An Economic Analysis of Outsourcing Essay - 1745 Words

An Economic Analysis of Outsourcing Outsourcing can be termed as shifting of major functions (production, back office processing and call centers) of a firm from one area to other which in return gets them more profit. Usually large firms base their head offices in developed countries and operate their productions from other developing countries where they can produce the goods at a cheaper cost. One of the main reasons for outsourcing of jobs from US to other developing countries like China and India is the low cost of production due to cheap labor available which in turn reduces the variable costs (6) involved. Some economists look upon it as a threat to US while others think of it as a way for its progress. The outsourcing of†¦show more content†¦Since labor was cheap they recruited more and increased productivity (6) and get more sales which helps to lower the variable cost involved (6) and increase the profit margin. But during the mid 90s US companies saw that China was offering wages much lower than Mexico, so they began to focus on China. In the beginning monopolistic competitors (11) began move to China and earn huge profits which caught the attention of Oligopolists. They began to invest huge amounts in capital to build factories and start manufacturing products in China. They concentrated for profits earned in the long run. They knew that since wages are low the cost involved in this can be transferred to increasing the production, charge a low price and maximize sales revenue.(11) They made tie-ups with local companies which helped them to study more about doing business in China. Most of the jobs that were outsourced were unskilled jobs which demanded low wage rates w hile the skilled jobs still remained here. The wage rate compared to the US Dollars is very low in Countries. For example the average salary of a software programmer in US is about $60,000 to $80,000 while that of India is just $5,880 to $11,000 (Kansancityfed.org Ââ€" Off shoring in the service sector: Economic Impact and Policy Issues). Taking into consideration this fact as the main reason for companies to go offshore; when they can get the same labor with theShow MoreRelatedPrice Elasticity Scenario647 Words   |  3 Pageshow to price his product so that it can be competitive in the market. This brief analysis will illustrate some of the economic principles that are relevant to the decision that Carlos faces and evaluates different option in which he might select from. Resource Scarcity The notion of the scarcity of resources is at the heart of economics and economic theory. The definition of a scarce resource is as follows (Economic Glossary): A resource with an available quantity less than its desired use. ScarceRead MoreOutsourcing For A Human Resource Essay1698 Words   |  7 Pagestheir call centers overseas including India† (Economic Times, 2013). In view of the aforementioned citation, it presents an intuitive frame of reference into the principal purpose of this module one case assignment. As this case assignment will be composed of an essay that will initially specify whether or not, I as a student of this course oppose or favor outsourcing jobs overseas. Secondly, this essay will deliberate upon the pros and cons of outsourcing overseas to a developing nation. AdditionallyRead MoreCompetitive Analysis of Business Cycles1301 Words   |  5 Pages Institutional Affiliation Competitive Analysis Business Cycles Labor is an important factor of production for all firms. Business information is not perfect at Wal-Mart Stores: economic experts are not dismayed or surprised with the unemployment rates at the stores. Employees at Wal-Mart stores are likely to be affected by frictional unemployment. This occurs at a result of everyday changes in the companys economic structure, which is likely to lead to the death of the firm. EmployeesRead MoreGlobal Stratification721 Words   |  3 Pagesï » ¿Global stratification generally has a negative reputation. Critics see outsourcing as impacting both domestic and foreign countries in a negative way. Domestic economics falters since business is transferred to outside sources, therefore local employment suffers, prices may rise, and people may lose their jobs. Developing countries experience global stratification where, even though the imported business upgrades social conditions, social demarcation and hierarchy occurs where the labor class isRead MoreEssay about Job Outsourcing542 Words   |  3 Pagesperpe tual economic problems. Held within the crumbling economy of today, are many ongoing controversial issues that plague our once healthy nation. One such problem is job outsourcing, an issue with many schools of thought giving the topic its controversial nature. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;The exportation of jobs offshore is job outsourcing. This, to some, is believed to be a benefit to our economy. According to a brief report from the National Center for Policy Analysis, â€Å"Increased economic globalizationRead MoreLabor in the United States and Outsourcing Essay1034 Words   |  5 PagesOutsourcing emerged on the financial arena during the 1980s and has since then been spreading. Outsourcing production was furthered with the process of globalization which provided a new component leading to the strengthening of resources, skill and labor specializations across the world. The process of outsourcing is using the skill and abilities of a third-party to accommodate society on the foundation of labor. As stated earlier, it was during the 1980s that the process kicked off mainly due toRead MoreOutsourcing American Jobs Essay1561 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction Outsourcing of American jobs overseas is displacing Americans in the United States. American blue-collar workers and the Middle Class American will soon be a word of the past if the US government continues outsourcing the low-skill jobs overseas. One of the concerns in regards to the outsourcing of jobs is that wages of American jobs versus the wages of the Chinese, Japanese, Indians and Philippians are much less. If these workers were using the same identical technologyRead MoreWhat Major Trends Do You See Affecting The Roles Of Purchasing Managers During The Next Decade?1447 Words   |  6 PagesBrazil, and India, as well as other developing economies. Sustainability is an essential strategy to business, especially the global company. Procurement function will move beyond managing cost and seek to develop supply chains that create and sustain economic and social value. The â€Å"linear economy† of consumption could be rejected and a â€Å"circular economy† based on continuous use and reuse is disposed. The virtue purchasing team is more popular in global company or international company. The integrationRead MoreResearch on the Indian Software Export Sector1362 Words   |  6 Pagesstudy on the topic; I have chose to do the case study of Indian company ‘Infosys’. It was found in 1981 in Bangalore. It is one of the most appreciated and esteemed companies in India that provides technology, business consulting, engineering and outsourcing services. Only a minor share of proceeds comes from domestic sales. It is primarily an exporting firm, and one with global reach. It was first listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange in 1993 and in 1999 on the U.S based NASDAQ. The company specializesRead MoreAnalysis of Three Videos on Outsourcing967 Words   |  4 PagesAssignment: Overseas Outsourcing Introduction One of the most polarizing business practices of the last two decades continues to be the decision on the part of businesses to outsource production of their products to third world nations, The are a myriad of benefits and risks to outsourcing, often as diverse as the companies that choose this strategy as a means to compete globally (Beasley, Bradford, Pagach, 2004). The three videos analyzed in the paper have successfully defined the economic, ethical,

Australia And Asia Essay - 2444 Words

This essay analyses the Australian-China bilateral relationship since 1945 and in particular its political significance to Australia. Many global factors have influenced this relationship, including the advent of the Cold War, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the collapse of the Soviet bloc European nations. In addition, internal political changes in Australia and China have both affected and been affected by the global changes. It will be analysed that Australia’s bilateral relationship with China has always had a sharp political edge but that approaching the new millenium economics and trade considerations are shaping Australias and for that matter Chinese politics. A central feature of the Governments approach to foreign and†¦show more content†¦The Fraser government continued this policy direction with China, which was strengthened even further during the Hawke and Keating years (1983-96). The Howard government has continued this policy and has chosen to place economic and trade considerations above ideology. Pursuit of a strong bilateral relationship with China by Australian Labor governments might have been predicted on political grounds but, increasingly, as the world moves to embrace a global village profile governments of all political persuasion’s are shaping the foreign policies on the basis of national economic self interest. In handling bilateral relationships, the Government often claims to have adopted an integrated approach taking into account the totality of Australian interests. But, a closer analyses of this claim reveals it would be almost impossible to meet the totality of Australia’s interests in any bilateral relationship and this is especially true of China which has such a different socio-political system. This close relationship continues to raise political questions for Australia to grapple with, such as her relations with Taiwan, Tibet and Chinese human rights issues. In some instances Australias interests will be confined mainly to trade and investment; in the more substantial bilateral relationships, the Government will implement comprehensive strategiesShow MoreRelated Globalisation - Australia and Asia Essay2566 Words   |  11 Pagesselected representation of local culture. I will be using studies of Australia/Asian relations to illustrate these ideas. In order to apply these ideas to Australian and Asian relations, we must first establish how we some have come to realise that â€Å"no one today is purely one thing†, as opposed to years gone by. As Said (1978) and others have shown, Europe, from which Australia’s culture originates, has traditionally viewed Asia and Asians with contempt and inferiority, and â€Å"one of its deepest andRead MoreAustralian Foreign Policy And Australia s Relations With Asia1782 Words   |  8 PagesAustralian foreign policy is characterised by a series of significant issues that are all inter-related. This piece will focus on Australia’s relationship with the US, Asylum Seeker policy and Australia’s relations with Asia. Relationship with the US Australia has had a long and close relationship with the United States. US-Australian relations are underpinned by the ANZUS treaty, finalised in 1951. The relationship is underpinned by shared values, culture, social bonds and common strategic interestsRead MoreWhy People From Europe And Asia Have Developed Faster Around The Americas, Australia, And Africa3086 Words   |  13 PagesPrologue: Yali’s Question In this chapter, Diamond discussed why people from Europe and Asia have developed faster than people from the Americas, Australia, and Africa. He asserts that it is not because of any genetic superiority that the current unequal distribution of wealth and power exists. Diamond was inspired to write this book because of a question posed to him by a Papua New Guinean named Yali. Yali inquired as to whom white people have more cargo (material possessions) than Papua New GuineansRead MoreAustralia s Bilateral Trade Agreements With The Trans Pacific Partnership1468 Words   |  6 Pagesin breadth and depth.   It is based on strong economic and trade complementarities and assisted by a comprehensive program of high level visits and wide-ranging cooperation activities† (People’s Republic of China Country Brief, 2014). In addition, Australia is also pursuing bilateral trade agreements with Japan and South Korea. The nation is also exploring its options with the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) with Chile, New Zealand, Singapore, Brunei, the United States, Malaysia, Peru, Vietnam, CanadaRead MoreEssay on The Effect of the Vietnam War on the Australian Society912 Words   |  4 Pagesa result, our fear of communism and of Asia increased dramatically. Australia, occupying a large mass of land, yet having a small population had always lived in the belief that they were threatened some way by the foreign powers and this led to the formation of â€Å"The White Australia Policy†, which was set up in 1901. This policy clearly reflects the enormous fear of threats from the Asian countries. Another major belief Australia had was that it could never adequately Read MoreAustralia s Involvement During The Second World War1100 Words   |  5 PagesWar was announced by Prime Minister Robert Gordon Menzies on the 3rd of September 1939. Roughly one million Australian men and women served the World War passionately guarding its allies. Australia took part in many campaigns during the Second World War in Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, South-East Asia and the Pacific regions. Many notable defence units that were involved in the Second World War: Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Air Force. Women were privileged asRead More Australia Essays1189 Words   |  5 Pages Australia- Trade and Immigration Background As Joycelyn has mentioned Australias having greater and greater interaction with its Asian neighbours, through the areas of trade and its active role in the regional trade organization - APEC. Despite its location, Australia can hardly be thought of being an Asian country. Not so long ago, Asian were looked down upon, with a mixture of fear because of the communist aggression, pity because of their poverty, and contempt, as they dumped cheap and poorlyRead MoreDemocracy In Australia Essay1602 Words   |  7 Pagesbusiness in China. Australia has joined strong allies the US, Japan and other Europe to condemn Chinas human rights violation and its commitment to restore international order on the United National Human Rights Council (Wen, 2017). In the 21st Century Australia is lobbying to ensure everyone have the same rights, treatment, equality before the law and equality of education, and healthcare, freedom of speech, free to worship and equality of opportunity for global citizens. Australia believes that mannerRead MoreAustralia s Historical Fear Of Invasion951 Words   |  4 Pagesthat the fear of invasion in Australia has evolves and changes over time from a traditional realist perspective that focused on states, to one focused on individuals and non-state actors. Firstly, this essay will briefly discuss the previous fears of invasion, from the introduction of the White Australia Policy to the War on Terror, and how events in Australia’s past shaped foreign policy. Secondly, this essay will discuss the current, evolved fear of invasion Australia experiences. How it has evolvedRead MoreJap A Country And The Links That Australia1428 Words   |  6 Pagesin 2006, â€Å"Australia has no greater friend in Asia th an Japan.† This article will give an overview of Japan as a country and the links that Australia has with this country, whether it be through culture, defence and military, tourism, trade or sport. It will also look into historical events that sparked these links and how these relationships were formed and strengthened. Finally, it will go into how these links have changed the way we see Japan, and how these links have changed Australia to what we

Dramaturgical Perspective Free Essays

Dramaturgical Perspective The dramaturgical perspective was developed primarily by Sociologist, Erving Goffman who recast the theatrical metaphor dramaturgy into a sociological term, meaning that social life is like a drama or stage play where intricacies of social interaction could be observed and analyzed, and people can perform in a manner that communicates how they would like others to perceive of them. Goffman stated that, â€Å"All actions are social performances that aim to give off and maintain certain desired impressions of the self to others† (Crossman, 2012). Central to dramaturgy are the front and back regions. We will write a custom essay sample on Dramaturgical Perspective or any similar topic only for you Order Now The front region is in essence the stage where the performance occurs. Examples of the front region are the teacher’s classroom, the public speaker’s podium, and the waiter’s restaurant dining room. It’s what the audience sees and the setting for a carefully choreographed and ordered performance. The back region is where all the activity that audience does not see, that is crucial to the front region performance occurs (Monnier, 2010). Symbolic interactions are more related to how people look at things and how their perception affects their behavior. In America it is considered rude to blatantly stare at another individual, in certain parts of Africa, for example, that is not the case. Curiosity is a norm and it is not considered rude to stare (Henslin, 2011). Americans also have a much larger personal space bubble than many other cultures. An American doesn’t stand close enough to a stranger to accidentally brush up against them if they can at all help it. Someone from South America, who is accustomed to standing in close proximity to an individual he/she is conversing with may take offense if the individual they’re speaking to continues to move away. On the other hand, an American will likely feel quite uncomfortable participating in conversation with an individual standing closer than approximately two feet (Henslin). Therefore, symbolic interactions happen without much thought, which is different from dramaturgy, which is a well thought out and prepared way of conducting oneself. Ethnomethodology is the study of how people use their perceived commonsense to make sense out of life (Henslin, 2011). It’s the background assumptions individuals take for granted about the world that determine our behavior in our social life. They are culture driven, unstated rules that people tend to stand by and violate only with risk of offending or concerning others. For instance, a young man would probably not take a first date to a strip club. There’s no written rule covering that issue, but commonsense would tell him that would not be an acceptable behavior. Although ethnomethodology does involve some thought, it still differs from dramaturgy as it is largely influenced by societal norms rather than just what image they’re desiring to portray to others. A recent interaction I had that involved dramaturgical concepts was an appointment with administration at my son, Vinnie’s school regarding his classroom placement for next year. Vinnie tests on the lower end of the reading spectrum and all of his teachers, past and present have commented that he has trouble staying focused and is easily distracted, but never causes any trouble; therefore, he tends to fall through the cracks. Having trouble with his current teacher holding him accountable for work completion has been an issue; therefore, I’m quite concerned about Vinnie’s placement next year. I carefully utilized the back region and prepared a spread sheet of my concerns along with specific examples, and readied myself to express them in a confident, respectful, but determined manner. I’d thought about questions and/or statements that would potentially be posed to me, and prepared as best I could on how to respond appropriately without wavering from the outcome I desired, which was a specific teacher. Along with myself, the Academic Director, Curriculum Specialist, and the Intervention Specialist were present at the ‘front region‘ meeting. Everyone was prepared with appropriate data. I stated my concerns, which were both acknowledged and validated, everyone was extremely courteous and showed appropriate concern for Vinnie and the issues I disclosed. Each person in attendance discussed issues pertaining to their own expertise regarding Vinnie and a consensus was reached. Everyone left the meeting feeling something positive had been accomplished, and each individual’s social performance seemed to accomplish exactly what they’d desired. A deeper sociological significance that resulted is that administration now knows that I am a concerned and very involved parent, but not overtly demanding without reason and/or the willingness to discuss and negotiate. I learned that administration is truly concerned about individual students and will accommodate to the best of their ability in order to ensure the success of each. References Crossman, A. (2012). About. com: Sociology: Dramaturgical perspective. Retrieved from http://sociology. about. com/od/D_Index/g/Dramaturgical-Perspective. htm Henslin, J. M. (2011). Essentials of sociology: A down to earth approach (9th ed. ). Pearson. Monnier, C. (2010). Global Sociology: Social interaction. Retrieved from https:// globalsociology. pbworks. com/w/page/14711252/Social%20Interaction How to cite Dramaturgical Perspective, Essay examples

Educational Technology and Other Learning Resources Essay Example For Students

Educational Technology and Other Learning Resources Essay Manually Educational Technology and Other Learning Resources One of the biggest concerns that have been aroused in academic sittings is the presentation of appropriate educational resources. Perhaps so, this paper will discuss my understanding of educational resources I have learned reading chapter 11 of Jeremy Harmer 2010. One of the things that I learned from this chapter is that not academies use the same resources to present suitable ideas, facts, and skills that are to develop students knowledge of the world or to enhance the inborn abilities of students in field of education. In addition, different means such as projectors, laptop computers, Audio players, electronic whiteboards and overhead screens, textbooks, are used to display arranged teaching information in classrooms all around the world; moreover, I also learned about some other classes that are designed without all these resources. Thus, in this kind of classrooms the instructors simply approach the class, for example, with a picture or He/she can take on students through their own thoughts and experiences that bring from outside the class. In classrooms where instructors design lesson plans based on using simple objects like picture, esters and flash cards, it Is critical to consider whether or not students respond effectively. I realized that some students do not respond when they are provided with simple means as teaching materials, because they think that they are being treated childishly. So, It is Important to stimulate students Interest according to what they like to deal with. After reading this chapter, I learned that there Is always a better way to project a successful classroom lesson. I was always thinking about the textbooks with large tittles and confusing activities at the end of each chapter. It was not easy for me to think of how I can present or teach this kind of textbooks if I will become a teacher. Now, I learned that a teacher would simply change the actively and Ignore confusing large tittles and even He/she would replace the textbook with another textbook. I also learned different ways of finding Information from dictionaries, encyclopedias and online. Dictionaries usually present Information about particular Items In clear and concise forms, and encyclopedias present classified Information about every possible topic. The Information that Is taken from a did online Is not always credible, so I learned first to find out If the side Is credible and then decide If I can use It as a source of Information for my student. In conclusion, I learned that there are many sources of Information that can be used In classrooms; however, teachers should be careful about students reaction about the Information they want to present as teaching materials. If the procedure that Is not suitable with students Interest would not result In an effective lesson In academic campus. Educational Technology and Other Learning Resources By Manually-Shams esters and flash cards, it is critical to consider whether or not students respond childishly. So, it is important to stimulate students interest according to what they like to deal with. After reading this chapter, I learned that there is always a better become a teacher. Now, I learned that a teacher would simply change the activities and ignore confusing large tittles and even He/she would replace the textbook with another textbook. I also learned different ways of finding information from dictionaries, encyclopedias and online. Dictionaries usually present information bout particular items in clear and concise forms, and encyclopedias present classified information about every possible topic. The information that is taken from a side online is not always credible, so I learned first to find out if the side is credible and then decide if I can use it as a source of information for my student. In conclusion, I learned that there are many sources of information that can be used in information they want to present as teaching materials. If the procedure that is not suitable with students interest would not result in an effective lesson in academic

Design Management in HM

Analysis on the significance of quality manuals Organisations’ long-term sustainability is dependent on the management teams’ commitment in formulating and implementing feasible operational strategies. The strategies, policies, and procedures implemented determine an organisation’s ability to achieve business excellence (Chase Aquilano 2006).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Design Management in HM specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The contemporary business environment has undergone remarkable developments over the past few years due to diverse macro environmental forces. Some of these forces include economic, social, technological, legal, and political forces. For example, the high rate of development in Information Communication Technology [ICT] has led to the emergence of the information age. Thus, consumers have become knowledgeable, as evidenced by their acumen in the decision-making proc ess. Moreover, the rate of economic growth has enhanced organisations’ production and manufacturing capacity, hence presenting consumers with a wide range of products (Curtis Cobham 2008). Despite the market changes, organisations are established based on long-term existence. Therefore, the significance of organisations ensuring that their products and services offered are in line with the market demand cannot be underestimated. Furthermore, it is essential for organisations to ensure that their products and services lead to a high level of satisfaction amongst customers (Doumpos Zopounidis 2002). One of the aspects that can enhance an organisation’s sustainability entails product quality. The significance of quality is evidenced by the improvement in quality management approaches such as the total quality management, business excellence, and the introduction of the European Foundation of Quality Management [EFQM] (Doumpos Zopounidis 2002). Furthermore, the signific ance of linking strategic management approaches to quality has increased significantly over the past decades. However, there are divergent views on the relationship between quality management processes and the final product outcome. Subsequently, organisations experience hurdles in their quest to enhance their commitment to product quality. Some of the most common hurdles include lack of commitment amongst the top and the lower levels of management, poor leadership, and lack of or inadequate employee involvement. This section entails an evaluation of the view that formulation of quality manuals is wastage of time and it does not add value to quality of the final product. This assertion is evaluated in the context of HM.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Company profile HM is a private limited company, which was established in 1947 in Vasteras, Sweden. Since its establishment, the firm has been focused at the implementation of aggressive strategic and operational management practices, which has enhanced its market penetration. The firm has established over 3,000 retail outlets in over 55 countries. Its commitment to achieving market dominance is evidenced by its strategic plan, which entails increasing its sales revenue and the number of retail outlets by an annual rate of 10% to 15% (HM 2014). The firm’s success in the global market is evidenced by the introduction of well-recognised brands such as the HM, Cheap Monday, Other Stories, HM Home, and Weekday. The firm’s success has also been necessitated by the adoption of optimal business concept, which entails the provision of high quality and fashionable products at an attractive price. The firm’s operational efficiency is enhanced by its strong workforce, which is comprised of over 116,000 employees. HM has appreciated the significance of ICT in achieving competitive advantage. Cons equently, the firm has adopted the concept of online marketing (HM 2014). Analysis; significance of quality manuals at HM Winchell (2006) argues that it is imperative for organisations to formulate and implement optimal management systems in order to remain competitive. Prajogo (2003, p.120) defines management system as ‘an outline of processes and procedures used to certify that an institution can fulfil all tasks required to achieve its goals’. Different management system standards have been formulated in an effort to provide businesses with effective guidance in implementing diverse processes. Quality management is one of the most essential management systems. Organisations’ quality management systems aim at enhancing products and services in order to meet the consumers’ expectations. Therefore, it is imperative for organisational leaders to ensure that they have implemented an effective in-house quality system. One of the core components of the quality system entails the quality manual.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Design Management in HM specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Nankervis, Miyamoto, and Milton-Smith (2005) argue that the quality manual outlines the project-independent elements of an organisation’s quality system, which the personnel are required to follow. Prajogo (2003) further emphasises that the quality manual aims at achieving the specified quality assurance goals. Furthermore, quality manual ensures that the organisational unique features such as the structure and size are taken into account. HM outsources the production activities from independent suppliers. Despite the view that HM does not have its own production factories, the firm is committed to providing customers with high quality fashion products, which makes quality one of the firm’s core issues. HM ensures that the concept of quality is taken into account from the ide a generation until when the product reaches the intended customers. Moreover, core values like continuous improvement, entrepreneurship, and cost-consciousness drive HM. However, the element of quality is one of the core aspects that the firm is concerned about in the production process. In line with its commitment at ensuring that its products are of high quality, HM has formulated a comprehensive quality manual. The Quality manual is focused at ensuring that the firm meets and exceeds the customers’ product expectations and requirements (HM 2012). Furthermore, the quality manual also outlines the processes that the firm should undertake to ensure that the process of monitoring and measuring the level of customer satisfaction are executed effectively. The manual is comprised of a number of components, which aim at fostering a high level of customer satisfaction (HM 2012). Quality policy and customer focus In order to meet the customers’ requirements, HM has formulated a comprehensive quality polity, which stipulates the organisation’s values with reference to quality. The quality policy also states the organisation’s commitment to continuous improvement.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The quality policy outlines the HM’s framework for achieving the formulated quality objectives, set of guidelines for quality control, and production processes [commonly referred to as the GPQ]. The guidelines are focused at fostering a high level of customer satisfaction. Some of the elements that are considered in the GPQ include the issues that should be taken into account in the garment production process such as quality of raw materials, the production process, garment trimming, finishing packing and inspection. Quality management approaches Nankervis, Miyamoto, and Milton-Smith (2005) are of the opinion that the quality of a product or service plays a fundamental role in determining the effectiveness with which the firm achieves the desired level of competitiveness. However, organisations’ management teams experience challenges in their pursuit to foster competitive advantage through the provision of high quality products and services due to the complexities asso ciated with managing the diverse stakeholders in the supply chain. Theodorou, Florides, and Tassou (2010, p.7785) assert that it is ‘imperative for organisational leaders to involve customers in the operational processes in order to enhance the effectiveness with which the firm improves quality of its products and services’. Moreover, organisational leaders should adopt effective strategic management approaches in order to sustain the quality of their products. In an effort to ensure that the quality of its fashion products are of high quality, HM has incorporated a number of quality approaches in the process of designing its quality manual. Some of these approaches are evaluated herein. Quality assurance This approach entails ensuring that the various organisational processes are organised effectively in order to minimise the occurrence of errors during the production process. Subsequently, HM has adopted the ‘Zero Defects’ approach in its production proce sses. To ensure that the products developed align with the customers’ expectations, HM has formulated a comprehensive quality assurance process. The process is not only concerned with the final product, but also the product planning and design processes. The firm’s quality manual highlights the importance of relying on market research in the product-planning phase. By relying on market research data, HM has been successful in focusing on diverse elements such as product quality and reliability. The second element that the firm incorporates during its quality assurance at the product development stage includes design. Siegle (2014, par.3) argues that design ‘is an extremely important process for ensuring high reliability of a product’. In order to improve the quality of the product, HM ensures that the employees involved in the garment product process understand the importance of being customer focused. In a bid to ensure that the final product produced is of high quality, HM has taken into account the diverse stakeholders in the supply chain in its quality assurance processes. For example, the firm has formulated a comprehensive criterion outlining the procedures considered in the selection of suppliers and subcontractors. The firm’s suppliers are selected based on their capacity to provide the firm with high quality raw materials. Furthermore, the firm subjects its suppliers to a comprehensive quality assurance process. In an effort to maintain the quality of its products, HM monitors its suppliers’ performance continuously in order to determine their commitment to quality. The assessment aims at determining the suppliers’ suitability. Continuous improvement The contemporary business environment is experiencing remarkable changes arising from diverse macro environmental forces. One of the macro environmental forces affecting firms in the retail industry relates to change on consumer behaviour (Charantimath 2007) . One of the forces affecting the firm’s operations relates to change in consumer tastes and preferences. HM is cognisant of the impact of market changes on an organisation’s long-term success. In its pursuit to align its operations with the market changes, HM has integrated the concept of continuous improvement in its quality manual. The firm’s quality manual states that the continuous improvement process must be based on the findings of the firm’s market research. Consequently, the firm undertakes market research occasionally in an effort to identify gaps that can be exploited. For example, the market research provides HM research and development department on possible product non-conformities to the quality policy. Thus, the effectiveness with which the firm undertakes product improvement is enhanced. Quality control Chao (2007) asserts that the quality of the final product has a significant impact on the consumers’ continued usage, and hence th e repeat purchase behaviour. Therefore, it is imperative for organisational leaders to ensure that the final product introduced in the market is of high quality. HM is committed to ensuring that the final product contributes to a high level of customer satisfaction. Consequently, the firm has integrated the concept of quality control as one of its approaches to quality. The firm undertakes quality control through quality inspection of every product produced. In its quest to foster a high level of customer satisfaction, HM has established a number of laboratories, which are located in some of the markets that the firm has ventured. The firm’s decision to establish the laboratories was informed by the need to ensure that the products distributed in various markets across the markets are of high quality. Furthermore, the firm has instituted a number of standards in the quality manual that the laboratories should check during the quality control process. Through quality inspectio n, the firm has been in a position to minimise the availability of faulty products in the market. The firm donates the faulty fashion products identified during the inspection process to charitable organisations such as UNICEF (Timmons 2013). In summary, HM’s commitment to adhering to the various elements stipulated in its quality manual has played a fundamental role in enhancing its competitiveness. The firm’s commitment to various quality approaches such as continuous improvement, quality assurance, and quality control as played an essential role in ensuring that it produces high quality fashion products. Therefore, the assertion that the formulation of quality manual is a waste of time and it does not have any impact on the quality of the product is misguided. Considering the prevailing market changes, it is critical for HM to invest in effective design and development projects through the integration of the Deming Cycle, which is an effective problem solving and ch ange management strategy. The cycle is comprised of four main stages, which include Plan-Do-Check-Act. This cycle will improve the effectiveness with which HM sustains and improves the quality of its products, and thus improve its competitiveness. Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique The Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique [SMART] is a decision-making tool that has been applied extensively in making decisions in various situations. The technique is based on the concept of rating various attributes that the decision maker identifies as significant in the decision-making process (Belton Stewart 2002). For example, the most important attribute may be assigned a score of 100 while the least important attribute is assigned a score of 10. However, the model does not have an explicit upper limit, which means that the decision maker has the discretion in assigning the scores. Furthermore, the decision making process is achieved through normalisation of the sum total of the points sc ored by each of the attribute identified. The SMART decision making tool can be applied in making decisions related to issues that affect the environment. Application of the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique Exan Limited is a private limited company that specialises in the extraction of uranium from the earth’s crust as an alternative form of energy in the US. The firm’s decision to venture into the alternative energy market was motivated by the identification of the high rate at which organisations in different sectors were increasingly adopting renewable and clean sources of energy (Konidari Mavrakis 2007a). The firm’s core business entails the exploration and extraction of uranium from different parts of the world in an effort to satisfy the market demand. However, one of the major issues facing the firm relates to the disposition of the waste materials from the mines and the firm’s operations. This aspect arises from the view that the waste mat erials have a high potential of being radioactive, which poses significant environmental, health, and safety risk (Shen, Chou Chiyang 2011). Diakoulaki and Karangelis (2007) assert that decision making with regard to various environmental projects are intractable and complex due to the diverse trade-offs amongst the various ecological, socio-political, environmental, and economic factors. Despite the issue faced, Exan Limited is focused at achieving sustainability. Consequently, the firm has an obligation to make an effective decision on the most effective way to dispose the radioactive waste. In order to ensure that the organisation selects the most optimal decision with regard to waste disposal, Exan Limited should adopt effective decision-making techniques. One of the techniques that the firm should consider includes the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique [SMART]. Adopting the SMART technique will improve the firm’s ability to take into account diverse aspects, which might be affected adversely by how the firm disposes the waste materials (Loken 2007). Subsequently, Exan Limited will be required to take into account diverse dimensions in the decision making process. Some of these dimensions relate to the risk involved, costs, benefits, human values, and safety. In order to be effective in applying the SMART model in the decision-making process, Exan Limited will be required to take into account a number of steps as illustrated below. Identification of the decision maker Exan Limited is focused at achieving corporate social responsibility. One of the core elements that the firm should take into account relates to the environment. In order to achieve environmental sustainability, the firm’s management team in collaboration with employees in the other departments should participate in making decision on the most effective method of disposing the waste materials (Lai, Bo Cheung 2002). The firm intends to construct a waste disposal plant wit hin its facility in order to ensure that its operations do not affect the environment adversely. Subsequently, the decision-making process should be a collaborative in order to improve brainstorming, which will aid in the identification of the salient attributes associated with waste disposal (Triantaphyllou 2000). Some of the salient attributes that the firm should take into account include cost, expected lives lost, civic improvement, and the degree of the involved risks. Evaluation of alternatives After the identification of the salient attributes, it is critical for the decision maker to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of the various attributes. This process entails the identification of the diverse aspects associated with the core attributes (Kasie 2013). For example, a number of issues can be subdivided into a number of sub-categories such as the cost of formulating the diverse safety procedures and policies and cost of operation. The expected lives lost attribute should take into account the system’s operators, construction of workers, and the impact of the firm’s waste disposal on the public. On the other hand, the firm should evaluate the diverse risks associated with the waste disposal plant. Some of the risks that might affect the plant include floods, the occurrence of an earthquake, and other incidents arising from natural occurrences (Wang Yang 2007). Finally, the decision makers should evaluate the civic improvements required in order to ensure that the firm is effective in its waste disposal processes. One of the civic improvement aspects that the firm should take into account includes making decision on whether the firm will be required to invest in public works within the area in which it operates. Assigning relative weights to the identified attributes The decision-making unit at Exan Limited should assign relative weights to the alternative attributed in order to measure the data. Different techniques can be adopted in a ssigning weights. Some of these techniques include direct rating and ranking. Ranking entails assigning the identified attributes in order of their significance. For example, the total number of points may amount to 100 points. In the course of making decisions related to the construction of the waste disposal facility, Exan Limited should take into account the various subcategories, which include the expected lives lost subcategories, cost sub-items, and the risk subcategories. Exan Limited intends to select the most effective site to locate the waste disposal plant. Different locations should be identified and the decision to locate the facility be based on the identified attributes as illustrated in the table below. Column1 Risk involved Cost [in billion dollars] Expected lives lost Civic improvement New Jersey Very low 100 140 Very high Rock Springs low 60 40 High Nome, AK Very High 40 60 Low Gary, IN Low 70 80 Very high The above table shows the differences associ ated with locating the facility in some locations with regard to the cost objectives, catastrophic risk categories, and the lost lives objective. The organisation should rank the objective in order of their importance. Browne and Ryan (2010) assert some attributes considered in the decision-making process are very important while others are too unimportant. With regard to the issue at hand, Exan Limited should rank the attributes as illustrated below. The attributes are ranked in accordance with their significance. Lives Risk involved Cost involved Civic improvement The significance of lives in the decision making process is higher as compared to the civic improvement attribute in the decision making process. However, it is essential for the Exan Limited’s management team to assign weights to the identified attributes. The firm can assign a value of 10 to the least important attribute, which is civic improvement. Secondly, the firm should compare the other attributes to ea ch other in order to establish the ratio of relative importance. For example, the firm can compare the cost involved to the civic improvement attribute and assign a score of 60. Thirdly, the risk attribute may be compared to improvement and be assigned a weight of 150. Finally, the lives attribute may be compared to civic improvement and be assigned a value of 180. The table below illustrates a summary of the scores in relation to the various alternatives. After assigning scores or weights to the various decision alternatives, it is imperative for Exan Limited to determine the average weights. The average or normalised weight is determined by calculating the total weights and dividing the weight of the respective attribute with the score or weight assigned. The table below illustrates the normalised weights of the various attributes. Attribute Weights Normalised weights Risk involved 150 0.38 Cost 60 0.15 Expected lives lost 180 0.45 Civic improvement 10 0.025 Normalis ation of the weights enables the decision makers to quantify the significance of the various decision attributes in the decision making process. Consequently, the likelihood of improving the decision making process through the consideration of the most important attribute is increased. In this case, the firm should consider the impact of constructing the waste disposal facility on the residents’ lives. Secondly, the firm should also take into account the risks involved in the construction process (Petkova, Andrew Nepal 2007). By taking into account these two attributes, Exan Limited will be in a position to enhance its future success due to the improved operational efficiency and adherence to corporate social responsibility. Strengths and limitations of SMART One of the core strengths of the SMART technique is that it is similar to the Cost Benefit Analysis model. Subsequently, an organisation can assess the costs and benefits associated with a particular attribute in the de cision-making process. Furthermore, the decision-making process is based on weighing the attributes. Furthermore, the SMART technique is relatively simple to use, which increases its appeal amongst the decision makers. Despite the above strengths, the SMART technique is characterised by a number of limitations. One of the major limitations is its oversimplification of the problem faced. One of the steps in the decision analysis process entails the identification of various attributes. In an effort to achieve environmental sustainability, Exan Limited is faced with a major decision on how to ensure that the radioactive waste materials are disposed optimally. In order to deal with this problem, the organisation is required to take into account diverse aspects that might be directly impacted by the decision make, which has led to the integration of diverse dimensions in the decision-making process. Wong, Johnny, and Li (2008) are of the opinion that the SMART technique is very effectiv e due to its capability to integrate qualitative and quantitative aspects in the decision-making process. The attributes are ranked in accordance with their weight. The most important alternatives are selected and assigned higher rating. Subsequently, there is a high probability of leaving or rejecting some attributes which might be of significant value in the decision making process. In a bid to eliminate this problem, it is imperative for decision makers to integrate diverse weighing profiles in order to undertake intensive analysis. The likelihood of identifying robust alternatives during the decision-making process is increased through the integration of diverse dimensions. Wong, Johnny, and Li (2008, p.109) further emphasises that the ‘SMART method has rather high demands on the level of detail in input data and value functions need to be assessed for each of the lowest level attributes and weights should be given as trade-offs’. Furthermore, the SMART technique ca n only be applied in the process of dealing with simple issues. Therefore, its capacity to handle complex issues is limited, which has led to the development of other decision-making methods. Analysis of Decision Models Decision-making refers to the process of identifying and selecting from a wide range of alternatives based on the predetermined values of the decision maker. Gomez-Limon and Martinez (2006) contend that design methods deal with different issues, which include sustainability, articulation, convergence, transformation, and divergence. The divergence aspect entails evaluating the various possibilities and constraints associated with a particular situation (Ho, Xu Dey 2006). Subsequently, the success with which the design methods are implemented is dependent on the extent to which effective decisions are made. Organisations’ decision-making units [DMUs] are faced by complex environmental problems that are required to be dealt with in order to enhance their organi sations’ long-term success. Thus, the DMUs have an obligation to make rational decisions, hence the importance of integrating effective decision -making processes. Gilliams, Raymaekers, Muys, and Van (2005) are of the opinion that decision-making is increasingly becoming complex due to the connection amongst diverse factors and the high rate of globalisation and the changing business environment. Diverse tools and methodologies have been formulated in an effort to assist the decision makers during the decision-making process. However, the contribution of the decision-making process is influenced by the extent to which the formulated methodologies are applied (Geldermann Rentz 2005). Some of these methodologies are evaluated herein. The Analytic Hierarchy Process [AHP] This methodology is mainly applied in the process of dealing with quantifiable aspects. The AHP methodology is mainly applied in absence of statistical and physical measures (Ishizaka Labib 2011). Subsequently , it enables the decision maker to convert subjective assessments involved in the decision-making process into relative values. The AHP technique is based on three main principles including Decomposing the overall problem faced by identifying the most important factors. Formulating comparative judgements based on the decomposed elements. Obtaining the measures of relative importance through pairing Olson (2001) asserts that AHP is a description decision-analysis methodology that calculates the ratio-scaled importance of alternatives through pairwise comparison of evaluation criteria and alternatives by means of the weighted sum method. The effectiveness of the AHP as a decision-making tool arises from the view that the decision makers are in a position to simplify the problem faced into its respective components. The simplification process is achieved through the formulation of goals, alternatives, criteria, and sub-criteria (Macharis, Springael, De-Brucker Verbeke 2004). This as pect increases the effectiveness with which the decision maker undertakes pairwise comparison of the identified elements. The subdivision of the problem into smaller components increases the decision makers’ capability to compare the various elements (Gass Rapcsà ¡k 2004). In addition to the above, the effectiveness of the AHP in the decision-making process also lies in its capability to deal with both qualitative and quantitative judgements. Moreover, the AHP decision-making method enables the decision maker to screen inconsistent judgements effectively, hence resulting into reliable results (Kangas Kangas 2005). The AHP technique also entails the calculation of an inconsistency index, which the decision maker can use in gauging the extent to which his/her judgements align with the final decisions made (Pohekar Ramachandran 2004). Multi-Attribute Utility Theory This decision-making method evaluates the utility of the diverse factors in accordance with the decision-makerà ¢â‚¬â„¢s preference. The MAUT methodology is every effective in making decisions regarding the location of a particular plant. Gade and Osuri (2014) assert that poor decisions in the process of establishing a particular facility such as a manufacturing plant can lead to substantial loss of resources. Therefore, it is imperative for engineers to make logical decisions. However, the decision involved might be complex due to the numerous attributes involved. Thus, the decision maker is required to make a choice from a wide range of alternatives, which increases the number of possible combinations. In order to select the most optimal combination, it is imperative for the decision makers to incorporate the utility theory, which is based on a mathematical model. Fulop (2009) emphasises that it is imperative for the decision maker to adopt the additive utility function in the process of calculating the overall utility. An example of the additive utility function is illustrated below. U (aj ) = p1u1(gj2) + †¦.+ pnun(gjn) Whereby U1, U2†¦.Un = the marginal utility of the evaluation criterions. The MAUT decision-making methodology appreciates the importance of collaboration between the decision makers and the researchers in the process of formulating the additive utility function. The MAUT methodology increases the effectiveness with which the decision maker specifies the trade-offs between the criterions identified through the marginal utility functions. The MAUT decision-making methodology provides the decision makers with an opportunity to gain additional knowledge and a better understanding of the problem faced through evaluation of diverse parameters (Konidari Mavrakis 2007b). The model increases the decision makers’ capability to quantify the various alternatives. Subsequently, the MAUT methodology enhances the decision-making capability in situations characterised by a high degree of uncertainty and risk (Figueira, Greco Ehrgott 2004). This deci sion-making method is mainly applicable in the process of dealing with issues associated with renewable energy planning, assessing environmental impact of a project, and electric utility planning (Theodorou, Florides Tassou 2010). AMS The AMS method is another method of evaluating alternatives in the decision-making process. The method takes into account the three main multi-criterial decision-making methods, which include the SMART, MAUT, and the AHP techniques (Ekà ¡rt Nà ©meth 2005). A number of steps are involved in the process of utilising the AMS technique. These steps include Establishment of a criteria-tree Determining the weights coefficients of the criteria or sub criteria identified Grading the criteria of the respective instruments Formulation of an aggregate grade in relation to the three instruments The development of the criteria tree enables the decision maker to take into account the various needs that should be taken into account in the decision-making contex t. Subsequently, the decision maker can identify the most important parameters and their impact on various stakeholders. AMS is simple, flexible, and reliable. Moreover, its effectiveness also lies in its capacity to take into account the utilitarian approach in the decision analysis process. However, one of the major limitations of this decision analysis method is that it has not been applied extensively. The above analysis shows that organisations encounter diverse situations that might affect their long-term sustainability. One of these issues relates to their impact of their operations on the society and the environment within which they operate. Subsequently, organisations’ management teams have an obligation to ensure that they are effective in their decision-making process, which can be achieved by taking into account the needs of the diverse stakeholders. Different decision analysis tools have been formulated in an effort to assist organisations’ management tea ms to be effective in their decision-making process. Some of the core decision-analysis tools identified include SMART, MAUT, AMS, and AHP. These tools are very effective in assisting decision makers to deal with complex situations. Their effectiveness arises from the view that they enable the decision maker to evaluate the various aspects that might affect their operations. Subsequently, they enhance the quality of the decision made. Reference List Belton, V Stewart, T 2002, Multiple criteria decision analysis: an integrated approach, Kluwer, Dordrecht. Browne, D Ryan, L 2010, ‘Comparative analysis of evaluation techniques for transport Policies’, Environmental Impact Assessment Review, vol. 31, pp. 226-233. Chao, S 2007, Advancing quality improvement research: Challenges, opportunities-Workshop summary, National Academies Press, Washington, D.C. Charantimath, C 2007, Total quality management, Pearson Education India, Delhi. Chase, R Aquilano, J 2006, Production and operations management, Von Hoffman Press, New York. Curtis, G Cobham, D 2008, Business information systems, Pearson Education, London. Doumpos, M Zopounidis, C 2002, Multi-criteria Decision aid classification methods, Kluwer, Dordrecht. Diakoulaki, D Karangelis, F 2007, ‘Multi-criteria analysis and cost-benefit analysis of alternative scenarios for the power generation sector in Greece’, Renewable and  Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 11, no.3, pp. 716-727. Ekà ¡rt, A Nà ©meth, S 2005, ‘Stability analysis of tree structured decision functions’, European Journal of Operational Research, vol.160, no.14, pp. 676-695. Figueira, J, Greco, S Ehrgott, M 2004, Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis: State of the Art Surveys, Springer, New York. Fulop, J 2009, Introduction to decision-making methods, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Hungary. Gade, P Osuri, M 2014, Evaluation of multi-criteria decision-making methods for potential use in application security, B lekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona. Gass, S Rapcsà ¡k, T 2004, ‘Singular value decomposition in AHP’, European Journal of Operational Research, vol. 154, no. 8, pp. 573-584. Geldermann, J Rentz, O 2005, ‘Multi-criteria Analysis for technical assessment; case study from industrial coating’, Journal of Industrial Ecology, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 127-142. Gilliams, S, Raymaekers D, Muys B , Van, J 2005, ‘Comparing multiple criteria decision methods to extend a geographical information system on afforestation’, Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, vol. 49, no.8, pp. 142-158. Gomez-Limon, J Martinez, Y 2006, ‘Multi-criteria modelling of irrigation water market at basin level: A Spanish case study’, European Journal of Operational Research, vol. 173, no. 18, pp. 313-336. HM: About HM – working at HM 2014. Web. HM: Annual reports 2012. Web. Ho, W, Xu, X Dey, K 2006, ‘Multi-criteria decision making approaches for supplier evaluation and selection: A literature review’, European Journal of Operational  Research, vol. 202, no.9, pp. 16-24. Ishizaka, A Labib, A 2011, ‘Review of the main developments in the analytic hierarchy processes’, Expert Systems with Applications, vol. 38, pp. 14336-14345. Kangas, J Kangas, A 2005, ‘Multiple criteria decision support in forest management; the approach, methods applied, and experiences gained’, Forest Ecology and Management, vol.207, no.11, pp. 133-143. Kasie, F 2013, ‘Combining simple multiple attribute rating technique and analytical hierarchy process for designing multi-criteria performance measurement framework’, Global Journals Incorporation, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 1-17. Konidari, P Mavrakis, D 2007a, ‘A multi-criteria evaluation method for climate change mitigation policy instruments’, Energy Policy, vol. 35, no.5, pp. 6235-6257. Konidari, P Mavrakis, D 2007b, ‘Multi-criteria evalua tion of climate policy Interactions’, Journal of Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis, vol. 14, no.3, pp. 35-53. Lai, V, Bo, K Cheung, W 2002, ‘Group decision making in a multiple criteria environment: A case using the AHP in software selection’, European Journal of Operational Research, vol.137, no. 16, pp.134-144. Loken, E 2007, ‘Use of multi-criteria decision analysis methods for energy planning Problems’, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Review, vol. 11, no.9, pp.1584-1595. Macharis, C, Springael, J, De-Brucker, K Verbeke, A 2004, ‘PROMETHEE and AHP: The design of operational synergies in multi-criteria analysis. Strengthening PROMETHEE with ideas of AHP’, European Journal of Operational Research, vol.153, no. 24, pp.307-317. Nankervis, A, Miyamoto, Y Milton-Smith, J 2005, Managing services, Cambridge University Press, New York. Olson, D 2001, ‘Comparison of three multi-criteria methods to predict known Outcomes’, Europea n Journal of Operational Research, vol. 130, no.5, pp. 576-587. Petkov, D, Petkova, O, Andrew, T Nepal, T 2007, ‘Mixing multiple criteria decision making with soft systems thinking techniques for decision support in complex situations’, Decision Support Systems, vol. 43, no.2, pp. 1615-1629. Pohekar, S Ramachandran, M 2004, ‘Application of multi-criteria decision making to sustainable energy planning; a review’, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 8, no.1, pp. 365-381. Prajogo, D 2003, The implementation of operations management technique in  service organisations; an Australian perspective, Deakin University, Sydney. Shen, Y, Chou, J Chiyang, L 2011, ‘The portfolio of renewable energy sources for achieving the three E policy goals’, Energy, vol. 36, no.5, pp. 2589-2598. Siegle, L 2014, Is HM the new home of ethical fashion. Web. Theodorou, S, Florides, G Tassou S 2010, ‘The use of multiple criteria decision making method ologies for the promotion of RES through funding schemes in Cyprus; a review’, Energy Policy, vol. 38, no.8, pp. 7783–7792. Timmons, M 2013, Moral theory; an introduction, Rowman Littlefield Publishers, Lanham. Triantaphyllou, E, 2000, Multi-criteria decision-making methods: a comparative study, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht. Wang, J Yang, D 2007, ‘Using a hybrid multi-criteria decision aid method for information systems outsourcing’, Computers Operations Research, vol. 34, no.4, pp. 3691-3700. Winchell, W 2006, Continuous quality improvement: A manufacturing professional’s guide, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, Chicago. Wong, K, Johnny, M Li, H 2008, ‘Application of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) in multi-criteria analysis of the selection of intelligent building systems’, Building and Environment, vol. 43, no.6, pp. 108-125. 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Impeachment essays

Impeachment essays Impeachment: A long process It is the ultimate punishment for a president: impeachment. But it is a long and complicated route to removing a political official from office and never in more than 200 years of U.S. history has it happened to a president for "treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanors,'' as spelled out in the U.S. Constitution as reasons for impeachment. Article II, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution specifies the procedures to be used to remove the president, vice president or other officials from office. The rarely used procedure is complex, reflecting 18th-century formalities. The process opens in various ways through the House. In one process, the House votes on an inquiry of impeachment which would direct the Judiciary Committee to investigate the charges against the president. If a member of Congress takes the more serious step of introducing a resolution of impeachment, all other work must stop until a decision is reached. Either the president is cleared of the charges through an investigation, or the committee votes to send articles of impeachment to the full House. If the House approves articles of impeachment, a trial is conducted in the Senate, presided over by the chief justice of the Supreme Court. At the conclusion, the Senate may vote to simply remove the official from office, or to remove him or her from office and bar from holding any other federal office. Removal requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Henry Hyde, respected by both parties as a thoughtful lawmaker, said on CNN that impeachment could follow if Clinton were found to have urged a former White House intern to lie under oath. "If he (independent counsel Kenneth Starr) verifies the authenticity of these charges, impeachment might very well be an option,'' the Illinois Republican said. ...

Strategic Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words - 1

Strategic Management - Essay Example The intention of this study is the Gulf Agency Company as a worldwide leading supplier of delivery, logistics marine, and solutions tasks in the world market. Since the company started its operations, it has expanded its region coverage to many worldwide customers through the provision of valuable and quality products and services. It is a world number one provider of significant shipping and marine industries in all geographical regions. The GAC provides the promises formulated on the mission statement of the company through the provision of the services that combine expertise and experience within the shipping, logistics and the company solution and marine fields. Great flexibility about the company approach methods used to strategic planning and the concepts of mission, objectives, and goals provide valuable information that gives the overall implementation guidelines about crucial elements of strategic action planning. The strategic of the GAC Company will analyze the goals using three different levels: 1. Strategic is the highest level of the organization, responsible for identifying the company goals and functioning strategic planning. In this level, we will aim at long-term goals. 2. Tactical or middle level is the middle level is responsible for linking the strategic and operational levels, defining tactical goals, and performing tactical planning on the selected goals. 3. Operational or low level is the basis of the planning and is associated to the actual accomplishment of tasks. In this level, operational planning defines the goals of the company. Formulating the Goals To accomplish strategic planning, the method used is the Balanced Score Card (BSC) that describes strategies and manages its execution, linking goals, action, and indicators. The BSC recommend an analysis of goals based on the performance indicators using the four perspectives: Financial Customer Internal Business process Learning and Growth To achieve an established strategic planning we have to implement the strategies at a lower level of the company. This requires the dividing strategic planning into tactical planning that understand and the middle level. In the GAC Company, the tactical goals will recount to issues like shipping, marketing, and training of the staff members. The tactical goals relating to shipping indicate that the company needs to improve its shipping process and products in the market. Therefore, in analyzing of the GAC goals, we will focus on tactical goals related to shipping as the company improvement goals. The actions allow the execut ion on the operational level that is operational processes and products. In the strategic planning, the company needs to define the company goals, the cost, and schedule and quality requirements of the company. In addition, it is vital to plan how to monitor and control the defined goals. In the GAC Company, the control of the goals depends on the shipping measures; thus, the company needs to plan how to measure their shipping processes and products. Defining and monitoring strategically aligned the GAC improvement goals. Figure 1: Adapted from Babar, Product-Focused Software Process Improvement Depending on the defined indicators, it can be

Physical Science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Physical Science - Essay Example For instance, individuals who are severely suffering from incurable diseases and other deadly diseases; they should be allowed to choose between life and death since they endure much pain. Furthermore, motive of euthanasia is to "aid-dying" painlessly, therefore, the laws should consider approving it even among the children. This will reduce pain, suffering and even low esteem suffered by patient. By doing so, the rights of an individual will have been respected. It is true that killing oneself is a way of protecting yourself from other forces and hence a defense mechanism, but it is totally different from mass killing, law does find it worth approving. When providing medical care and emotional care, the doctor always gives the patient medicine no matter the gross effects. Putting that into consideration, pain and agony should be prioritized. Hence our terminally ill children should be given a soft way out from such problems; hence legalizing euthanasia will be the only way out. The medicine given may not help and they may finally die. Therefore, legalization of euthanasia helps to avoid wastage of resources when buying medicine and it should be legalized. Law should forbid Mercy killing. It is unaccepted and a taboo for one to kill or to kill themselves. Human life deserves exceptional security and protection hence we should all stand against euthanasia Family members may have ill intention into forcing the patient to commit euthanasia hence unaccepted in the society. To protect evil and personal gains euthanasia should be demolished and should not be legalized in the current society. Thirdly, killing of oneself is biblical and religious unaccepted hence it will be abuse to the existing religion when euthanasia is legalized. The whole world should stand and protect the existing religions. Personally, I would not support euthanasia law since it will cause recklessness in the society. People will just be thinking about euthanasia whenever they are ill

Arbitration Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Arbitration - Coursework Example hen a law doctrine does not adequately serve the purpose of complementing the intended Act and the law keepers are unwilling to enforce the law contract as it is due to the jurisdiction nature: the doctrine can be said to be unfair due to creation of more ambiguity rather than providing an amicable solution. In the case of Hamlyn Versus Talisker, during the late 19th Century there was a burst of enthusiasm over a ruling that had been made through the separability notion in Germany. Scholars having gone through different types of contracts feel that the arbitral clause was contained in a broader agreement that was a procedural contract. With the law procedure being governed by the law forum, in the case of a contract, the contract ought to have been governed by another law in another part of the agreement1. Hence, in the case of Hamlyn Versus Talisker should have been enforcement of arbitration clause instead of the contract that had taken the center stage of the case. With the cited cases and other similar cases in France it can be concluded that the doctrine of separability is essential in guiding rulings based on main contract but in some cases it offers guidance that can be subject to criticism. In addition, there are some instances that the doctrine is void due to illegality that can be evidenced in the case of Harbor Assurance Versus Kansa. Therefore, separability doctrine should be rejected because it is not dependable unanimously, and it is

Tsunami Resisting Structure Design

Tsunami Resisting Structure Design Tsunami waves Abstract: In the past Lebanon has experienced some major earthquakes and tsunamis. Kids are taught at school that Lebanons capital Beirut was buried 9 times because of these catastrophic events. However, other than manmade disasters, modern situation has been calm and this small Mediterranean country has been tsunami free for quite some time. Unfortunately studies show that this situation will not remain as calm in the future and that the Lebanese coast is in danger of re-experiencing these waves. In this paper the historic Tsunami activity around the world will be reviewed and evidence shall be given on why this event will strike Lebanon after 1500 years of absence. In addition, the behaviors and characteristics of tsunamis will be presented, how they start and how they destroy and by knowing the effects they have on buildings and the damages they cause to their elements, we are able to design a structure with the purpose of resisting these loads. The aim of this study is to design a Tsunami Resisting Structure in accordance with the current guidelines and complying with the existing Standards and Codes, that is expected to provide safe refugee from Tsunami and earthquakes. An example shall be given and the applied loads shall be calculated in the following pages. Introduction: It is said in the bible that the Lord told Noah that a flood of waters shall be brought upon the Earth to destroy mankind, both man and beast shall drown (Genesis 6:17). Tsunamis have been happening since the beginning of time, in the past as well as in our days when that event occurred, as part of evacuation technique or simply by instincts for survival people try to escape by going inland or trying to reach higher altitudes. But the wave hits the land with great energy and speed that basically trying to race it horizontally is practically impossible and most casualties that happen during a tsunami is when people try to flee the coast and move inland to higher altitudes. In some areas an evacuation is not possible in time and the best chances people have is through a vertical evacuation by moving upwards to higher levels in a tsunami resisting structure. (FEMA P646A, 2009) The idea of a vertical evacuation structure came to be after the tragic Sumatra earthquake and Indian Ocean tsunami in December 26, 2004. 300,000 lives were lost in the boxing day tsunami (Christian Meinig et al.,2005), and that number would have been so much worse if Reinforced Concrete Structure did not act as shelters for survivals. (FEMA P646A, 2009) We learnt from past events, and if a concrete multistory house was able to resist, even it was temporarily, even if it was for a short term, then a structure can be designed to withstand Tsunami as well as earthquakes, because in most cases, these two hazards are connected. Definition: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) explain tsunami as: A Tsunami is a naturally occurring series of ocean waves resulting from a rapid, large-scale disturbance in a body of water.). They can be caused by either volcano eruption under water, or earthquake or landslides etc. (FEMA P646A, 2009). When they travel in the ocean the waves and fast but short in height, but when they reach the coast, the waves gain in height. It was believed that a number of events led to these oceanic waves however after the study of past events it was concluded that the major cause for tsunami generations was due to tectonic movements. Katsuyuki Abe in his publication Tsunami and Mechanism of great earthquakes explains the relationship between these waves and earthquakes. Katsuyuki Abe said: tsunamis are generated by tectonic deformations rather than by large submarine landslides and slumps. (Katsuyuki Abe, 1972). When tectonic plates are active, plate deformation induces seismic activity that cause earthquakes (Stein and Klosko, 2002) and The source of the tsunami/earthquake can be tracked back to its origin by analyzing the arrival date of the first wave to the shore. The boxing day 2004 Tsunami went down in history as the deadliest tsunami, with more than 230,000 casualties across 14 countries The earthquake triggering the tsunami was of magnitude 9, the most powerful earthquake in 40 years (ABC news, 2014). With its epicenter located at the Sumatra coast, between 2 tectonic plates, the Indian plate and the Burma plate. The two plates were so stressed that the earthquake happen when the Indian plate slipped under the Burma plate. (Sudhir et al., 2005) Tsunami in Lebanon No matter where we read or heard it, whether it was in the findings and studies published by the National Council for Scientific Research, Beirut, Lebanon or National Center for Geophysics, Lebanon or even in the August issue of the journal Geology 2007 or National Geographic News or Discovery News channel or the local newspapers, the context were the same: It is just a matter of time before a destructive tsunami hits this region. An underwater survey placed Lebanon near an active fault that could generate an earthquake in the seafloor causing a devastating tsunami in the region. Elias Ata and colleagues researched that the same fault that was responsible for the strongest earthquakes in the Mediterranean is active and is in danger of producing a tsunami wave just like it did thousands of years ago in the 551 A.D. tsunami in Phenecia now known as Lebanon (Elias et al, 2007). They confirmed the presence of fresh seismic breaks in the sea floor and argued that the Mount Lebanon thrust is identified as repeated earthquakes with 1500 years of return. Since the last earthquake was in 551 A.D. with an active fault line and a 1500 recurrence period, an earthquake in water is bound to happen any day now, and a tsunami will hit the entire Lebanese coast from north to south. Fortunately complying with the Lebanese building code for construction and design is deem to satisfy conditions for earthquake and seismic analysis, but the law does not impose tsunami design to developers and consultants and the idea of a tsunami resisting structure or a vertical evacuation model was somehow absurd in the region. However now that we have solid proof of a predicted tsunami, that idea doesnt look absurd anymore. Structural system A basic concept design of a Tsunami/Earthquake proof structure follows a number of consideration and guidelines. After observing past events, we can conclude that the major element that contributes to the survival of houses was the material used. While most small residences in Australia are timber and lightweight systems or even brick veneer and load bearing wall system, the most robust model that can resist important horizontal or vertical loads is reinforced concrete and or Steel structures. Multistory building are heavier and thus can prevent sliding when horizontal action is applied and because above levels are not submerged they aid to resist lateral loads. Another key component is Orientation, when buildings are constructed in a direction parallel to the ocean, the wave will have a greater surface of contact, and therefore the lateral force will hit the plan faà §ade with the lowest inertia. When they are built perpendicular to the ocean, the contact surface is smaller and the pressure will act upon a direction of highest inertia.   An ideal design is to not resist entirely the wave and have the structure with 800mm thick reinforced concrete wall. It must be a combination between a robust design combined with weak members. In other word, the wave should pass through the building, without causing the collapse of above stories. In order for the wave to flow though the ground level, non-load bearing walls have to breakaway to make passage for the wave. These breakaway walls are masonry block walls, they collapse once struck by the wave.   (FEMA TB9, 99) How vulnerable Structures are? Observation to partially damaged houses indicated that all elements can fail under tsunami load. Foundation can be uplifted and soil can be scoured. Columns can be sheared causing one story collapse or leading to progressive collapses of all upper levels and impact force can completely dislocate columns. Beams can be bent lateraly due to horizontal action and were majorly cracked. Joints connecting two elements, such as vertical support with slab and foundation can fail entirely. Shear and bending failure in walls have been detected, and punching shear where an axial element punches through a plan system was observed as well. However studying only the elements that failed is not enough; engineers must also consider the components that survived. For instance, it was that facades that had openings such as windows and doors did not crumple as opposing to sides there were completely closed and thus have been ruined by the wave. Calculation example This example consists of determining the actions caused by a tsunami on a structure of 2 basements, parking of area 1800 m2 each, Ground Level , Mezzanine and ten stories. The site is located 200 m from the shoreline, at elevation 5 m from the sea level near Beirut, Lebanon Elevation profile indicating the different slopes and location of the structure, taken from Google  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Earth 3D The slope of the terrain is essential to determine the wave parameters, specially height. The Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA, has set guidelines to design structure from tsunami waves, FEMA P646 and FEMA P646A, 2005 shall be demonstrated in the below paragraphs to calculate all the loads generated on our structure. But first we need to determine the waves properties. A tsunami wave is defined by its inundation elevation R*, with is the height of the wave at its maximum penetration. Given the topography of our project, the wave will reach the steep slope and retrieve back, thats 510m from the shore. To determine the height, we will assume that the height is 10m Tsunami Loads As per FEMA P646A, 2005 8 forces are acted upon the structure: Hydrostatic, Buoyant, Hydrodynamic, Impulsive , Debris impact, Debris damming and Uplift forces, not to mention Additional gravity loads from retained water on elevated floors. Hydrostatic force in the basement is when the water from tsunami is retained in the basement, and cannot escape because the basement wall outline prevent seepage, the water is trapped and the basements are compared to water reservoirs since the two basements are completely filled with water. A static analysis on reservoir will therefore be conducted with water height 12m (=6m+8m) Fluid density à Ã‚ s = 1.2 à Ã‚ water = 1200 kg/m3 pc is the hydrostatic pressure, pc = à Ã‚ s.g.h pc (at GL ) = à Ã‚ s. h = 1200 x 8 = 9.6 T/m2 pc (at 1st Bas. ) = à Ã‚ s. h = 1200 x (8+ 3) = 13.2 T/m2 pc (at 2nd Bas.) = à Ã‚ s. h = 1200 x (8+6) = 16.8 T/m2 Buoyant Force The uplift force as per Archimedes principle is as follow: The reinforced concrete has a specific gravity of 2.5 T/m3, in our case the slab isnt a solid slab but made of hollow blocks with self weight equal to 0.63 T/m2 Specific gravity of a 32 cm slab of hollow blocks is = 1.97 T/m3 Water has a specific gravity of 1.2 T/m3 When immersed in the water the slab wont weight the same actuality it would weigh less due to the fact it has a buoyant force acting upward making it lighter. And so in water, the specific gravity of the slab will become 1.97 T/m3-1.2 T/m3 = 0.77 T/m3 If we take into consideration the thickness of the slab 32 cm it becomes   0.77 T/m3 x 0.32m = 0.246 T/m2 The buoyant pressure decreased the specific gravity of the slab from 0.63 T/m2   to 0.246 T/m2 so it must be equal to 0.63 T/m2   0.246 T/m2 = 0.384 T/m2 The buoyant force will be applied upwards as uniform surface load 0.384 T/m2 acting on floors of  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   1stBasement, Ground level, Mezzanine and first floor.

The Psychology Behind the Serial Killer Essay -- Psychological Essays

The Psychology Behind the Serial Killer Creeping around the shadowy house, the predator found its prey waking to strange sounds. The victim lay facedown, with a sweating forehead pressed fearfully into the pillow, silently praying the noises would just go away. Suddenly the victim found himself straddled and pinned to the bed. He was unable to scream for help due to the pressure of the handle of a pick-axe against his throat, preventing any breath from escaping, much less any sound. The victim struggled beneath the weight of the assailant. The scant light from the sodium-arc street light outside cast a peculiar silhouette on the walls of the darkened room, projecting an image that looked oddly like that of a cowboy saddled upon a bucking bull at a rodeo. Struggling to dismount the attacker, the victim felt the piercing blows of the sharp point of the pickaxe, succumbing to death only after receiving eleven stab wounds to the chest and throat. The thrill of the kill was stimulating enough that, when interviewed later, the murderer reported â€Å"popping a nut,† that is, becoming so sexually aroused by the event, to the point of having an orgasm (Pearson, 1998). Does this sound like the heinous acts of Jeffrey Dahmer, Jack The Ripper, or Ted Bundy? How about the petite, pretty, fawnlike, Texas teen named Karla Faye Tucker? A woman? A killer? A sexual predator? Never before had such a thing been heard of, until Miss Tucker. Typically, when one thinks of serial killers, such images as Son of Sam, John Wayne Gacy, or the Boston Strangler, come to mind. Though these men do indeed fit the description, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the definition of serial killer, first and foremost that serial ... ...1998). Essential criminology. Boulder, CO: Westview Press. Monahan, J. & Steadman, H. (1984). Crime and mental disorder: Research in brief. Washington, DC: National Institute of Justice. Pearson, P. (1998). When she was bad: How and why women get away with murder. New York: Penguin Putnam, Inc. Redl, F. & Toch, H. (1979). The psychological approach to crime, in Toch, H. (Ed.). Psychology of Crime and Criminal Justice. New York: Holt, Rinehart & Winston. Redl, F. & Wineman, D. (1951). Children who hate. New York: Free Press. Ressler, R. K. & Shachtman, T. (1997). I have lived in the monster. New York: St. Martin’s Press. Severence, L., Goodman, J., & Loftus, E. (1992). Inferring the criminal mind: Toward a bridge between legal doctrine and psychological understanding. Journal Of Criminal Justice, 20. 107-120.

Examine the management opportunities and challenges associated with the use Of a named global vegetation system

The global vegetation system that I am going to be using is the tropical rain forest. Tropical rain forests (TRF) are usually found along or near the equator. These are equatorial climates and inn these climates there are no seasons. The TRF has a very large range of species. There are a lot of tropical hardwoods here, such as mahogany, Oak, Ipe and many more. The direct use for people is to burn the wood that they cut down from the tropical rainforests. An indirect use would be to sell the wood on. There are three scales of how humans affect the TRF, small scale is shifting cultivation, on a medium scale there would be plantations and on a large scale the is deforestation. Equally there are challenges caused as a consequence of how we use it. There a number of environmental challenges that humans face. Firstly the climate here, it is hot wet and humid. These conditions make it hard for humans to live there. There can also be disease here, and pests such as spiders, snakes etc. These become a physical challenge for people to over come. The surface of the TRF can become very swampy in places, this means that it can be very hard for people to move around in the TRF. The density of the TRF is immense, it is incredible difficult for people to get into and to move about in there. Shifting cultivation has opportunities for local people. These local people will use the slash/burn method for making a clearing, here they will grow some crops (usually yams). They have hunters/gatherers who will go out and get food from the area surrounding the clearing they have made. They will live in this clearing for around 4 years, by this time the nutrients start to become depleted, this is one of the challenges that they face. Now they have to move several kilometres away and make sure that they are not in the area where they sent their hunters/gatherers. The clearing that they left will start to grow back. These people have now become part of the eco system and are challenging to become the top carnivores. The population has started to explode in these places and has significantly increased. This practise how now become less viable and there is now less opportunities for the clearings to re grow and therefore there is going to be more and more clearings made in the TRF and they wont be getting the chance to grow back. This is one of the big challenges that they will now face. Plantations are on a medium to large scale of how humans will affect the TRF. Plantations are set up by colonies (MEDC's), and multi national companies. They aim to grow the same crop over large areas of land that would have naturally grown there any way such as tea, coffee, rubber etc. A very large area has got to be cleared so that the plantations can operate. The opportunities for a plantation are huge. They can use the plantation all year round due to the climate being ideal (hot, wet, humid) and there being no seasons. They are able to exploit the forest and use it economically by selling off the crops that they produce. And as they produce a large amount they will make big profits. One big challenge that plantations face is the fact that the diversity of species has been replaced and is now a mono culture. Where there was once area of many species, they are now dominated by single crops on large areas of land. Pests and disease in a TRF are controlled, but in a plantation all the plants are the same so if a disease gets in there all the plants are going to be infected. Also the nutrient cycle is going to be affected by plantations. Growing the same crop over and over again uses the same nutrients and we get soil depletion. Plantations are a manipulation of the eco system. Deforestation has a phenomenal affect on the TFF. The tropical hardwoods have a big demand around the world and this is where they get them. They generate good income for the people who are selling them. The demand for these woods leads to a devastating affect on the TRF. The diversity of species inside the TRF is phenomenal, and this causes a big problem. In 1sqkm there may only be one mahogany tree, if this is the tree that is needed the people are not able to just go and get that one. The forest is so dense they have to pull down all the trees in that area to get to that one. This is mass clearance and has a devastating affect on the TRF. When a tree is chopped down it is going to wipe out a lot of trees in the process. As an affect of this deforestation there is going to be soil erosion. When the trees get pulled down the soil is left exposed to the elements. Afforestation is a process, which should take place after deforestation happens. This is where trees are re planted. To conclude what I have written, there is always going to be management opportunities in a tropical rain forest whether it is on a small scale or on a large scale. The affects that these opportunities have on the tropical rainforest varies. On one hand the affects can be minor as in the local moving land in shifting cultivation due to soil depletion. But the affects can also be devastating, as in deforestation where there is mass clearance and an area of the tropical rain forest is destroyed. So there are opportunities but they can come at a big cost to the environment.

The 7 Books Every Pre-Med Student Should Read

The 7 Books Every Pre-Med Student Should Read SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips One of the best ways to learn about your future career is to read about it. That’s true for becoming a doctor, too! As a pre-med student, books about medicine can help you prepare for medical school, but they can also introduce you to what it really means to care for your patients. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the seven books every pre-med student must read before they go to medical school. This list includes everything from MCAT prep books to grislybut educational!books about the darker side of medical history. We’ve also included works that introduce you to some of the social and ethical complexities of medicine, too. Not only will these books widen your perspective on the field of medicine, they’ll also help you become a better doctor. Book #1: The Butchering Art: Joseph Lister's Quest to Transform the Grisly World of Victorian Medicine by Lindsey Fitzharris Winner of the 2018 PEN/E.O. Wilson Prize for Literary Science Writing, Fitzharris’ book takes readers into the dark world of Victorian medical science. Up until the mid-Victorian period, surgery was often tantamount to a death sentence. Doctors didn’t wash their hands or their instruments, the surgical operating theatre was open to spectators, and post-operative infection was considered a good thing! That all changed thanks to Joseph Lister, a British surgeon who pioneered the field of germ theory. Fitzharris gives readers a glimpse into the bloody history of medicine in Victorian England and traces Lister’s journey to change the field of surgical medicine. The Butchering Art is equal parts gruesome and fascinating, and we guarantee that you won’t be able to put it down. Actually, if you can’t get enough of the morbid history of medicine after reading Lindsey Fitzharris’ book, don’t worry! We also recommend Quackery: A Brief History of the Worst Ways to Cure Everything by Lydia Kangwhich explores the worst malpractices of medical historyand The Anatomy Murders by Lisa Rosner, which tells the story of medical body snatching and how it led to England’s first recorded serial killers. These books are guaranteed to help you understand the history of medicine better...and they might keep you up at night, too. Book #2:The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee, MD, PhD When a book wins a Pulitzer Prize, you know it’s a good read. That’s definitely the case for The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee, which provides a â€Å"biography† of cancer. Mukherjee traces the history of the disease all the way from its appearance thousands of years ago to today, and in doing so, helps readers better understand cancer as a disease. He also spends time looking at modern cancer treatment and talking about the future of cancer research, which will bring you up to speed on critical advancements in your future field. No matter what type of medicine you want to practice, cancer is the specter that haunts them all. Having a better understanding of the history and future of the disease will not only better prepare you to face it in your own medical career, but it will help you understand how to best support your patients who face such a scary diagnosis. Mukherjee’s sharp writing style makes this book a page turner that you don’t want to miss! (And once you’re done, you can watch the documentary, which was directed by none other than Ken Burns.) Book #3:Med School Uncensored by Richard Beddingfield, MD Now that we’ve given you two fascinating books about the history (and future!) of medicine, it’s time to turn to more traditional pre-med fare. That’s why we’ve chosen Med School Uncensored by Dr. Richard Beddingfield, which is an entertaining, pull-no-punches insider look at medical school. Advertised as a â€Å"good, bad, and ugly† guide to medical school, Beddingfield shares advice with readers that he wishes he knew before starting med school process himself. (He’s a cardiothoracic anesthesiologist, if you’re wondering.) Beddingfield’s book is a comprehensive guide to medical school, and he makes sure to incorporate perspectives from other doctors to give readers a comprehensive and reliable look at what it’s like to become a doctor. His goal is to demystify the process and help people better understand what they’re getting into when they decide to become a doctor. Even more importantly, Beddingfield gives you practical guidance to help you navigate every step of your med school journey. Med School Uncensored is definitely required reading for every pre-med student! If you’re looking for even more insider knowledge about the medical school experience after you finish Med School Uncensored, you can also check out Med School Confidential by Robert H. Miller and Daniel M. Bissell, MD. It also gives you a peek behind the proverbial curtain. Even though it was published more than ten years ago, Med School Confidential offers great time-tested advice about the med school process and covers everything from applying to medical schools to finding the perfect job after earning your white coat. Book #4: MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review 2019-2020 by Kaplan Test Prep Ah, yes...the dreaded MCAT exam. The MCAT is the test all aspiring doctors have to take before they can apply to medical school. It’s designed to be a rigorous test of your medical knowledge, and your score on the MCAT can determine whether you get into your dream school...or not. Basically, the MCAT is the medical school version of the SAT and ACT, and it’s just as important. Here’s the deal: the MCAT exam can make or break an aspiring doctor. That’s why we’ve chosen the beefiest MCAT prep book series out there to get you on the right track. We can’t emphasize it enough: studying for the MCAT early and often is critical to your success. This study set gives you many of the tools you need to get ready for the MCAT, including hundreds of practice questions, illustrations to help you visualize key concepts, and practice tests to help you get to know the test format long before exam day. And since this series is published by Kaplan, you can rest assured that you’re getting the most up-to-date exam advice, too! Book #5: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande If you haven’t heard of Atul Gawande, you’re missing out: he’s a surgeon at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, teaches at Harvard Medical School, and is a New York Times best-selling author. Basically, he’s a rockstar. All of his books about medicineincluding The Checklist Manifesto and Complicationsare worth reading, but for our money, Being Mortal is the book that no pre-med student should miss. And the critics agree: not only was Being Mortal voted one of the best books of 2017 by...well, basically everyone, it also spent a staggering 85 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. So like we said, it’s definitely a book that’s worth your time. Being Mortal deals with one of the hardest aspects of medicine: end-of-life care. It can be hard for doctors, whose job it is to fight off death every day, to realize when it’s best to stop treating the illness and start giving palliative care. Gawande explores how the American medical system deals with aging and the inevitable illness that comes with it, and he argues that medical treatment should focus on how patients want to live rather than just extending life, especially in terminal circumstances. As a pre-med student, you’re going to school to become a doctor and save lives. But Gawande’s book shows young, aspiring doctors that their job is about more than preserving lifeit’s about giving quality of life, too. Being Mortal will transform the way you think about dying, and it will definitely change the way you practice medicine. Book #6: Ask Me About My Uterus by Abby Norman Abby Norman had her whole life ahead of her: as a bright young student, she had just started attending Sarah Lawrence College. But everything ground to a halt when she woke up one day in excruciating abdominal pain. Ask Me About My Uterus is Abby’s memoir about her eight-year journey from the onset of her illness to getting a firm diagnosis. This book gives readers a patient’s perspective on the medical system, especially when it comes to treating women. Norman explains that doctors rarely take women’s pain seriously: in fact, when women report being in pain, they are more likely to be prescribed sedatives than pain killers than men who complain of similar symptoms. As she walks through her experience, she also researches the history of medicine and exposes how often it’s biased against women. As a future doctor, it’s important for you to understand how medicine, even as it works to help and heal, isn’t immune from prejudice. The only way to combat this is for up-and-coming doctors (like you!) to understand how the current medical system falls short. And that’s why we picked Norman’s book for our list. Not only will Ask Me About My Uterus help you better understand what it’s like to be a patient with a chronic, undiagnosed illness, it will also open your eyes to the gender biases of the medical field. Book #7: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth Okay, okay. This book isn’t technically about medicine. Instead, Grit is a book about how passion and perseverance, rather than raw talent or achievement, is the key to long-term success. More importantly, Grit teaches readers how to push through challenges and setbacks to reach your goals. So why have we decided to give Duckworth’s book a place on our list? It’s simple: medical school is hard. (And that’s an understatement!) There’s no coasting through classes, and most students will find themselves struggling at some point. This can be really hard for medical students, are often ambitious and high achieving. And that’s a good thing! But you also need to learn how to push through adversity and hardship if you’re going to make it in medical school. In her book, Duckworth shows readers how to cultivate perseverancewhat she calls â€Å"grit†which is what allows people to handle adversity and learn from their mistakes. She also gives helpful tips for developing tenacity, and how to use failure as a springboard toward your goals. By developing a little more grit, you’ll be better prepared to tackle any obstacle med school throws your way! What’s Next? Now that you’ve got these books under your belt, take some time learning more about what it means to be â€Å"pre-med,† and what that means for getting into medical school. If you’re still in high school, there’s plenty you can do to get yourself ready for the road ahead. Here’s an article that breaks down the most important things you can do to prepare yourself for medical school before you ever start college! Did you know that where you get your undergraduate degree can affect your chances at getting into the medical school of your dreams? If you’re applying to college, it’s important to consider which schools offer the best pre-med programs. These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.