisors to adopt an increasingly adaptable strategy and work as an empathic tutor and procedure centered facilitator. This helps the supervisors in keeping the workers inspired unsurpassed for increasing more noteworthy execution. The initiative methodology here requires empowering the representatives for aggregate endeavors, advancing union and joining work, and overseeing clashes. This expects directors to create correspondence among the colleagues for maintaining a strategic distance from undesired conditions. Correspondence of the vision and strategic the representatives helps adjusting their concentration towards profitability (Purce, 2014). This likewise helps in empowering them. The inspiration then again helps the supervisors in creating group and overseeing conceivable clash that may happen in the work environment. This requires the supervisor in receiving the transformational admin istration that permits the person in question accomplish accomplishment through more prominent correspondence and rousing capacity. Open framework model then again centers around advancement and arrange the methodology of the administrative pioneers. The pioneers for this situation need to address the development in regard to showcase interest for keeping away from the defeat of the association. Advancement of the items is of ideal need of near market settings that requires the chiefs to acknowledge change in the market just as adjusting the business procedure likewise to the change for increasing upper hand (Sapra, Subramanian, 2014). Different case exists in that can be alluded as the key initiative disappointment because of the absence of flexibility of the supervisors to the forthcoming change in the market pattern. The pioneers that at last drove the organization can consider Nokia and Blackberry case as one of the instances of flexibility disappointment by the administration. The key procedures of the getting change the association are critical thinking, adjustment, advancement and change the executives. Th e outside asset the board and continuing authenticity then again is another duty that encourages the association to hold upper hand. This further requires the correspondence aptitude for compelling arrangement and incentive in the market. The pioneer under the balanced objective model assumes the job of maker and chief for deciding the profitability and benefit of the association. This is known as the association for both distinguishing hazard and executing system. This key administration includes the pioneers in chance appraisal, advertise investigation and key getting ready for evading the undesired conditions that may prompt the key disappointment. (Melo, Silva Parreira, 2014) Failure of the proper key anticipating both outside and inward procedure in coordinating towards the hierarchical objective accomplishment prompts the business disappointment. The makers, then again, are liable for task arranging. This is like the general key arranging, which requires concentrating on the hazard evaluation for recognizing the possible danger of a specific assignment, and arranging appropriately to hold high efficiency of the group. Pioneers in the interior procedure model in conclusion require the supervisors to screen and arrange the workers for following and expanding the profitability. Observing incorporates the audit of execution grid for understanding authoritative productivity (Krishnaiah et al., 2014). This further incorporates the idea of correspondence for moving the outcomes that thus satisfies the need of inspiration in the association for increasing more prominent efficiency. End It is conceivable to close from the abovementioned

Scholarship Essay Essays (296 words) - , Term Papers

Grant Essay A couple of days back, as I was having lunch with companions, I entered a warmed discussion a session the value of training. I ought not need to learn variable based math and analytics on the grounds that it will have no impact on my life, my adversary indignantly yelled as I attempted to guard the convenience of arithmetic. After three days, I still mul l over the issue, attempting to show up at the starting point of the divergence of perspectives betw een my rival and me. I treasure all of information I gain, in or out of school. At the point when somebody fights that a specific scholarly field or domain of inf ormation has no applications, I feel constrained to exhibit the deception of such a contention by refering to a model from my life. As a center schooler in Moscow, Russia, I took English for a long time. Numerous of my friends protested about going to the course, inflexible in their conviction that these aptitudes would be rarely utilized. Nonetheless, a few, including myself, felt that any offer of information was to be acknowledged and put away for conceivable sometime in the future. Lo and see, three years after I pursued my first English class, I wound up living in the United States, sending genuine thank you letters to my English educator for providing me with ingrained instincts. On the off chance that I had not paid attention to my group, my coordination into the American culture would have taken any longer. My disposition toward learning has not changed since. Endeavoring to exceed expectations in each class I take, I view training in all zones as applicable to my life, as opposed to remote. I attempt to interface each bit of new data either to my expected field of study (Material science/Mathematics) or to individual edification. Satisfying my maxim, The proportion of learning is its application, I set myself up for all circumstances and accomplish well-roundedness.

How to Find an Intensive OCD Treatment Program

How to Find an Intensive OCD Treatment Program OCD Treatment Print How to Find an Intensive OCD Treatment Program Seeking Help for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder By Owen Kelly, PhD Updated on February 14, 2020 BSIP / UIG / Getty Images More in OCD Treatment Causes Symptoms and Diagnosis Types Living With OCD Related Conditions Although many effective medical and psychological treatments are available for obsessive-compulsive disorder  (OCD),  not all OCD treatments work for everybody. Unfortunately, for some people, nothing seems to be effective. This is known as treatment-resistant OCD.?? To combat this, a number of intensive residential and inpatient treatment programs have been developed. Intensive Treatment Programs The main feature of intensive treatment programs is interdisciplinary care that incorporates the joint expertise of physicians, psychologists, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and other health professionals to design individualized treatment plans aimed at managing OCD symptoms that have proven difficult to treat using standard therapies. In addition, these programs usually involve staying in the hospital for a specified period of time. While some programs require admission to the hospital for up to three months, other programs may only require admission for a few weeks or even just a weekend. These extended stays allow medications to be adjusted while under expert medical supervision, as well as provide many opportunities to undertake cognitive-behavioral therapy  (CBT). While extended programs may offer the most hope for long term management of OCD, studies have shown that even a 5-day intensive inpatient program can be very helpful for adolescents with OCD.?? Other studies have found programs as short as 3 weeks very helpful as well.?? Typically, you must have already tried other treatments without success, including outpatient therapy, in order to qualify for admission to an intensive treatment program. People who are admitted to intensive treatment programs often have other diagnoses to deal with as well, such as depression, an eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia, generalized anxiety disorder, or bipolar disorder.?? Available Intensive Treatment Programs There are two types of intensive treatment programs available, inpatient and residential: Inpatient treatment programs  are for people who may be in danger of harming themselves or others and need immediate care. Admission to the hospital for a select period of time helps avert the medical crisis and get the patient on the right track and to the next step of treatment.   Residential treatment programs  are for people who are not a risk to themselves or others, but have not responded well to typical OCD treatments and need extra help. Residential programs typically take place in a home-like environment where a person stays for a prescribed period of time  and receives 24-hour care. The program typically lasts around 60 days  but can vary from person to person. When Is It Time to Look for an Intensive OCD Treatment Program? If medication and outpatient psychotherapy havent worked for you or your loved one, and OCD symptoms are taking over your life and making it difficult to function, it might be time to look into an intensive OCD treatment program. Having suicidal thoughts despite treatment should prompt you to consider this option. Unfortunately, suicide among people with OCD is far too common,?? and addressing issues such as worsening symptoms may be thought of as a medical emergency, not just a problem that is lowering your quality of life. Intensive treatment may also be considered when comprehensive multidisciplinary care is not readily available. The combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy plus medications can be logistically difficult for some children and families due to the lack of therapists trained in the management of OCD or due to geographical or financial barriers. Residential care in these circumstances allows for rapid and evidence-based delivery of effective care. In the pediatric setting, studies have found that short (1 to 2 weeks) intensive and evidence-based residential therapy followed by e-therapy can have dramatic effects for children coping with OCD.?? Find a Program The International OCD Foundation has compiled a list of intensive OCD treatment programs and organized them by geographic location. In most cases, a referral from your family doctor or psychiatrist is necessary to be admitted to a program. You may need to talk to your health insurance company to find out if your insurance will cover this treatment and how much of the cost they will cover. Residents of Canada should note that these intensive OCD treatment programs are often covered by provincial health insurance plans. The 9 Best Online Therapy Programs

Willa Cathers Death Comes for the Archbishop A...

Willa Cathers Death Comes for the Archbishop: A Narrative When one thinks of a novel, a word that usually will come to mind is fiction. In fact, other meanings for the word novel are new and unique. Although an author may use real places, real time, or base their story on real events in part, their outcome is essentially a creation. We, as readers, are in a sense captive to the writers imagination and must conform to the rules of the worlds they create. If we accept this, then Willa Cathers piece Death Comes for the Archbishop must be seen as a narration, rather than a novel. She is not fabricating, but rather recounting the story of Father Latour (based on Father Lamy) and his experiences in New Mexico. Her descriptions of the†¦show more content†¦However, she does not attempt to change its reality. Since this book is written chronologically, based in actual history and set in a real location, we can see Cathers point was not to tell us a plot-driven tale with complex characters and heavy symbolism. It is more correct to read the book as a report and to be immersed in Cathers ability to describe, recount and narrate. Wherever she embellishes, she does not exaggerate. Her imaginative descriptions do not detract from the pith of Father Latours life experiences, but rather they enrich the meagerness of his survival. Death Comes for the Archbishop tells us an existing (not novel) tale with artistic narration. As readers of this work, we have both feet grounded in authenticity, but have our minds occupied with skillful imaginings. According to A Handbook to Literature by William Harmon and C. Hugh Holman, Novel is used in its broadest sense to designate any extended fictional narrative almost always in prose (350). As this definition states, it would appear that Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather is a novel, however, there are several reasons why it may be asserted that DCA is not a novel. I think that one of the main reasons could be that this book almost comes across as non-fiction. Cather tells such a great story, and when I read this book, I feel like I am right there traveling on horseback alongside FatherShow MoreRelatedInfluenced by Land and Man: Willa Cather and Catherine Porter, Writers of the Southwest1316 Words   |  6 Pages Cowboys and Indians come to mind for many people when the idea of Southwestern literature is presented. The scene of a saloon shootout and John Wayne materialize. Southwestern literature is more than the O.K. Corral. Writers such as Willa Cather and Catherine Port er do not have the prototypical storyline stated above, but they are writers of Southwestern literature. In order to understand why Willa Cather and Catherine Porter should be considered a part of Southwestern literature, one must considerRead MoreGeorgia OKeeffe and Willa Cathers Use of Symbolism and Imagery1293 Words   |  6 PagesMexico. Willa Cather and Georgia O’Keeffe were best known as an author and an artist in the nineteenth century. Willa Cather had a long memorable career writing novels, short stories, poems, and essay, and contributing to any newspapers, editor, and journals as writer. She travels at length to gather material for her narrative and characters, and was recognizable with and respect by many other popular writers in the nineteenth century. In one of her novel, â€Å"Death Comes for The Archbishop†, Willa Cather

Online Healthy Living Game For Children - 771 Words

Online Healthy Living Game for Children Course-Specific Learning Outcomes Computing (CO) Students successfully completing the route will: C.1 become skilled in techniques of analysis and design appropriate for the development of Information systems; C.2 have a range of programming skills and demonstrate those skills through implementation of Systems; C.3 understand theoretical concepts associated with database management systems and Become proficient in the design, construction and exploitation of databases; C.4 understand the characteristics and operation of various operating systems; C.5 understand a range of management and applications issues in the deployment of Information technology; Project Background The Project is to conduct†¦show more content†¦High blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, asthma, liver disease and even some cancers, including breast and bowel cancer. (Bupa, 2014) Health issues can also affect emotional and mental health. For example a child may have low confidence or self-esteem and could lead to depression. (Bupa, 2014) Research has found children between ages 7 to 10 need a lot of nutrients and energy due to the fact they are still growing. On average boys need 1816.5kcal (calories) and girls need 1703kcal (calories). This is worked out by using the guide line averages from NHS calories for children age 7-10. Please see table 1. Table 1: How many calories does a child of 7-10 need? (NHS, 2014) Age (years) Boys Girls 7 6900kJ/1649kcal 6400kJ/1530kcal 8 7300kJ/1745kcal 6800kJ/1625kcal 9 7700kJ/1840kcal 7200kJ/1721kcal 10 8500kJ/2032kcal 8100kJ/1936kcal An article in the guardian referenced to a study by the government called â€Å"How Healthy Behaviour Supports Children’s Wellbeing† and it states that â€Å"in England, videos games were played for two hours or more a day by 55% of boys and 20% of girls in 2010† (The Guardian, 2014) Figure 1: Graph showing screen time (excluding TV) per day Figure 1 shows as children get older they become more interactive with electrical products. So this means technology could be used to encourage healthy living to children. Aim The aim of this project is to design and produce an online game to encourage healthy living in children between

Civil War, Religion or Economy Free Essays

To what extent do you accept Lawrence Stone’s view that religion rather than economic interests influenced the taking of sides among the gentry in 1642? Religion was a huge part of 17th century England, and can be seen as one of the highest contributing factors to the civil war. Most of the country consisted of Protestants with a minority of Catholics, however this did not mean there was no friction between the two. The religious quarrels began right at the start of Charles’ reign, when Charles married Henrietta Maria, a French Catholic. We will write a custom essay sample on Civil War, Religion or Economy or any similar topic only for you Order Now Although Charles didn’t choose to marry her – his father, James, set up the marriage – the public, especially the Puritans, didn’t like having a Catholic as Queen. A few extremists even saw this as a sign that Charles was secretly Catholic! After the King dissolved Parliament, he made William Laud the Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1633. While Laud was Archbishop, he made many changes to the Church. Most of these changes involved beatifying the Church and bringing back robes for priests, statues and stained-glass windows. All these things reminded the English of Catholicism, and it did not please the Presbyterians (puritans) who believed that church should just be about â€Å"you† and God, no extravagance was required and it was considered to be unnecessary. In 1636, Archbishop Laud decided to introduce the English Prayer Book (which stated how services should be run) into Scotland. There was nationwide rioting, because no one wanted to follow the new Prayer Book. Scotland was a Presbyterian (Puritan) country, and they thought that the English Prayer Book was far too Catholic to use in Scotland. This eventually led to many Scots, called the Covenanters, marching down the country in an attempt to invade England. At this point, Charles had to call Parliament to ask for taxes to pay for the war, but was horrified to see that most of the MPs were on the Covenanters’ side. Parliament agreed that the Prayer Book was too Catholic, so Charles dissolved them again, but after he ran out of money to pay the Scots, he was forced to call Parliament again. These actions support the view of Source 6 that the populace believed in an authoritarian popish plot to undermine English laws and liberties, and significantly â€Å"true religion†. This plot was made apparent by the â€Å"alarming† support from the â€Å"evil councillors† at court. The Grand Remonstrance’s famous phrases signify these views and suggest that it was common belief that the King and his advisors were involved in a popish plot. Parliament first put Laud on trial, and found him guilty. Later they decided to execute Strafford on charges of organising an army in Ireland, where he governed. It turned out that this was a big mistake. As soon as Strafford was executed, the Irish Catholics rebelled against the Protestants, saying they were rebelling for the King. Although it was clear this was not true, Parliament did not trust the King when he asked them for an army, and so refused, believing he would use it to crush them instead. Notably, in contradiction to both Sources 5 and 6, Source 7 states that the gentry held no clear alignments as war broke out. There is said to be no â€Å"clear association† of wealth or political sympathies before the war, but correlations do appear in 1645. However, religion is considered to be far more decisive than any socio-economic correlation, suggesting that if any factor could be attributed to the taking of sides, it would in fact be religion. This is supported by the fact that in Yorkshire, over a third of the Royalist gentry were Catholics, and over half the Parliamentarians were Puritans. In contrast to the view that religion was the main influencing factor in the taking of sides among the gentry in 1642, it is also believed that economic interests were responsible for influencing the gentry. James was the first King to reign over both England and Scotland, and when he came down from Scotland it is said that he was astonished at how rich England was, while James had needed to borrow money for his travelling expenses. When James died in 1625, Charles came to the throne, and he, like his father, had very little money. Once Charles became King, the County Faction  wanted him to go to war with the Catholics in Spain, so Charles asked them for taxes to use on the war. They refused to pay enough, so the war was hopeless, and Parliament blamed the King for this. The reason Parliament granted so few taxes was that they wanted to make sure they were called again. Charles, a firm believer in the Divine Right of Kings, thought that he should not have to rule with Parliament, and the only thing that kept him calling it was money. One good example of the way Parliament made sure they were called back in Charles’ reign was tonnage and poundage. These were duties imposed on certain imports and exports. It was normal for these duties to be decided in the first Parliament of a monarch’s reign, but in the case of Charles, they only decided on it for one year, so the King would be forced to call them again. Although Charles tried to ask for more money, Parliament refused, because they believed he spent it on his favourites. Because of this, Charles had to get himself more money. He began using the Church Courts, exploiting taxes such as ‘ship money’, and selling monopolies and titles. He also opened a Court of Star Chamber, which he used to fine people heavily to raise money. Since the judges in the Star Chamber were officials of the Crown, and there was no jury, Charles could be sure of getting a favourable result. Parliament was furious with this, and immediately drew up the  Petition of Right, which asked the King to stop illegal taxation. The King signed it, but only because Parliament threatened to impeach Buckingham, one of the King’s favourites. The quarrels about money went on, and eventually Charles decided to dissolve Parliament. He reigned without them for 11 years. When the new prayer book was brought into Scotland, a group called the Covenanters attempted to invade England. Charles called a Parliament to try and get taxes to fight the Covenanters, but they refused, so Charles dissolved them again. He was forced to pay the Scots ? 850 a day to stop them advancing, and eventually, in 1641, his money ran out, and he had to call Parliament – he was bankrupt and at their mercy, so money was definitely a key factor in the outbreak of the civil war. With the economic depression and impoverishment of the populace, the gentry were bound to rebel against the king. Source 5 suggests that this was the main reason why the gentry rebelled against the king. In contrast to Source 6 which suggests religion was the reason, Source 6 implies that the gentry were merely part of a â€Å"blind protest† against the depressing economic situation the found themselves in. In conclusion it can be suggested that neither economic interest nor religion were individual influences in the taking of sides in 1642. It would be a much more accurate judgement to suggest that a mixture of the two were responsible. The combined fears of a popish plot and a continued depression, or even loyalty to the king may have motivated the gentry in taking sides. This is implied by the variety of evidence from all three sources, mention economic influences and significant religious motivations that would have been completely relevant to the population, but more specifically to the gentry. How to cite Civil War, Religion or Economy, Papers

Enterprise Resource Planning and Vendor Selection

Question: Discuss about theEnterprise Resource Planning and Vendor Selection. Answer: Introduction This paper examines in details the use of the ERP software and vendor selection process with a focus on the overview of the related processes such as the vendor research, matching of the features to user requirements, making requests for bids, bid evaluation and vendor analysis as well as license agreement and contract management. While applying theoretical life practices, the paper as well evaluates different academic literature in the discussion of these processes and as well provides recommendations that can be adopted in managing the challenges and issues involved in the general process of adopting the software in business. Background Information Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is defined as management software used in business to allow a business or organization to use an integrated application system in the management of the business and automation of different back-office functions concerning services, technology, and human resources. In his study, Peri (2014) denotes that the ERP software is essential in the integration of all the facets of the business operation such as development, product planning, sales activities, product and services marketing, as well as manufacturing. The same study denotes that ERP is enterprise application software that is strategized to be adopted in large business enterprises but often requires essential customization terms in analyzing the data and handling of deployment and upgrades. The application can as well cover a lightweight business management solution that can be customized for a vertical or specific business arena. The modules are as well essential in the standardization of the c ritical business procedures, redundant tasks, lowering of purchase costs, and the management of human resources payrolls among other duties. However, the deployment of the ERP system can at times be a time-consuming and expensive process; it is necessary that a business makes the right choice in deciding on the vendor selection factors that are most vital for the organization. In his study, Sahling (2016) also points out various factors that should be considered in comparing the ERP systems and the vendors that provide them in evaluating if they are good partners for business. For instance, Fulmer and Gerard (2014) denote that it is necessary to evaluate; The organizational change and transformation of the vendor with time Most recent products of the vendor as well as the new products it plans to issue The time the company has taken in the industry The specialized experience of the vendor in the provision of the ERP solutions to businesses of similar type and size The vendors future direction in business Budget requirements and resources Future scalability and underlying technology The functional requirements of the ERP software that the organization needs to monitor Vendor Research, Selection, and Analysis In his study, Bucki (2016) denotes that the research, analysis, and selection of a vendor require the request for information from the vendors. The information provided by the vendors will be essential in the evaluation and examination of viable vendors that can be shortlisted through a request for proposals depending on the business an enterprise is pursuing and the enterprise resource planning adopted. The shortlisted vendors are then given a four-week deadline, a time for response and demonstrations. At this stage,Bucki (2016) denotes that the financial viability of every vendor is examined on the likelihood of being acquired as well as the research and development they devote to the value-add and the must-have requirements of the list. Each vendor is then given a discovery opportunity where they are given a platform to ask questions on what the organization expects on the demos or even invite them to tour the site. In their study, Walter (2016) denotes that vendor selection can be a very emotional and complicated process is not handled carefully using the best approach from the beginning. Every business should hence adopt a relevant process that can help the business to effectively identify prospective and relevant vendors and leading the team in a selection process of the winning vendors while providing insight on the negotiation of contracts while avoiding negotiation mistakes. Once the gathering and prioritization of the project requirements are complete, the project team can send a request for information to the vendors while focusing on 10% of the requirements that are essential or the company (Choudhury2016, p. 56). As a result, the following methods can be adopted in the process; Analysis of the Business Requirements Before starting the data collection process of performing interviews, it is necessary to assemble a group of people with vested interest in the particular vendor selection process. The first task that should be accomplished is the definition in writing the products, services, or materials that you are searching for a vendor. The step is followed by the definition of the technical and the business as well as the vendor requirements. The documents are then published in the areas relevant to the vendor selection process while seeking their input for approval. The team should then have an analysis of the final document creation. Vendor Search With the agreement on the vendor and business requirements in place, the team searches for possible vendors that can effectively deliver high-quality materials, services, and products. Malde (2016) denotes that a large scope of vendor process requires a high number of vendors on the table since not every vendor will match the minimum requirements hence giving the team the opportunity of seeking more information from the most qualified. A Request for Information (RFI) is then drafted and submitted to the vendors shortlisted. Their responses are then evaluated while selecting a small number that will be shortlisted for the next stage. Request for Proposal and Quotation The requirements for the business are defined while having the list of selected vendors that should be evaluated. Request for quotation and request for proposals and then written containing information on the detailsof submission, the introduction, the executive summary, business background, and overview, constraints and assumptions, detailed specifications, terms, and conditions, as well as the selection criteria. Proposal Evaluation and Bid Selection This phase is mainly focused towards minimizing human emotion as well as the political positioning so as to make a decision that best matches the interest of the company (Choudhury2016, p. 345). The process requires a thorough investigation while seeking input from all the stakeholders and using a specific methodological procedure in a unified selection decision of the vendors. It hence involves the preliminary review of all the vendor proposals, recording business requirement and vendor requirements, assigning the value of importance for every requirement, assigning performance value for every requirement, calculation of a total performance score, and selecting the winning vendor. Contract Negotiation and Licensing Agreement Strategies It is the last stage of vendor selection process involving the adoption of agreed-upon contract negotiation strategy. It hence requires the selection team to review the objectives of the contract negotiation as well as the possible legal requirements that may be necessary for the process of adopting the ERP Software in the process. The negotiation plan should hence cover a list of the ranked priorities and the possible alternatives, and assessment of the possible risks and liabilities. It as well involves the definition of the time constraints and benchmarks as well as the political liabilities and risks, and evaluation of the legal requirements on the confidentiality, dispute resolution, and non-competency changes in requirements. The business should as well choose the enterprise level the suits it operation. Large enterprise ERP is adopted for larger markets and is globally dominated by three primary companies; the Oracle, Microsoft, and SAP. Mid-market ERP is adopted by midmarket vendors such as Epicor, Sage, IFS, QAD, and Infor among others. The small business ERP such as the Exact Globe, Visibility, Consona, and CDC software are adopted as activant solutions for small business. Recommendations In his study, Sahling (2016) denotes that providing an employee demo training beforehand enables employees to get a clear instruction and expectation not to give any clue about their feeling towards the performance of the software. During the demos, the organization needs to focus on priority areas while bringing the subject matter experts that would be able to express their interest as well as ERP pain points so as to ensure that the requirements are written accordingly. Neves, Fenn, and Sulcas (2014) also assert that it is vital to document all the business issues that arise in the sessions even to the very small ones that can have minimal impacts on the business such dollar limits that will trigger manager sign-offs. Doing so at early stages can help in solving problems that can arise later as a result of the documented information. The organization as well require t set up an interactive process that will help in gathering ERP requirements such as review sessions with all the sta keholders involved. It is also essential to categorize the different requirements into three primary groups, i.e. mandatory, nice to have, and value-add as the categorization will help in phasing the vendor selection implementation according to Altamony et al. (2016, p. 67). For instance, the organization can focus on the mandatory requirements at the beginning to ensure the normal operation is maintained before introducing the value-add items phrase for the process of optimization. Since most of the stakeholders and employees are still learning on the use of the software, it is essential that the optimization process is undertaken in stages. Fulmer and Gerard (2014) also point out that a step-by-step accounting of tasks that are executed both outsides and inside of the ERP system along with the stakeholders responsibility and the time frame. The strategy is essential in uncovering pain points such as the poor visibility into key data that are essential for the strategic management and success of the wh ole vendor selection process. However, the requirements that are related to the ability to automate the workflows or visibility provision into certain sources of data tend to available widely across the brands. Conclusion ERP software often made up of different enterprise software modules that can be individually purchased on the basis of what best suits the technical performance and particular needs of the organization. Every module often focuses on a particular facet of the business process like marketing or development of product among others. Among the denoted modules include inventory control, finance and HR, material purchase, distribution, accounting, and marketing. A business hence typically adopts a combination of different modules in managing tasks and back office activities such as managing the supply chain, distribution processes, configuration, pricing, financial data accuracy improvement, better project planning facilitation, and automating the lifecycle of employees. The modules are as well essential in the standardization of the critical business procedures, redundant tasks, lowering of purchase costs, and the management of human resources payrolls among other duties. However, the depl oyment of the ERP system can at times be a time-consuming and expensive process; it is necessary that a business makes the right choice in deciding on the vendor selection factors that are most vital for the organization. List of References Altamony, H., Tarhini, A., Al-Salti, Z., Gharaibeh, A. H., Elyas, T, 2016,The Relationship between Change Management Strategy and Successful Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Implementations: A Theoretical PerspectiveInternational Journal Of Business Management Economic Research,7(4), 690-703.Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 18 January 2017. Bucki, J 2016, The Successful Vendor Selection Process: Five steps to vendor selection process Retrieved from https://www.thebalance.com/the-successful-vendor-selection-process-2533820 Choudhury, D. K. (2016). Vendor Selection Model for a Manufacturing Company: An Analytical Research Approach.IUP Journal Of Operations Management,15(2), 34-52.Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 14Feb 2017. Fulmer, B. P., Gerard, G. J. 2014,Selecting an Enterprise Resource Planning System: An Active Learning SimulationJournal Of Emerging Technologies In Accounting,11(1), 71-82. Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 18 March 2016. Malde, A. 2015, Role of Information Technology and Communication Systems in Implementing Enterprise Resource Planning Systems in Indian IndustriesGlobal Journal Of Enterprise Information System,7(4), 18-22.Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 10 January 2016. Neves, D., Fenn, D., Sulcas, P. 2014,Selection of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems,South African Journal Of Business Management,35(1), 45-52.Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 27Dec 2016. Peri, T. 2014, Multiproduct vendor selection with volume discounts as the fuzzy multi-objective programming problem, International Journal Of Production Research,52(14), 4315-4331. Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 27Dec 2016. Sahling, F. 2016,Integration of vendor selection into production and remanufacturing planning subject to emission constraints, International Journal Of Production Research,54(13), 3822-Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 2January 2017. Walter, Z 2016,Critical Success Factors for Integrated Library System Implementation in Academic Libraries: A Qualitative Study.Information Technology Libraries,35(3), 27-42.Source Premier, EBSCOhost, viewed 27Dec 2016.

Improving Scope Definition Through Project Performance Information Technology Essay Essay Example

Improving Scope Definition Through Project Performance Information Technology Essay Essay 2. Introduction Inadequate or hapless range definition, which negatively correlates to the undertaking public presentation, has long been recognized as among the most jobs impacting a building undertaking[ 1 ]. Due to hapless range definition, concluding undertaking costs can be expected to be higher because of the inevitable alterations which interrupt undertaking beat, cause rework, increase undertaking clip, and lower the productiveness every bit good as the morale of the work force[ 2 ]. Unfortunately many proprietor and contractor organisations do a hapless occupation of adequately specifying a undertaking s range taking to a hapless design footing[ 3 ]. Scope definition activities take topographic point at the pre-project planning stage. 2.1 Pre-project planning We will write a custom essay sample on Improving Scope Definition Through Project Performance Information Technology Essay specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Improving Scope Definition Through Project Performance Information Technology Essay specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Improving Scope Definition Through Project Performance Information Technology Essay specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Pre-project planning is the undertaking stage embracing all the undertakings between undertaking induction to detailed design. Development of the undertaking range definition bundle is a major subprocess in this stage [ 4 ]. The Construction Industry Institute ( CII ) defines preproject planning as the procedure of developing sufficient strategic information with which proprietors can turn to hazard and make up ones mind to perpetrate resources to maximise the opportunity for a successful undertaking[ 5 ]. The range definition bundle when decently done, gives information to analyse and turn to undertaking hazard every bit good as signifier a footing for estimations and agendas which would enable direction take determination to perpetrate resources to the undertaking. Research has shown the importance of preproject planning on capital undertakings and its influence on undertaking success. Findingss of a Construction Industry Institute ( CII ) survey carried out in 1994 proved that h igher degrees of preproject planning attempt consequences in important cost and agenda nest eggs. Specifically, the research survey categorized 53 capital installation undertakings into three different strengths of preproject be aftering attempt and compared entire possible cost and agenda public presentation differences as follows: A 20 % cost nest eggs with a high degree of preproject planning attempt A 39 % agenda nest eggs with a high degree of preproject planning attempt Because of the important nest eggs associated with improved undertaking predictability, the survey concluded that a complete range definition prior to project executing is imperative to project success [ 6 ]. 2.2 Project Scope Definition-What is it? The undertaking range defines what the work is ( i.e. , the work that must be performed to present a merchandise, service, or consequence with the specified characteristics and maps )[ 7 ]. Project range definition is the procedure by which undertakings are defined and prepared for executing and It is at this important phase where hazards associated with the undertaking are analyzed and the specific undertaking executing attack is defined[ 8 ]. It follows from above definitions that if the work to be done in a undertaking is non clear or non decently defined, the executing of such undertaking will run into jobs. One of such jobs is cost overproductions. Poor range definition and loss of control of the undertaking range rank as the most frequent lending factors to be overproductions [ 9 ]. 2.3 Work Breakdown Structure ( WBS ) and WBS Dictionary A range is better understood when interrupt down into smaller manageable spots or constituents and the WBS helps to make this. The WBS is a tree construction of in turn farther dislocations of work range into constituent parts for planning, delegating duty, managing, commanding, and describing undertaking advancement[ 10 ]. The top of the tree represent the whole and subsequent degrees represent divisions of the whole on a degree by flat footing until the smallest component desired is defined[ 11 ]. What the WBS contains are scope deliverables and non the activities and undertaking to carry through the deliverables. These undertaking and activities are covered in the undertaking agenda. However a agenda draws from the lowest degree of the WBS which is the work bundle. The WBS is farther defined as an effectual show technique for specifying and forming undertaking work. For the proprietor, the WBS represents what is being bought while for the contractor, it contains all work being performed on the undertaking [ 12 ]. The WBS is derived from the Asset Owner s range statement. The WBS does non stand entirely, as a lexicon of existent range must attach to the WBS construction[ 13 ]. The WBS dictionary describes the particulars and exact range of each deliverable. While the WBS is an effort to decently specify range its success has nevertheless been limited. The chief ground is that its elements and descriptions are non standardized even within the same organisation. Some organisations and undertaking directors are even confused about the proper usage of the WBS. Humphreys, G, 2002, alluded to this confusion when he asked the inquiry, If this structured attack to forming the range of work ( mentioning to WBS ) is normally used, why is there confusion? [ 14 ]. Humphreys reply is that some individuals use the WBS to reflect the organisation that is carry throughing the work instead than the work itself[ 15 ]. Other misconceptions are comparing the WBS with a agenda or list of activities to present the plants. The terminal consequence of these misconceptions and deficiency of criterions is hapless range definition. 2.4 Poor Scope Definition and Reasons for it. Poor range definition refers to scope whose definition is uncomplete, unequal, inaccurate or obscure. As before stated hapless range definition is the root cause of many undertaking failures. One may desire to inquire, what are the grounds for hapless range definition? I province below a few of the grounds: Absence or non usage of a range definition tool Absence of standardised WBS The hastiness to acquire budget blessing Poor interface between Engineering ( Design ) and undertaking squad Customers/Client non doing up their heads on clip. Incompetence of design squad Misinterpretation of clients demands For 1st clip plus proprietors ; non grasp of the terminal merchandise from the beginning. Owner non willing to perpetrate resources for full range definition 3 THE NEED TO IMPROVE PROJECT SCOPE DEFINITION The demand to better undertaking range definition arises from the impact hapless range definition has on undertakings. Where range definition is hapless a undertaking is impacted in several ways. Some of these impacts are summarized here below: 3.1 IMPACTS OF POOR PROJECT SCOPE DEFINITION Impact on cost estimations: Poor scope definition leads to detain in the bringing of estimations, over or under appraisal, high degree of eventuality allowance and uninterrupted alteration of the estimations as omitted points are added or inaccurate points are corrected. Furthermore concluding cost will be higher than budgeted. Harmonizing to OConnor and Vickroy 1986, concluding undertaking costs can be expected to be higher because of the inevitable alterations which interrupt undertaking beat, cause rework, increase undertaking clip, and lower the productiveness every bit good as the morale of the work force[ 16 ]. Impact on agenda: Poor scope definition leads to schedule slippage and accordingly late bringing of the undertaking. A typical illustration is the add-on of necessary work points that were omitted from the range the agenda was based on. These will necessitate extra clip to be after and put to death. There would besides be holds ensuing from the integrating of the new plants into the bing plants as the undertaking beat will be disrupted and some points reworked. Poor range definition leads to an unrealistic agenda and this will give false information during advancement measuring. This means that a contractor could be overpaid or underpaid when earned value measuring is based strictly on the agenda. Another impact is that resources will be wrongly allocated to activities as their exact range is unknown. Impact on hazard appraisal: One of the hazard events that undertakings cater for is deficiency of, or hapless range definition. This hazard is mitigated by the usage of eventuality, pecuniary in instance of cost estimations and extra resources or longer continuances in footings of agenda. Contingency is an sum added to an estimation or agenda to let for alterations that experience shows will probably be required[ 17 ]. These are normally referred to as Known Unknowns . Experience has shown that one time a eventuality is provided, it is frequently used up. Furthermore the cost of the alterations covered by eventuality for points that are non similar to bing plants are higher because of clip difference and deficiency of competition during the executing stage, therefore the plus proprietor pays more than he should hold paid if the range was wholly defined before executing stage. Claims and many alteration orders: Poor scope definition leads to schedule slippage which in bend leads to contractual claims for extension of clip every bit good as extended undertaking direction, caput office operating expense and site indirect cost. Apart from clip extension claims, there would besides be claims for loss of net income, underutilization of planned resources, standby clip necessitated by many range alterations and outstanding work range definitions and elucidations. Where there is schedule slippage, the undertaking proprietor may order acceleration steps to unclutter out the slippage. The cost for this acceleration is recoverable by the contractor if the cause of agenda slippage is due to hapless range definition. The undertaking proprietor ends up paying more than he should hold paid if range was good defined. Undertaking Abandonment: If the impacts discussed above are extended, the undertaking may be abandoned as the proprietor may non hold the necessary financess to go on with the plants. This is normally the instance with many authorities undertakings. Furthermore the return on investing ( ROI ) may no longer be attractive coercing the proprietor to abandon or suspend the undertaking. If we must avoid or minimise the above impacts, a batch more work demand to be done at specifying the undertaking range. Following this demand for improved undertaking range definition, the Construction Industry Institute ( CII ) funded a research which resulted to the development of a undertaking definition tool, called the Project Definition Rating Index ( PDRI ) , Industrial version in 1996. The Building version followed in 1999. The following section of this paper will discourse the Project Definition Rating Index and how it is used to better undertaking range definition 4 PROJECT DEFINITION RATING INDEX ( PDRI ) 4.1 WHAT IT IS The Project Definition Rating Index ( PDRI ) is a undertaking direction tool designed to increase the likeliness of undertaking success by bettering undertaking range definition, specifically by placing lacks in range definition early during the front-end planning procedure[ 18 ]. Cho C. S and Edward Gibson Jr described it ( PDRI-Industrial ) as a range definition tool that is widely used by contrivers in the industrial undertakings sector[ 19 ]. Edward Gibson Jr ( 2004 ) described it as a hazard direction tool as it identifies and steps hazards related to project range definition[ 20 ]. There are two versions of this tool, the PDRI Industrial undertakings and PDRI Building undertakings. PDRI Industrial was developed in 1996 for Industrial undertakings such as refineries, chemical workss, power workss and heavy fabrication while the edifice version was developed from the Industrial version in 1999. It covers assorted constructing types such as offices, schools, flat edifices, hotels etc. The construction of the PDRI is as follows: Table 1: PDRI Structure[ 21 ] Version Sections Classs Elementss PDRI Industrial 3 15 70 PDRI Buildings 3 11 64 Please see Appendix 1[ 22 ]for description of the subdivisions, classs and elements ( PDRI Buildings ) The elements are critical range definition elements divided into classs and subdivisions as shown in table 1 above. The elements are arranged in a leaden mark sheet format and supported by 38 ( 34 for PDRI Industrial ) pages of elaborate description and checklist[ 23 ]. The elements covers all range countries expected in a typical undertaking. The leaden mark sheets show the subdivision, the class, elements with their weights and the range definition degrees every bit good as a column for component mark. The range definition degrees are 6 in figure runing from 0, which means non applicable, to 1, intending complete definition, 2 minor lacks, 3 some lacks, 4- major lacks and 5- incomplete or hapless definition. The weights were determined via workshops sing the comparative importance of each component to each other and its possible impact on the undertaking. Each component has a alone weight under each of the definition degrees ( degrees 1 5 ) , flat 0, being an component that is n on applicable to the undertaking under consideration. If all degree 5 ( uncomplete range definition ) assigned weights are added together for the 70 elements of PDRI Industrial ( 64 for PDRI Building ) we would hold a entire leaden mark of 1000 points which is the worst instance. Similarly if all elements are wholly defined i.e at degree 1 definition, the add-on of the assigned leaden tonss for the 70 elements ( or 64 PDRI Buildings ) under this definition would give a sum of 70 points, which is the best instance. In a typical undertaking appraisal utilizing PDRI, the undertaking mark would be between 70 and 1000 points. It follows that the lower the undertaking score the better defined the undertaking is in footings of range. A mark of 200 points or below utilizing this tool was shown to statistically increase the predictability of undertaking result. A sample of 40 undertakings utilizing the industrial version of the PDRI indicated that those undertakings hiting below 200 versus those hiting above 200 had: Average cost nest eggs of 19 % versus estimated for design and building Schedule decrease by 13 % versus estimated for design and building Fewer undertaking alterations Increased predictability of operational public presentation [ 24 ]. Table below is an infusion of a leaden mark sheet. Table 2: Infusion of PDRI weighted score sheet ( Buildings )[ 25 ] Definition degrees 0 = Not Applicable 2 = Minor Deficiencies 4 = Major Lacks 1 = Complete Definition 3 = Some Deficiencies 5 = Incomplete or Poor Definition A undertaking squad utilizing this tool reviews each of the 70 or 64 elements ( industrial or edifice ) along with its item description and compares them to the range definition bundle of the undertaking under consideration and scores the completeness of the element definitions. The mark for each component is recorded in the mark column and added to give the class mark and the class tonss are added to give the subdivision mark, subdivision tonss are added to give the undertaking PDRI mark. The lower the PDRI score the better the range definition. How existent marking is done will be discussed subsequently in this paper. Benefits of the PDRI The PDRI has many benefits or utilizations. Harmonizing to Cho, C.S and Gibson, G. Jr, 2001, it can be used as: A checklist that a undertaking squad can utilize for finding the necessary stairss to follow in specifying the undertaking range A listing of standardised range definition nomenclature An Industry criterion for evaluation the completeness of the undertaking range definition bundle during the planning procedure in order to mensurate advancement, buttocks hazard, and re-direct hereafter attempt. A agency for undertaking squad participants to accommodate differences utilizing a common footing for undertaking rating A tool that aids in communicating and alliance between proprietors and design contractors by foregrounding ill defined countries in a range definition bundle A preparation tool for organisations and persons A benchmarking tool for organisations to utilize in measuring completion of range definition versus the public presentation of past undertakings, in order to foretell the chance of success on future undertakings. [ 26 ] Using the PDRI to measure undertakings degree of definition This subdivision deals with the existent marking of a undertaking to find its degree of definition. A undertaking squad meets at any point during the pre-project planning stage to carry on the appraisal. Amongst them is an independent facilitator who is sooner non portion of the undertaking squad but has good cognition of the undertaking. The undertaking squad and facilitator are provided with the range definition bundle of the undertaking ( scope statement, WBS, surveies, design sketches/drawings, specifications etc ) an un-weighted PDRI mark sheet, elaborate PDRI elements description and a leaden mark sheet sooner for merely the facilitator. It is non advisable to supply the leaden mark sheet to team members at the hiting session as they may be tempted to aim a peculiar mark. An un-weighted mark sheet for Buildings is shown in Appendix 2[ 27 ]. Each component and its description are read from the PDRI and this is compared to what is provided in the range definition bundle of the undertaking being assessed. See infusion of element description in Appendix 3[ 28 ]. The undertaking squad by consensus selects a degree of definition ( 0 to 5 ) that fits the component under consideration and checks the box under the definition degree that correspond to the component. The facilitator picks the leaden mark that corresponds with the checkered definition box ( in un-weighted mark sheet ) and transportations it to the mark column of the leaden mark sheet and that becomes the mark for the component. This procedure is repeated for all the PDRI elements. The elements score so derived are added together to give the class mark and the classs score added together give the subdivisions mark and subdivisions mark added gives the PDRI mark for the undertaking. The lower the entire PDRI mark, the better the undertaking range definition. Higher weights signify that certain elements within the range bundle deficiency equal definition and should be re-examined anterior to building paperss development. [ 29 ] Improvement of range definition utilizing PDRI The PDRI 70 or 64 elements ( Industrial or Building ) are comprehensive descriptions of all range issues to be encountered in a undertaking. They are issues that need to be addressed in pre-project planning[ 30 ]. If Undertaking proprietors and design squads work with the PDRI elements, they are non likely to hold skips of critical elements in the undertaking range. It serves as their checklist in specifying the undertaking range. With the elaborate description of the PDRI elements a installation proprietor is made cognizant of the extra information he needs to supply to guarantee undertaking success. When these are provided scope definition is improved. One of the ways to better undertaking range definition is the usage of standardised work interrupt down construction ( WBS ) . An acceptable standardised WBS has been an semblance both in the Building and Industrial Sector. The hierarchy of PDRI subdivisions, classs and elements can organize the footing of a work dislocation construction ( WBS ) for proper range planning[ 31 ]. This can be adopted as a criterion topic to some amendments discussed subsequently in this paper. The PDRI hiting procedure throws up points that are ill defined and therefore necessitate farther action. So instead that travel with uncomplete range into the following gate or executing stage, a better definition is sought and achieved before proceeding. When making a PDRI appraisal equivocal statements or definitions are identified and clarified from relevant stakeholders, therefore bettering on the range definition. Some Examples of Current Application of PDRI The US Army Corps of Engineers in its Engineering and Construction Bulletin No. 2010-17 dated 29th July 2010 issued a guideline for the execution of Project Definition Rating Index. It states Get downing with the FY11 USACE managed MILCON Program, execution of PDRI will be a demand. [ 32 ] The US Department of Energy besides issued a usher for the usage of PDRI for its Traditional Nuclear and Non- Nuclear Construction Projects, dated 22nd July 2010. It stated, This Guide assists persons and squads involved in carry oning appraisals of undertaking definition ( i.e. how good has front terminal planning been conducted to specify the undertaking range ) utilizing a numerical undertaking direction tool developed by the Construction Industry Institute ( CII ) that has been tailored for DOE usage. The tool is called the Project Definition Rating Index ( PDRI ) [ 33 ] PDRI IN AN INTEGRATED PROJECT DELIVERY APPROACH The PDRI has by and large been applied to traditional building undertakings that follow the design, command and concept attack. In this attack the design squad coatings their work and handover to the building squad. The building squad foremost interface is normally after the completion or partial completion of the elaborate designs. At this point the executing is ready to get down, and clip and budget are already firmed up. Any disagreements noticed between assorted drawings and skips and or add-ons at this point forth translate to bespeak for alteration orders. The consequence of hapless range definition begins to attest. Construction today is traveling from the traditional attack described above to Integrated Project Delivery attack. Integrated Project Delivery ( IPD ) is a undertaking bringing attack that integrates people, systems, concern constructions and patterns into a procedure that collaboratively harnesses the endowments and penetrations of all participants to cut down waste and optimize efficiency through all stages of design, fiction and building[ 34 ]. In an incorporate procedure hazard and benefits are jointly shared. Cardinal demands in the IPD procedure are coaction and early engagement of assorted stakeholders. The proprietor, designer, applied scientists, contractor, subcontractors are assembled at the origin of the undertaking and they jointly work through the clients brief or statement of range, doing parts from their assorted subjects. This collaborative attack is continued through the assorted stages of the undertaking until the plants are completed and handed over to the proprietor. Scope definition in this attack is a joint work devising room for varied and comprehensive thoughts ; points that would hold caused disagreements on site are thrown up and resolved. Those who normally asked for information elucidations at executing phase are all portion of the squad developing the range and are therefore able to indicate out those countries that are normally uncomplete in range definition utilizing the traditional building attack. In this attack the PDRI in its current signifier can be used as a benchmark for the completeness of the information that the elaborate design would be based on. PDRI IN A BUILDING INFORMATION MODEL ( BIM ) ENVIRONMENT BIM is an Integrated Project Delivery Approach with practical theoretical accounts and informations bases. A edifice information theoretical account ( BIM ) is a digital representation of physical and functional features of a installation. As such it serves as a shared cognition resource for information about a installation organizing a dependable footing for determinations during its life-cycle from origin onward [ 35 ]. The basic theoretical account is 3D but when sequence of building is added, it becomes a 4D theoretical account. When linked with gauging package it becomes a 5D theoretical account. The usage of 3D theoretical account in BIM enhances visual image and provides lucidity peculiarly for individuals with small accomplishments in reading building drawings. As an IPD procedure the undertaking stakeholders are assembled early in the planning procedure and working collaboratively are able to bring forth a batch of diverse and comprehensive range information within a short clip. Based on the generated information, the Architect, Engineers, and fiction contractors/subs develop their practical theoretical accounts which are shared with the squad members. By this attack countries of struggle are identified and fi xed while still in the design development phase. In the traditional building attack these struggles are non identified until the executing stage and they by and large lead to alter orders and hence cost overproductions. BIM is based on information and information which must be organized, stored, retrieved, and transmitted through out the life rhythm of a undertaking. One of the pictured tools for forming information in BIM is the Omniclass Construction Classification System ( OminClass or OCCS ) . Harmonizing to the US National Institute of Building Sciences, OmniClass is applicable for forming many different signifiers of information of import to the NBIM Standard, both electronic and difficult transcript[ 36 ]. OmniClass has 15 tabular arraies for categorization of building information. For illustration building information can be classified by elements ( table 21 ) , merchandises ( table 23 ) , subjects ( table 33 ) etc. Entries in the OmniClass tabular arraies can be explicitly defined in the IFDLibrary one time and reused repeatedly, enabling dependable automated communications between applications a primary end of NBIMS[ 37 ]. IFD Library is a sort of lexicon of building industry footings that must be used systematically in multiple linguistic communications to accomplish consistent consequences. The PDRI can happen look in BIM if its 64 elements are aligned with the OmniClass elements table. But herein besides lies the restriction as the information in BIM can be organized with several other tabular arraies. Where this is the instance the PDRI will non be utile. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS The PDRI is a range definition tool that can be used on any undertaking with enormous benefits as before highlighted. Its usage minimizes the effects of hapless range definition on a undertaking. However the use is still limited to America and some parts of Europe. Sing its part to project success I recommend that the tool be widely publicized for usage by a greater audience. Many people already use one signifier of WBS or the other for range definition, the job nevertheless is the non standardisation of the WBS and its dictionary. OmniClass is turn outing to be a dominant categorization system whose elements can be used to organize the edifice blocks of a standard WBS alongside the IFD Library. It is recommended that the PDRI elements be updated and aligned with the OmniClasss elements to guarantee its continued utility in a fast changing building Industry. The PDRI is most suited for traditional building attacks. With modern undertaking bringing attacks such as IPD and BIM, the demand for the recommended alliance of PDRI elements with OmniClass can non be over emphatic. The PDRI in its current signifier has limited application in IPD and BIM environment. The Project Definition Rating Index ( PDRI ) is a undertaking direction tool designed to increase the likeliness of undertaking success by bettering undertaking range definition, specifically by placing lacks in range definition early during the front-end planning procedure[ 38 ]. Analysiss of tonss from a undertaking appraisal utilizing the PDRI isolates ill defined elements of range for which farther action can be taken. When this farther action is taken it leads to betterment in the overall definition of the undertaking range. I hence recommend this tool for anyone who wants to better undertaking range definition and guarantee success in his undertaking.

Best Babe Didrikson Zaharias Quotes

Best Babe Didrikson Zaharias Quotes Babe Didrikson Zaharias was an outstanding athlete from her early years. She excelled in basketball, track and field, and golf. In track and field, she won medals or established world records in five different events. After winning two gold and one silver medal in the 1932 Olympics at Los Angeles, she played basketball, appeared at major league baseball exhibition games, and finally switched to golf. She married George Zaharias in 1938, and died of cancer in 1956. A favorite with the press, she often did not get along well with other athletes, who resented her aggressiveness and self-promotion. It has been argued that Babe Didrikson Zaharias was the greatest woman athlete ever. Quotations by Babe Didrikson Zaharias All of my life I have always had the urge to do things better than anybody else. You cant win them all- but you can try. I am out to beat everybody in sight, and that is just what Im going to do. You have to play by the rules of golf just as you have to live by the rules of life. Theres no other way. Study the rules so that you wont beat yourself by not knowing something. Before I was in my teens, I knew exactly what I wanted to be: I wanted to be the best athlete who ever lived. Luck? Sure. But only after long practice and only with the ability to think under pressure. The formula for success is simple: practice and concentration then more practice and more concentration. The more you practice, the better. But in any case, practice more than you play. Practice, which some regard as a chore, should be approached as just about the most pleasant recreation ever devised, besides being a necessary part of golf. Its not enough just to swing at the ball. Youve got to loosen your girdle and let er fly. Golf is a game of coordination, rhythm and grace; women have these to a high degree. Good golf is easier to play and far more pleasant than bad golf. I played with boys rather than girls. I preferred baseball, football, foot-racing and jumping with the boys, to hop-scotch and jacks and dolls, which were about the only things girls did. Get toughened up by playing boys games, but dont get tough. Winning has always meant much to me, but winning friends has meant the most. You know when theres a star, like in show business, the star has her name in lights on the marquee! Right? And the star gets the money because the people come to see the star, right? Well, Im the star, and all of you are in the chorus. As long as Im improving, I will go on, and besides, theres too much money in the business to quit. The Babe is here. Whos coming in second? Quotes About Babe Didrikson Zaharias On her gravestone:Â  Babe Didrikson Zaharias, 1911-1956, Worlds Greatest Woman Athlete Grantland Rice (Sportswriter) She is beyond all belief until you finally see her perform. Then you finally understand that you are looking at the most flawless section of muscle harmony, of complete mental and physical coordination, the world of sport has ever seen. Paul Gallico (in Sports Illustrated) It may be another 50 or 75 years before such a performer as Mildred Didrikson Zaharias again enters the lists. For even if some yet unborn games queen matches her talent, versatility, skill, patience and will to practice, along with her flaming competitive spirit, ... there still remains the little matter of courage and character, and in these departments the Babe must be listed with the champions of all times. Betty Dodd (Golfer and Companion of Babe Didrikson Zaharias) I had such admiration for this fabulous person. I never wanted to be away from her even when she was dying of cancer. I loved her. I wouldve done anything for her.

Financial Management Cash Management Techniques Essay

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Inflammatory Bowel Disease Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Inflammatory Bowel Disease - Essay Example Nevertheless, the Crohn sickness normally affects the lower part of the ileum (small intestines), though there is a possibility of it happening anywhere along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. On the other hand, the ulcerative colitis mainly happens along the interior lining of the colon (McGuire & Beerman, 2013). The two diseases are treated differently. The ulcerative colitis treatment is based on the reduction of chronic and acute swelling that result in respite. The common drugs prescribed include antibiotics, antidiarrheal, and steroids. The patient can also be treated using immunosuppressant for example azathioprine cyclosporine and 6-mercaptopurine (Nelms, Sucher, Lacey & Roth, 2010). The other appropriate medication is anti-inflammatory -5- aminosalicylic acid and infliximab (biological therapies). The Crohn’s disease treatment is founded on the severe condition of the illness. The appropriate drugs include infliximab, steroids, antibiotics, immunosuppressant and in some cases surgery. In the surgery procedure the affected parts are removed that may consist of ileostomy, ileocolic resections, total proctocolectomy and segmental resections. The two diseases have different presentations. In ulcerative colitis the common signs include fever, weight loss, arthritis, ocular manifestations, abdominal or rectal pain, dermatological change and diarrhea with mucus and blood. The complication as a result of the illness comprise of severe bleeding, carcinoma, intolerance to immunosuppression, toxic colitis, strictures, toxic megacolon, perforation and dysplasia (Nelms et al., 2010). The symptoms of Crohn disease include delayed growth in adolescents, weight loss, fever, cramping and abdominal pain, malnutrition, anorexia and a stool that has blood or mucus. The complications that occur as a consequence of the sickness are neoplasia, perennial illness, malabsorption, gallstones, and kidney stones. The patient also suffers from obstruction of the

The challenges of Globalization on Small Medium Enterprises

The challenges of Globalization on Small Medium Enterprises description on project background. In the context of Tanzania, the majority of SMEs fall under the informal sector and engaging up to 4 people, in most cases family members or employing capital amounting up to Tshs.5.0 million / $3,235.83. (Tanzania chamber of commerce industry and Agriculture, 2007). The SMEs cover non-farm economic activities mainly manufacturing, mining, commerce and services. (Tanzania ministry of industry, trade and marketing, 2007). It is easy to establish SMEs all over the world and in Tanzania in particular, since their requirements in terms of capital, technology, management and even utilities are not as demanding as it is the case for large enterprises. These enterprises are also established in rural settings and thus add value to agro products and at the same time facilitate the dispersal of enterprises. About one third of the GDP originates from SME sector. The sector has more than 1.7 Million businesses, engaging about 3 million people, who occupy about 20% of the total labour force. 92% of the annual school leavers (at all levels) in Tanzania are potentially absorbed by the SME sector. There are about 700,000 new entrants in the SME sector every year. (Saiguran, 2007) Therefore it is reflected already that the SME sector plays a crucial role in the economy. Some of the problems faced by SMEs in Tanzania include; SMEs constitute a higher credit risk because they often lack diversification in their sources of income and/or are concentrated relative to large firms, with the possible exception of SMEs oriented to the consumer segment (niche market). They also suffer from significant uncertainty regarding potential tax liabilities. There is no Opaqueness in balance sheets therefore reflecting weak accounting practices and non-transparent information. (Tanzania chamber of commerce industry and Agriculture, 2007). All this results into banks being reluctant to lend them money as a result of low credit worthiness which leaves SMEs with limited access to finance. A report from the (ministry on industry and trade in Tanzania, 2002) reports the following problems; In addition, Business Development Services, namely services related to entrepreneurship, business training, marketing, technology development and information are underdeveloped and not readily available. There is very weak demand for the products produced by SMEs arising from low and dwindling consumer purchasing power as well as competition that arises with similar imported products. Then again, SME operators lack information as well as appreciation for such services and can hardly manage to pay for to pay for the services. As a result, operators of the sector have rather low skills. Also, there is no umbrella connection for SMEs. Simultaneously, the institutions and associations supporting SMEs are weak, fragmented and uncoordinated partly due to lack of clear guidance and policy for the development of the sector. Distortionary regulations affecting SMEs (Unfavorable legal and regulatory framework). Tanzania is listed among the top 10 difficult countries to build a warehouse, it takes 12 procedures to register a property,  ¾ of Tanzanian businesses complain of taxation administration (local and central), and it takes 13 procedures to start a business and 35 days long, at a cost of 161 percent income per capita. These all add up to high compliance costs which tend to reduce the resources needed for investment and high operational costs which results into high competitiveness of local domestic products both in internal and external markets. Another problem is as far as the infrastructure is concerned, the roads are very bad thus affecting transport in a way that it makes it difficult and costly to move goods from one point to another within the country and adds up to costs. The power is also unreliable and unstable and can disrupt deadlines. Communication is undeveloped and costly. It is difficult to obtain network in rural areas thus affecting the business activities of SMEs and also affecting their cost of production. A heavy cost of compliance resulting from their size is also one of the problems faced by SMEs. This is because they have limited resources (in terms of financial means and manpower). Their spending for market research and market entry take a much higher proportion of their total spending. All in all, this project will be analyzing the importance of SMEs in Tanzania and evaluate their contribution to the country. The problems/ challenges in terms of growth, and their characteristics in relation to Globalization including those mentioned above will be analyzed. Various ways in which SMEs can grow to venture into global markets will be sought for their betterment and future enhancement in their businesses. C. Brief description of project objectives. (i.e. scope of proposal, constructs used, limitations and significance) The objective of this project is to investigate the impact of Globalization on SMEs in Tanzania. These impacts can be both positive and negative. It will also evaluate the importance of SMEs in the Tanzanian economy. Secondly, would be to assess the challenges faced by SMEs due to Globalization. Thirdly, a review on existing Government promotion policies and strategies on the Tanzanian SMEs will be prepared. Lastly but not least, is to determine ways in which the SMEs in Tanzania can grow to become global players. As for the limitations; for the questionnaires sent out, the responses may be limited. It would be very difficult to get the respondents to answer to the questionnaires. Another limitation would be in the selection of the sample. The sampling frame is very vast thus making it quite difficult to get the correct respondents for the interviews and questionnaires. As for the sample size which is about 100 people, the limitation is that the cost is relatively high especially when conducting long distance interviews over the phone. Lastly but not least, this research is limited to SMEs in Dar-es-Salaam so it may not be possible to generalize it to the whole of Tanzania. The significance of this project is to look at the challenges of SMEs in Tanzania and use it as a prototype to other African countries. There is very limited research on SMEs in Tanzania and this project will contribute as a research paper. This project will also open the eyes of SMEs to growth and development in relation to Globalization. D. Brief description of the models/theories/concepts that will be used in this proposal. (i.e. consumer behaviourism model, CSF and etc.) In this project some important internationalization models will be used, they include, eclectic paradigm of international production by Professor John H. Dunning, Porters Diamond and the theory of Marginal Industry Dilation by Professor Kiyoshi Kojima. There are three reasons for the use of the eclectic paradigm. Firstly the paradigm is based on the theories about multinational enterprises. Secondly, the model can be used to explain all types of foreign direct investment (FDI). And lastly, and most importantly, the model embraces all the three ways in which a firm can engage in foreign activities, i.e. foreign direct investment, trade, and contractual resource transfers, e.g. licensing, technical assistance or management and franchising agreements. Moreover, the model makes it possible to predict which route will be preferred. (Bulcke, 2003) According to (Porter, 1998) he designed a diamond shaped basis of a framework to illustrate the determinants of national advantage. This diamond illustrates the national playing field that countries establish for their industries. Porters Diamond will be used to demonstrate the factors of competitive advantage for SMEs in Tanzania. The theory of marginal industry dilation is an important foreign direct investment theory to developing countries. Its connotation fits for the true situation of countries middle and small size enterprises. SMEs could use this theory as a direction thus helping them go abroad bravely and develop multinational management. The expansive environment and ardent competition will develop SMEs and prepare them to face the challenge of the economic globalization. (Free papers, 2006) E. Academic research being carried out and other information, techniques being learnt. (i.e. literature what are the names of books you are going to read / data sets you are going to use) The books used will mostly talk about Globalization, the African economy, Internationalization. Journals, articles, and magazines will also be referred to. Some of the references include the following: Articles Bulcke, 2003, Internationalization towards China after its Accession to the WTO, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Departement Oosterse Slavische Studies, viewed on 1st September 2010, available at; http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:8b2CcFrEHjcJ:www.cemcweb.com/publication_doc/Opportunities%2520for%2520SMEs%2520in%2520China%2520-%2520thesis%2520of%2520Mattias%2520Grillet.doc+Internationalization+towards+China+after+its+Accession+to+the+WTO+Are+There+Opportunities+for+European+SMEs%3Fcd=1hl=enct=clnkgl=my Ministry of Industry, trade and marketing, 2007, SME opportunities, viewed on 1st September 2010, available at; http://www.mitm.go.tz/sme.php?cat=15subcat=37 Porter, 1998, Competitive advantage of nations, Free Press, New York, available at; Saiguran, E, 2007, SME development: Tanzania experience, Small Industries development organisation Tanzania, viewed on 4th September 2010, available at; http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=vq=cache:0jN8a7r-DCsJ:www.waitro.org/files/downloads/Proceedings/sme-steap2007/sido-emmanuel.pdf+how+many+smes+are+there+in+the+tanzaniahl=engl=mypid=blsrcid=ADGEESghp7HJMdzm_ULpMCu59dGnkdxqIEsl7lohW3QCim1T-r7i3o9A2e2nZREV-rzeZHiflUEgS0o6BGlaBeKaiIT-znZTgR6c7uJfyL2qfmmhJlvZTePS8gLx6PAc6KWjejorEj9Qsig=AHIEtbRoLuZ9Z25T1nC3r7Y7Rk4pTScmtQ Books Africa Development bank, OECD, 2005, African Economic Outlook, OECD publishing, France, available at; http://books.google.com.my/books?id=vTWgJJJgYswCpg=PT411lpg=PT411dq=SMEs+classification+in+Tanzaniasource=blots=GvWIHnE-1jsig=rJ8zK7Co_wNNSD5lgemJsqiXmNAhl=enei=ek5-TPX3C4LyvQOp262EDgsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=9ved=0CDoQ6AEwCA#v=onepageq=SMEs%20classification%20in%20Tanzaniaf=false Athanassiou, N. D. Nigh, 2002, The Impact of the Top Management Teams International Business Experience on the Firms Internationalization: Social Networks at Work, Management International Review 42:2,pp.157-181. Bjà ¶rkman, I. M. Forsgren (ed.), The Nature of the International Firm: Nordic Contributions to International Business Research, Handelshojskolens Forlag, Copenhagen, s.d.. Bà ¼rgel, O. A. Fier G. Licht G. Murray E. Nerlinger, 1998, The Internationalisation of British and German Start-Up Companies in High-Technology Industries, Discussion Paper No.98-34, Centre for European Economic Research. Creswell, J, W., 2003, Research design: Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods Approaches, 2nd edition, Sage Publications, Inc, United Kingdom Ghosal, V. L. Prakash, 1999, The Differential Impact of Uncertainty on Investment in Small and Large Businesses, HWWA-Diskussionspapier 81, HWWA-Institut fà ¼r Wirtschaftforschung, Hamburg. Johanson, J. Associates, 1994, Internationalization, Relationships and Networks, Studia Oeconomiae Negotiorum 36, Acta Universitatis Upsaliensis, Uppsala. Johanson, J. J.-E. Vahlne, 1994, The Internationalization Process of the Firm: A Model of Knowledge Development and Increasing Foreign Market Commitments, Journal of International Business Studies 8 (Spring/Summer 1977), pp.23-32, as publicized in Johanson Associates, , pp.50-61. Johanson, J. J.-E. Vahlne, 1994, The Mechanism of Internationalization, International Marketing Review 7 (1990), pp.11-24, as publicized in Johanson Associates, pp.84-95. Johanson, J. F. Wiedersheim-Paul, 1994, Internationalization of the Firm: Four Swedish Cases, Journal of Management Studies 12 (October 1975), pp.305-322 as publicized in Johanson Associates, , pp.34-49. Pedhazur, E, J., Schmelkin, L, P., 1991, Measurement, Design, and Analysis; an Integrated Approach, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc, Hillsdale, New Jersey Peter, J., , 1990, Internationalization of Small Business in a Microeconomic Perspective, International Small Business Series 4, Institute of Small Business, University of Goettingen. F. Brief description of the materials/methodologies needed by the proposal. (i.e. data collection methods, sampling, sample size and target group etc.) As for the data collection methods, there is a need to gather primary data in order to attain the basic information and get viewpoints, it includes; written and online questionnaires, telephone and online interviews and as for secondary data it will be used to get critical and more in-depth information on research that has already been done, it will mostly be used in the literature review. Here various books, journals, and articles will be used. Academic research will also be conducted and it will include scholarly articles by various universities, students or professors. Descriptive research to describe the characteristics of SMEs will be carried out. The research will seek answers to various questions, such as what are the problems faced by SMEs and what ways can be used to correct them. It is based on previous understanding of the problem. The research will be cross-sectional where by a representative subset is studied, at a defined time. The sampling frame will include the top and middle management of SMEs in Tanzania. The sample size will be about 100 people. The sampling methods used for this research would be probability and non-probability sampling because the research is vast. Under probability sampling; Stratified random method will be used thus selecting SMEs from certain demography in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. The simple random sampling will also be used, hence choosing a choice of 100 SMEs from a choice of 500. The names of some of the SMEs include; Tanesco, Alexander Forbes Tanzania Limited, Showerlux Industries, Oryx, Gapco, Copper solution company, Raycom enterprises Ltd, Tanzania cigarette company Ltd, Zain Tanzania Ltd, Precision Air, Celtel Tanzania etc. Under non-probability sampling, snow-ball (referral by primary respondents) and self-selection (invite participation and collect data from those who respond) are methods that will be used. G. Brief description of the evaluation and analysis proposed for this project. (i.e. project deliverables and hypothesis, correlation test etc) This project will be of great use not only to Tanzanian but also to other African countries since it is aimed at finding ways to enhance the development of SMEs in relation to Globalization. Secondly, theories by other SMEs who have succeeded to go Global will be analyzed and will be proposed for application to benefit the SMEs in Tanzania. The expected results for this project include; Firstly; With strengthened SME departments or introduction of the Ministry of small medium enterprises, a lot of time and money will be devoted to the sector thus enhancing the chances of Tanzanian SMEs to become Global players. Secondly; With high brand consciousness, the products of SMEs will be able to stand out in the international markets. Thirdly; With participation in trade exhibitions such as Expolink, India property expo, East Africa International trade exhibition, SMEs can effectively market their products overseas. H. Illustration of how this project will benefit the future employability This thesis will help increase knowledge and understanding on SMEs. It will also help determine what problems are being faced by SMEs in Tanzania and what measurers can be taken to correct them. Lastly but most importantly, this project will help find a match between theory and practice and its application to the real world and will be a basic guide for all SMEs wanting to internationalize towards the economies.

Overweight Children Essay

Being overweight is one of the major health problems among the youth of today. In the United States, the number of children becoming overweight is steadily increasing as they allot more time watching TV, playing video games, and surfing or chatting on the Internet (Nemours Foundation, n.d.). According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, from the latter half of 1970s to 2004, the pervasiveness of excessive weight among children 2 to 5 years of age rose to 13.9 percent from 5 percent.   Among children 6 to 11 years of age, it escalated to 18.8 percent from 6.5 percent, while it increased to 17.4 percent from 5 percent among those who are 12 to 19 years of age (Center for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]), 2008). Thus, certain efforts were made by health and education experts to help parents encourage their children to engage in sports, exercise, and eat a healthy, balanced meal. After all, prevention is better than cure. If not taken care of, the excessive weight can make children vulnerable to certain diseases like high blood, diabetes, and other health illnesses (CDC, 2008; Boyse, 2007). Many experts suggest that one of the ways to help these children to lose weight without sacrificing the food that they want to eat is to encourage them to engage in sports and other group activities (Weintraub et al., 2008; Nemours, n.d.; Boyse, 2007). By engaging in physical activities, it will not only help the individual shed body fat, it would also promote self-esteem (Weintraub et al., 2008). Definition, Detection and Causes of Overweight   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Being overweight is a result of imbalance between the food intake and the activities needed to spend the energies taken (Daniels, 1997). It is characterized by an exceptionally large volume of body fat with respect to lean body mass (Stopka, 2005). To know if an individual is obese or overweight, his or her body mass index or BMI is computed (Stopka, 2005; Daniels, 1997). This method considers the proportionality of the individual’s weight to his or her height child (Stopka, 2005; Daniels, 1997). The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP) states that individuals with BMI of 25 to 29.9 are considered as â€Å"overweight,† while those with a BMI of 30 and above is considered as â€Å"obese† (Stopka, 2005).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A number of studies have discovered that that breastfeeding is associated with overweight children (Hediger, et al., 2001). Once a mother fails to nurture her child with the practice of breastfeeding, chances are that the child will become overweight in the future. Breastfeeding helps to lower the risk of obesity during the stage of childhood and adolescence (Hediger, et al., 2001). Most cases of overweight among children occur during the adolescence stage when the transition from child to adult happens (Hediger, et al., 2001). The food intake is later on built up as fats if not properly burned out of the body (Hediger, et al., 2001).   Fat distribution is also changed during this stage which also incorporates hormonal influences. The condition also varies according to gender. According to Heidger and his associates (2001), girls are more likely to be overweight than boys.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Most individuals on the adolescence stage are busy with their studies and participate in activities that will help them be informed and entertained. Many of them play video games and watch television after school as their own way of overcoming stress and pressures from school. While in the midst of these activities, they also munch junk food and drink sodas. As there are high amounts of calories in unhealthy food and drinks, they make children overweight (Collins, 2007). The incessant rise of fast food chains, consumption of calorie-dense foods and taking too much soft drink bring out more energy intake (Collins, 2007). However, this would not be a problem if the child regularly exercises and participates in activities. Lack of necessary exercise and physical activities also causes children to be overweight. When children eat more calories, they also need to burn more calories (Collins, 2007). Eating food that is detrimental to one’s health without enough physical activities to burn it will guarantee a child to be overweight (Collins, 2007). This is also said to be an environmental cause of obesity due to the technological means of entertainment available for children today. Collins (2007) calls this phenomenon as modern obesity.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another cause of being overweight is the genetic roots of the child. The genes of the parents are inherited by children upon birth. Babies who are born to mothers who are overweight are more likely to gain more weight and are less active in actions (Collins, 2007). The metabolism of a child is also inherited from his or her parents. Thus, an obese parent whose metabolism is slow would have children with slow metabolism as well (Collins, 2007). The family eating habits also play a great influence as to why a child becomes overweight. Preparing and laying too much food on the table causes a child to eat more. Shopping and buying unhealthy foods and calorie-rich items will also cause the weight of children to increase (Collins, 2007). Effects of Obesity   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Risks are always present once a child is overweight. Chances are that the child will accumulate certain diseases most of which are related to too much calorie, cholesterol and sugar intake. Bone problems are also expected for overweight and obese individuals. The social development of a child is also affected because of being overweight. The overweight children may find it difficult to breathe.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Obese children are often inactive and lazy to do physical activities. This causes their hearts to weaken. With their relatively weak heart, it will pump harder than the normal sized individual. This condition is commonly known as cardiovascular abnormalities (Daniels, et al., 1997). Another cardiovascular abnormality that occurs in overweight or obese individuals is the escalation of blood pressure. When a child is obese, the blood pressure is more likely to increase. These cardiovascular abnormalities usually lead to a disease known as left ventricular hypertrophy which is a prevailing condition among obese and overweight children (Daniels, et al., 1997). This disease is characterized by an â€Å"increased left ventricular mass,† along with â€Å"lean body mass, fat mass and abnormalities in the systolic blood pressure† which predicts the accumulation of diseases such as â€Å"coronary heart disease, stroke and sudden death† (p. 804). Hypertension is also common for children with too much weight (Daniels, et al., 1997; Nemours Foundation, n.d.; CDC, 2008; Boyse, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The disease Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is also common among overweight children with a BMI of >30 kg/m2, which, according to adult standard, is counted as â€Å"obese.† According to the National Cholesterol Education Program, acquiring this disease also makes them vulnerable to cardiovascular diseases such as a coronary artery disease (Daniels, et al., 1997).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Being overweight also causes a child to mature early. In general, an overweight child’s body develops faster than those who have normal body sizes. Overweight female children also reach the pubertal stage earlier. This may be due to the fact that most overweight female children do not have strenuous activity that can help them lessen their weights. Since most foods taken by obese children are rich in oils and other fatty acids, they are also prone of having pimples, acnes and skin problems (Nemours Foundation, n.d.; CDC, 2008; Boyse, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Psychological and social problems are also present when a child is overweight. One of the most common issues on this is depression. When a child grows bigger than his or her peers, he or she is more likely to be humiliated and teased in school for having a different body shape. This is a delicate issue which the child may find hard to overcome. It also results in the child’s low self esteem and negative self image (Strauss & Pollack, 2003; Nemours Foundation, n.d.). The normal interaction towards other children is also limited because of this. More often than not, overweight children have fewer friends and their social life is limited to those who accept them as they are. Obese children are more likely to stay at home rather than go out and play with other people. They are isolated which makes them feel depressed, lonely, and stressed out. Teasing overweight children is also said to be associated with increased suicidal tendencies out of frustration and depression. Their condition causes them so many complications physically, emotionally and developmentally (Strauss & Pollack, 2003; Nemours Foundation, n.d.). Prevention of Obesity   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is better to prevent being overweight rather than regret it once a child becomes obese. This is not easy to do but it needs to begin as early as childhood days. This should be considered especially for those who are born to overweight parents. Behavior is also one good way of handling childhood obesity. Diminishing unhealthy eating habits and getting right exercise result in a healthier body and lifestyle. In addition, reducing stagnant physical activities like watching television and video games will also lower the chances of being overweight.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Limiting the intake of calories will also stop one from being overweight. Instead of drinking sodas and other carbonated drinks, a child may switch to drinking fresh fruit juices. Fresh juices are healthier instead of artificially made juices. Drinking the recommended number of glasses of water a day (8 to10 glasses) will also help in replenishing lost water in the body and digesting food easily, and therefore, prevent all those fatty food and huge amount of calories from getting stuck in the body. The children should also be advised to avoid eating meals in fast food restaurants, where the meals served contain preservatives and too much food extenders that have more calories (Matheson et. al., 2004). Parents should also encourage their child to eat home cooked meals and convince him or her that these meals are more delicious than those that can be bought outside. (Matheson et. al., 2004). This will also guarantee parents that the food eaten by their child is clean and well-prepared. The parents should also stop preparing large servings for their child, as this entices a child to eat more and makes him or her always expect the same size of serving every meal time (Matheson et. al., 2004). They should also limit the inactivity of children by giving them scheduled time for television and playing computer games (Matheson et. al., 2004). It will also help if a child is encouraged not to eat and watch at the same time. Too much focus on the television program makes a child unaware to the amount of food already consumed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For difficult cases like gene-related obesity, it is important to counter this by doing physical activities. Regular exercise helps to achieve good digestion and good metabolism. Physical activities such as â€Å"biking, walking, and swimming† can also be done with the whole family. These activities also help brings the heart in good condition. Playing ball games also prevents being overweight and helps children become more sociable towards their peers (Campbell et al., 2001). Basketball and soccer are some examples of sports which can help overweight children lose and maintain their weight. At the same time, by engaging in these kinds of group activities, they will enjoy themselves with their peers (Campbell et al., 2001). Indoor physically activities like dancing will also help children lose weight (Campbell et al., 2001).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In a recent six-month experiment conducted by Weintraub (2008) and her colleagues among fourth and fifth graders, they divided the 21 participants into two groups. The first group received a health education program after school, while the other was subjected to a soccer program. Midway through the study until the end, a significant decline in BMI was found among participants in the soccer group as compared to those who were in the health education group. In three months, there was also a considerable increase in the everyday average and strenuous physical activities among children in the soccer group. The authors concluded that making overweight and obese children participate in an â€Å"after-school soccer program† is a practical, agreeable, and effective method to control the weight of these children. Excessive weight increases the likelihood of children to acquire fatal diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. Being overweight also negatively affects their self-esteem and self-image, leaving them depressed as a result. Encouraging them to eat a balanced diet and do physical activities such as family and school sports can aid overweight children in losing and maintaining a standard weight. This is a great opportunity not only for the children but for the whole family to stay fit and active. References: Boyse, K. (2007, February). Obesity and overweight. University of Michigan Health System. Retrieved April 15, 2008 from http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/yourchild/obesity.htm Campbell K, Waters E, O’Meara S, & Summerbell C. (2001). Interventions for preventing obesity in childhood: a systematic review. Obesity Review, 2, 149–157. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2008, March 4). Overweight and obesity.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Retrieved April 15, 2008 from http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity/ Collins, Anne (2007). Causes of obesity. Anne Collins. Retrieved April 14, 2008 from:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.annecollins.com/obesity/causes-of-obesity.htm Daniels S.R., Khoury P.R., & Morrison J.A. (1997, June). The utility of body mass index as a measure of body fatness in children and adolescents: differences by race and gender. Pediatrics, 99 (6), 804–807. Retrieved April 14, 2008 from Pediatrics Database. Matheson D.M., Killen J.D., Wang Y., Varady A, & Robinson T.N. (2004). Children’s food   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   consumption during television viewing. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 79 (6), 1088–1094. Retrieved April 14, 2008 from the AJCN Database. Nemours Foundation (n.d.). Overweight and obesity. KidsHealth. Retrieved April 14, 2008 from http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/general/body/overweight_obesity.html Hediger M.L., Overpeck M.D., Kuczmarski R.J., & Ruan W.J. (2001). Association between infant breastfeeding and overweight in young children. 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