What Dramatic Techniques Does Shakespeare Use to Create a...

What Dramatic Techniques Does Shakespeare Use To Create A Sense That Macbeth Is Not In Control Of His Own Thoughts And Deeds? During the 16th century the amazing writer, William Shakespeare, wrote the genius play Macbeth. There are many different uses of dramatic techniques in his work and I will try to identify them now. Act 1 Scene 7 Question 1 In the first few lines of his soliloquy, Macbeth says If it were done when tis done, then twere well it were done quickly; I think what Macbeth meant by this, is that if the murder could be finished as soon as the deed was done, it would be good to have it finished quickly. Clearly, such actions do have many consequences and aftermath and the rest of his soliloquy makes it clear that Macbeth†¦show more content†¦Question 3 In lines 59-64, Lady Macbeth claims she would have dashd the brains out of a child she was breast-feeding rather than go back on such a promise, like what Macbeth was now doing. This is also stating that if she had a child and she had so sworn to kill the king, as Macbeth did, the she would easily rip her child away from her breast without a hesitation and perform the task in which she had set out to accomplish. Lady Macbeth maintains the view that it would be more wrong to break a promise that to commit a murder. Question 4 Throughout the majority of the scene, we see that Macbeth is the doubtful one whereas Lady Macbeth is the one trying to force Macbeth to swing over to her side of the argument. The scene works especially well dramatically because the audience can compare Macbeths behaviour when he is thinking on his own and that with his wife. It is clear that Macbeth has the potential to make the right decisions when he is not being affected by Lady Macbeth. However, this is not the case, as Macbeth was easily manipulated while putting up a feeble argument to not kill the king. Even though it was blatantly obvious in Macbeth’s soliloquy that he was not happy with the thought of killing Duncan, he may have been more involved with his kingly ambitions than he let on. So when LadyShow MoreRelatedMacbeth Essay1696 Words   |  7 Pages 6th March 2010 Macbeth Essay Shakespeare succeeds in making his audience understand and emphasise with a tyrant. He has many methods of executing this. For example, he makes Macbeth talk to the audience, explaining what he is feeling and what his true desires are. This is called a soliloquy; he uses many other techniques and I am going to clarify what they are. In the play Macbeth uses very dramatic language to emphasise his evil ways. ‘Whose horrid image doth unfixRead MoreWilliam Shakespeare s Macbeth 1925 Words   |  8 Pages‘Macbeth’ a Scottish play known as one of Shakespeare’s best plays was written in 1611 by William Shakespeare, during that time King James the 1st was the king of Scotland, the Jacobean times was a time where people had a fascination with witches and witchcraft, ‘Daemonolgie’ was a book written by King James the 1st himself, this was about ways to spot a witch, which intrigued people. Since ‘Macbeth’ has a Scottish theme Shakespeare may have written this play to please King James since there is referencesRead MoreThe Use of Language, Stagecraft and Structure to Illustrate the Demise of Lady Macbeth2484 Words   |  10 PagesLady Macbeth, it is crucial to compare various scenes beginning with Act 1 Scene 5 and ending with Act 5 Scene 1. It is going to examine, u sing language, stagecraft and structure, how in the beginning of the play Lady Macbeth is manipulative and dominant over Macbeth, but towards the end of the play, the roles have reversed and Lady Macbeth is needed less and less. Towards the closing scenes, Macbeth becomes totally independent in his actions and decisions, in stark contrast, Lady Macbeth becomesRead MoreThe Portrayal of Macbeth and Lady Macbeths Relationship in Shakespeares Macbeth2432 Words   |  10 PagesLady Macbeth is presented throughout the play as a character of domineering presence, troubled by the struggles she faces to fulfil her ambitions and those of her husband s. Her first appearance on stage occurs in the aftermath of the audience witnessing the Witches’ Prophecies, as well as seeing battles being won by Macbeth. Lady Macbeth is portrayed throughout the first Act as a woman with authority over her husband. Yet, as she becomes neglected by Macbeth, Shakespeare uses various techniquesRead Moresha kespeare influences16068 Words   |  65 Pagesï » ¿ RESEARCH TOPIC An Analytic Review Of Shakespearean Influence On Faulkner s Tragedy RESEARCH QUESTION How Shakespeare tragic patterns influenced on William Faulkner s writings? NAME: SYEDA AMBREEN FATIMA FATHER’S NAME: SYED HASAN AKHTER SEAT NO: 1315793 ENROLMENT NO: 2013/ENG/M.A(LIT)/15681 DATE OF SUBMISSION: 28TH NOV 2013 SUBMITTED TO: MISS SAMREEN

The Code Of Conduct Of Expressjet Airlines - 1366 Words

ExpressJet Investigation Since their first flight in 1979, ExpressJet has been a fully functioning regional airline that currently employs 7,500 people and averages 1,369 flights a day. They serve 182 airports across the United States and flew a total of 26 million passengers to their destinations in the year of 2015. With a total fleet of 284 Bombardier and Embraer Jet Aircraft, the airline flew 13 billion revenue passenger miles, also in the year 2015. In the opening to the code of conduct of ExpressJet Airlines, it is stated that their policy is â€Å"to adhere to the highest ethical standards of business conduct and to comply fully with all applicable laws and regulations† (ExpressJet, 2016). Listed above are all statements and facts included on the ExpressJet fact sheet found on their public website. All of the information provided looks imposing because of the large numbers and then a polished list of core values such as â€Å"Treating people with dignity and respect† and â€Å"Working smart with commitment to continuous self-improvement† follows at the end of the page. Numbers and promises listed on a screen can go a long way to an average passenger surfing the internet looking for a flight, but it is important to know if the quality and efficiency of an airline holds true to what is promised. Through research, comparison, and the analysis of its history, ExpressJet Airline’s promises will be put to the test. If the results show, the airline could be deemed efficient, safe,Show MoreRelatedSkywest Case Study5493 Words   |  22 PagesInc. (referred to in this document as SkyWest) and its response to all forces present in the airline industry. A nalytical tools used in this report are: * An analysis of the airline industry macro-environment * A Five-Forces model of the pressures in the airline industry * A study of the drivers of change and industry dynamics * Identification of SkyWest’s main rivals * The airline industry’s key success factors * A strategic group map of the industry * An analysisRead MoreSouthwest Airlines research paper4205 Words   |  17 Pagesï » ¿ Overview and Background. Southwest Airlines, since the beginning has struggle and fight to get in the airline business. Starting with Dallas, Texas. Southwest had to fight to stay at Love field airport, when all the airlines moved to the new Airport of Dallas-Fort worth International airport. Winning this battle gave Southwest the opportunity to get all the customers they wanted, from the near downtown airport, instead of driving 15 miles for the new airport, pay for expensive parking andRead MoreAirline Industry Analysis4820 Words   |  20 PagesAnalysis of the Airline Industry Marketing Management Fall II December 8, 2003 Table of Contents EnvironmentÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….. 3 DemandÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….. 6 CompetitionÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…..Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….. 7 ProductÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…..Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â….. 9 PricingÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…. 11 Placement/DistributionÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…..Â…Â…Â…Â…. 14 PromotionÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â… 16 ConclusionsÂ…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…Â…. 17 References

Competitive Strategy MIT Sloan Management

Question: Describe about the Competitive Strategy for MIT Sloan Management. Answer: The main ideas: Strategy is crucial for modern day businesses. However, while setting the strategies for achieving a certain objective it is important to identify the difference between the strategic paths and the strategy itself. As opined by Grant (2016) strategy is a sketch of actions planned to accomplish a long-standing or an inclusive aim. Hence, it is important for the strategies to be effective. Here, in the given link a major issue relating the laying down of strategies has been discussed. As opined by Madsen (2016) while lying strategies, it is important for the strategy designers to identify four fundamental issues. These are: where does the organization is competing; what the uniqueness that the company is offering; what are the resources to utilize; and how to sustain the value of the brand. As mentioned by Grant (2016) it is important to identify the exact market segmentation for having successful strategy, as it will help to detect the demand and scope of supply. Moreover, the organiz ations need to provide something extra than its competitors which will attract the customers leaving the substitutes behind. Next, the resources (tangible or intangible) which will have to use is crucial to identify. Lastly, as described by Madsen (2016) the organization needs to set paths to create barriers to the competitors to enter in its selected market. a company needs to identify these four fundamental issues to set an effective strategy. A company based discussion: Now, if the business model of Amazon.com can be identified it can be noticed that the company is already following the above discussed four thumb rules. As opined by Bharadwaj et al. (2013) Amazon has strategically chosen the market segmentation. It has identified the retail and non-retail sector for operating. Moreover, they have targeted the upper middle class social groups who are busy with their business/Job, have no time to go the physical stores, and are comfortable with online shopping. As discussed by Bharadwaj et al. (2013) if they can categorize their target market for the non-retail sector more effectively it will help them to obtain better success level. Moreover, the company is providing lowest cost customer centric products, and as a retail store it is offering a huge range of products. Diversification has provided it a great extent of differentiation. On the other hand, Amazon.com is the patent holder of various technologies and it has an effective management team. In addition, the company has developed strong supply chain management (Amazon.com 2016). As discussed by Grant (2016) it has deep structured network which makes the products available at remote locations. However, the barriers to entry are powerful in this market. The company is operating with a huge capital, which will be hard for the new competitors to accumulate. However, as mentioned by Bharadwaj et al. (2013) Walmart being the largest company in this sector is hugely threatening Amazon. In addition, as opined by Grant (2016) Google is also being a threat to the company when it announced its aim to compete for head to head with Amazon's Web Services with their latest service offering, Google App Engine. Hence, it is important for Amazon to differentiate its services and product offerings from that of these companies and sustain the value of the brand to the customers. 2: Video 2 (Business Model Innovation): The main ideas: Innovation in the business model is fundamental for the enterprises to be successful in the future market. As mentioned by Massa and Tucci (2013) it is important for the companies to identify what will be the market demand in future or create it by themselves. However, unlike the popular idea, innovation does not involve trying something that is unique or resource consuming or severely technology based. To be innovative in the business operation the organizations need to identify the market segment, the offerings of the company, the value creating process and the source of profit. An innovative business model needs to change any two of these ideas. As discussed in this video link, an innovative business model needs to follow four simple but interrelated steps, these are: initiation, ideation, integration and implementation. In the first step, the organizations need to identify the target market, the offering, the USP and the revenue generation process. Then the management needs to fi nd the right model for the business by ideating or examining the existing patterns. Next in the integration stage, the companies need to review the potentiality of the model to be sustainable. Lastly, in the implementation stage, the companies need to make a pilot research and proceed according to the information gathered. However, as discussed by Amit and Zott (2012) it is important to collect the patronization from the management to make the innovation successful. In addition, it is crucial to implement one model at a time, communicating the change model and the need to it to the stakeholders and give it enough time to be effective. Finally, it is also important for the management to overcome the idea of being unique to be successful in innovation. A company based discussion: Here, the business model of Apple can be discussed. The company has successfully segmented the market and introduced customer-oriented product to the market. They are targeting the market according to the psychograph and providing suitable products. The company has always made innovation in the offerings and it changed the profit sources of the organization. As mentioned by Yin et al. (2014) they have made innovation, their USP, and have focused on the customer service to create value for the brand. However, in the recent time, they are also following the same strategy of product innovation and value creation. The management of the company has always supported the innovative ideas to be implemented. The management mainly, Steve Jobs had always communicated the necessity of innovation and encouraged the subordinates for it. Moreover, the company has always followed strategic time gap for every innovation; so that the market can be ready for its demand and the company can gain the desi red result (Apple 2016). However, it cannot be ignored that Apple has never introduced unique in the market, but they have identified the right market segmentation, time and process for the idea to be successful. The company now needs to keep the process going to be successful in future. References: Amazon.com. 2016. [online] Available at: https://www.amazon.com [Accessed 20 Aug. 2016]. Amit, R. and Zott, C., 2012. Creating value through business model innovation.MIT Sloan Management Review,53(3), p.41. Apple. 2016.Apple. [online] Available at: https://www.apple.com [Accessed 20 Aug. 2016]. Bharadwaj, A., El Sawy, O.A., Pavlou, P.A. and Venkatraman, N.V., 2013. Digital business strategy: toward a next generation of insights.Mis Quarterly,37(2), pp.471-482. Grant, R.M., 2016.Contemporary strategy analysis: Text and cases edition. John Wiley Sons. Madsen, T.L., 2016. Business Policy and Strategy. Massa, L. and Tucci, C.L., 2013. Business model innovation.The Oxford Handbook of Innovafion Management, pp.420-441. Yin, P.L., Davis, J.P. and Muzyrya, Y., 2014. Entrepreneurial innovation: Killer apps in the iphone ecosystem.The American Economic Review,104(5), pp.255-259.

Koutons Retail India Limited free essay sample

The company went public in early 2006 and thereby became Koutons Retail India Limited (KRIL) with effect from June27, 2006. KRIL is primarily an integrated apparel manufacturing and retail company in India. They are in the business of designing, manufacturing and retailing under the brand names Koutons and Charlie Outlaw. Their main target customers are middle class consumers who are keen to trying out new fashions falling in the age group of 22 – 45 years. Find below a brief timeline of Koutons. 1991- Started as Charlie denim jeans showroom 1994 – Incorporated as Charlie Creations Pvt. Ltd 1997 – Diversified in non-denim apparel, awarded with Best Menswear Collection 1998 – Brand Koutons was launched 2002 – First exclusive brand outlet of Koutons opened 2006 – IPO. Name changed to Koutons Retail India ltd in June 27, 2006 2007 – Listed on BSE and NSE Koutons Financials Koutons has reported the fastest growth in its sales and profits among its listed and closest peers partly due to a smaller base. We will write a custom essay sample on Koutons Retail India Limited or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The Companys restated total income and profit after tax were Rs 4036. 17 million and Rs 344. 87 million respectively as of and for the year ended March 31, 2007 compared to Rs 1583. 85 million and Rs 131. 8 million respectively as of and for the year ended March 31, 2006. (Exhibit 1). Koutons do not have any stock option scheme or stock purchase scheme for the employees of the company. Industry Overview The Indian retail sector, which is believed to be at an inflexion point, is valued at USD 270 billion (2006) with Food and Grocery being the dominant sector followed by clothing, textiles and fashion accessories which contributes nearly 9. 5%. The organized retail sector on the other hand has grown with a CAGR of 30% and stands at about USD 12. 4 billion (2006) which is only 4. 6% of the total retail market thus demonstrating its huge future otential. In the organized retail sector the major share is held by the clothing and accessories sector (39%) growing at a rate of 30. 3% during 2005-06, followed by food and grocery (11%). The Indian apparel retail industry(which mainly consists of sale of all menswear, womenswear and infantswear) grew by 12. 3% in 2006 to reach a value of $20 billion (INR 880. 9 billion); the CAGR growth for the period 2002-06 being 11%(Exhibit 2). The share of the organized apparel retail has grown steadily to reach 18. 9% in 2006. Considering an anticipated CAGR of 10%, the apparel retail industry in India is expected to reach USD 32. billion by end of 2011. Fuelled by strong economic growth, favorable demographics, easy availability of credits, availability of retail space, rising level of disposable income, rise in dual income families and shift of life style pattern, organized retail in India is expected to grow tremendously in the next few years. The emergence of the mall culture in India acts as catalyst in this growth story. By the end of 2007 approximately 68 million sqft of mall space is expected to come in India, majority being equally shared between North Zone (39%) and West Zone (33%). According to a 2005 KPMG retail survey report, the Specialty and Super Market format have the highest potential for growth (45%) followed by Hypermarkets(36%) and Discount Stores (27%). In terms of opening up of new retail outlets, the apparel retailers and brands attained a growth of 113% in 2006 compared to 84% in 2005. As on 2006, major share in the Indian apparel retail market is accounted for by Menswear (45%), followed by Womenswear (36. 1%), Infantswear (18. 8%). While the Menswear has witnessed a growth of 12% by value and 3. 9% by volume, Womenswear has grown 14. 9% by value and 5. 4% by volume. Almost comparable growth has also happened in the Infantswear sector (11. 5% by value and 3. 8% by volume). Competitive Landscape in Apparel Retail Porter’s Five Forces Model The competitive nature of the Indian apparel retail sector can be very well analyzed using the famous Five Forces Model as suggested by Michael Porter. Fig: Porter’s Five Force Model Bargaining Power of Buyers The bargaining power of buyers becomes weak because of three main reasons. First, majority of the buyers are individual consumers and hence has limited purchasing power. Second, the retailers can very easily differentiate their products. Third, only the retailers can provide the consumers with a wide variety of quality products. On the other hand, the fact that buyers have very low switching cost and retailers are obliged to act according to buyer needs provides the buyer with some bargaining power. Infact, it is believed that in Indian apparel retail, brand loyalty exists mostly for the brands and less for the retailers. Bargaining Power of Suppliers The sourcing happens mostly from the clothing manufacturers and the wholesalers. The manufacturing industry is highly fragmented in nature inducing a price war. Low product diversity on the part of the suppliers reduces the switching cost for the retailers. However, the only drawback of moving to a low cost supplier might be the threat of not being able to live up to the highly volatile trend of changing fashion. Entry Barrier Entry barrier is comparatively low, like any other retail sector. The industry itself is highly fragmented and requires low capital investment. The policy taken by the Government to open up the retail sector to foreign investments will definitely encourage entry of other foreign players. Threat of Substitutes We can identify three major threats to the apparel retail. First, with e-buying becoming popular with every passing day there may be an opportunity of buying directly from the manufacturers. Homemade apparels though can be a substitute has a very low threat mainly because of the ever changing fashion needs of the generation and the substantial increase in disposable income. The last and the biggest threat for substitute come from the sale of counterfeit apparels. Competitors The Indian apparel retail industry is highly fragmented in nature. Within the readymade segment there are both branded and unbranded players. There are many foreign brands that have established themselves successfully in the Indian apparel retail market using different channels. While brands like Allen Solly and Arrow have taken the licensing route, Benetton have entered the market through tie-up with domestic players. Again brands like Tommy Hilfliger, Mark’s and Spencers and Speedo have taken up the franchisee channel. On the other hand, Metro entered the market through cash and carry wholesale trading route. The private labels, by virtue of providing higher margins to the retailer and lower cost to the customers have also become extreme popular. Some of the well known private labels are John Miller, Bare and Stop. Although competition in the retail apparel segment is heating up, the inherent advantage of Koutons model backward integration, positioning and first mover advantage is not easy to replicate within a short period of time. On the back of the company? s aggressive rollout plan and diversification to high-margin segments, the company enjoys better valuations than its peers like Kewal Kiran and Zodiac Clothing, although not strictly comparable. There are approximately 23 major players in the branded apparel retail segment in India with Koutons coming next to Raymond Ltd. Exhibit 3 4). Pentagon-Triangle Model Koutons mainly works on pentagon model. The key attributes of the pentagon model fit as follows: Place Size and Location: Out of 999 exclusive brand outlets (EBOs as Aug 20, 2007) 531 EBOs were present in northern region. West and east India has about 29 and 38 stores respectively. Koutons has over 1000 company managed stores and 18 manufacturing units. By August 2007 they owned 14 warehouse facilities spread around Gurgaon. They are present mainly in northern and north western region. By March 2006, there was no presence of Koutons in southern region. They have started slowly moving into southern region. Layout and Design: Koutons generally operate through a franchisee model. Traditionally, Koutons outlets used to store men? s apparel. But recently they have extended their product portfolio to include women? s and kid wear as well. Generally, the size of a Koutons outlet ranges from 1000 sq feet to 2000 sq feet; variations happening depending on the location, real estate rates and host of other factors as well. Their flagship stores have a size of 3000-5000 sqft. Koutons outlets may be single storied or multi storied. The outlets are generally spacious and display caters to need of middle class Indian customer segment. (Exhibit 5: Koutons EBO, Calicut). Product Style and Fashion: Go with latest fashion trends. Mainly target high fashion aspirants of the age group 22-45 years. If any type of fashion becomes obsolete, still Koutons tries to attract customers, but ultimately if situation does not improve they also stop keeping such fashioned garments and go with new trends and fashions. Assortment: Wide variety of men? s wear including shirts, trousers, jeans, jackets, T-shirts. Limited variety of kids and women? s wear. The assortment also depends on region. An EBO in north India might have little different assortment compared to one in south. Value Price: Low brand value. It sometimes offers 70% discounts which have diminished its brand value to a large extent causing a barrier in the way of moving up the value chain. Koutons follows a unique discounting policy wherein they claim to give a discount of x% + y% which is often criticized as a marketing gimmick and a way to mislead the customer. For example, a discount of 50%+40% often gives the customer the impression of availing a 90% discount – whereas effectively it means a 70% discount. Quality: Mixed conception among customers. Most people think its product quality goes down with increase in discounts. It has failed to maintain same quality of products throughout its EBOs across all regions. People Service: Koutons mainly deal with men? s apparels. But recently have started making garments for women also. Knowledge: For managerial position they mainly look for experienced people (at least 2-3 years of experience in apparel business). Climate: Koutons generally stocks apparel which are all-weather. Few varieties differ with region, e. g. sweaters are stocked in north EBOs but not in south. But most of the stock can be sold in all weathers. Communication Positional: Koutons have positioned themselves as „„value for money, but high on fashion. They mainly target pro-fashion customers who are very much willing to try new fashion trends at nominal prices. They often offer attractive discount policies to attract middle class fashion minded customers. Their ta rget customers belong to age group 22 to 45 years. Promotional: Koutons mainly advertise through newspapers and they have a well designed website. They incur minimum advertising expense and rarely goes for any celebrity endorsement. Their presence in 450 cities of India is believed to have created an automatic brand visibility. Business Processes The two major business processes at Koutons are Manufacturing and Sales operations. The diagram below shows the processes involved in manufacturing. Some of the key differentiating factors involved in the business processes are : Procurement of raw materials: Procurement of raw material from India, China, Taiwan and Italy using third party suppliers. Third party manufacturers: To cater to the growing demand for outsourcing of manufacturing is also done. For this, the Company has executed 211 agreements with 211 fabricators. Manufacture of production sample: A product sample is produced in house according to the specifications provided for the range of products for a particular season. The first production report is prepared on the basis of this sample. All apparent and intricate corrections are made in the sample so as to make it error free. Accordingly, a detailed production plan is devised. Fabric cutting and stitching: A layout for cutting the respective products is done with the help of CAD plotter machines. Sales and distribution The company has a dedicated â€Å"Sales and Marketing† team which consists of 90 employees. Competitive Strengths The key strengths of Koutons are: ? Exclusive brand outlets ? Wide network of retail stores ? Low-cost sourcing capabilities (diminishing the cost of material as well as that of the final products hence resulting in low cost products) ? Proper brand positioning (identifying the proper target customer segment and meeting their requirements) ? Expertise in designing and merchandise (core competency) ? Efficient management ? Wide apparel range (customers can choose their required things from a well chosen stock) ? Efficient utilization of IT and making it a differentiating factor compared to other retailers. Koutons always follows proper strategic planning before taking any business decision. They are planning to increase their geographic penetration by increasing the number of brand outlets to distant areas, enhancing manufacturing capabilities, targeting new customer segments. Positioning the Koutons brand strongly (exporting apparels under the brand name), making potential mergers and acquisitions and most importantly constantly improving the cost structure. Some of the key differentiating strengths of Koutons are described in detail. Exclusive Brand Outlets: The majority of the apparel manufacturers cum retailers in India operate through a combination of retailing through exclusive outlets, national chain stores and multi brand outlets. This entails supplies being managed directly and through distribution agents. Koutons operate on a model of marketing apparel directly through a chain of exclusive brand outlets and thus are independent of external marketing pressures attributable to the national chain stores, multi brand outlets and other intermediaries. This enables them to focus quality maintenance and customer satisfaction without the interference of any external agency. This model also enhances the brand equity and recall as the shelf space on each of the exclusive brand outlets is controlled by company. In the process, Koutons has developed a greater brand visibility and an identity of its own and has thus reduced the chances of brand dilution. As of August, 2007, the â€Å"Koutons† brand was sold through 566 exclusive brand outlets and the â€Å"Charlie Outlaw† brand was sold through 433 exclusive brand outlets. The wide coverage of exclusive brand outlets from metros to tier II towns and through the various regions in India, allows them the flexibility to hedge against fashion changes given the general time lag in fashion trends between metro and tier II towns. The table below shows the growth in number of Koutons EBOs. The company? s brands are marketed through three outlet models ? Company owned / leased and company operated (COCO) ? Company owned / leased and franchisee operated (COFO) ? Franchisee owned / leased and franchisee operated (FOFO) The company had 17 outlets, 124 outlets and 858 outlets under COCO, COFO and FOFO models, respectively, on 20 August 2007. To accommodate all EBOs (Exclusive Brand Outlets) the company is also looking for spaces for extension. It has been allotted a manufacturing facility in Gurgaon at a total project cost of Rs 301. 85 million. Koutons has benefitted heavily by following a franchisee model as often large scale operation as theirs often becomes tough to be controlled by themselves alone. Also it helps Koutons in availing real estate easily. Besides, the franchisee owners bring in entreprenual energy to the business. This model has also helped Koutons in tackling to some extent the inherent attrition problem in the retail sector and cut down on loses happening due to staff related pilferage. Koutons, in the process, has also realized cost cutting by relieving themselves of the responsibility of bearing the social security liability of the employees. Koutons franchisee model is different from its peers as it offers its franchisee minimum guaranteed payments covering lease rentals, employee costs, and other establishment costs apart from incentivized sales. Products are consigned to the franchisees, who do not bear the inventory risk except for pilferagethe risk of unsold stock remains with Koutons. The company collects a security deposit (bearing nominal interest rate) from the franchisee towards the apparels that the latter stocks at the outlet. This model is highly attractive for franchisees who seek security and low investment, which is reflected in the rapid ramp up as well as the fact that franchisee churn rate has cumulatively been less than 1. 5 per cent since inception. Koutons has planned to expand their franchisee retail model to other products like home linen and furnishing and toys. Integrated player with low-cost sourcing capabilities: Koutons is an integrated apparel manufacturing and retail company with capabilities across the entire value chain of manufacturing and retailing. One of the major strengths includes in-house finishing facilities and rigid quality controls. Extensive logistics and supply chain management systems is put in place to maintain maximum flexibility, which enables them to meet needs in an efficient manner without relying on any one vendor, factory or country. The centralized purchasing system helps in achieving the standardization in quality control systems. Their involvement at every stage of the value chain has helped them successfully cut down on the intermediary costs. Unique brand positioning: Koutons positions itself as a „High Fashion Value for Money? brand. The â€Å"Koutons† brand is positioned in the middle to high fashion segment, offering a complete range of man? wardrobe (in the age group of 22 to 45 years). The â€Å"Charlie Outlaw† brand is a casual brand targeted at fashion conscious youngsters in the age group of 14 to 25 years. Foreign brands mostly target a niche market while Koutons cater to mass market. Koutons score over foreign brands in terms of fit and size they offer to Indian cons umers. Design and merchandising expertise, with a pulse on fashion: A team of designers and merchandisers who are supported by a staff of 40 professionals, including assistant designers and technical designers. Specialized design teams for each apparel categories are formed. Wide apparel range: A wide apparel portfolio which ranges from shirts, non denim trousers, denims, suits, blazers, T- shirts, cargos, capris, sweaters etc. It has also recently launched a range of apparel for women and children. IT Infrastructure: Until now Koutons has been using a specially developed computerized system (customized) to keep all records related to sales and inventories. To keep pace with the market competition and to make its operations more efficient, it has recently started using an enterprise resource planning system using advanced computer systems with the help of Ramco systems. This advanced system will help them to reduce inventory related problems (such as decreasing the inventory lead time, planning delivery schedules better), improving transparency and reducing redundancy. State of the art information flow system to maintain records relating to sales and inventory and integrate key work flows. In 2006 the company also installed a state of the art enterprise resource planning system. The company has been working on enhancing its IT capabilities for better management. This has helped it to bring down the average inventory days from 213 in FY07 to 202 in FY08. Huge sales per store due to hefty discounts offered by the stores. Weaknesses ? COFO model problems: Opening up manufacturing as well as retail outlets needs huge capital investments and hence limits the company? s ability to expand fast, as well as react to the changing market scenario. ? The company is not able to distribute from the multibrand shops and malls. This shuts it off from a major business opportunity and capitalizes on the retail revolution. ? Inventory problem: 340 days of inventory in an apparel industry where demand is seasonal. (Poor inventory turnover) ? Low Brand Value: Koutons stores only stock their own brands and perennial 70% discounts have completely eroded its brand value. This will prevent the company to move up the value chain. ? Concerns due to the nature of its business, Koutons finds large sum of money blocked up in the form of working capital. In FY08, working capital amounted to almost 68 per cent of annual sales which is on the higher side in retail sector. Acquisitions On January 2008, the Board of Directors decided to acquire 51% or more share in Touchwood International Pvt Ltd. , a Rs. 5 crore company and the owner of the brand „Upper Class?. The company has its presence in the ladies segments. „Upper Class? has its major presence in Delhi and has a strong foothold in the ladies garments segment. The brand specializes in casual bottom wear for women and has its presence in Multi brand outlets (MBOs) like Shoppers Stop, Pantaloons and Globus. Besides, it has its presence in the European market as well. Wh ile the acquisition will definitely give Koutons an exposure to the European market, it will help „Upper Class? gain a retail presence in the domestic retail market. Koutons has planned to open up 400 outlets of „Upper Class? by 2010. Expansion Koutons earlier was exporting Koutons and Charlie brand apparels to the Middle East. But it was halted in 2004 in 2004 as a part of the management strategy to focus more on the domestic market. But now that it has made its mark in the domestic market, it is actively trying to tap the exports market by 2008 with a view to target the Indian population in the Middle East region. It has initiated talks with large retail networks based in West Asia, whereby it plans to open 30 EBOs each of Koutons and Charlie brand by 2009. Koutons plans to enter the market through the route of Joint Venture wherein the majority stake will be retained by Koutons. While the designing, branding and production will be done by Koutons, their local partners will manage the supply chain and logistics. Koutons has already earmarked Rs 40 crores for rolling out the stores. Their first outlet is planned to come up in Dubai by 2008. The other cities under consideration are Abu Dhabi, Sarjah, Doha and Qatar. They also have plans to enter the Chinese market by 2008 and enter the European market very soon. All these would definitely provide the company with immense global visibility. Going Forward The company is aggressively rolling out its EBOs in southern India. Koutons would be enlarging its product portfolio in FY09 by adding categories like accessories and handbags for women along with belts for men and footwear collection for both men and kids by 2008. It is being done with a view to increase the footfalls in the outlets and thereby assist cross-selling and also to make it a one-stop-shop. The company has plans to introduce a new line of women? wear (Les Femme brand) and kids? wear. Koutons plans to open up 150 Koutons Junior and 200 Les Femme stores by 2009-10. To lessen the risk of stock obsolescence, the company has been deploying the strategy of shifting the unsold stock from metros to tier III towns to leverage the time lag in fashion trends between metros and tier III towns. For the year 2008-09, Koutons has planned to grow through the ladies wear and kids wear segments whi ch though being high margin segments are currently being dominated mostly by the regional players. Koutons plans to revolutionize these two segments by providing value for money products – which all throughout have been their core competency. The entry of foreign players in the Indian apparel market has one hand brought the threat the increased competition and on the other hand has increased the fashion awareness amongst the Indian population. However, which target mostly target the mass market can avoid direct confrontation with the foreign players who are more into niche segments. With the rising inflation and increasing cotton price, Koutons definitely has a challenge in their hands in the years to come.

E-Mail Privacy Rights In Business Essays - , Term Papers

E-Mail Privacy Rights In Business E-Mail Privacy Rights In Business E-Mail Privacy Rights in Business I. Abstract How far we have come in such a small time. When you think that the personal computer was invented in the early 1980's and by the end of the millennium, several households have two PC's, it is an astonishing growth rate. And, when you consider business, I can look around the office and see that a lot of the cubicles contain more than one PC. It is astonishing to me that such an item has taken control over the information technology arena like personal computers. Consider, however, the items that go along with personal computers: printers; modems; telephone lines for your modem; scanners; the software; online access; and lets not forget, e-mail addresses. E-mail, or electronic messaging, has taken over the communications world as the preferred method of exchanging information. From the simple, let's do lunch messages, to the ability to send a business associate anywhere in the world an e-mail with an attached document that contains 150 megabytes of information, e-mail is quickly replacing the telephone, the U.S. post-office, and even overnight delivery services as primary method of exchanging important data. With the ability to create and send this instant information, the technology has far outpaced the education of how to use this phenomena, the affects of this technology on society, and how to prevent this method of communication from growing itself out of existence. Consider the following numbers: ? There were about 23 million e-mail users in 1994 ? There will be approximately 74 millions e-mail users in the year 2000 ? Employees sent approximately 263 billion e-mail messages in 1994 ? Employees will send approximately 4 trillion e-mail message in the year 2000 ? A 1993 study by MacWorld magazine found that 22% of employers have engaged in searches of employer computer files, voice mail, electronic mail, or other network communications ? The number of people subject to electronic surveillance at work has increased from approximately 8 million in 1990 to more than 20 million in 1996. ? Nearly 60% of companies that monitor e-mail or other employee communications conceal doing so. ? Less than 20% of companies have a written policy on electronic monitoring. One of the major areas affected by this new technology is corporate America. Not only is it struggling with how to keep pace with the growing need for fast and efficient e-mail, but also the dangers associated with it. Among these dangers is privacy, in particular, what legal rights corporations and employees have in keeping their communications private. This paper will introduce the current legislation in this area, the expectation of privacy an employee should have, any court decisions that provide additional ruling, and what a corporation can do to prevent litigation in these matters. II. Employees Expectation of Privacy in e-mail As an e-mail systems manager, I was under the impression that since the company owns the electronic messaging system, the company could view the contents of any employees e-mail account at any time. I was only partially right. The explanation of the current law will describe this in detail, but, the employee does have a certain right to privacy where e-mail is concerned. Arguably, a company's most valuable asset is it's data. In the age of technological marvels, it is easier to create more valuable data and, on the other hand, that data is more easily retrievable, especially by persons not authorized to obtain the data. Employees of companies can expect a certain right of privacy granted by three main sources: (1) The United States Constitution; (2) Federal Statutes (The Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986); and (3) State Statutes (many of which have not addressed the issue). The United States Constitution provides a limited group of employees with privacy safeguards. The safeguards are based on guarantees in the United States Constitution's Fourth amendment and similar state constitutions. Courts have upheld that the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable search and seizures applies to workplace invasions of privacy. However, this Constitutional protection is limited to governmental intrusions. Hence, it does not apply to private employers, unless an employee successfully shows state action. In Schowengerdt v. General Dynamics Corporation [823 F.2d 1328, 1332 n.3 (9th Cir. 1987).] Schowengerdt held that the employee had

Free Essays on The Role Of Commanders In Margaret Atwood’s Novel, The Handmaid’s Tale

In Margaret Atwood’s novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, it is interesting to observe the role in society that the commander’s are given which is to work and impregnate handmaids. Although handmaids are very bluntly â€Å"used† for one purpose (having children), commanders have the â€Å"duty† to make them pregnant, which is possibly an equally disrespectable purpose. Since many of the commanders are older men, it’s probably harder for them to impregnate the handmaids. There is also proof they have long, hard work days, as Atwood puts it, â€Å"He works long hours. He has a lot of responsibilities.† (Atwood, 90). Atwood goes as far as showing sympathy to the commander and his role in society, and how in a sense he is mocked by handmaids. â€Å"To be a man, watched by women. It must be entirely strange-To have them sizing him up.† (Atwood, 87). Atwood makes us sympathize with the elderly man and his possible embarrassment of not being able to impregnate a handmaid and be the forbidden word-sterile. Although the commander has much power, he leads a life less desirable as Atwood says, â€Å"Still, it must be hell to be a man like that.† (Atwood, 88). This novel is interesting altogether, but the role Atwood gave to the commanders is that of sweet and sour, which may possibly even out the treatment of women in the novel (they are used, and thought of as the less intelligible sex), and I found it very interesting.... Free Essays on The Role Of Commanders In Margaret Atwood’s Novel, The Handmaid’s Tale Free Essays on The Role Of Commanders In Margaret Atwood’s Novel, The Handmaid’s Tale In Margaret Atwood’s novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, it is interesting to observe the role in society that the commander’s are given which is to work and impregnate handmaids. Although handmaids are very bluntly â€Å"used† for one purpose (having children), commanders have the â€Å"duty† to make them pregnant, which is possibly an equally disrespectable purpose. Since many of the commanders are older men, it’s probably harder for them to impregnate the handmaids. There is also proof they have long, hard work days, as Atwood puts it, â€Å"He works long hours. He has a lot of responsibilities.† (Atwood, 90). Atwood goes as far as showing sympathy to the commander and his role in society, and how in a sense he is mocked by handmaids. â€Å"To be a man, watched by women. It must be entirely strange-To have them sizing him up.† (Atwood, 87). Atwood makes us sympathize with the elderly man and his possible embarrassment of not being able to impregnate a handmaid and be the forbidden word-sterile. Although the commander has much power, he leads a life less desirable as Atwood says, â€Å"Still, it must be hell to be a man like that.† (Atwood, 88). This novel is interesting altogether, but the role Atwood gave to the commanders is that of sweet and sour, which may possibly even out the treatment of women in the novel (they are used, and thought of as the less intelligible sex), and I found it very interesting....

Leading Global Workforce Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Leading Global Workforce - Assignment Example The paper tells that global mobility of people in regards to economics refers to the movement of the right employees across the international boundaries to the right jobs. This is a trend that is becoming an essential tool for many multinational organizations. There is a critical need for efficiency and speed in operations as multinational companies are always exploring new markets. Globalization has consequently increased competition for new markets and the shortage of talents and manpower has pushed global mobility of workforce to be a priority for many global companies. This mobility of talents from one international border to the other is very important to global companies as the rapid growth of cross-border activities implies many multinational companies will become increasingly active in in-bound assignees and assignments within a particular region. Global mobility of people helps the companies because they can hire workforce from any region provided that they the capacity for the jobs. On the other hand, global mobility of jobs refers to the ability of a job to be available in more than one international geographical location. Multinational companies utilize this feature by capturing markets across the globe; identical to the original jobs offered in the country of origin. Global mobility of jobs is essential to the global companies especially in regards to expansion due to new market acquisitions or due to increased demand in other geographical areas; as setting up of the identical line of jobs is easier than setting up a whole new business.

Religion -Ethical and Social Issues Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Religion -Ethical and Social Issues - Assignment Example Even though Mrs. Wilkins is in her last life cycle the natural law demands that what is consistent with natural law is morally right during anything that is not is morally wrong. In connection to this, these laws are determined human beings. Human beings have the ability to reason and decide for themselves what is right or wrong. Even though she agreed to take the trial, it was not morally because she was not given enough time to think about the experiment. Kant ethics also states that the only good thing which cannot be quantified is good will. Kant also argues that there is no occasion that we can forfeit a moral behavior in order to have some good object. In connection to these conditions by Kant, the doctors should not push the patients just to have the medicine tested. According to Act Utilitarianism.... â€Å"Actions are right in proportion as they tend to promote happiness, wrong as they tend to produce the reverse of happiness. By "happiness" is intended pleasure, and the absence of pain; by "unhappiness" pain, and the privation of pleasure. In this case, Mrs. Wilkins has agreed to take part in the trial because she feels it will help other people overcome the sickness she is having. Rule-utilitarianism suggests that a person’s decision should be based on the overall consequences that the decision will make. Therefore, by Mrs. Wilkins accepting to take part of the trials she is convinced that in the long ran, there are people who will benefit. Kant’s theory concludes that by rational agents agreeing to take part in any activity; they are bound to these activities by their own will. Finally, Kant concludes that while, in pursuit of the kingdom of ends, rational agents should act as if their law established a hypothetical kingdom. Therefore, Kant theory can be used to justify that Mrs. Milkins is a potential candidate for the experiment. Also according to Primer face duties, there is always a primer face

Mix Map Model Essay Example for Free

Mix Map Model Essay Mixmap model provides information that helps the company to determine the factors that effectively analyse the present tactics and based on the analysis it can determine future tactics. Mixmap model includes 4P’s, Product life cycle, BCG matrix and Ansoff matrix. * Product life cycle Product life cycles (PLC) are the stages that a product goes through during its life cycle in the market. Product life cycle is used in order to show current stage of the product or the company at present which including four stages, Introduction, Growth, Maturity and Decline. PLC is useful for determining the current market position and it is significant for the company to adapt their product or brands marketing strategy to the changing condition of the market environment. Introduction – is first introduced. It offers something new in terms of its design or performance, with few competitors offering the same product. Growth – as volume grows, competitors may enter the growing market. Keeping up with demand could prove to be the main operations.. Maturity Demand starts to level off. Operations will be expected to get the costs down in order to maintain profits or to allow price cutting. Decline After time, sales will decline with more competitors dropping out of the market. Eg. MS is in a high fashion industry and its product offering is the latest trends and designs with a life of maximum 2 weeks so its product life cycle cure becomes like the above diagram. * Boston Group Matrix – Uses market share and market growth criteria for determining the attractiveness and balance of a business portfolio. Star – is a business unit within a portfolio, which has a high market share in a growing market. It is well- established and fantastic opportunities. Question mark – is a business unit within a portfolio that is in a growing market, but does not yet have high market share. Cash cow – is a business unit within a portfolio that has a high market share in mature market. Dogs – are business units within a portfolio that have low share in static or declining markets. Example MS in terms of BCG matrix is either ‘dogs’ (cash in balance) or question marks (cash cow). The portfolio of MSs products is good in clothing having star position and in food MS has occupied the position of question mark relative market shares is low with low industry growth and in financial services industry growth is high but MSs market share is low and will require substantial capital investment to turn them into stars. * McKinsey Matrix – Highlights the importance of fit between strategy, structure, sytems, staff, style, skills and superordinate goals. Three aspects of organizing. First, organizing involves a lot more than just getting the organizational structure right; there are many other elements to attend to. Second, the 7-s framework emphasizes fit between all these elements everything from structure to skills needs to be connected together. Third, if managers change one element of the 7-s, the concept of fit suggests they are likely to have to change all the other elements as well in order to keep them all appropriately aligned to each other. Strategy are plans an organization formulates to reach identified goals, and a set of decisions and actions aimed at gaining a sustainable advantage over the competition Structure – is the key ingredient of organizing for success. But structure can only work if they are supported by formal and informal organizational system System – can be subdivided in two ways. First, systems tend to emphasis either control over inputs or control over output. The second is between direct and indirect control. Style – refers to the leadership style of top managers in an organization and how key managers behave to achieving the organization goals. Staff – is about the kinds of people in the organization and how they are developed. Skills – relates to staff. It raises not only staff skills but also issues to do with how these skills are embedded in and captured by the organization as a whole. Superordinate goals – refers to the overarching goals or purpose of the organization as a whole. Superordinate goals are placed at the center of the 7-s framework: all other elements should support these. Example MS are fully exercising the 7s model and coordinating at all levels to generate maximum output. Structure is well defined since it is old player in this industry so they have learnt a lot from their experience curve and now have developed an outstanding structure. In the initial phase MS got experience through hit and trial method and now have developed good strategies and system. MS also has got excellent skills and is full getting benefit of these skills. They are well known figures in clothing industry and have gained professional and productive staff. MS have shared values which are widely spread in its all 7s and are reflected by their strategic moves * Ansoff’s Matrix – Is a very useful tool and can be used in nearly every scenario. It neatly summarizes many of the strategic options facing organizations. Market penetration – existing markets and products This is a strategy by which a company seeks to increase the sales of its present products in its existing markets. Product development – existing markets and new product This strategy has the aim of increasing sales by developing products for a company’s existing market. Market development – existing products and new markets This strategy has the aim of increasing sales by repositioning present products to new markets Diversification – develop new products in new markets This could be related to what we do at the moment. Diversification is a high risk strategy as the business is unfamiliar with the product and the target market. Example We can see from the Ansoffs Matrix, MS’s lunch of Financial services products will have involved a diversification strategy. As MS did not already sells financial products, so new market and new product. Both capability and market consideration has driven MS into development of new markets and products. 4Ps * Price – The price of a product or service is the important influencers in the decision on whether to buy. Eg. Marks and Spencer vary in price. However most of the products seem to be fairly cheap affordable prices. This is good because the clothes are of good quality; however the pricing isn’t too expensive. * Promotion – represents all of the methods of communication that a marketer may use to provide information to different parties about the product. The promotion mix consists of four elements: advertising, sales promotion, public relations and personal selling. Eg. Marks and Spencer tend to promote ladies fashion mainly on Television and on their website. They also advertise on billboards etc. * Place – refers to providing the product at a place, which is convenient for consumers to access.eg. For MS all ladies fashion is placed on a certain floor in the store, so it is easily found and is easy to locate, and find particular product. * Product – Product covers both the usefulness and demand for an item in general and also any specific features and benefits. In general, when buying the fast fashion clothes, style and quality are the key requirements for customer. If it is to stand out from rivals products. It can be done by changing this brand name, quality, and packaging. Eg. MS offers many different clothing concepts for man, woman and children, and also sell accessary and cosmetic.

Sport and Identity Formation

Sport and Identity Formation Sport and Identity: Essay Proposal How Does Rugby Union Shape And Reflect Identity In Northern Ireland? Despite the increased interest and understanding of identity, the concept itself remains something of an enigma (Fearon, 1991, cited in Hooti Mahmoudi, 2013). The meaning of identity as we now use it, is not well captured by dictionary definitions. Our present idea of identity is a recent social construct, and a rather complicated one. Even though everyone knows how to use the word properly in everyday discourse, it proves quite difficult to give a short and adequate summary statement that captures the range of its present meanings (Gleason, 1983, pp. 910-930). A short definition by Hogg and Abrams (1988) state that identity is peoples concepts of who they are, of what sort of people they are, and how they relate to others (p.2), and when a set of people who hold a common social identification are categorised together they form a social group. These groups of collective identities can be constructed around many forms and circumstances, for example, nationality, race, gender, sexuali ty, religion and many more. Woodward (1997) adds to this by suggesting that Identity marks the ways in which we are the same as others à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and the way in which we are different. Often identity is most clearly defined by difference (Woodward, 1997, pp. 1-2).   When analysing the definition, its clear that Hogg and Abrams as well as Woodward are only talking about people. Other authors (Elliott, 2007; Mead and Morris, 1934) suggest that objects and symbols can also be used to express and forge a sense of self. This further demonstrates the complexity of defining identity. Identity in the context of sport can unify and/or divide. It can show common ground or expose differences. Sport can be used as a tool to show how people see themselves and how others see them. It is a potential platform for the construction and display of identity (Maguire, Jarvie, Mansfield, Bradley, 2002). One example for the display of an identity through sport is national identity. If the concept of nations being an imagined community (Anderson, 2006) is accepted, then Bairner states that Sporting competition arguably provides the primary expression of imagined communities with the nation appearing more real in the domain of sport (Bairner, 2005, p. 105). It is around the subject of national identity that I will form my topic of research for the essay. I want to explore the ways in which Rugby Union helps to shape and reflect national identity in Northern Ireland, a county divided for many decades by two main ideologies. The first is the, mainly protestant, unionist ideology. P eople who follow this ideology believe that Northern Ireland, part of Great Britain, should continue some form of political union with Great Britain and thus, view themselves as British. The second, mainly catholic, nationalist ideology is opposed to such a union and favours a unified Ireland, and thus, view themselves as Irish'(Cronin,1999, p. 143-146). Then there are people who consider themselves as Northern Irish. They are either politically neutral or take on a mixture of beliefs from both sides of the community so I will have to consider this during the essay. I want to explore this looking solely at Rugby Union as it is unique and significant that the Irish national team compete as a united nation against Scotland, Wales and England and, as such, have a large nationalist following in Northern Ireland. In contrast, the Ulster Rugby Union side that also incorporates counties from both sides of the border has a large unionist following in Northern Ireland. The academic rationale for my choice of topic is that it is only in the last decade that a more heterogeneous approach to identity construction in this subject area generally has been acknowledged and followed (Hassan, 2002). There isnt a lot of research on how Rugby Union shapes and reflects identity in Northern Ireland but there are sections of research by other academics and authors which will be useful. The concepts of identity will allow me to explore this sectarian divide and understand how both sides of the community can use Rugby Union to display which side of the ideological line they stand on and/or if it can also be used as a tool to unite the conflicting sides of the community. The topic, with its deep historical and political complexity, will also allow me to further explain identity as a socio-logical concept that is ever changing, fluid and complicated. To do this I will use the Identity and Difference theory by Woodward (1997). The reason for this is that my topic will mainly focus on two main nationalities and ideologies. People with the same nationality and ideology share a sense of geographic space, beliefs, and history with other members of that community, whilst excluding those who do not belong. Difference is central to the shaping of many collective identities and is often used as an active form of social exclusion, particularly when political problems between groups occurs (Woodward, 1997). One could argue that for some people in Northern Ireland being Protestant, unionist or British can be defined as much by not being Catholic, nationalist, or Irish. Other forms of identity could also be explored in the final piece to further explain the topic. Looking at another form of identity could allow a better understanding or explanation of a range of things related to the topic, for example, social class to expand on the historical context. In terms of social interaction, the middle classes were more integrated than the working classes and the rise of the Irish middle class, in part a response to political developments in Northern Ireland, inevitably led to Catholics being socialised into rugby (Hassan, 2002). Other forms of identity include race, religion, sexuality, profession, age, gender and many more. With every form of identity that is explored, better understanding and a more in-depth knowledge can be attained. I will also have to read up on some relavant secondary research, particularly the books and studies of Cronin (1999), Woodward (1997) and Bairner (2005) in preparation for the final piece. References Anderson, B. O. R. (2006). Imagined communities: Reflections on the origin and spread of nationalism. New York: Verso Books. Bairner, A. (2005). Sport and the Irish: Histories, identities, issues. Dublin: University College Dublin Press. Cronin, M. G. (1999). Sport and nationalism in Ireland: Gaelic games, soccer and Irish identity since 1884. Dublin: Four Courts Press. Elliott, A. (2007). Concepts of the self. Cambridge: Polity Press. Gleason, P. (1983). Identifying identity: A semantic history. The Journal of American History, 69(4), 910. doi:10.2307/1901196 Harris, J., Parker, A. (Eds.). (2009). Sport and social identities. Basingstoke, UK: Palgrave Macmillan. Hassan, D. (2002). A people apart: Soccer, identity and Irish Nationalists in Northern Ireland. Soccer Society, 3(3), 65-83. doi:10.1080/714004886 Hogg, M. A., Abrams, D. (1988). Social identifications: A social psychology of intergroup relations and group processes. New York: Routledge. Hooti, N., Mahmoudi, Y. (2013). Identity Discordianism under the trepidation and duplicity of human essence: A trenchant investigation on Luigi Pirandellos war. Theory and Practice in Language Studies, 3(7), . doi:10.4304/tpls.3.7.1209-1213 Maguire, J. A., Jarvie, G., Mansfield, L., Bradley, J. (2002). Sport worlds: A sociological perspective. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics Publishers. Mead, G. H. H., Morris, C. W. (1934). Mind, self, and society; from the standpoint of a social behaviorist (17th ed.). Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago press. Woodward, K. (1997). Identity and difference. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage in association with the Open University.

Capital Budgeting Case Essay

In the two capital budgeting cases corporations (A and B) have different revenues values and expenses as well as variable depreciation expenses, tax rates and discount rates. The members of our team had to compute both corporate cases NVP, IRR, PI, Payback Period, DPP, and project a 5-year income statement and cash flow in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The future cash flows of the project and discounts them into present value amounts using a discount rate that represents the project’s cost of capital and its risk is what’s needs to forecast the investment. Next, all of the asset’s future positive cash flows are reduced into one current value number. Subtracting this number from the original cash expense required for the investment provides the net present value (NPV) of the investment. Using the internal rate of return (IRR) and net present value (NPV) measurements to evaluate projects often results in the same findings. Relationship between Net Present Value and IRR Net present value of an investment is equal to the â€Å"present value of its annual free cash flow less the investments initial outlay† (Kewon 2013 pg 310). Whenever the NPV is greater or equal to zero we should accept the project, whenever the NPV is negative the project should be rejected. Internal rate of return answers the question of what â€Å"rate of return will the project earn† (Kewon 2013 pg 316). IRR is the â€Å"discount rate that equates the present value of the project’s free cash flows with the project’s initial cash outlay† (Kewon 2013 pg 316). The discount rate is the rate that is used within capital budgeting that allows for the net present value of cash flow within a project to equal zero. The higher the IRR the  more desirable the project is versus the lower the IRR the less desirable the project is. In consequence, the NPV method indirectly assumes that cash flows over the life of the project can be invested at the project’s required rate of return, whereas the use of the IRR method suggests that these cash flows could be invested at the IRR. The better statement is the one made by the NPV that the cash flows can be reinvested at the required rate of return because they can either be returned in the form of dividends to shareholders, who demand the required rate of return on their investments, or invested in a new investment project. (Keown, 2013). The NPV shows that Company B is worth more than Company A. After expenses, taxes and depreciation the company has a value that is better to acquire Corporation B because of a higher IRR of 16.94% and NPV of $40,252.02 than Corporation A whom has an IRR of 13.05% and a NPV of $20,979.41. Net Present Value Corporation A $20,979.41 Corporation B $40,252.02 However, with the NPV that Corporation B have it will be give the corporation, over 5 years, a current value cash return of about $40K above the 11% required rate of return. In other words, this plan will not only meet the 11% required rate, but it will give the company an additional $40. Internal Rate of Return When a project is reviewed with the hurdle rate in viewpoint, then the greater the IRR is above the hurdle rate, the greater the NVP, and on the contrary, the more the IRR is below the hurdle rate , the lower the NVP. When using the IRR, the decision rules are as follows: If IRR > hurdle rate, accept the project If IRR< hurdle rate, reject the project. In order for a project to be accepted, the IRR must be greater than or equal to the hurdle rate. If the company is deciding between projects, then the project with the highest IRR is the project to be accepted. As we look at the IRR for both corporations we see that Corporation B is higher than Corporation A and this is why we as a team choose Corporation B. Corporation A 13.05% Corporation B 16.94% Profitability Index, Payback Period and Discount Payback Period The Profitability Index (PI) is just a number and anything 1.0 or higher is confirmation for the project that is being evaluated. The PI is a type of ratio that gives the higher NVP per dollar on an investment. It is better used when you have more than one project comparing. When making decision making measures for the PI methods the best project should be the one that pays off the initial cost outlay. The PB is the less method used in doing a capital budgeting because it does not consider the time value of the money earned in the project. Looking at Corporation B is shows that it will take 3.31 years to payback the cash inflow to the original cash outflow or the cost of the project. So when making a decision on which corporation to use in PB it is best to take the project that pays off the initial cost outlay in less time. If we look at the PI and PB for Corporation A and Corporation B we will see that Corporation B is much better project than Corporation A. Profitability Index Payback Period Corporation A 1.08 Corporation B 1.16 Corporation A 3.64 yrs. Corporation B 3.31 yrs. The Discount Payback Period (DPP) does consider the time value of money. It is computed somewhat like the PB method and the only difference is that DPP method uses the discounted cash flow. As we look at the DPP for Corporation A and Corporation B we see that again Corporation B is less time to pay back the cash flow: Corporation A 4.6 yrs. References Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Petty, J. W. (2013). Foundations of Finance, 8th Edition. [VitalSource Bookshelf version]. Retrieved from http://online.vitalsource.com/books/9781269882194/id/ch10lev2sec2 Keown, A. J., Martin, J. D., & Petty, J. W. (2013). Foundations of Finance, 8th Edition. [VitalSource Bookshelf version]. Retrieved from http://online.vitalsource.com/books/9781269882194/id/ch10lev2sec5

Causes of the Dust Bowl Essay

One of the most devastating environmental crises that occurred in the United States was the Dust Bowl. The Dust Bowl began shortly after the Great Depression began in 1929 and lasted throughout the 1930’s. It affected everyone, farmers and consumers alike, in its path negatively. The Dust Bowl of the 1930’s was caused by four major factors: drought, climate misconception, poor land management, and most importantly, wind erosion. The first of the four major factors is drought. During the Dust Bowl and the 1930’s there were four major periods of drought. The first lasted from 1930 to 1931, the second occurred in 1934, the third in 1936, and the last period of drought lasted from 1939 to 1940. The Great Plains had experienced periods of drought before and no major problems had occurred, so the main problem was that the farmers did not have enough time in between the periods of drought to recover because they were so close together. Another issue was that the droughts occurred at the same time as the economic downfall known as the Great Depression. This meant the farmers did not have the money to spend to help their crops. Also, many farmers simply believed that the droughts would end and that the rains would come soon as they had many other times in the 1900’s (Drought). Climate misconception played a large role in the creation of the Dust Bowl as well. The misconceptions about the climate and the annual rainfall in the Great Plains first began in the nineteenth century when people first began to settle in the area. Many of these settlers believed that they would always get enough rain to grow healthy crops because they settled on the land during years with abnormally high amounts of rain. Another reason people believed that the land would always be good to farm is because they were fed propaganda by railroad companies and land boosters. Even though there were several periods of drought that occurred before the 1930’s and the Dust Bowl, people were encouraged by the rains that always came soon after. The farmers’ misconceptions of the climate and annual rainfall also affected the way they farmed the land (Causes). Poor land management is one of the two most important causes of the Dust Bowl. The farmers were not able to manage their land well because they were not aware of the different techniques they should have used on their farms in the Plains. One of the techniques that the farmers should have used was crop rotation. Crop rotation would have been a great help in keeping their soil in larger clumps, whereas when the farmers repeatedly planted wheat in the soil, the nutrients were used up and were not replenished. This caused the soil to break up into a dust-like consistency that made the soil easier to be swept away by the winds. Farmers also should have had a year round ground cover on the soil to prevent the wind from sweeping it away, but the farmers were not aware of the heightened risk of wind erosion because they had not had to deal with it in the past. The last technique that the farmers should have used to help manage their land is known as shelter belting. Shelter belting is the process of planting trees and bushes in order to slow and block the winds that blew across the otherwise flat ground of the Great Plains. Another issue with the way the farmers managed their land was that they switched from the lister (a type of plow commonly used by farmers in the 1900’s) to the one way disk plow. The one way disk plow was favored by the farmers because it made plowing the field easier and much faster, but the downside to the new invention was that it left the soil even more susceptible to wind erosion (The Dust Bowl). The last factor that contributed to the Dust Bowl is wind erosion. Wind erosion is considered to be the most important and the most preventable cause of the environmental crises. It has since been proven that the size of the farm is directly related to the amount of wind erosion that will occur on the land. Experts say that the smaller the farm is the more wind erosion there will be on the land because larger farms are necessary to finance and benefit from erosion control. Small farmers on the other hand need to cultivate more of their land more intensely and they usually do not earn enough money to be able to spend anything on soil conservation. Many historians and researchers blame the overabundance of small farmers who did not participate in erosion control for the extent of the wind erosion during the 1930’s and they blame the Homestead Act of 1862 for bringing these farmers to the Plains. The Homestead Act gave away hundreds of thousands of  land plots that ranged from about 160 acres to about 320 acres even though agricultural experts recommended that the farms should be about 700 acres to 1200 acres to minimize wind erosion. The farmers that moved onto the land that was given away were the kind of farmers that did not implement the soil conservation tactics that were necessary to prevent the Dust Bowl in the Great Plains (Wind Erosion). In conclusion, drought, climate misconceptions, poor land management, and wind erosion were the four main causes of the agricultural tragedy of the 1930’s. These four factors came together at the beginning of the 1930’s to create what is now known as the Dust Bowl which lasted until the end of the decade. Thankfully, an environmental crisis like this has never taken place again in the United States and thanks to the organizations founded after the Dust Bowl, such as the Soil Conservation Service, our generation and the generations that follow will not have to live through the hardships that another Dust Bowl would cause.

Land form Pattern and Processes essays

Land form Pattern and Processes essays Chapter 1 Land form Patterns and Processes 2. List the zones of the earth. For each zone state the thickness, and two features of each. (A) Inner Core: 2700 km, solid and made mostly of iron with lesser amounts of nickle. (B) Outer Core: 2300 km, molten and made mostly of iron and nickle (C) Mantle: 2900 km, divided into lower and upper levels, the asthenosphere is in plastic state, sometimes acting like a liquid (D) Mohorovicic Discontinuity: -, Boundary between mantle and lithosphere, at which earthquake waves abruptly change speeds. (E) Lithosphere 1-100 km, lowest density, solid and rigid, and can be divided into layers one under the ocean basins and one making up continents. 3. (A) What are the two main materials that make up the lithosphere? The two main materials that make up the earths lithosphere are aluminum and magnesium. Minerals are the combination of elements. 3. (C) What are the two most common elements in minerals? The two most common elements in minerals are oxygen and silicon. 4. What is the difference between igneous and sedimentary rock? Igneous: rock forms when molten substance underneath the surface, called magma or lava cools down and crystallizes. Sedimentary: Forms when groups of rock pieces merge and cement together. Metamorphic: referring to the change in a rock from its original from by heat or by pressure beneath the earths surface. Metamorphic rock is a rock thus changed. Topography: the natural and human features of the earths surface. 7. (A) What are the two types of flat regions? The two types of flat regions are plains and plateaus. Plains: is frequently found along the coastal areas or at lower elevations. Plateaus: are another type of flat region unlike plains, they have been raised upward into higher elevations by movement of earths crust. 8. What is the difference between a hill and a mountain? The difference between a hill a...

Diversity in Organizations Essay

Diversity in Organizations Essay Diversity in Organizations Essay Diversity in Organizations Gregory Wright BUS 610 Organizational Behavior Peggy Morrison Monday April 9, 2012 Most people agree that cultural diversity in our workplaces utilizes our country’s skills to its fullest, and contributes to our overall growth and prosperity. The reality of this situation is that progress is slow. While we are in the midst of the longest period of economic growth this country has ever seen, the gap between the â€Å"haves â€Å" and â€Å"haves nots† continues to widen. One of the main reasons for this has been the lack of diversity in corporate America. When a diverse workforce is not developed form top down, African, Hispanic, and Asian Americans are unfairly relegated to lower-skilled, lower-pay positions and are not able to fulfill their true potential. Diversity is and should be an important component for every organization in today’s business climate. The workplace has been growing ever more diverse since the late 1960’s, with important laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 giving various groups greater equality and increased rights in the workplace. Diversity has increased because the workforce has seen an increase of people such as: women, people with different sexual orientations, immigrants, those with minority groups or representing a minority religion, and those with disabilities. Companies that understand and integrate these differences into their company culture stand to gain a great deal of various opinions and input when it comes to the company’s overall operational tactics. Organizational culture can be loosely defined as the shared assumptions, beliefs, and normal behaviors of a group. This group consists of the individuals within a company and each individual person in the company contributes their ideas, based partially on their beliefs and experiences outside of the workplace, to affect how the workplace operates. Companies that embrace the different perspectives and opportunities that can be offered with a diverse workforce allow opportunities for more constructive and effective performance in the company. In addition the company culture also dictates how the company operates on a daily basis, down to the basic structure of the company. I read in one article that company culture can be composed differently; either as a structured or unstructured and as a friendly or more market based culture focusing on results instead of friendliness among employees. It is also important to understand an organizations culture so that the proper direction can be given. Additionally, gathering input from the employees and overlooking the company’s cultural composition, including the future company vision would allow company leaders to create an environment that allows the company culture to mesh with a diverse workforce. It will more than likely be difficult for companies to undergo such an in-depth o f their cultural and diverse compositions, but an understanding of the most basic company principles will allow the successful company to build a company culture that engenders a diverse workforce to propel the company forward to heightened success. Companies that expend the time and effort to embrace, understand, and develop diversity approaches will see a company culture that works harder, creates a more hospitable working environment, and ultimately increases company profitability. Culturally diverse organizations experience a wealth of benefits, including more ideas from a widely diverse group of people, which when aligned, will create more energy expendable on reaching unified company goals. One of the core values of the United States is equal opportunity and favoritism of an

Total Quality Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Total Quality Management - Essay Example TQM is based on the practice and assumption that problems should be dealt with at the point of origin itself. Each process in any business, like sales, marketing, operations, finance, production, planning, personnel, technical, have parameters of input. If the input is wrong, the output is bound to be wrong. Wang suggests that the correction should be made at the input level itself, which minimizes the chances of a wrong output. Silos also agrees that every aspect and every process of the business system should be involved so that all functions – vertically and horizontally across all levels are covered (1999 cited by Cannon, 2002). Although there have been modification to the adaptation of the TQM, the essential principles of this management philosophy remains the same. This paper will highlight how Marriott considered the TQM in their hotels. Marriott International has always been known as an employee-oriented family atmosphere organization. As service expectation of the existing customers and potential customers have gone up, and as TQM is a management philosophy based on continuous improvement, Marriott felt the need to consider TQM in their company to be able to deliver quality service and to sustain their image in the competitive market. To be able to consider TQM in their organization, Marriott first ventured to define TQM in their own style. To them, TQM meant: The philosophy of the founder of Marriott was â€Å"Take care of Marriott people and they will take care of Marriott guests† (Cannon, 2002). They were in essence attempting to satisfy both their internal and external customers by the TQM approach. They believe that â€Å"Hands-on managers† are absolutely vital to continuing the Marriott culture. The managers need to possess the people skills in being able to support, inspire, encourage, lead and listen to associates. Employees leave the organization or form unions when they are dissatisfied with the management. With the

Comparative Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Comparative - Research Paper Example The journey represents the physical journey as well as the inner journey. The writers have chosen to use the symbol of a journey because they want us, the reader, to embark on this path of discovery with the protagonists. Both writers have used setting and symbols extensively to signify the start, the progress and the end of the journey. They have also masterfully created protagonists we can identify with, and as we travel on with the protagonists we are made aware of their feelings and beliefs and we end up empathizing with the protagonists because we could relate to their trials and embrace their humanity as our own, â€Å"the hold upon us of a character in fiction, for instance, is its ability to remind us of all those actual people who are therein described†. (Feibleman, 1949) In â€Å"A Worn Path†, Welty has endowed her protagonist, â€Å"an old Negro woman called Phoenix Jackson† (Welty, 1941, paragraph 1) with a physical quest to make her way to town. This physical journey is also an inner quest in search for immortality. Welty has painted the setting, that of a cold December morning and the character of a very old woman in the first two paragraphs. The antics of an ancient woman are fully described and the likeness of old Phoenix grows clear to us. In just the first few lines, Welty has fully planted this old and wrinkly woman before us and presented us with a suspending question at the same time, why is this â€Å"very old and small† (Welty, 1941, paragraph 1) woman making a journey alone in the cold? Similar to Welty, Rhys has also used a symbolic journey in her work â€Å"I used to Live Here Once†. Rhys has endowed her protagonist with a physical journey across a river to return to a place she has once lived in. The physical journey is deceptively simple. In actuality, the journey is also a journey of nostalgia and atonement and carries the enormous weight of memories. The start of the journey begins with the protag onist â€Å"standing by the river† (Rhys, 1976, paragraph 1). The protagonist describes the stepping stones with great detail. Each one is different but the stones are exactly as she remembers and this is significant because in the scenes after, she seems uncertain of the way things should look. Like Welty, Rhys has presented us with a suspending question here, what has taken place that makes the protagonist reacts thus? The missions of the quests in both works are not made clear to the reader till the end of the story. However, both Welty and Rhys have used the setting extensively to show the protagonist’s progress with the journey, the passing of time and their state of mind. The characters of old Phoenix and the ghost girl are fleshed out so well that towards the end of the journey, not only are the quests explained, we also empathize with the characters. As old Phoenix embarks on her journey, Welty let us know that old Phoenix is familiar with the path but the jour ney is long. Along the journey, old Phoenix has to cross different terrains. The pinewood at the onset of the journey marks the starting point of old Phoenix’s inner quest for immortality, as pine trees are often associated with immortality. The quest is not without a struggle. It is an uphill battle but old Phoenix is resolute. She then has to make her way through a forest of oak trees, oaks representing strength and wisdom to be gained. At this point, Welty has aptly

How Globalization Affects small businesses Essay

How Globalization Affects small businesses - Essay Example ization affecting the current experiences in small business venture?† The increasing changes in business climate are a possible result of globalization effect. Many small and medium enterprises are not able to realize how this phenomenon is influencing the business environment. â€Å"Have you noted any unexplained changes in competition, consumer behavior, price changes and business rules and regulations which are derived from the globalization?† Such an approach to discussing the issue of globalization will evoke the interest of the reader due to the sensitivity of the question in respect of the widespread startup firms and increasing competition in small and medium enterprise in this era of globalization (Friedlander, Edward and John 56). This journalism lead approach is more appropriate in the case of using pictures and diagram to make a visual appeal to the underlying issues being addressed (Ballenger 163-4). It serves the purpose of a visual impression and gives the reader an overview of the topic being addressed. This is a critical tool of captivating the attention of the reader through proper pictorial presentation and precise expression of ideas (Friedlander, Edward and John 61-6). From the picture above it can be noted that the increasing technological application in small businesses is a culmination of the rising competition in various industries. Cost reduction measure versus high quality output is a major goal of the profit oriented small enterprises operators. In this respect, non-price competitive strategies are at play and this sums up as a culmination of the globalization effect. To contain the gap between well-established multinational corporations and startup firms, information technology application provides a level ground for survival and this one aspect of globalization. In this case, the critical concepts of globalization and its effect on small business are addressed through visual presentation and the reader has grasped important facts

Dessler Chapter Essay Example for Free

Dessler Chapter Essay 1) Which Amendment to the U. S. Constitution states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law? A) First Amendment B) Fifth Amendment C) Tenth Amendment D) Thirteenth Amendment E) Fourteenth Amendment Answer: B Explanation: The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution (ratified in 1791) states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law. The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 2) The ________ Amendment to the U. S. Constitution outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. A) First B) Fifth C) Tenth D) Thirteenth E) Fourteenth Answer: D Explanation: The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution (ratified in 1791) states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 3) The 13th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution addresses the subject of ________. A) due process B) slavery C) private property D) trial by jury E) womens rights Answer: B Explanation: The 13th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution abolished slavery and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. The 5th Amendment addresses due process, and the 6th Amendment requires a trial by jury. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 4) The ________ gives all persons the same right to make and enforce contracts and to benefit from the laws of the land. A) Fifth Amendment B) Civil Rights Act of 1866 C) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act D) Civil Rights Act of 1991 E) Thirteenth Amendment Answer: B Explanation: The Civil Rights Act of 1866 gives all persons the same right to make and enforce contracts and to benefit from U. S. laws. The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution (ratified in 1791) states that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of the law. The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, and courts have held that it bars racial discrimination. Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act states that employers cannot discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 5) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act explicitly prohibits employers from discrimination based on all of the following characteristics EXCEPT ________. A) race B) religion C) color D) sexual orientation E) national origin Answer: D Explanation: Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act states that an employer cannot discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Title VII bars discrimination on the part of most employers both public and private with 15 or more employees. Sexual orientation is not directly addressed under the law. Diff: 1Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 6) According to Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which of the following employers would be legally allowed to refuse employment to an individual based on race, religion, or sex? A) a state agency with 65 employees B) a medical office with 25 employees C) a local restaurant with 10 employees D) a department store with 100 employees E) a public school with 30 employees Answer: C Explanation: Title VII bars discrimination on the part of most employers, including all public or private employers of 15 or more persons. It also covers all private and public educational institutions, the federal government, and state and local governments. A business with fewer than 15 employees would legally be allowed to refuse employment based on race, religion, sex, or national origin. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Application 7) Which legislation was responsible for the creation of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission? A) 13th Amendment B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Civil Rights Act of 1866 D) Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 E) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act Answer: E Explanation: Title VII established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to administer and enforce the Civil Rights law at work. The commission itself consists of five members appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate. Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 established the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 8) The EEOC was initially established to investigate complaints about ________. A) job discrimination B) unfair business practices C) sexual harassment in schools D) structural accommodations for disabled people E) overtime payments for labor union members Answer: A Explanation: Title VII established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to administer and enforce the Civil Rights law at work. The EEOC receives and investigates job discrimination complaints from aggrieved individuals. Diff: 2Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 9) How many members serve on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission? A) 3 B) 5 C) 9 D) 10 E) 12 Answer: B Explanation: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) consists of five members appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate. Each member serves a 5-year term. Diff: 1Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 10) Which of the following appoints the members of the EEOC? A) U. S. Congress B) U. S. Supreme Court C) President of the United States D) Department of Justice E) American voters Answer: C Explanation: The EEOC consists of five members appointed by the president with the advice and consent of the Senate. Each member serves a 5-year term. Diff: 1Page Ref: 32 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 11) Which of the following requires equal pay for equal work regardless of sex? A) Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Executive Order 11246 D) Pay Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 E) Civil Rights Act of 1991 Answer: B Explanation: Under the Equal Pay Act of 1963 (amended in 1972), it is unlawful to discriminate in pay on the basis of sex when jobs involve equal work; require equivalent skills, effort, and responsibility; and are performed under similar working conditions. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 12) When companies utilize ________, they take steps to eliminate the present effects of past discrimination. A) affirmative action B) executive orders C) rehabilitation action D) civil rights guidelines E) equal pay rules Answer: A Explanation: Affirmative action refers to steps that are taken for the purpose of eliminating the present effects of past discrimination. The Equal Pay Act of 1963 requires employers to pay equal pay for equal work, and the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires employers with federal contracts of more than $2,500 to take affirmative action in employing disabled persons. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 13) Which of the following is responsible for implementing Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 that were issued by the Johnson administration? A) Equal Employment Opportunity Commission B) Pension Benefits Guarantee Corporation C) Occupational Safety and Health Administration D) National Labor Relations Board E) Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs Answer: E Explanation: The Johnson administration (1963–1969) issued Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 which didnt just ban discrimination but also required that government contractors with contracts of over $50,000 and 50 or more employees take affirmative action to ensure employment opportunity for those who may have suffered past discrimination. These orders also established the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) to implement the orders and ensure compliance. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 14) Which of the following factors is NOT an acceptable basis for different pay for equal work under the Equal Pay Act of 1963? A) merit B) seniority C) gender D) production quality E) production quantity Answer: C Explanation: Under the Equal Pay Act of 1963 (amended in 1972), it is unlawful to discriminate in pay on the basis of sex when jobs involve equal work; require equivalent skills, effort, and responsibility; and are performed under similar working conditions. Pay differences derived from seniority systems, merit systems, and systems that measure earnings by production quantity or quality or from any factor other than sex do not violate the act. Diff: 2Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 15) Paul is a 49-year-old American of Anglo-Saxon descent. What legislation is most likely intended to protect Paul from discrimination? A) Executive Order 11375 B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Executive Order 11246 D) Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 E) Thirteenth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution Answer: D Explanation: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) made it unlawful to discriminate against employees or applicants who are between 40 and 65 years of age. Executive Orders 11246 and 11375 require government contractors to take affirmative action, the 13th Amendment barred slavery, and the Equal Pay Act made it unlawful to discriminate in pay based on the employees gender. Diff: 2Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Application 16) According to the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, it is unlawful to ________. A) sue an employer for age-based pay B) fire older employees for insubordination C) require employees to retire at age 65 D) allow juries to determine age discrimination E) institute a minimum age for employees Answer: C Explanation: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) made it unlawful to discriminate against employees or applicants who are between 40 and 65 years of age. Subsequent amendments eliminated the age cap, effectively ending most mandatory retirement at age 65. The ADEA allows jury trials. Diff: 2Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 17) The ________ requires certain federal contractors to take affirmative action for disabled persons. A) Equal Pay Act B) Vocational Rehabilitation Act C) Age Discrimination in Employment Act D) Americans with Disabilities Act E) Civil Rights Act Answer: B Explanation: The Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires employers with federal contracts of more than $2,500 to take affirmative action in employing disabled persons. It does not require hiring unqualified people. It does require an employer to take steps to accommodate a disabled worker unless doing so imposes an undue hardship on the employer, which is addressed by the ADA. Diff: 1Page Ref: 33 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 18) Which of the following refers to highly recommended procedures issued by federal agencies regarding employee selection, record keeping, and preemployment inquiries? A) job specifications B) employment metrics C) process charts D) uniform guidelines E) applicant tracking systems Answer: D Explanation: Uniform guidelines are issued by federal agencies charged with ensuring compliance with equal employment federal legislation explaining recommended employer procedures in detail. They set forth highly recommended procedures regarding things like employee selection, record keeping, and preemployment inquiries. Diff: 1Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 19) Which of the following does NOT participate in the issuance of uniform guidelines? A) EEOC B) Department of Labor C) Better Business Bureau D) Department of Justice E) Civil Service Commission Answer: C Explanation: The EEOC, Civil Service Commission, Department of Labor, and Department of Justice together issued uniform guidelines. These set forth highly recommended procedures regarding things like employee selection, record keeping, and preemployment inquiries. The Better Business Bureau is not involved in issuing uniform guidelines. Diff: 1Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 20) Uniform guidelines from the EEOC are recommended for employers to use in matters regarding all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) employee selection B) record keeping C) preemployment inquiries D) sexual harassment E) psychological testing Answer: E Explanation: The EEOC, Civil Service Commission, Department of Labor, and Department of Justice together issue uniform guidelines. These set forth highly recommended procedures regarding things like employee selection, record keeping, sexual harassment, and preemployment inquiries. The American Psychological Association has its own non-legally binding Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Diff: 2Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 21) Which Supreme Court case was used to define unfair discrimination in conjunction with EEO laws? A) Buckley v. Valeo B) Brown v. Board of Education C) Griggs v. Duke Power Company D) West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish E) Abington School District v. Schempp Answer: C Explanation: Griggs v. Duke Power Company was a landmark Supreme Court case used to define unfair discrimination as put forth in EEO laws such as Title VII. The Court ruled that employment practices must be job related and that discrimination does not have to be overt to be illegal. Brown v. Board of Education held that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Choices A, D, and E were not cases related to EEO laws. Diff: 2Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 22) In Griggs v. Duke Power Company, Griggs sued the power company because it required coal handlers to be high school graduates. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Griggs because ________. A) high school diplomas were not related to success as a coal handler B) Duke Power Company intentionally discriminated based on race C) no business necessity existed for Duke Power Company D) Title VII forbids job testing E) Griggs held a GED Answer: A Explanation: The Court ruled in favor of Griggs because having a high school diploma was not relevant to the job of coal handler. The Court held that an employment practice must be job related if it has an unequal impact on members of a protected class. Diff: 2Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 23) If a person is in a protected class, he or she is protected by which of the following? A) Department of Labor guidelines B) Sarbanes-Oxley Act C) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act D) Consumer Protection Act E) National Labor Relations Board Answer: C Explanation: The term protected class refers to persons such as minorities and women who are protected by equal opportunity laws, including Title VII. Choices A, B, D, and E are not equal opportunity laws. Diff: 1Page Ref: 34 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 24) All of the following are principles established by Griggs v. Duke Power Company EXCEPT ________. A) burden of proof is on the employer B) performance standards should be unambiguous C) business necessity is a defense for an existing program D) employment selection practices must be job related E) discrimination does not have to be overt to be illegal Answer: B Explanation: The Court ruled in Griggs v. Duke Power Company that the burden of proof is on the employer to show that a hiring practice such as testing is job related. The Court also ruled that business necessity is the defense for any existing program that has adverse impact and that discrimination does not have to be overt to be illegal. The case did not address performance standards. Diff: 3Page Ref: 34-35 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 25) Under the principles established by Griggs v. Duke Power Company, ________ can be used as a defense for any existing program that has adverse impact. A) occupational qualification B) business necessity C) affirmative action D) burden of proof E) fair in form Answer: B Explanation: Business necessity is the defense for any existing program that has adverse impact according to Griggs. The court did not define business necessity. Diff: 2Page Ref: 35 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 26) Which court case provided details regarding how employers could validate the relationship between screening tools and job performance? A) West Coast Hotel Co. v. Parrish B) Albemarle Paper Company v. Moody C) Griggs v. Duke Power Company D) Burlington Industries v. Ellerth E) Ward Cove v. Atonio Answer: B Explanation: In the Albemarle case, the Court provided more details on how employers could prove that tests or other screening tools relate to job performance. For example, the Court said that if an employer wants to test candidates for a job, then the employer should first clearly document and understand the jobs duties and responsibilities. Diff: 2Page Ref: 35 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 27) Under the Civil Rights Act of 1991, once a plaintiff shows disparate impact, who has the burden of proving that the challenged practice is job related? A) plaintiff B) employee C) employer D) judge E) EEOC Answer: C Explanation: According to the Civil Rights Act of 1991, once an aggrieved applicant or employee demonstrates that an employment practice (such as must lift 100 pounds) has a disparate (or adverse) impact on a particular group, then the burden of proof shifts to the employer, who must show that the challenged practice is job related. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 28) According to the Civil Rights Act of 1991, an employee who claims intentional discrimination can sue for all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) back pay B) job reinstatement C) punitive damages D) compensatory damages E) substantive consolidation Answer: E Explanation: According to the Civil Rights Act of 1991, an employee who claims intentional discrimination can sue for back pay, attorneys fees, court costs, job reinstatement, punitive damages, and compensatory damages. Substantive consolidation is a legal term referring to debt consolidation. Diff: 2Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 29) Race, color, religion, sex, or national origin is a motivating factor in a termination, but the employee would have been terminated for failure to perform anyway. Which of the following most likely exists in this situation? A) mixed motive B) business necessity C) disparate impact D) liability defense E) burden of proof Answer: A Explanation: An unlawful employment practice is established when the complaining party demonstrates that race, color, religion, sex, or national origin was a motivating factor for any employment practice, even though other factors also motivated the practice. Some employers in so-called mixed motive cases had taken the position that even though their actions were discriminatory, other factors like the employees dubious behavior made the job action acceptable. Under CRA 1991, an employer cannot avoid liability by proving it would have taken the same action—such as terminating someone—even without the discriminatory motive. Diff: 3Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Application 30) Which of the following requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for disabled employees? A) Civil Rights Act of 1991 B) Equal Pay Act of 1963 C) Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 D) Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 E) Disability Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 Answer: C Explanation: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 prohibits employment discrimination against qualified disabled individuals. It also says employers must make reasonable accommodations for physical or mental limitations unless doing so imposes an undue hardship on the business. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 31) According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which of the following would be considered a disability? A) homosexuality B) voyeurism C) pyromania D) compulsive gambling E) AIDS Answer: E Explanation: The ADA specifies conditions that it does not regard as disabilities, including homosexuality, bisexuality, voyeurism, compulsive gambling, pyromania, and certain disorders resulting from the current illegal use of drugs. The EEOCs position is that the ADA prohibits discriminating against people with HIV/AIDS. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 1 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 32) Which type of disability accounts for the greatest number of ADA claims? A) drug-related B) cosmetic C) mental D) vision E) hearing Answer: C Explanation: Mental disabilities account for the greatest number of ADA claims. Under EEOC ADA guidelines, mental impairment includes any mental or psychological disorder, such as . . . emotional or mental illness. Drug-related conditions are generally not regarded as disabilities. Diff: 1Page Ref: 36 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 33) Under ADA, those who can carry out the essential functions of the job are known as which of the following? A) protected class B) line managers C) career anchors D) staff authorities E) qualified individuals Answer: E Explanation: The ADA prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals—those who, with (or without) a reasonable accommodation, can carry out the essential functions of the job. The individual must have the requisite skills, educational background, and experience to do the job. Diff: 1Page Ref: 37 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 34) Which of the following best explains why employers win the majority of ADA cases? A) Employers make the necessary reasonable accommodations for employees. B) Employers prove that age negatively impacts an employees job performance. C) Employees fail to prove that they are disabled yet qualified to perform a job. D) Conservative judges are sympathetic towards small-business owners. E) Employee attorneys fail to draw connections between Title VII and ADA. Answer: C Explanation: Employers traditionally prevailed in almost all—96%—federal circuit court ADA decisions. A main reason is that employees were failing to show that they were disabled and qualified to do the job. Unlike with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the employee must establish that he or she has a disability that fits under the ADA. Diff: 3Page Ref: 38 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 35) Which of the following will be the most likely result of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008? A) Employees will find it easier to prove that their disabilities are limiting. B) The number of major life activities considered disabilities will be narrowed. C) Employers will be required to make fewer accommodations for workers with disabilities. D) Employers will be required to hire a specific percentage of disabled workers to be in compliance. E) Employees will apply for more jobs knowing that the legislation guarantees their employment. Answer: A Explanation: The new ADAAs basic effect will be to make it much easier for employees to show that their disabilities are limiting. For example, the new act makes it easier for an employee to show that his or her disability is influencing one of the employees major life activities. It does this by adding examples like reading, concentrating, thinking, sleeping, and communicating to the list of ADA major life activities. Diff: 3Page Ref: 38 Chapter: 2 Objective: 1 Skill: Concept 36) In which of the following situations does sexual harassment NOT violate Title VII? A) if the conduct substantially interferes with a persons work performance B) if the conduct creates an intimidating work environment C) if the conduct creates a hostile work environment D) if the conduct is motivated by both age and gender E) if the conduct creates an offensive work environment Answer: D Explanation: Under Title VII, sexual harassment generally refers to harassment on the basis of sex when such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with a persons work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Sexual harassment violates Title VII. The motivation behind the conduct is not relevant to Title VII violations. Diff: 3Page Ref: 39 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 37) The ________ provides that a person who commits a crime of violence motivated by gender shall be liable to the party injured. A) Civil Rights Act of 1991 B) Federal Violence Against Women Act of 1994 C) Pregnancy Discrimination Act D) Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 E) Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Answer: B Explanation: The Federal Violence Against Women Act of 1994 provides that a person who commits a crime of violence motivated by gender shall be liable to the party injured. The law offers an additional path women can use to seek relief for violent sexual harassment. Diff: 1Page Ref: 40 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 38) Which of the following is NOT a form of sexual harassment according to EEOC guidelines? A) unwelcome sexual advances that create an intimidating work environment B) requests for sexual favors made implicitly as a condition of employment C) verbal conduct of a sexual nature that unreasonably interferes with work performance D) physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates an offensive work environment E) mutually consensual physical conduct of a sexual nature between co-workers Answer: E Explanation: EEOC guidelines define sexual harassment as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment or interfere with work performance. Requests for sexual favors that are used as the basis for employment decisions are also considered sexual harassment. Consensual sex between co-workers is not considered sexual harassment. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 39) All of the following are ways for an employee to prove sexual harassment EXCEPT by proving that ________. A) the verbal remarks of a co-worker were sexually flirtatious B) the rejection of a supervisors sexual advances led to a demotion C) a hostile work environment was created by a co-workers sexual conversation D) a hostile work environment was created by a nonemployees sexual advances E) a hostile work environment was created by a supervisors sexually abusive conduct Answer: A Explanation: The U. S. Supreme Court held that sexual harassment law doesnt cover ordinary intersexual flirtation. Someone can prove sexual harassment if rejecting a supervisors sexual advances led to a demotion, firing, or altered work assignment. Sexual harassment can also be proven if a hostile work environment is created by the sexual conduct of supervisors, co-workers, or nonemployees. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Application 40) Judy was up for a promotion at Simpson Consulting when her supervisor, Will, encouraged her to develop a sexual relationship with him. He suggested that her promotion would be a sure thing if they were involved. When Judy declined his advances, Will fired her. Which of the following would Judy most likely be able to prove in court if she decided to sue Simpson Consulting? A) hostile environment created by nonemployees B) hostile environment created by supervisors C) hostile environment created by co-workers D) disparate treatment E) quid pro quo Answer: E Explanation: Quid pro quo (something for something) is the most direct way to prove that rejecting a supervisors advances adversely affected what the EEOC calls a tangible employment action such as hiring, firing, promotion, demotion, and/or work assignment. Quid pro quo would be the best option for Judy if she sues the firm for Wills actions. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Application 41) Gus is always making sexual jokes at work. Many employees find the jokes funny, but Shelley, Guss executive assistant, is uncomfortable with the jokes. Eventually, she decides to quit her job rather than endure the jokes any longer. What form of sexual harassment has Shelley experienced? A) quid pro quo B) hostile environment created by supervisors C) hostile environment created by co-workers D) hostile environment created by nonemployees E) none of the above; Shelley is not a victim of sexual harassment Answer: B Explanation: As Shelleys supervisor, Gus created a hostile environment according to the EEOC. A claimant does not need to show that the harassment had tangible consequences such as demotion. It is sufficient in many cases to prove that a supervisors sexual harassment substantially affected an employees emotional and psychological abilities. Diff: 3Page Ref: 41 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Application 42) All of the following are ways that an employer can minimize liability in sexual harassment claims EXCEPT ________. A) maintaining thorough records of all sexual harassment complaints B) informing all employees about sexual harassment investigations C) instituting a sexual harassment reporting process D) training employees in sexual harassment policies E) investigating sexual harassment charges promptly Answer: B Explanation: Maintaining records of complaints, instituting a reporting policy, providing sexual harassment training, and investigating charges quickly are ways that employers can show that they took reasonable care to prevent and correct sexual harassment, which will minimize the employers liability. Sexual harassment investigations should be conducted privately, and the information should not be made available to all employees. Diff: 3Page Ref: 42 Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Concept 43) Sanders Sporting Goods, an international sporting goods chain, is being sued for sexual harassment by a former Sanders employee. The plaintiff asserts that she was the victim of numerous unwanted sexual advances from a male co-worker. The woman claims that Sanders management condoned a hostile work environment and that the company is liable for the actions of the male employee. Which of the following, if true, would best support the plaintiffs argument that Sanders is liable for sexual harassment? A) Sanders re-published its sexual harassment policy twice within the last year. B) The HR department at Sanders has records of the plaintiffs initial complaints. C) Exit interviews of outgoing Sanders employees include questions about sexual harassment. D) Sanders lacks a management response system for handling sexual harassment complaints. E) Sanders recently lost a court case filed by former employees who claimed disparate treatment. Answer: D Explanation: Employers can minimize their liability in sexual harassment claims by showing that they have a response system set up for handling sexual harassment complaints, so Sanders may be liable if it lacks a system. Firms that re-publish their sexual harassment policies frequently, keep thorough records of complaints, and address sexual harassment issues during exit interviews are able to show that they took reasonable care to prevent sexual harassment. Disparate treatment refers to discrimination claims rather than sexual harassment claims. Diff: 3Page Ref: 42 AACSB: Reflective Thinking Chapter: 2 Objective: 2 Skill: Critical Thinking 44) Sanders Sporting Goods, an international sporting goods chain, is being sued for sexual harassment by a former Sanders employee. The plaintiff asserts that she was the victim of numerous unwanted sexual advances from a male co-worker. The woman claims that Sanders management condoned a hostile work environment and that the company is liable for the actions of the male employee. Which of the following, if true, would most likely undermine the plaintiffs claim that Sanders is liable for the male employees conduct? A) The male employee physically threatened the plaintiff on three occasions. B) The male employee made sexual advances towards the plaintiff on a daily basis. C) The male employee was required by HR to participate in a sexual harassment awareness course. D) The male employees conduct significantly interfered with the plaintiffs ability to perform her job. E) The plaintiff discussed her concerns about the male employees conduct with female co-workers. Answer: C Explanation: If the male employee was required to take a sexual harassment course, then that action shows Sanders was making a reasonable attempt to stop the behavior. Choices A, B, and D support the plaintiffs claim that ther