Doubt: Catholic Church and Father Flynn

Decision making without concrete evidence can lead to faulty actions Leaders need to make decisions on the basis of substantiated evidence. Decisions made under other circumstances can cause the observer to doubt the legitimacy of the leader’s decision. In the play Doubt: A Parable, by John Patrick Shanley, Sister Aloysius’ mischievous mind is always looking for ways to over analyse the actions of Father Flynn. She is almost diabolical in her actions to have him removed from the school. Father Flynn, on the other hand, appears only interested in doing what is best for Donald Muller. Unfortunately, his well-intentioned actions make him vulnerable to the suspicious Sister Aloysius. Sister Aloysius’ certainty that innocent actions are harmful causes her to unfairly judge Father Flynn. Sister Aloysius unfairly judges Father Flynn's sermons and suspects his motives. At this point Sister Aloysius has only suspicions that Father Flynn could be in Doubt or knows someone that is. While speaking to Sister James, Sister Aloysius indicates her concerns about Father Flynn’s and indicates that by saying â€Å"Well, sermons come from somewhere, don't they? Is Father Flynn in Doubt, is he concerned that someone else is in Doubt? (Shanley 14). Sister Aloysius does not have any substantiated evidence of Father Flynn, as she only has her suspicions. One of her major character flaw is that she harbors a deep mistrust in her students, fellow sergman and society itself. So far, all she knew at that point was that Father Flynn grabbed a boy’s wrists, and that he was talking about Doubt in one of his sermons. Father Flynn said later on in the book that his sermons are not true stories because lies make for a better sermon. â€Å"I'm sorry, I'm not forthright, but I must be careful not to create something. I can only say I am confused, perhaps needless, about matters in St. Nicolas School,† Sister Aloysius remarks. (15) You can tell by this quote that she has some negative thoughts about the incident with Donald Muller, as she assumes that Father Flynn is having inappropriate behaviour toward Donald Muller. She is trying rephrasing it so it is less obvious of her concerns and assumptions. Sister Aloysius negatively judges Father Flynn's interest in promoting a closer relationship between the Church and the community because she feels it is an inappropriate way to interact with the students and community. But we’re not members of their family. We’re different†¦.. And they think were different. The working class people of this parish trust us to be different† (30) Sister Aloysius remarks. Sister Aloysius believes that because they are a Catholic school, they must stay true to their vows that the school believes in. She believes that the rules are in place f or a reason, and to be true to God, she must obey the oath that she took to become a Sister. Anything that challenges the operation of the school, and is out of line, she would not stand for. Therefore, she did not believe in the recommendation of changing the way things were already being run. The traditions of the Roman Catholic Church form the back bone of the rules and standards that Sister Aloysius is supporting. Father Flynn is a strong believer in the proposition that the Church should be more lenient and fun with the students, as it creates a better community of people. He makes a statement in the play that goes a little like this, â€Å"I think the message of the second Ecumenical Council was that the Church needs to take on a more familiar face. Reflect the local community. We should sing a song from the radio now and then. Take the kids out for ice cream. † (30) Father Flynn does not believe in following the rules of the Church to such a high extent that it is needed to emphasis every single rule. Unlike Sister Aloysius, he feels that having the school a more relaxed and fun environment results in creating a better learning strategy for the students. It also makes it a better environment for the teachers and student to be in because there is less stress. In result though, Sister Aloysius is against this proposition because she feels that she must abide by the rules and is more for the old school kind of method. Sister Aloysius unfairly doubts Father Flynn's explanation regarding the incident with Donald Muller because of her preconceived notions regarding his motives. â€Å"What happened in the rectory? † (32). Sister Aloysius questions. This quote states that she is clearly tired of dancing around the question, as at this point she has given up and just wants an explanation. She wants him to admit that he seduced the boy because she ‘knows’ that this is true due to her certainty. She does not believe his explanation that he was just talking to Donald in the rectory about keeping him on as an altar boy, even though he stole the wine. The needs for Father Flynn to tell her that she is right is important to her. This will put her at ease with the case and allow her to feel satisfied by her gain in authority and power. †There was alcohol on his breath when he returned from the meeting with you. † (33) Sister Aloysius remarks. She believes that Father Flynn is also guilty based on the fact that she assumes, he gave Donald Muller wine so he could seduce the boy. Believes that he did something to the boy, Sister Aloysius thinks that it is inappropriate and therefore, when he came back to class, he had his head on his desk and had alcohol on his breath. Sister James corroborates this remark by stating, â€Å"I did smell it on his breath† (33). This comment gives more certainty to Sister Aloysius and her beliefs. She does later on tell Sister Aloysius that she is going to bring Father Flynn down with or without Sister James’ help. This indicates how committed and certain she is to her stand on this critical issue. With the lack of supported evidence that Sister Aloysius has discovered concerning Father Flynn’s motives, it is unfair and unreasonable to be certain about her unquestionable justifications. She has closed her mind on all the other possibilities that could be, because of her singular mind set . If she doubts herself, she would feel unsteady and uncertain. Her hard-won knowledge would evaporate right before her and she would be vulnerable, a characteristic that she does not feel comfortable exploring†¦ just yet.

Appropriate Needs Assessment For a Social Intervention Program

In the pre-planning stages of any social intervention project, a basic needs assessment of the target group or population should be conducted first to determine priority areas for intervention and draw up benchmark data and indicators for reference during planning, implementation, monitoring and post-implementation phases. Furthermore, according to Acosta et. al, â€Å"Conducting needs assessment research is a rational way to examine the effectiveness of social programs† (Acosta, 343). A needs assessment basically consists of several benchmark data gathering activities that would require collection of primary and secondary data and other forms of data gathering, like focused group discussions.   Some even require several or multi-level studies to come up with the benchmark results, like that of an assessment process conducted in the State of Pennsylvania. To quote: â€Å"The process was designed to use a seven-step procedure incorporating qualitative and quantitative data collection strategies† (Daly, 95).   Hence, depending on the needs and scope of an intended intervention, strategies for benchmark data gathering in establishing needs assessment output should be pre-designed. A needs assessment usually focus on a group of people or population in a given environment.   For example, the needs assessment from Pennsylvania stated focused on â€Å"Individuals with developmental disabilities who present challenging behaviors create significant issues for families and service delivery systems that provide support† (Daly, 95). How does one go about specifying the extent of a problem? The results of a needs assessment study identifies several opportunities for addressing the problem and gives an insight on how best to attack or implement the program to address the conflict or problem in a given population group in a specified environment.   There are strategies and methodologies by which the problems or needs for social intervention can be identified and addressed.   One such approach is the SWOT Analysis or the identification of the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats present in the environment and in profiling all the stakeholders affected in the proposed or planned social intervention program. Elaborate on the difficulties associated with defining and identifying the targets of interventions. How might we describe the target populations of social interventions? Not one social intervention program can boast of a 100% foolproof plan that will ensure a definitive path for success or capture and identify for sure the appropriate beneficiaries of a social intervention project.   In every intended project, it has been a lesson in the past that planning should be bottom up and not the other way around.   Instead of a project identified and a benchmark study scheduled just to fit into the â€Å"prerequisite† for approval of the intervention program, the process should be reversed. One frequent mistake adapted by governments or non-profit organizations, in identifying target populations for a social intervention program. is having a â€Å"ready made program† and trying to find a beneficiary for the identified program.   The environment and community setting plus other nuances other than a pre-targeted population should be considered first, and then the intervention program, later to be identified in an appropriately processed needs assessment.   Otherwise, if the social intervention program has already been prescribed even before consulting what the target population needs and what the community or environmental setting dictates, then the intervention program has already failed even before it has begun. Works Cited: Acosta, O., and Toro, P. (2000). Let's Ask the Homeless People Themselves: A Needs Assessment Based on a Probability Sample of Adults. American Journal of Community Psychology, Vol. 28, 343. Daly, D., Kvarfordt, C., Malatchi, A., Shannon, P., Yoder, T. (2001).   Capacity for Statewide Implementation of Positive Behavior Supports: A Needs Assessment Strategy. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, Vol. 3, 95.   

Employment law 3 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Employment law 3 - Assignment Example In this case, Woolsey signed an employment agreement which contained Employee Confidentiality, Non-Disclosure and Non-Circumvention Agreement. In this regard, Woolsey committed himself to not disclose third parties information about MediLink such as trade secrets. Woolsey also committed himself not to work for a competitor of MediLink for a period of three years after termination of Woolsey's employment. Woolsey can be argued to have breached Non-Disclosure and Non-Circumvention Agreement by coping hundreds of MediLink documents on his laptop, which he carried to-and-from his office. These agreements protect the ideas of the business deal. In addition, the employer spends effort and money training employees, and this should remain privacy especially on the way the company does business. Question B As the HR VP of MediLink, I would advice MediLink to treat the nurses as its employees. This is important because as company employees, the nurses will enjoy all benefits accrued to company employees. This translates to better provision of services to MediLink customers. Some of the benefits of having the nurses as MediLink employees are directly or indirectly connected to incentives employees get from the company. Some programs such healthcare programs, reward systems, and employment law that protect employees from unfair treatment by the employer would motivate the nurses to continue working for the MediLink and offer quality services to MediLink customers. Conversely, an employer has the right of control. The employer can dictate the means and the manner in which the employee performs the job. In addition, since MediLink customers’ supplies with uniform and equipments and some fees, it means that the customers entrusts all this to MediLink. Therefore, it would be vital for MediLink to treat nurses as its employees. Shaw v. Zedco Employment law prohibits sexual harassment in a workplace and is considered â€Å"to be a form of sexual discrimination, and it is stipulated under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act† (M, Paludi, and C, Paludi 6). Carpenter, Newman, and Whatley were alleged to have sexually harassed plaintiff and subjected to a hostile work environment. However, in order to determine the case, it is vital to point out some deliberations and facts concerning the law and the case at hand. Under Title VII, apart from the employers being required to prevent sexual harassment, they are also supposed to take reasonable care to promptly correct sexual harassment that has occurred (M, Paludi, and C, Paludi 6). In this case, the plaintiff reported the matter to Persons about alleged case of sexual harassment committed by her colleagues. Persons fired Carpenter and held disciplinary conferences with Newman and Whatley. In this regard, it is correct to argue that took the appropriate measures against the accused persons. In addition, Persons wrote to Plaintiff, urging her to reconsider leaving her job and informing her that ZED CO had hired a new manager for the Stockton facility and assured her of fair treatment. This means that the employer took reasonable care. In fact, for the employer to be legally responsible for sexual harassment, he must be aware that the harassment occurred and that he failed to take reasonable care. On a different dimension, it is crucial for employees experiencing sexual harassment in workplace, categorically and clearly say no to it. For example, if the behavior of his or her workmate offends

Post-Implementation Challenges of the Model Audit Rule Research Paper

Post-Implementation Challenges of the Model Audit Rule - Research Paper Example Audit theory and practice also covers other areas that include the basis of audit opinion, legal liability of the auditors, and examination of frauds, audit evidence, and audit programs. For an audit to be successful, the above factors have to be analyzed critically so that the auditors achieve clarity (Reed, Shedd, Morehead, and Pagnattaro, 2009, p. 39). The auditors have to ensure that they carry out the work professionally in accordance with the laid down policies and procedures. They have to ensure that they follow the guidelines which include the auditing standards that guide them during the process of the audit. The client entrusts the auditors with the responsibility of carrying out a substantive test meant to evaluate the subject matter to provide an assurance to the intended user concerning the subject matter. The auditor faces many challenges before the audit process, during the auditing process, or after the process (Moeller, 2004, p. 39). Auditing relies on sampling and e stimation of values which makes the credibility of the process doubtful. Lack of sufficient information is one of the challenges that auditors face during the process hence making the process difficult to accomplish within the given time. International Auditing Standards requires that auditors obtain a lucid understanding of the company being audited and its environment. This understanding of the internal control system will help them identify misstatements that are material in the statements that may arise due to fraud or error. To avoid post audit problems that may arise, the auditors have to analyze the process that the company adopts critically to identify business risks. Post audit challenges are the challenges that auditors face after completion of the audit process. These challenges make the process an excellent training for the executives. The Model Audit Rule is a collection of accounting standards that govern the audit process. It ensures that auditors ensure financial sta bility and proper governance to the various companies who consult them for their services. An internal control financial report is a basic requirement in the Module Audit Rule to ensure that professionals formulate controls. It also ensures that controls are operating as intended (Vasarhelyi, 2005, p. 77). The main role of this rule is to enhance oversight of financial stability of various insurance companies. It has the responsibility of setting the guidelines that govern auditor’s independence and create rules for the audit committee. Influence of legal, regulatory, and social environments on audit theory and practice Legal, regulatory, and social environments have absolute impact on audit theory and practice. The legal environment entails criminal liabilities for auditors, auditor’s liability to clients and third parties, and their responsibility to detect frauds and errors. This is a tremendously vital part during the audit process since it governs the conduct of t he auditor during performance of the audit. The legal environment is particularly vital in reduction of post implementation challenges that will arise after the Model Audit Rule is introduces (Cheeseman, 1997, p. 79). A detailed analysis of the legal environment concerning the Model Audit Rule is necessary to ensure that companies and auditors understand the requirements of the rule. This will cut the cost of the companies and reduce

Case study(Tanglewood department stores) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Case study(Tanglewood department stores) - Essay Example 5 Work Cited Page†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 6 Company Profile Tanglewood was founded in 1975 by Tanner Emerson and Thurston Wood. The company operates in the retail industry specializing in clothing, appliances, home decor, and electronics. The stores have an outdoor theme that differentiates Tanglewood from the competition. The company’s mission statement is to be the best department store for consumers seeking quality, durability, and value for all aspects of their active lives. The firm has operating revenues of $7.2 billion while employing nearly 53,000 employees across 243 stores. The company’s target customer is middle to high income customers. Issues and problems Tanglewood was developed by its founders as a family type store where people could come in and find all their shopping needs. The concept helped attract a lot of customer s. The store prides itself in offering the best customer service possible. Another part of the working environment that the owners have always been proud of is having a high level of employee involvement. This attribute was a good idea at first, but as the company has grown it has let to administrative problems. It is important in large organizations for the employees to understand the managerial hierarchy. Stores need manages to be accountable to the operating and strategic decisions that occur at the enterprise. During the 1990’s Tanglewood experienced a lot of growth in terms of total store capacity. The firm grew from a 10 store operation to the current 243 stores it operates today. The problem with the growth the firm achieved was that the company did not build its own stores. It was easier for the firm to acquire other existing stores. The strategy that the firm implemented had lots of short term advantages, but it also led to long term consequences. The firm did not ha ve a unified identity due to the fact that there was a blend of many different corporate cultures. The executive managerial staff of the firm did a poor job developing a single corporate culture for the employees to follow. An organizational culture is a system of shared actions, values, and beliefs that develops within an organization that guides the behavior of its members (Schermerhorn & Hunt & Osborn, p.262). A problem the company faced as it grew was that the owners of the firm took an active managerial role without taking on the responsibility of the day to day operations. The owners emphasized more on the strategic side of management. Another inherent problem the company faced was the westward expansion of major competitors such as Target and Kohl’s. The firm had been able to avoid excessive direct competition in the past, but now based on the new market structure the firm has to compete with the major players in the retail industry. The company needs a new administrat ive strategy to better manage its human resources. Alternative Solutions The employees of a company are its most value asset. Due to the importance of human capital Tanglewood needs immediate help dealing with the staff. An alternative solution is for the company to bring a temporary project manager to oversee the operation. The project manager would

Congestive Heart Failure Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Congestive Heart Failure - Research Paper Example In some cases, patients with heart failure may need implantation of mechanical devices, such as pacemakers and cardioverter defibrillators or ICDs (Saxon et al, 2009). This paper will discuss the different pharmacological treatments and procedural interventions for the treatment of congestive heart failure. Risks and complications associated with each approach will likewise be discussed. What is Congestive Heart Failure? Congestive heart failure is a disorder that causes pulmonary vascular obstruction and decreased cardiac input. In layman’s terms, it is a condition in which the heart cannot pump sufficient oxygenated blood to meet the needs of the other organs of the body. CHF causes pumping malfunctions of the heart in either the left or right side. In some cases, both sides are impaired. Malfunction of the heart’s pumping ability may cause blood to collect in areas of the body, such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, arms and legs, causing oxygen a nd nutrition losses. These losses decrease the organs’ capacity to work efficiently (Berger, 2009). ... weaken the heart are anemia, hemorrhage, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney or liver failure, longstanding alcoholism and drug abuse, mainly cocaine and amphetamines. Severe vitamin deficiencies could rarely cause a heart weakening (Soufer, 1992). Modifications in Behavior and Lifestyle The most important approach to the treatment of CHF is a change in the behavior and lifestyle of the patient. Regular exercise could be helpful in the maintenance of overall bodily functions, quality of life, and survival. Further vital precautionary steps include the following: maintaining a normal blood pressure, smoking restrictions, moderation in alcohol intake, and abstinence from cocaine and other prohibited drugs; cautious diet; weight control and low Sodium diet (Soufer, 1992). Pharmacological Treatment and Possible Side Effects Pharmacological treatments are aimed at stopping the progression of the disease, thus, diminishing symptoms and complications, and preventing hospital admissions and mo rtality. Several treatments have been effective in reducing some or all of these, however, each approach has possible side effects, hence, cautious observation is necessary to capitalize on benefits and lessen unpleasant consequences (Management of Chronic Heart Failure, 2007). Diuretics, also called â€Å"water pills,† facilitate easy pumping of the heart because they reduce the water and sodium in the body. Removal of excess fluid likewise lowers blood pressure since there is less blood volume for the heart to pump, and there is minimal force used by the blood vessels. Excess fluid reduction lowers or gets rid of edema or swelling in the ankles, feet or abdomen (Management of Chronic Heart Failure, 2007). Several diuretics cause potassium loss. Potassium, an essential body component that

Critically examining Stephen Harpers series of reforms his Essay

Critically examining Stephen Harpers series of reforms his conservative federal government has introduced to the appointment processes for Section 96 and Supreme Court judges - Essay Example Among the promising aspects that gave Stephen Harper’s conservative party an edge over their rivals refers to the democratic appointment processes for section 96 and Supreme Court judges1. The researcher therefore examines to what extent the conservative government have effected these changes. Consequently, the paper cross-examines the most significant change and a judgement provided regarding beneficial aspects of those reforms. The judiciary in Canada holds the role of serving as an impartial arbiter. There stands a legal requirement for the judicial system to maintain independence to enhance quality justice among the Canadians. Although the judiciary is termed as equal to the legislature and executive arms of government, appointment, removal, as well as remuneration of judges, relies upon other branches. The role of office of the Supreme Court, as well as the federal court judges, falls under section 96 of the Constitution Act. The section is at times called section 96 judges. The judges sit in the provincial Supreme Court and court of appeal or in other equivalent courts. Provincial and municipal governments appoint provincial lower court judges among others2. The provincially appointed judges’ deals with matters related to provincial legislation and federal legislation. The constitution act, as well as the federal judges act, explains the basis of removal of magistrates, retirement and remunerati on. Such provisions follow in various provincial enactments although some may vary from province to province. Steven Harper and his conservative party have brought a lot of changes to the appointment processes that have by far changed the initial process. The judicial system has for long experienced many excellent appointments in both the provincial as well as territorial superior courts. The Canadian courts for long have gained respect locally and internationally. The house of commons provides a Standing Committee that oversees the justice and human rights that

Direct Manipulation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Direct Manipulation - Assignment Example Video game is one of the best applications where the techniques of direct manipulation are very successful. At the present, the use of video games is increasing because of its entertainment and easy to recognize operations. In fact, people are able to build a variety of skills by playing video games. Additionally, the physical gestures of video games are straightforward and mistakes can be easily corrected depending on their severity; therefore error messages are needless. Similarly, these standards can also be implemented to office automation and personal computing and other arrangements (Huang, Miwa, & Cayabyab, 2013; Hundhausen, Farley, & Brown, 2009). The research has shown that the principles of direct manipulation can be used in video game controls for example game users always want to use games that are easy to use, system with better availability of feedback and much easier to learn than use. In addition, the principles of direct manipulation can also be employed for differing ones that lead to certainty as well as sense of control that system user needs much more. Moreover, another example of principles of direct manipulation is to have simple and intuitive action specification in video games (Sanderson, 1998; Shneiderman, Direct Manipulation A Step Beyond Programming Languages, 1983; Shneiderman, Direct Manipulation for Comprehensible, Predictable and Controllable User Interfaces, 1997). Interface design is believed to be one of the most difficult aspects of game development for that reason that it requires transferring huge data and instructions to the player as well as there is small screen space which has to be utilized for completing all these tasks that to do it. Hence, when the interface is less effectively designed, a good game idea can be minimized to an annoying user experience (Dev Mag, 2011). It is an admitted fact that with the passage of time and advancement of technology the real life applications are becoming easy to

The Euro Crisis in Portugal ( European Union) Essay

The Euro Crisis in Portugal ( European Union) - Essay Example The crisis continued to spread and by the end of the year 2011, two other countries Italy and Spain were affected. By the end of October in the same year, these countries were compelled to pay absolute risk premia on the order of 500 basis points. As a result of this, the public finance structures of both the countries became vulnerable as their sustainability became subjected to risk. During the first half of the year 2012, many bonds reached their maturity date in both Italy and Spain. During this phase, there were both positive and negative possibilities – either the debt crisis could be managed in an efficient manner or further severe repercussions on the global economic structure. In the entire course of the European debt crisis, every effort was taken by the policy makers so that they could provide relief to the money market. However, most of the times it was realized that any strategies that were adopted were either too insufficient or were too late. In the year 2010, t here were many deliberations over the benefits or detriments of monetary assistance or intervention from International Monetary Fund (IMF). As a result of this no fixed solution could be found for the euro debt crisis. In July of 2011, a decision was taken to enhance assistance to the Greek sovereign with permission of involvement from the private to some extent. However, this decision was rejected by another decision made in the late October of the same year. This latter decision â€Å"required much deeper (50 percent) haircuts for private creditors, supplemented by an announced policy intended to build a firewall through major leveraging of the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF)† (Cline & Wolff, 2012, p.v). Subsequently, in the beginning of December the famous summit took place which provided all the member countries of the European Union (EU), except the United Kingdom for its reluctance to participate in the

Private Security Essay Example for Free

Private Security Essay It seems that the criteria to be eligible for a private security officer post seems to be extensive that need several details of the applicant. Though the basic application requirements appear to be similar in both the book ‘Principles of Security and Crime Prevention’ and the Florida state instruction manual, the amount of information differs in relation to certain key points. Florida State’s requirements seem to be elaborative than that of the book.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Coming to the details, while the minimum age to be eligible for applying is 18 years in both the sources, it is further described as 18 for unarmed and 21 for armed private security officer (Collins, Ricks Meter, 2000, p. 104). Also, submission of address details is mentioned in the requirements of both the sources and it is further clarified in Florida’s manual as residence details of five years (Bronson, 2007). Moreover, the manual indicates that applicant should also furnish details of aliases, if any (Bronson, 2007). Employment details of 5years should be mentioned as per Florida State’s requirements, whereas it is 7 years in the book (Collins et al., 2000, p. 104).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The requirements regarding details of criminal history are almost similar in both the sources, which state that any kind of bad criminal record in the past 7-10 years may jeopardize the chances of the applicant (Bronson, 2007; Collins et al., 2000, p. 104). Moreover, Florida State’s requirements clearly mention a case of denial and a chance of denial of the application (Bronson, 2007). Criminal history related to disrespect towards country, government officials and/or involvement in dealings of controlled substances may result in rejection of the application. Also, Florida State requirements clearly state the need for applicants to submit all related documents in case of a previous conviction and that the verification of the applicant’s criminal record may take 1-3 months duration (Bronson, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The guidelines related to applicant’s mental fitness are explained more clearly in the Florida requirements. In Collins et al. book, the only point stated is the ineligibility of a person who is declared by the court as incompetent due to some mental disease (2000, p. 105). However, the state’s manual describes various points regarding the furnishing of details related to mental fitness by a candidate who has previously been diagnosed and/or treated for any mental illness and/or addiction (Bronson, 2007). The state manual requires the candidate to submit letters of reference if the candidate has alcohol or drug abuse and rehabilitation history; whereas Collin’s book simply states that the candidates have to undergo a pre-employment drug screen (Bronson, 2007; Collins et al., 2000, p. 104).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Florida state’s criteria are very clear about training of the individual, making it mandatory to complete 40 hours of authorized training (Bronson, 2007). It has given the list of personalities who can be exempted from taking the training. Also, in the Collis et al. book, it is mentioned that a potential candidate for armed post should successfully complete a psychological fitness test (Collins et al., 2000, p. 105). While the state manual highlights the point of citizenship with related details, Collins book mentions about minimal desired education for the applicant (Bronson, 2007; Collins et al., 2000, p. 105). In this way, apart from common points, both the sources have mentioned various requirements and useful points. Florida’s manual even describes about conditions that permit exemptions from certain mandatory procedures. All in all, the Florida State’s manual is a comprehensive source with all instructions for an applicant and the Collins’ book is a useful aid to know basic requirements. References Bronson, C. H. (2007). Application Instructions for Class â€Å"D† Security Officer License and   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Chapter 493, Florida Statutes. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Division of Licensing. Retrieved 15 Jan. 2008 from http://licgweb.doacs.state.fl.us/   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   application_instructions/Security_D_ApplicationInstructions.pdf. Collins, P. A., Ricks, T. A., Van Meter C. W. (2000). Principles of Security and Crime   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Prevention (Edi. 4, pp. 1045). Ohio: Anderson.

SCOR At Wal Mart | Analysis

SCOR At Wal Mart | Analysis The Supply Chain Operations Reference Model, or SCOR, was introduced by the Supply Chain Council to provide all companies a framework or tool they can use to improve their companys supply chain internally and externally. It allows supply chain managers to analyze their current situations as well as guide them to supply chain decisions for improvements and future resolutions. A major strength of the SCOR model is that it can be used across industries and applied to a variety of different companies. There are five levels in the SCOR model. The first level, the process types, includes plan, source, make, deliver, and return. These process types describe the overall scope and content of the SCOR model. The following levels further penetrate each of the process types to analyze their operations strategies, quantify and measure their processes, as well as provide tools for companies to develop new processes that will give their supply chain a competitive advantage as well as the ability to efficiently adapt to market changes. PLAN The first phase of the supply chain according to the SCOR model is the process of planning. Planning is a crucial first step to set-up, manage, and organize the processes necessary for a flexible and efficient supply chain. The planning phase consists of several processes such as demand forecasting, product pricing, and inventory management. Wal-Mart utilizes a sophisticated algorithm to calculate their forecasts that allows the company to forecast the exact quantities of each item to be delivered while taking into account each stores current inventory. This is also possible because of Wal-Marts computerized inventory structure that uses the Point of Sales (POS) system. This not only tracks all the companys inventory and stock at retail stores and distribution centers, it also monitors when products are sold and is able to predict the future quantities needed. It is this production scheduling and the ability to monitor inventory so closely that allowed Wal-Mart to accurately predict where, when and how much of a product will be needed and in turn develop a distribution network that works hand in hand with these needs. This reduces their costs by reducing leftover inventory and optimizing the transportation of their products by delivering only exactly what is needed. Super retailer Wal-Mart has spent considerable resource s to ascertain how best to minimize transportation costs. Efforts such as owning their own fleet, standardizing processes, and capitalizing on information technology have resulted in transportation costs that are 3% of total costs versus the industry average of 5%. By analyzing how to cut costs in all aspects of their transportation, Wal-Mart was able to pass these savings onto consumers and support their always low prices strategy. SOURCE The second phase of the supply chain, sourcing, focuses on the procurement of materials and resources. Choosing suppliers that best meet the companys needs is the main part of this phase. Transportation not only serves as a link between the company and its suppliers, but transportation providers are essentially a supplier in and of themselves as well. In this case as wal-mart is retailer it doesnt has to go for sourcing that is procurement of raw-material is not required. The suppliers in this case will be the companies who are selling their product through wal-mart retailers that are: Grand ocean star (Supplier of sea food it takes 5 to 10 days after order) Procter Gamble Co (it takes lead time range of 8.5 to 14.0 days to deliver the food product) Nestle Gillette Hewlett-Packard Johnson Johnson Kimberly-Clark Kraft Foods Nestlà © Purina Pet Care Unilever MAKE The third phase in the Supply Chain Operations Reference model is make, defined as the process that transforms a product to a finished state to meet planned or actual demand (Bolstorff Rosenbaum, 2003). There are three parts to this phase which include product design, production scheduling and facility management. Wal-Mart exemplifies how the construction of a product affects transportation costs. Wal-Mart recently asked its 60,000 suppliers worldwide that by 2008 they decrease the amount of overall packaging they use by 5%. Wal-Mart believes this packaging proposal will save the company $3.4 billion. When Wal-Mart previously did this in 2005 with the packaging of its private clothing label, Kids Collection, the company saved $3.5 million in one year. By reducing the amount of packaging, Wal-Mart is not only cutting costs, but they are reducing the weight and volume of their products. This increases the ability of their trucks to carry more per truckload, possibly even making less runs in a given day. Wal-Marts packaging decisions illustrate the direct impacts supply chain decisions and transportation can have on each other. Wal-Mart had just over 40 distribution centers located around the United States. Stocked in these centers were over 80,000 items. 50% to 65% of Wal-Marts competitors directly supplied the inventory to their retailers from their warehouses, in comparison to Wal-Marts 85%. Wal-Mart replenished their stores on average within two days compared to the five days their competitors took. The shipping costs were approximately 2% less of total cost than competitors (Chandran, 2003). The location of a facility can cut transportation costs dramatically as shown by the Wal-Mart example. DELIVER The fourth phase in the Supply Chain Operations Reference model is the delivery of the product. This phase is most associated with the role of transportation in the supply chain process as it is the most visibly connected. The delivery part of the process can be broken down into two different segments, order management and delivery scheduling. Transportation plays a role in each in that processes that provide finished goods and services to meet planned or actual demand, typically include order management, transportation management and distribution management Wal-Mart has a private fleet of their own truck drivers and by somewhat integrating backward in their supply chain, they have needed to become efficient in documenting and tracking their products. To do this, Wal-Mart employees use hand held computers, a form of EDI systems, which contain information about the products storage, packaging and shipping and eliminates the need for actual paperwork saving them time. Because there is no third party, Wal-Mart must self manage the ordering of their products with great accuracy. What makes Wal-Marts distribution process so efficient is that they use a logistics technique known as cross-docking .It breaks down the distribution of the products into five simple stages. The unique aspect of Wal-Marts system is that their drivers deliver the trucks to their distribution centers at specific times and set intervals. Their entire distribution system is a consistent flow of goods adjusted to the individual needs of each retail store. Wal-Marts delivery system works so well because it is developed in accordance with the demands of each store and the communication between each point allows the process to be effective. Wal-Mart believe that the widespread implementation of RFID technology marks a sea change in the supply chain, much as the introduction of bar codes was as seen as revolutionary two decades ago. But while bar codes can tell a retailer that it has two boxes of product XYZ, Wal-Marts EPCs can help distinguish one box of product XYZ from the next. This allows retailers greater visibility in monitoring product inventory from supplier to distribution centre to store. RETURN Most store items can be exchanged or refunded with a receipt within 90 days of purchase. Walmarts No Receipt policy applies to items returned in a store only. You have the option of a cash refund (for purchases under $25), a Gift Card for the amount of the purchase (for purchases over $25), a credit to your credit card or an even exchange for the product. We can make up to three No Receipt returns within a 45 day period. All merchandise sold and shipped by Walmart.com may be returned to a store within 90 days of receiving it. If there is an error on our part related to your order, we will issue a credit for your order and any applicable shipping and gift-wrapping charges. An item must be returned in the original manufacturers packaging, so we recommend you keep your packaging for at least the first 90 days after purchase. Plants, Food, and certain Health and Beauty items: To return perishable items, the following information is to be required and send to customer care link of wal-mart i.e Order number for the item Date of arrival Condition of item at time of arrival Detailed explanation of the issue