Things fall apart

A story or poem in which the characters setting and events stand for other people and events or for abstract ideas or qualities. Alliteration- The repetition of the same consonant sounds in a sequence of words usually at the beginning of the word. Conflict- The opposition between characters or forces, especially opposition that motivates or shapes the action of the plot. Connotation- Associations and implications that go beyond the written word. Denotation- The dictionary definition of a word. Organizing- Use of hints or clues to suggest what will happen later in the story. Hyperbole- A bold, exaggerated statement. Metaphor- Comparison between like things without using like or as. Oxymoron- A paradox in which two contradictory or opposite words are used together. Personification- Animals, ideas, and inanimate objects are given human characteristics, abilities, or reactions. Satire- Witty language used to convey insults or scorn. Symbol- An object or action that means or stands for so mething else more significant than its literal meaning.Literary Terms from A Step From Heaven â€Å"My toes are fish† – metaphor â€Å"The waves dance† – personification l am a sea bubble floating, floating in a dream† – metaphor, symbol â€Å"sleepy blanket face† – imagery, metaphor â€Å"like the insides of the bottles that get left on the street† – simile â€Å"bleed water from the sea† – imagery, metaphor â€Å"hands together tight like a closed book† – simile â€Å"dark round monkey eyes† – imagery, metaphor â€Å"sleepy eyes like cats in the sun† – simile, imagery â€Å"like someone is poking it with a stick† – imagery â€Å"soft and tickly as seagull feathers† – simile ‘†see my stomach' she barks† – personification â€Å"her long hair plays in the wind† – personification I thump my head like a ripe watermelon† – simile â€Å"l watch Mamma's shoes talk to the road† – personification â€Å"big as fish mouths† – simile â€Å"hair that can play in the wind, light as a kite† – simile â€Å"Yes, I lie, quiet as snow† – simile â€Å"waiting for Heaven† – foreshadowing â€Å"until my mouth is ready to learn† – imagery â€Å"big floppy tongue† – imagery â€Å"let us say it is a step from Heaven† – foreshadowing Literary Terms from Copper Sun â€Å"So shiny and smooth, Mari marveled. – imagery â€Å"Like weaving blankets out of sand. † – simile â€Å"As round and brown as a Kola nut† – simile, imagery Fly my baby brother, Fly away! † – foreshadowing â€Å"It was like a small city made of wood† – imagery â€Å"pieces of cloth, larger than a hut† – simile â€Å"as much help as a rabbit in the rice field! † – simile â€Å"We done fell out of the tree and hit every branch on the way down! † – metaphor â€Å"hunger lived with them everyday† – personification â€Å"she fight like a lion† – simile. Things Fall Apart Jordan Knoke English 102 Ember Smith 21 June 2010 Things Fall Apart Chinua Achebe writes a fascinating book, Things Fall Apart, where he talks about the struggle of a man, Okonkwo, who lives between the pride of his culture and the pride of his manhood. Achebe is from, where the novel originates, Nigeria. Achebe has been one of the most influential and important authors in African history. It is very important to get a view from a native African’s point of view: a person who has seen what has gone on and experienced the trials and wars of Nigeria and other African countries.The Igbo religion was the primary religion in the village where the story is set. Okonkwo who has been in the village of Umofia for his entire life, starts to see the tribe transpire and shift away from its normal beliefs. This happens when Christian missionaries arrive in the country to try and turn the people of Umofia and other tribes to their religion of Christianity. Nigeria during this time was in dif ficult times because they were under the rule by Great Britain. Achebe does a wonderful job in the book describing how much of an influence the outsiders had.The culture, religion, ethics, spirit, war, peace, and labor are some of the words that describe this book in a nutshell. Things Fall Apart is a book of knowledge and discipline. These two characteristics are an underlying occurrence in the book. Okonkwo is man who displays both of these qualities, thus, which leads to his downfall. Chinua Achebe, known for his bestselling novels, poems, and essays, was born in 1930 in Ogidi, Nigeria (Gerard). Achebe has been known for five great books, but the most read and talked about has been Things Fall Apart.Achebe’s books have been translated in some fifty languages. Especially in Africa and his homeland of Nigeria, Achebe is looked upon like a God and somebody that people can look up to. Achebe was very bright in his early years as a child; he began to learn English when he was o nly eight years old (Achebe). In 1948, Achebe went to University College in Nigeria to initially study medicine, but something made him change his mind (Achebe). He changed his major to English literary studies to practice the skills of becoming a writer and learn about the practices of English culture.After graduating from University College, Achebe went on to become a producer for a Nigerian broadcasting company. It was not till after that, in London, that Achebe would truly find his talent of writing. One of his teachers in London had requested Achebe to publish and write the book, Things Fall Apart. The timing of the book could not have been any better because Great Britain had control over Nigeria and was severely pressured into colonizing the country. Within ten years of this conflict, Achebe published the book.It set off a vibe that usually does not go off when someone publishes a book. This book did just that. Things Fall Apart is the view from a small Nigerian village that sees its principles and doctrines taken over outsiders from another country. From a Nigerian who has probably seen this in happen in real life is very important to the people of Africa. For someone like Achebe to tell the story of Africans and how they live, eat, drink, and worship Gods tells the whole world how an everyday African lives.When a country rules over a territory or a certain land it can have a strangle on the people of that village, tribe, or colony. Chinua Achebe describes the setting of the story beautifully. In the village of Umofia men, women, and children are taught to be tough minded. This is the case for Okonkwo. A warrior who is tough, strong, disciplined, and well liked in his tribe. Achebe realizes the struggles and pains that Nigerians and other Africans go through. They struggle with money, time, and personal problems. These personal problems could be with a family member or it could be with their Gods or ancestors.This is why Achebe decided to write a book of this nature: To ensure the people of Nigeria of nation building, economic building, and strong government. Two years after the book was written, Great Britain gave Nigeria its independence from them (Nigeria). This colossal achievement for the people of Nigeria gave them a new start in life; a start that would allow them to be free and have the political and ethical freedom to do as they choose. Achebe has been one of the most inspirational and influential writers during his time because of his obvious background.Nigeria will probably never produce someone as important as Achebe ever again. Learning the process of becoming a writer for Achebe was definitely hard work. Growing up for Achebe was very difficult; the conditions had to have been rough in the country of Nigeria where poverty and sickness were widely recognized. To grow up to be a man that he is now, that has been one of the greater achievements that any writer has achieved. Achebe’s parents: Janet and Isaiah Ach ebe were very influential on his life. Isaiah Achebe was a teacher at the Chuch Missionary Society in Nigeria (Achebe).It is always important to have great idols and parents to look up to for that parent to set an example on their child so they can have a great life ahead of them. Achebe wrote five major books in his career: Things Fall Apart (1958), No Longer at Ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964), A Man of People (1966), and Anthills of the Savannah (1987). All five of these major works have something in common. They all have the same interest in African society and how religion, domestication, and nations collide with the outside world or within different countries.Achebe has done his part over the past 50 years, providing readers from all over the world the history, culture, and background that African society has been founded on for thousands of years. Since Achebe has settled down the past 10 or 20 years, he has received recognition and awards for his outstanding writing. He has received numerous doctorates and is an honorary member of the American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters. In 1999, Achebe was honored by being appointed to the U. N Population Fund; Achebe’s works throughout his career was also translated in 40 different languages (Achebe).In the story, Things Fall Apart, a man, Okonkwo struggles with his own tendencies and mishaps that cost him in the end of the story. Achebe, a native African, writing this book about the culture and life of a certain village in Nigeria was huge. It was huge because it was the first major novel written by an African about Africa. Challenges about the novel speak of the Western influence of Europe, such as Great Britain on African colonies and countries. The work of this book came around the time of decolonization, where western European countries gave independence to African counties, including Nigeria.What Achebe does so well throughout the entire book is that he lets the reader try and figure out i f the Ibo people are romanticized or if the outsiders are actually there for some or no reason at all. Achebe lets the reader think and figure out the entire colonialism and impact of the white missionaries in Africa. One of the major themes that gets introduced throughout the book is the theme of war. War was a prominent way of life in Nigeria. If a man were not to fight in tribal wars, then he would be considered a coward that would not get the recognition of other prominent men in the tribes.Okonkwo, the main character, is a violent warrior who has been perceived as a person who looks for solutions in the way of war, violence, and death instead of resorting to peaceful solutions. The violence that Okonkwo shows to his friends, sons, daughters, and wives leads to the destruction of his image and reputation. Okonkwo also has a problem with softness and not being manly enough. Growing up, Okonkwo’s father, Unoka, was soft and gentle. He was not viewed as a warlike person or s omeone who would be a warrior of the tribes. Okonkwo did not want to be like this.He wanted to be the head of his household, also called obi, and wanted to be the person who killed the most men in war. That was his objective growing up in the village of Umofia. A man who does not back down, does not show his weaknesses, and does not want to lose no matter what. War has always been a way of life in this village. Fighting other colonies and tribes has been going on for thousands of years and will probably never stop. This is why Okonkwo portrays himself as a warlike person who does not like to show his softer side. The other theme that shows itself numerous times in the book is peace.Again Okonkwo struggles to find the connection within him to find peace. Peace is a tough thing to find if someone does not try hard enough to use it in the necessary scenarios. With his violent ways and backgrounds Okonkwo does not have that inner peace that could settle him down or resolve to a softer s ituation. He struggles mightily with the thought of peace being achieved. The situation changes before Okonkwo’s very eyes and the others of Umofia that the outside world is wanting to change the way people live in Africa. The downfall of Okonkwo’s life is derived between war and peace.Obtaining peace and fighting wars against other countries brings fate. It may not always be easy, but at the end of the day peace is given and a country is set free of captivity. The country of Nigeria has long been a country of disarray and in development. It has been a country of poverty and sickness. 250 ethnic tribes call Nigeria home. The three most major tribes are Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa (Nigeria). Igbo, of course, is the main tribe that the book speaks of. Located in the western part of Africa, Nigeria is home to savannas, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands.Farming is a very important way of life in Nigeria, as with each country in Africa. Nigeria covers an area close to 360, 000 square miles; it is also twice the size of the state of California. The political state of Nigeria consists of thirty-six states. The capital of Nigeria is Abuja (Nigeria). It has been the capital since 1991. Nigeria is strong in ethnicity. The primary religions in the country are Muslim and Christians. These two religions make up about 90% of the ethnicity in Africa (Curry). However, between the two religions comes hardships and violence.Differences between beliefs of the two can present a problem, especially when they are two totally different ways of belief. When Great Britain began to get involved with nations in Africa, it set its eyes on Nigeria. It all began in 1887 when British forces began to surge on the eastern coast of Africa. Sir George Goldie, founder of the Royal Niger Company acquired the interior of Nigeria. Influence of British cultures and traditions was way too much of a factor in countries such as Nigeria. This influence set the basis for rule over the count ry by establishing the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria in 1900 (Curry).Through hardships and trying times, Nigeria was a country with one of the highest population rates and also a high rate of disease and poverty. In 1960 Nigeria became an independent member of the British Commonwealth. Then in 1963, becoming a republic. Nigeria’s first elected president ever to take over was Nnamdi Azikiwe (Curry). Things Fall Apart was probably one of the most interesting books to read because the language, history, and spirituality. These characteristics are what make Achebe’s book spectacular. The way he uses words makes him one of the best authors ever.The life of a man such as Okonkwo to end in such tragedy is always a shame. Especially when the main character who sees his village turn for the worst after British missionaries convert men, women, and children to Christianity. This is when we saw the rise and fall of a man who wanted to see his homeland keep its same values and n ot have outsiders come in and take everything over. Okonkwo was a main of strength, courage, and honor. These are the qualities that made him one of the most powerful and warrior-like men in the village. Achebe always does a wonderful job of portraying the use of a man and use of a woman.Men were obviously the more powerful and head of the house. Women, on the other hand, were basically servants and did not really hold that much authority. Achebe does a great job to focus on Okonkwo and how much his children and wives respect and how they are afraid of him. That’s how much a man can have an influence on others. Works Citied â€Å"Achebe, Chinua. † Gale Contextual Encyclopedia of World Literature. Vol. 1. Detroit: Gale, 2009. 4-8. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 21 June 2010. Curry, Tim. â€Å"Nigeria. † Countries and Their Cultures. Ed. Carol R. Ember and Melvin Ember. Vol. . New York: Macmillan Reference USA, 2001. 1624-1642. Gale Virtual Reference Library . Web. 21 June 2010. Gerard, Albert S. â€Å"Achebe, Chinua (1930-). † Encyclopedia of World Biography. Ed. Suzanne M. Bourgoin. 2nd ed. Detroit: Gale Research, 1998. â€Å"Nigeria. † Worldmark Encyclopedia of the Nations. 11th ed. Vol. 2: Africa. Detroit: Gale, 2004. 423-439. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 21 June 2010. â€Å"Things Fall Apart. † Literary Themes for Students: War and Peace. Ed. Anne Marie Hacht. Vol. 2. Detroit: Gale, 2006. 519-534. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 21 June 2010. Things fall apart A story or poem in which the characters setting and events stand for other people and events or for abstract ideas or qualities. Alliteration- The repetition of the same consonant sounds in a sequence of words usually at the beginning of the word. Conflict- The opposition between characters or forces, especially opposition that motivates or shapes the action of the plot. Connotation- Associations and implications that go beyond the written word. Denotation- The dictionary definition of a word. Organizing- Use of hints or clues to suggest what will happen later in the story. Hyperbole- A bold, exaggerated statement. Metaphor- Comparison between like things without using like or as. Oxymoron- A paradox in which two contradictory or opposite words are used together. Personification- Animals, ideas, and inanimate objects are given human characteristics, abilities, or reactions. Satire- Witty language used to convey insults or scorn. Symbol- An object or action that means or stands for so mething else more significant than its literal meaning.Literary Terms from A Step From Heaven â€Å"My toes are fish† – metaphor â€Å"The waves dance† – personification l am a sea bubble floating, floating in a dream† – metaphor, symbol â€Å"sleepy blanket face† – imagery, metaphor â€Å"like the insides of the bottles that get left on the street† – simile â€Å"bleed water from the sea† – imagery, metaphor â€Å"hands together tight like a closed book† – simile â€Å"dark round monkey eyes† – imagery, metaphor â€Å"sleepy eyes like cats in the sun† – simile, imagery â€Å"like someone is poking it with a stick† – imagery â€Å"soft and tickly as seagull feathers† – simile ‘†see my stomach' she barks† – personification â€Å"her long hair plays in the wind† – personification I thump my head like a ripe watermelon† – simile â€Å"l watch Mamma's shoes talk to the road† – personification â€Å"big as fish mouths† – simile â€Å"hair that can play in the wind, light as a kite† – simile â€Å"Yes, I lie, quiet as snow† – simile â€Å"waiting for Heaven† – foreshadowing â€Å"until my mouth is ready to learn† – imagery â€Å"big floppy tongue† – imagery â€Å"let us say it is a step from Heaven† – foreshadowing Literary Terms from Copper Sun â€Å"So shiny and smooth, Mari marveled. – imagery â€Å"Like weaving blankets out of sand. † – simile â€Å"As round and brown as a Kola nut† – simile, imagery Fly my baby brother, Fly away! † – foreshadowing â€Å"It was like a small city made of wood† – imagery â€Å"pieces of cloth, larger than a hut† – simile â€Å"as much help as a rabbit in the rice field! † – simile â€Å"We done fell out of the tree and hit every branch on the way down! † – metaphor â€Å"hunger lived with them everyday† – personification â€Å"she fight like a lion† – simile. Things Fall Apart Jordan Knoke English 102 Ember Smith 21 June 2010 Things Fall Apart Chinua Achebe writes a fascinating book, Things Fall Apart, where he talks about the struggle of a man, Okonkwo, who lives between the pride of his culture and the pride of his manhood. Achebe is from, where the novel originates, Nigeria. Achebe has been one of the most influential and important authors in African history. It is very important to get a view from a native African’s point of view: a person who has seen what has gone on and experienced the trials and wars of Nigeria and other African countries.The Igbo religion was the primary religion in the village where the story is set. Okonkwo who has been in the village of Umofia for his entire life, starts to see the tribe transpire and shift away from its normal beliefs. This happens when Christian missionaries arrive in the country to try and turn the people of Umofia and other tribes to their religion of Christianity. Nigeria during this time was in dif ficult times because they were under the rule by Great Britain. Achebe does a wonderful job in the book describing how much of an influence the outsiders had.The culture, religion, ethics, spirit, war, peace, and labor are some of the words that describe this book in a nutshell. Things Fall Apart is a book of knowledge and discipline. These two characteristics are an underlying occurrence in the book. Okonkwo is man who displays both of these qualities, thus, which leads to his downfall. Chinua Achebe, known for his bestselling novels, poems, and essays, was born in 1930 in Ogidi, Nigeria (Gerard). Achebe has been known for five great books, but the most read and talked about has been Things Fall Apart.Achebe’s books have been translated in some fifty languages. Especially in Africa and his homeland of Nigeria, Achebe is looked upon like a God and somebody that people can look up to. Achebe was very bright in his early years as a child; he began to learn English when he was o nly eight years old (Achebe). In 1948, Achebe went to University College in Nigeria to initially study medicine, but something made him change his mind (Achebe). He changed his major to English literary studies to practice the skills of becoming a writer and learn about the practices of English culture.After graduating from University College, Achebe went on to become a producer for a Nigerian broadcasting company. It was not till after that, in London, that Achebe would truly find his talent of writing. One of his teachers in London had requested Achebe to publish and write the book, Things Fall Apart. The timing of the book could not have been any better because Great Britain had control over Nigeria and was severely pressured into colonizing the country. Within ten years of this conflict, Achebe published the book.It set off a vibe that usually does not go off when someone publishes a book. This book did just that. Things Fall Apart is the view from a small Nigerian village that sees its principles and doctrines taken over outsiders from another country. From a Nigerian who has probably seen this in happen in real life is very important to the people of Africa. For someone like Achebe to tell the story of Africans and how they live, eat, drink, and worship Gods tells the whole world how an everyday African lives.When a country rules over a territory or a certain land it can have a strangle on the people of that village, tribe, or colony. Chinua Achebe describes the setting of the story beautifully. In the village of Umofia men, women, and children are taught to be tough minded. This is the case for Okonkwo. A warrior who is tough, strong, disciplined, and well liked in his tribe. Achebe realizes the struggles and pains that Nigerians and other Africans go through. They struggle with money, time, and personal problems. These personal problems could be with a family member or it could be with their Gods or ancestors.This is why Achebe decided to write a book of this nature: To ensure the people of Nigeria of nation building, economic building, and strong government. Two years after the book was written, Great Britain gave Nigeria its independence from them (Nigeria). This colossal achievement for the people of Nigeria gave them a new start in life; a start that would allow them to be free and have the political and ethical freedom to do as they choose. Achebe has been one of the most inspirational and influential writers during his time because of his obvious background.Nigeria will probably never produce someone as important as Achebe ever again. Learning the process of becoming a writer for Achebe was definitely hard work. Growing up for Achebe was very difficult; the conditions had to have been rough in the country of Nigeria where poverty and sickness were widely recognized. To grow up to be a man that he is now, that has been one of the greater achievements that any writer has achieved. Achebe’s parents: Janet and Isaiah Ach ebe were very influential on his life. Isaiah Achebe was a teacher at the Chuch Missionary Society in Nigeria (Achebe).It is always important to have great idols and parents to look up to for that parent to set an example on their child so they can have a great life ahead of them. Achebe wrote five major books in his career: Things Fall Apart (1958), No Longer at Ease (1960), Arrow of God (1964), A Man of People (1966), and Anthills of the Savannah (1987). All five of these major works have something in common. They all have the same interest in African society and how religion, domestication, and nations collide with the outside world or within different countries.Achebe has done his part over the past 50 years, providing readers from all over the world the history, culture, and background that African society has been founded on for thousands of years. Since Achebe has settled down the past 10 or 20 years, he has received recognition and awards for his outstanding writing. He has received numerous doctorates and is an honorary member of the American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters. In 1999, Achebe was honored by being appointed to the U. N Population Fund; Achebe’s works throughout his career was also translated in 40 different languages (Achebe).In the story, Things Fall Apart, a man, Okonkwo struggles with his own tendencies and mishaps that cost him in the end of the story. Achebe, a native African, writing this book about the culture and life of a certain village in Nigeria was huge. It was huge because it was the first major novel written by an African about Africa. Challenges about the novel speak of the Western influence of Europe, such as Great Britain on African colonies and countries. The work of this book came around the time of decolonization, where western European countries gave independence to African counties, including Nigeria.What Achebe does so well throughout the entire book is that he lets the reader try and figure out i f the Ibo people are romanticized or if the outsiders are actually there for some or no reason at all. Achebe lets the reader think and figure out the entire colonialism and impact of the white missionaries in Africa. One of the major themes that gets introduced throughout the book is the theme of war. War was a prominent way of life in Nigeria. If a man were not to fight in tribal wars, then he would be considered a coward that would not get the recognition of other prominent men in the tribes.Okonkwo, the main character, is a violent warrior who has been perceived as a person who looks for solutions in the way of war, violence, and death instead of resorting to peaceful solutions. The violence that Okonkwo shows to his friends, sons, daughters, and wives leads to the destruction of his image and reputation. Okonkwo also has a problem with softness and not being manly enough. Growing up, Okonkwo’s father, Unoka, was soft and gentle. He was not viewed as a warlike person or s omeone who would be a warrior of the tribes. Okonkwo did not want to be like this.He wanted to be the head of his household, also called obi, and wanted to be the person who killed the most men in war. That was his objective growing up in the village of Umofia. A man who does not back down, does not show his weaknesses, and does not want to lose no matter what. War has always been a way of life in this village. Fighting other colonies and tribes has been going on for thousands of years and will probably never stop. This is why Okonkwo portrays himself as a warlike person who does not like to show his softer side. The other theme that shows itself numerous times in the book is peace.Again Okonkwo struggles to find the connection within him to find peace. Peace is a tough thing to find if someone does not try hard enough to use it in the necessary scenarios. With his violent ways and backgrounds Okonkwo does not have that inner peace that could settle him down or resolve to a softer s ituation. He struggles mightily with the thought of peace being achieved. The situation changes before Okonkwo’s very eyes and the others of Umofia that the outside world is wanting to change the way people live in Africa. The downfall of Okonkwo’s life is derived between war and peace.Obtaining peace and fighting wars against other countries brings fate. It may not always be easy, but at the end of the day peace is given and a country is set free of captivity. The country of Nigeria has long been a country of disarray and in development. It has been a country of poverty and sickness. 250 ethnic tribes call Nigeria home. The three most major tribes are Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa (Nigeria). Igbo, of course, is the main tribe that the book speaks of. Located in the western part of Africa, Nigeria is home to savannas, tropical forests, and coastal wetlands.Farming is a very important way of life in Nigeria, as with each country in Africa. Nigeria covers an area close to 360, 000 square miles; it is also twice the size of the state of California. The political state of Nigeria consists of thirty-six states. The capital of Nigeria is Abuja (Nigeria). It has been the capital since 1991. Nigeria is strong in ethnicity. The primary religions in the country are Muslim and Christians. These two religions make up about 90% of the ethnicity in Africa (Curry). However, between the two religions comes hardships and violence.Differences between beliefs of the two can present a problem, especially when they are two totally different ways of belief. When Great Britain began to get involved with nations in Africa, it set its eyes on Nigeria. It all began in 1887 when British forces began to surge on the eastern coast of Africa. Sir George Goldie, founder of the Royal Niger Company acquired the interior of Nigeria. Influence of British cultures and traditions was way too much of a factor in countries such as Nigeria. This influence set the basis for rule over the count ry by establishing the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria in 1900 (Curry).Through hardships and trying times, Nigeria was a country with one of the highest population rates and also a high rate of disease and poverty. In 1960 Nigeria became an independent member of the British Commonwealth. Then in 1963, becoming a republic. Nigeria’s first elected president ever to take over was Nnamdi Azikiwe (Curry). Things Fall Apart was probably one of the most interesting books to read because the language, history, and spirituality. These characteristics are what make Achebe’s book spectacular. The way he uses words makes him one of the best authors ever.The life of a man such as Okonkwo to end in such tragedy is always a shame. Especially when the main character who sees his village turn for the worst after British missionaries convert men, women, and children to Christianity. This is when we saw the rise and fall of a man who wanted to see his homeland keep its same values and n ot have outsiders come in and take everything over. Okonkwo was a main of strength, courage, and honor. These are the qualities that made him one of the most powerful and warrior-like men in the village. Achebe always does a wonderful job of portraying the use of a man and use of a woman.Men were obviously the more powerful and head of the house. Women, on the other hand, were basically servants and did not really hold that much authority. Achebe does a great job to focus on Okonkwo and how much his children and wives respect and how they are afraid of him. That’s how much a man can have an influence on others. Works Citied â€Å"Achebe, Chinua. † Gale Contextual Encyclopedia of World Literature. Vol. 1. Detroit: Gale, 2009. 4-8. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 21 June 2010. Curry, Tim. â€Å"Nigeria. † Countries and Their Cultures. Ed. Carol R. Ember and Melvin Ember. Vol. . New York: Macmillan Reference USA, 2001. 1624-1642. Gale Virtual Reference Library . Web. 21 June 2010. Gerard, Albert S. â€Å"Achebe, Chinua (1930-). † Encyclopedia of World Biography. Ed. Suzanne M. Bourgoin. 2nd ed. Detroit: Gale Research, 1998. â€Å"Nigeria. † Worldmark Encyclopedia of the Nations. 11th ed. Vol. 2: Africa. Detroit: Gale, 2004. 423-439. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 21 June 2010. â€Å"Things Fall Apart. † Literary Themes for Students: War and Peace. Ed. Anne Marie Hacht. Vol. 2. Detroit: Gale, 2006. 519-534. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 21 June 2010.

Four external forces that affect an Organization Essay

Terms of reference: This report was commissioned by the lecture of Management and Organisation Behaviour as individual assessment on four external forces that can currently affect Organisation for these modules within the Bachelor of Business Degree in Management. Introduction: In this assignment I will present a brief literature review of the main four external forces that can currently affect an organization (a business). First I will introduce global economical powers that influence the four external forces after that I will then introduce the four forces in more detail. Global perspective As the world is emerging from the waters of deep economical crisis I think the best to start with are global influences that affect the main four forces. Each organization is directly strongly influenced by general laws of economics: Economic growth – is influenced by various factors such as development on stock markets, which is strongly influenced by political activities around the world, prices of raw materials (metals, oil etc.) but also prices of energy and future of the economical development in general. Inflation – increases cost of operations and price of products and reduces employment. Interest rates – as many businesses operate with money borrowed from banks changing interest rates influence directly interest expense, which influences the cost of operations and the cost of product PEST Macro analysis Each local business is based in a certain environment that directly influences its performance. The environment a company exists in has a strong impact on every aspect of the company`s life. The following main four macro-economical external influences are interdependent. Political atmosphere – each country has a specific political atmosphere, political culture. For instance countries of the EU would have very different atmosphere to North Korea. Local political decisions shape the countries economical perspective and enable or disable, speed up or slow down the development of local businesses. Political decisions directly influence law of the country (region) and some of them such as economic reforms make strong and long-lasting impact on local businesses. Even political decisions such as annual budget or introduction of income levy  have profound impact on business performance. However this would be more applicable in Adam Smyth`s times. Currently we can still apply this influence of local politics on small or local businesses but the late seventies and eighties of the 20th century, started especially in the Euro-American civilization process of progressive economic liberalization that resulted in supra-national corporations that we know today. Many of these corporations are wealthier then countries they operate in and often dictate what the local political milieu will be. This route would eventually lead us to the question of monopolization and to the question of economic and political interests and their balance. Ultimately it is both international and local law that that create balance between these two areas.1 Great example of politics and law (even if enforced by the international public rather than by local corrupted politicians) impacting on businesses is from India, where supra-national companies producing clothing completely ignored health and safety regulations in order to produce more and cheaper. Unfortunately this lack of political ethic and responsibility resulted in tragedies and loss of many lives. Social environment – main characteristics of social environment are social norms and cultural and even religious preferences. Max Weber sees the protestant idea of hard work as a result of original sin as the inspiration for development of hard-work and profit focused capitalism. 2 This idea of hard-work and profit focused capitalism combined in Europe and in the North of America with culturally well established system of banks borrowing finance for interest resulted in today`s macro economical models. Euro-American banking system is historically based in certain interpretation of oral Torah called Mishna that allows borrowing money for interest in return. It was in historical Europe traditionally â€Å"allowed† only to the Jewish nation as a form of discrimination and punishment. So the development of economy is we know it today would be very unlikely in many parts of the world simply for cultural and religious reasons as in some countries would be money coming from interest prohibited.3 Demographic profile of social environment is crucial for any business existing within that particular society. Gender, age, ethnicity, language, education, public opinion and norms influence every aspect of business. Gender norms define approach of  society towards male / female work.4 In many societies is female work traditionally under-rated therefore from the perspective of operations management it is cheaper for companies to employ women in certain positions. Education of population leads us into the next factor that affects business†¦ Technological development – is a result of the impact of education in the local social environment; technological changes always initiated further development. The invention of wheel accelerated speed of movement of our ancestors, the invention of metals improved their farming instruments as well as weapons but here we are not talking about the long time gone past. Today we live in exciting times of technological changes, which are changing the face of businesses on daily basis. Internet and electronic communication speeded up every aspect of business from operations, logistics to client services. Even the smallest local newsagent or grocery shop must keep up with the development of recent technologies. 20 years ago it would be absolutely unthinkable to top up phone credit while paying for grocery in a local shop. In fact there was no topping up credit at all today. Today we would find it rather odd if our local newsagent (if we still buy newspapers) would not have a top up terminal. Purchasing a flight used to be in general one to one experience; we used to go to travel-agents or flight-companies directly and purchased flights. Today we find normal to use the internet at home even to check in before our flight. A flight company that would not offer internet service to purchase a flight would not survive today. But all this technological progress would not be possible without investments, without wealth. Economical environment – wealth as a source of investment was based in times of Adam Smyth and his An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations in productive powers of Labour, in accumulation and employment of stock, in progress of opulence in different nations (which is the distribution of wealth between cities and countryside) and in a system of political economy. 5 Today is material wealth accumulated not so much in nations but more so in supra-national companies. Still effective investment is the fuel of business development. Economical environment and wealth  depends as we already mentioned on macro-economic factors of global economic growth, inflation and interest rates that directly influence local currency inflation and interest rates increase or decrease. Global economy fluctuates from booms to slumps. Most businesses gain in booms and loose in slumps. Bibliography: Swedberg, R. (2003). Principles of Economic Sociology, New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 158-159 Weber, M. (1920). The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism, Berlin: Klaus Lichtblau and Johannes Weiss Waterman A.M.C. (1999). Religion and Economics: Normative Social Theory; Boston 1999: Unwin Hyman, London & Boston, 1930 Dean, M., Waterman, A. (1999). Religion and Economics: Normative Social Theory. Massachusetts: Kluwer Academic Publishers. Swedberg, R. (2003). Principles of Economic Sociology, New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 283-284. Smith A. (1776). An inquiry into the nature and causes of the wealth of nations, London: Adman Black and William Tait

Summary of the Videos Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Summary of the Videos - Essay Example Mention is made of key personalities like Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernake and Secretary of Treasury Henry Paulson (Kirk, 2009). Later, the stories try to scrutinize how global financial giants can be held accountable for their decisions and how these decisions affect the larger international financial markets. The writers also wonder if any lessons had been learned for the approaching future. From the perspective of international financial markets, the writers make some very strong points when it comes to aspects of lessons learnt. For example, they try to quiz the merits in allowing only a few entities and companies to control the international financial market. This was done in a manner that the writers constantly portrayed the fact that some few entities like Washington and Wall Street; and companies like Bear Stearns and JP Morgan were given so much power to determine the temperature of the world finance markets (McClain, 2002). As students of finance and accounting, what becomes relevant in questioning is the need to ensuring that for the sake of globalization and for the fact that the performance of any single country goes a long way to affect the international financial market at large, it is important that policies directed giving the global financial market some levels of restoration and hope would be done from a decentralized perspective (Investopedia, 2012). T his is mean that input and contribution of every country and every sector of the economy should count as relevant in relieving the world of future crisis. After all, a country like the United States of America would continue to do international business with other nations and so should have the welfare and progressive growth of those nations at heart. Again, overdependence on the mortgage industry has somehow proved to the country that getting support from other sectors would relieve it of some pressure and ensure steady growth. The two

Organizational Culture Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Organizational Culture - Coursework Example In this case, control culture mostly focuses on getting and keeping control whereas competence culture focuses on being the best. The cultivation culture in this case entails growing and learning with an organizational sense of purpose. By applying the Schneider’s model of organizational culture, it means that the model would define organizational culture to the larger AGM members (Ashkanasy, Wilderom, & Peterson, 2011). Here, the model would the organization in terms of employee cultural preferences and organizational culture. In organizational management, the Denison Model tends to provide a comprehensive and an easy guidance especially for organizational change. In most cases, it happens through two frameworks thus the leadership development model and the organizational culture model. Both models tend to describe organizational leadership and high-performance business culture (Ashkanasy, Wilderom, & Peterson, 2011). The model focuses on at least six tangible performance touchstones that include profitability, sales growth, innovation, quality, employee satisfaction and market share. In reference to Outward Hound Company, which seeks to host its first ever AGM, the Denison organizational cultural model would be applicable. In this case, the model would enable the Outward Hound Company leaders and its stakeholders to understand their organizational culture. On the other hand, the model would provide the company’s management with a benchmark of organizational culture. The Denison organization cultur al model also helps the AGM members determine organizational development. Lastly, it helps the members implement suggested actions for palpable performance improvement. In organizational management, applicable theory entails the process in which the organization draws its conclusions including facts, theories and ideas in general using organizational sources. This

Business report Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Business report - Research Paper Example Measures of efficiency are considered as instruments that steer positive business achievements in every business form, regardless of its size. Researchers, academicians, as well as scholars have recently developed interest and are enthusiastic to find out how business ethics and social responsibility steers efficiency in business. In addition, the impacts of the efficiency attained through corporate social responsibility and business ethics on business operations is an area of concern for business stakeholders. The anticipated impacts for such strategies are mostly on the reaction of investors, the employees of a company, the sustained and targeted consumers, as well as the reputation of a business entity. TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive summary 2 The recent decades have seen businesses seek to enhance operational efficiency via the application of proper business ethics as well as corporate social responsibility enhancement. However, the achievement of these requires implementation of ex cellent business improvement strategies that will lead to a positive operational change. ... In addition, the impacts of the efficiency attained through corporate social responsibility and business ethics on business operations is an area of concern for business stakeholders. The anticipated impacts for such strategies are mostly on the reaction of investors, the employees of a company, the sustained and targeted consumers, as well as the reputation of a business entity. 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 The impact of business ethics and social responsibility on efficiency in the workplace 4 1.0 Introduction 4 Efficiency is a fundamental component in every form of business operation, regardless of its size or scope of operation. The acquirement of efficiency business measures is attributed to implementation of social responsibility and business ethics strategies that act as a rationale for change. Business ethics entail the constitution that is usually followed by a company’s management to monitor business operations. The company’s code of conduct in relation to countriesà ¢â‚¬â„¢ laws, the set company goals and mission as well as self-monitory skills are the major components of business ethics. Corporate social responsibility is concerned with the scope to which an organization is concerned with the entire society’s wellbeing. Efficiency is one of business success measurement scales, which indicates the extent to which business ethics, social responsibility, the utilization of resource-based view, as well as the effectiveness in the utilization of corporate governance. Therefore, the rationale of increased operational efficiency is improved performance, sustainability, and productivity. This improvement rationale touches the various coordination success factors, which include the image of the company,

Zapatista Social Netwar Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Zapatista Social Netwar - Research Paper Example II. Introduction – background   The insurgency that was initiated in Chiapas, Mexico can be said to different from its old Sandinista-Castroite-Marxist-Leninist rebellion due to the transformation of its engagement from the traditional arm confrontation to the information-technology driven perspective of bringing societal change. It can also be said that this marked the era of post communism revolution that was also used as a revolutionary template in the recent uprisings in the Middle East (Armond, _____). This recent phenomena of using technology, media and NGOs in insurgency can be traced back to the Zapatista National Liberation Army (EZLN) in Mexico in the early 1990s. Chiapas, once an isolated backwater on Mexico’s southern border became the birthplace of the new template in insurgency due to the political and economic factors that made the new type of insurgency ripe. The disparity between the rich and the poor was pervasive which is typical of a feudal state, coupled with the presence of transnational NGOs and discontented indigenas (local indigenous people) who wanted better economic condition and cultural recognition set the stage for the rise of Zapatista National Liberation Army (EZLN). III. ... This proved to be tactically disastrous for EZLN who was less than capable to engage in conflict than the Mexican government. This â€Å"war of the fleas† model of warfare was transformed when the transnational NGOs came and changed the methods of the insurgency from the traditional armed conflict engagement to an informational warfare which is dubbed as Netwar. Should NTS "watch, fear, or be leery" of social movement networks? Its impact on NTS business. Based on the nature, characteristic and manifested action of the players of the insurgency, NTS should be leery of the social movement network. The appropriate behavior would be to be careful but not to be fearful to disengage in business. Being fearful of the social movement network or adopting the plain watch and see attitude will not benefit NTS in the immediate or in the long-term. This assessment is grounded on several reasons. First, the nature, leadership and manifested action of EZLN’s both as an organization a nd a political body is not the Marxist-Lenninist type that disdains business and foreign company. Its leadership was also composed of intellectuals and educated middle class and not the Jihadist type that has penchant to extremism. In short, EZLN’s leadership is reasonable for a business such as NTS to operate and thrive. Second, there is a strong presence of transnational NGOs composed of Mexicans, Americans and Canadian players that provide the Zapatista movement an information age perspective and reassuringly pro-business. Basically, this second component reinforces the political assessment that EZTN is reasonable for it readily shifted its engagement from

Building Certification Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Building Certification - Coursework Example The fact that this building is a type IIA construction means that the elements of the building have to be fire rated. Here is a summary of my findings and a conclusion later on the certification of this particular building.This load might vary with there being greater concentration at certain areas as compared to other areas. However, a balance is needed and can be created by having adequate means of Egress. Here is my finding on the occupant load of the building.The capacity of Egress components like the main door way capacity as well as the other entrances and exits capacities have to be standard. This particular building has several exits/entrances. The main entrance is 120 inches wide while the other two side entrances are 72 inches wide each. Occupant load of the whole floor = load of Multipurpose Room + offices + classrooms + shops + lab load capacityThese exits have to be balanced. The table below represents the standard occupant load factor.According to the standards set, the building has good egress as well as occupant load capacity. These are well distributed and the exits are sufficient to cater and allow for efficient evacuation of the building in case of an emergency.Though there is no automatic sprinkler system, the designs of the hallways as well as their capacity can handle a fire eventuality well. The load capacity of the building is balanced to the different rooms as well as the entrances. With the basic conditions met, there is no reason not to award the certificate. I therefore award a certificate.

Early Childhood...learning through play Assignment

Early Childhood...learning through play - Assignment Example Generally, play performs an important role in children development. Role of play in Child Development According to Johnson et al., (2004), play is necessary in development because it generates cognitive, physical, social and emotional well-being of children. Through play, children employ their creativity in developing their imagination, skills and physical, emotional, and cognitive powers. Children participate and interact in the world around them via play. In addition, play enables children to discover and generate ideas that they can master by practicing adult roles without fear (Ginsburg, 2007). Children’s development needs such as enhanced self-confidence and resiliency for future challenges are obtained through play as they posses knowledge about practical issues. Play enables children develop teamwork through learning how to participate in groups and to share. Play enhances children’s ability to learn how to settle and resolve conflicts, and understand self-advoca cy abilities. However, Ginsburg, (2007) argue that if play is permitted to be self-driven, children perform decision-making skills, establish their own areas of interest, and involve themselves in the passions they desire to practice in future. Moreover, play also builds energetic and healthy bodies. Development needs such as speech and language skills are met through child play. Play also gives opportunities for children to practice listening. However, children reinforce their language skills by replicating other children and adults. Considering that, the play is companion based, children talk and listen to each other in the course of playing. Social interaction skills and competence are developed through play. Johnson et al., (2004) claim that imaginative play and role-playing assist in brain development. Play facilitates brain development by inspiring the brain through configuration of connections between nerve cells. Children who participate in plays exhibit high levels of inter action than those who do not. Play is critical in children’s academic environment. Ginsburg, (2007), argues that play makes certain that school setting focus on social, emotional and cognitive development. Children are able to adjust to the school settings and develop their learning readiness and behaviors through play. Use and Value of Play within the Program Play is valued and used in early childhood development program by having child advocates who should consider all the factors, which interfere with optimal development and establish situation that enable children benefits of play since every child deserves the right to their exceptional prospective (Ginsburg, 2007). Play enhances children problem-solving skills for example, children playing games and puzzles boost their problem-solving abilities. In addition, children learn several roles of family members through play. For example pretending to be the father or mother in a play role enables the children understand the ro le of father and mother in a family. Role of the Environment in Support of Play Environment facilitates children development through learning and play. According to Malone et al., (2003), the best play environments for children are those established considering children’s natural play needs and play behavior involved in at diverse developmental eras, involving social, physical, and cognitive types of play. The method in which the environment is designed and configured manipulates children’

Positive Impact of Guidance Counselors Essay Example for Free

Positive Impact of Guidance Counselors Essay A school counselor, usually called a guidance counselor, is one who helps guide students through different aspects of their life whether it be academic, career, college, or social aspects from grades K-12. At some levels a guidance counselor may help students with bullying or a bad home life, and at other levels they help students stay on track and guide them down the right academic path for the student’s success and graduation. No matter what direction the guidance counselor is going, their mind set is always one that will have a positive impact on their school climate and culture. Guidance counselors have the ability to work collaboratively with other educators to make program changes necessary to help prevent students from dropping out of school. With the help of the counselor, students can be directed down correct paths that will prevent student drop outs, thus positively affecting the school climate and culture. An effective guidance counselor will also spend time with troubled students helping them work through their issues, thus creating a better classroom environment for the teachers. When troubled students are receiving the help they need outside the classroom, teachers can maintain an orderly environment free of disruptions, and therefore higher learning can take place. This is yet another example of the positive impact that the counselor has on school climate and culture. The school culture is positively affected by counselors yet again due to the fact that guidance counselors help connect the school with the community, and the school with the parents. Counselors help connect the family as a whole to the educational process by having informative sessions with the community in regards to things like: how to file the FAFSA; explaining what test scores mean; offering help with ACT study sessions, etc. Counselors also send home informative newsletters keeping the parents and community informed about what’s going on inside the school building. In conclusion, it is evident that a school counselor has numerous positive impacts on a school’s climate and culture. They are an irreplaceable resource for the students, school, and the community. Without their presence, schools and students could not and would not be where they are today.

Federalism And The Perspectives Of Democracy Politics Essay

Federalism And The Perspectives Of Democracy Politics Essay The term Federalism which was introduced during 18 and 19 centuries in multicultural societies to meet different social needs in the direction of unity while reserving diversity, another time has been propounded in multi-cultural societies. While, federalism as a political and legal theory in different societies has its own characteristics, and based on the considerations of the units it shows different performances. The technologic revolution along with the development of international information networks have created a great revolution in the structure of governments and power centers, the governments decline took place gradually, great economic poles developed the extensive network of power; as a result, those national, local, and regional units supporting connection between local capital with global capital gain the political power. The Europe Union seeks to spread and reserve its historical achievements and concentrate its potentials to resist against the enormous revolutions of Asia and America National units often enjoy common culture, history, and territory, having a common political plan they try to provide appropriate backgrounds for having collaboration with other nations. National units, different groups and ethnics in collaboration process in a common territory acquire national identity and defend their nationality and territory. We have federalism system with its different forms in the political perspective of the world. It seems to be an effective approach for solving national problems in multi-cultural societies. (Yahyaee, 1384: 15) Globalization, in the present time, is changing monetary and financial markets, production and consumption toward globalizing; public opinions by applying communicational devices lead to globalization, so, the inscrutable power of the governments are declining and multi- structural powers are developing. 2. Research design and its importance: Proponents of federalism, who have attracted a lot of attentions from political forces and elites of national units, believe that dividing power among the units paves the ways for more collaboration and develops national identity. As a result, not only the territorial integrity is damaged, but also reinforces national impression among national units and different ethnics. In this regard, the democratic institutes are created and organized by people. In this situation, the democratic atmosphere of country paves the way for discourse under its shadow intellectual and helpful thoughts take form. Federalism contributes to the development of democracy, political culture, and gaining experience; as a result, political parties will be more active in the national units; democratic and constant institutes are established; political elites leave seclusion and contribute to training political practitioners, finally sophisticated and skillful political practitioners receive trainings necessary for managing the country. (Bashyryeh, 1995:37) In countries in which different nations live with their various features the development of democracy, politics and economy reflex in their political life, so that respecting nations and ethnics rights is included in the constitutional law. With respect to relative and classic democracy in which the will of majority is dominant, however, sovereignty is in the hands of that nation which has the majority and determines the political fate of the country in accordance their interests. So, the principles of democracy and regulations of multi- national societies can not secure freedom and rights of minor nations and ethnics. Federalism as a pervasive administrative and political approach has high functions and potentials that correspond with the needs of plural societies and is able to solve their structural problems. In order to fulfill this approach in plural societies and adopt it with different situations, first of all we should undertake cultural activities along with political and economical measures. (Kolaee, 2002: 18) Federalism or dividing power among different centers prevents power from concentrating in one center; this in turn leads to the development of democracy in the units. Fulfilling these situations, federalism activates political parties, trains more political elites to participate in countrys leadership and management. If the elites are familiar with social and economical features and needs of units, the can adopt more suitable policies; then they can apply communicational tools, find effective resolutions for the current problems, and develop their relationships with people. If there is close relationship between governmental institutes and people, independent institutes will be allowed to control performances of political power, this matter at last results in democracy development. 3. History and definition of federalism: Federalism originates from the Latin word Foedos that means agreement or treaty. Thus, cooperation and unity among different groups and units in search of establishing larger units to fulfill their common objectives is called federalism. (Habermas, 1996: 13) In political terms, federal government is a kind of political organization in which political power is divided among smaller political units; each one has its own regulations and institutes that function in accordance with their interests and public or group origins. In such a system, borders of power and units management are determined by certain regulations. Organizations of different federal nations are not the same. Based on their social, political, and geographical situations they have different features. The United States, Russian Federation, Federal Germany, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Switzerland, and so forth have different structural and administrative organizations. Federal governments have two distinctive administrative systems. First, Federal administration has all the country under its coverage. This kind of administration is an active center conducting administrative activities nationwide. Besides this system, there are plenty of institutes and organizations selected directly by peoples votes that function under peoples monitoring. In the second system countrys administration is divided to smaller units. These administrative units include province to region. Therefore, they are called national or regional units. These federative units function within their borders and are considered to be responsible for a part of country or a certain population. Then, federalism is applied to a kind of administration in which there is a pervasive national government as well as several smaller national units. According to their population or regions, these units divide the political power among them and establish political government based on which. (Yahyaee, 2006: 62) If the process of uniting was in the same direction with the development of modern culture and economy as well as freedom, equality, justice, and law, there would be better results. As the process of nationalization in those western countries established based on power plurality and dividing it has led to democracy establishment. Switzerland, for instance, has got a brilliant history and experience in federative system. This country has always sought to expand this system in accordance with public and states rights. Thus, Switzerland has strengthened relationships among people, culture, language, and various needs. (Thurow, 2001: 86) Lack of centrality has expanded states abilities in accomplishing their activities, created closer relationships between people and governmental agencies and finally, thoroughly has developed democracy across society. As a result, Switzerland is considered to be a member of international family in which all the social and individual rights are secured exactly. A reason of Switzerlands social and economical developments lies in its administrative and political system that it is for a while that are managed federatively. Based on the above discussions, one can make this conclusion that in those countries where different nations and ethnics live with their special cultures and languages, they can pave the ways for a comprehensive progress. In January 1918, the first constitutional law of Russian Soviet Federative Social Republic (RSFSR) in the forth nationwide congress of the soviets was approved. That constitutional law was approved to be applied in managing Russian Federative Republic, as by then the Soviet Union has not been established. (Kolaee, 2002: 18) The constitutional law of 1918 which had suggested its objective as transition from a bourgeois democracy to a proletarian one, at the same time had discussed about nations equal rights and had proposed federalism in accordance with the development of different cultures. While evaluating the Czarina Russia, Lenin had said: Russia is the prison of the public; it is just through establishing the Soviet Union that we can secure all rights of the nations. According to this statement, article 70 of the Soviet Unions constitutional law had named that country as a multi-national one and its federal system in the form of soviets provides all nations with equal rights. (Kolaee, 2002: 170) Like Italy, Spain was ruled by centralist and dominant government of Franco. During that period, fascist and pen fascist thoughts were dominant in the political system. Therefore, democratic movements and public institutes were suppressed strongly. Under the pretext of trying to weaken the central government, regional and local movements, too, were suppressed and their members were pursued. After the death of Franco, there were remarkable changes in Spains political system. In 1987, the constitutional law changed. With respect to cultural and ethnical features, self-determined regions with different possibilities and authorities were established. The new law supported and guaranteed those self-determined regions. As a result, after the death of Franco they undertook remarkable measures in democraticazing their society. They began some activities in accordance with lack of centrality, determined ways of undertaking their measures and their borders to be able to negotiate with the central government. When the new constitutional law was approved, according to cultural, lingual, geographical, religious, and economical differences 17 self-determined regions were established. (Yahyaee, 2006: 64) Canadian federal system is consisted of 10 units; 9 of them are ruled by English speakers and the other one is governed by French speakers. Quebec is the only state French speakers have control over. This state is economically, especially in industry sector developed. Some social groups, especially extremist nationalists seek to separate this state from Canada. (Khobroyepak, 1999: 186) 4. Basic features of federative systems: Federalism forms based on two principles. First, based on population; that is, it should have sufficient similarities. Second, based on geographical regions which should have some differences with other regions. (Khobroyepak, 1999: 190) The number of constituent units depends on geographical divisions. Thus, these units take on different names. In some countries, for example, we have units called state, province, region, self-determined, and autonomous governments. The United States of America is consisted of some 50 states, Federal Republic of Germany of 16 units, Russian Federation of 89 different units with special rights and authorities, India of 25 states and Belgium of 6 regions. (Khobroyepak, 1999: 192) A federal system functions independently in its interior affairs. In federal systems public institutes are controlled by people, as political institutes are selected by people. Their performances, then, are controlled by people and democratic institutes which are not under the control of government. Canada is consisted of 10 federals and 11 administrative centres. Thus, federal systems are called multi-cantered systems. (Khobroyepak, 1999: 193) Nowadays, units of federal systems are not able to accomplish great projects by themselves and need the cooperation of other units. This element creates unity among the units. Federalism is an administrative system and a method of governing in which there are different centres of power. Unlike centralized systems which are ruled from one centre, in federal system there is a pervasive national government with several regional governments differing from autonomous or self-determined governments remarkably. Two-parted federal systems consist of 3 power centres. Attending the applications of refugees, accepting or rejecting foreigners residing or ways of settling them in different states, as well as establishing different associations are among the responsibilities of the states. Decision makings and performances of the states should correspond with expectations of the federal. Those units established as state or region having common culture and language with other unite, confine their activities mostly to development, construction, housing, water supply, conserving natural resources, and environment conservation. Educational and cultural activities of these units have their own regulations enacted by the federal governments which are carried out across the federal country. Units are mostly engaged in economical and constructive activities. There are different centers for making and executing decisions in federal governments; as units are responsible for monitoring and observing political and economical regulations and the centre has no if any intervene in units interior affairs. Finally, those units have their representatives in central organizations and have direct participation in decision makings; as it is one of the basic features of federalism. Establishing federal governments without units having economic possibilities is impossible, as units legal and administrative guarantees depend on their financial power. (Yahyaee, 2006: 95) It is why in establishing units based on population and geographical regions economical potentials and financial power are more emphasized on. Executing this policy in some cases, however, raises dissatisfaction or causes tension between national and ethnical groups. Most of the federal countries are divided based on geographical researches and establish their units according to these researches. These geographical regions are located alongside each other according to their common political and economical interests. People of these regions may have different cultures, races, religions and special features. (Maghsudi, 2001: 241) These features include race, culture, language, and national and religious beliefs. So, geographical units bring about some cultural and natural differences. These cultural and national differences whether have a long history or are created by the pass of time or political and historical events. Anyhow, these differences are of great importance in establishing federal units. Certainly, in the constitutional law of a federal country the relationship between the center and its related units and visa versa has been determined, their authorities and obligations, too, have been explained. In adopting federalism as a political system for a country, cultural, lingual, religious and ethnical differences have great importance. Among the important features of federalism one can refer to power division among the units, it is while we can meet the needs of those civilians who have different languages and cultures by adopting policies like corporatism, pluralism, and functionalism, but these concepts have no consistency with federalism. Dividing power according to geographical region and organizing federal system are the inseparable parts of federal systems. (Maghsudi, 2001: 243) Thus, the term federalism is applied to those units having geographical borders and interior regulations while participating in the central government. In federal systems, will of people can not alone decide on some of their wishes or fulfill them, it is the federal units and their residents who are determinant, as they propose their wills to the national assembly and control its performances. Thus, in the process of policy making in federal governments not only the people of country but also residents of the units affect this process. The number of parliament members depends on population. The more population a unit has, the more representatives it has. As a principle of federal systems, units have equal rights in the parliament and no one can change these rights for the benefits of others. People of those countries that have federal political systems have got multi- identities; that is, from one hand they have national identity and from the other hand they have a single identity belonging to their unit. These dependencies are either regional and geographical or ethnical and population; in each case those people simultaneously have more than one identity. They can refer to federal administrations or units organizations to have their applications attended. In most of the cases, they refer to their local organizations. As they can easily control their performances. Among other features of federalism we can name power division, units equality and having equal rights. These features exactly correspond to the essence of federalism. (Castells, 1997: 392) From international laws point of view, constituent units of federal country are not considered to be a whole and independent country, so, in international associations they do not enjoy the same benefits with independent countries. However, they can engage in some mutual economical contracts. Federal country attends the international associations on behalf of its related units and functions by their names. 5. Federalism and democracy: In federal systems public and democratic institutes control over government and administrative organizations performances, mainly in executing rules with respect to the different centers of power will be more effective. In this regard, federalism with its certain structure and regulations provides all the necessary possibilities for executing rules and expanding democracy for all the people and national or ethnical groups. We do not mean that other countries having centralized or self-determined structures are unable in executing democratic rules or respecting human rights. Some countries, especially those developed centralized ones with respect to their social and cultural differences produce macro policies, and then apply them in accordance with the interests of society and social groups. In a country where different nations live, development and institutionalization of democracy is in contrast with power concentration in a centre, as in such political organizing governments power increasingly grows so that by applying its power and relying on one of those reasons, it turns its people to some peasants and bases and governs them easily. (Maghsudi, 2001: 250) If power is divided and the law has sovereignty in a society, people are allowed to use these potentials and control governments performances. As a result, different units in a federal country contribute to survival and development of democracy. Proponents of democracy in multi-national countries defend nations rights and federalism. It should be said that federalism can not spontaneously reinforce democracy, and even some kinds of federalism may develop inequalities among the nations and weaken their correlation. Trying to find a form of democracy which can set civil nationality and equal citizenship rights in a society, prevent national and ethnical prejudgments is one of the most important duties of proponents of democracy in different societies. In federal systems, people have more participation in their political fate, political and economical competitions revolve the society, and in turn, this contributes to developing democracy and institutionalizing it. In societies where different nations with different cultures are living, creating solidity and nationalization has taken a lot of time, has spoiled appropriate opportunities and the necessary correlation for public progress has encountered a lot of challenges. Therefore, by reserving nations identity we can pave the ways for cooperation; create voluntary unity to reach common objectives. Federal system with its special structure prepares necessary opportunities in this regard, as the civilians not only participate in their unit, but also play remarkable roles in the political activities of their society. Undertaking economical competitions along with exhibiting art works, sports and other activities of units lead to the development of different sectors; this process, then, results in more correlation among nations; it is why federal system is considered to be an effective tool in expanding and maintaining democracy. In single and centralized systems, however, the cooperation between nations and different ethnics takes place in accordance with class and group interests, but this cooperation is found to be fragile; because if these interests are damaged, this cooperation will break down. This situation is more common in those countries which have not yet formed civil society or their social institutes are not so effective. Anyhow, these two administrative systems are organized with respect to social situations, population and geographical structure and have their special features. We should remind that democracy and its institutes do not form just in federal systems, as some countries with single administrative systems have made some remarkable progresses in creating civil society and developing democratic institutes, European developed countries can be good examples in this regard. So, having federal systems does not assure providing democracy and respecting international charter of human rights, but democratic institutes should develop to allow people to have direct intervene in their political fate. Having federal or pen federal law does not guarantee providing social and individual freedoms, as federal system is different from uniparty systems, marital dictatorship, and totalitarian regimes. Federalism is based on this concept that its related units have their own policy makings while having direct intervene in policy makings of the central government. Thus, the structure of representation takes shape and power will be divided. (Khobroyepak, 1999: 202) the units reserve their features including: language, religion, culture, history, and economy then make effort to reinforce them and patrol their national interests. In the case of having different power centers, the possibilities of centralization and empowering of a centre or a certain group disappear. Also, the system of democracy observation is applied by the units to reserve them, as observing law articles guarantees their survival. In those countries where federal system is adopted successfully, power centers seek to create political and economical cooperation among units to enjoy their benefits. Most of the policy researchers believe that federalism is one of the best choices and methods for supplying rights of ethnical, religious, and national minorities. As the law guarantees these rights and plurality of power centers pave the ways for reserving social structure and explaining its differences. The units keep their cultural, social, and economical identity. Therefore, they would not suffer from identity crisis and this, in turn, contributes to correlation among nations. Some countries governed by single systems try to develop democratic rights and solve ethnical problems by establishing autonomy and considering geographical situations. It is while supplying just political rights can not provide social justice, but the backgrounds of economical justice should be arranged. Accepting plurality federal countries get more ready for social revolutions. Therefore, accepting and developing democracy in these countries has prior backgrounds and can institutionalize easily, as cultural and social differences are accepted by these countries, so trying to reserve plurality results in rapid growth of culture. Ultimately, the bed for development of democracy and social and economical progress will be available. Stable democracy in federal systems depends on the relationships between units and the relationships between the centre and its related units. Power division among units and units participation in federal decision makings indicate of democracy development across society and peoples participation in their political fate. There are some federal systems, in which the units dont have sufficient power or authority, and then they are unable to decide about their social, political, and even economical fate; in comparison to autonomous regions, these units enjoy fewer authorities. Therefore, political participation of units in the central government and peoples role in determining policies of units show the degree of maturity and development of democracy in these societies. Owning to the remarkable developments in computer technology in the recent decades, now different countries are closer to each other and have developed their regional cooperation. (Falsafi, 1998: 249) Due to plurality in power centers, federalism has shortened peoples distance from these centers and has allowed them to have more participation. In those countries that have democratic systems and there is a single political system managing society politically, people participate in their political fate freely and select their representatives in accordance with their interests, then send them to the parliament and observe the execution of policies. Constitutional laws of federal countries are more often democratic, liberal, and have some features that encourage people to participate in their fate. It seems that all those countries which have any kind of political systems seek to display their constitutional laws as democratic by adding some democratic articles to them. It is beyond doubt that having some democratic articles in law does not indicate of democracy and has no administrative guarantees. As people and public institutes dont have power of monitoring and in the case of repre ssing the regulations by the ruling government have no means to defend it. In federal systems observing law is possible through different power centers. As forming dictatorship and controlling all the centers of power is difficult and with regard to their special situations, suppressing all the units can not be easily possible. It is why reserving constitutional law and operating democracy in federal countries are easier. (Falsafi, 1998: 249) unfortunately, there are some social and economical discriminations owning to them all the social groups dont have equal opportunities and possibilities. So, federalism by having extensive possibilities for expanding democracy and freedom across the society can not apply democracy by itself; but social, economical, and political backgrounds should be provided for the society to take steps towards democracy and social justice. Enjoying extensive potentials for solving social problems and identity crisis, federalism can not solve all social problems and in action encounters some shortages. Constituent parts of federal government act in accordance with their economical and social interests, and then create the sufficient regulations for their social and cultural development. They try to reserve their identity and reinforce it. Among these units, there are some minor groups or ethnics deprived from their social rights, and as are in minority can not reserve their interests and in special situations are suppressed strongly. So, while has those extensive potentials, federalism is found to be unable to develop pervasive democracy for all groups and ethnics; as a result it keeps social contradictions and crisis inside itself. For instance, we can refer to the situation of Negroes in different states of America. They are unable to reserve their interests and rights. The policy of their complete rejection or accept ance is adopted. As a result, we observe sometimes some social crisis and violence in those states that are accompanied with polices harsh suppression. (Mawlaee, 2001: 124) Thus, it is the civilians who are responsible for reserving and observing their civil rights. Federalism as a political system with its structural plurality is able to fulfill the charter of human rights and can adopt it in its units. 6. Challenges of federalism: Tremendous economical and social differences among units of federal government and its reflection in lifestyle have led to different approaches to international issues, treaties, conventions, and agreements. Federal government signs the charter of human rights and other agreements and undertakes to fulfill them. But the units considering expectations of the central government as intervene in its interior affairs, refuses executing those agreements. Thus, executing the contents of these treaties that support human rights anywhere and in any situation encounter different problems. Above all, in countries like US, Canada, and Australia that are managed by federal systems, the local people suffer from different deprivations; these deprivations do extensive damages to the federal system and put their justice under question. As, the units while have enormous possibilities, can not supply their ethnics and smaller groups rights and in some cases succumb to suppressing them. Canada, for example, adopting federal system, has allowed the residents of Quebec to use French language and has provided them with all the necessary possibilities to develop their language; it is while that Canada does not allow other speakers to develop their cultures and languages. In spite of those great possibilities federalism has allocated for the freedom of different nations living in a geographical region, can not solve all social problems; thus, cooperation among units is inevitable if we want to strengthen life levels and freedom. When the Soviet Union scattered, in those countries once had been governed by federal systems, separation increased unprecedentedly. A wave of blind nationalism covered those societies. War and murder replaced peaceful coexistence. (Kolaee, 2002: 138) Proposing the right of separation and mentioning it in the law prevents accomplishing long-term projects in federal countries. Distrust in an unknown future leads to political crisis, thus its economical and social results will appear in interior policy makings and international relations. The danger of separation weakens countries political stability. (Bashyryeh, 1995: 300) This process directly affects domestic and foreign investments and determines policial and economical fate of the country. In search of their short-term interests, units avoid long-term cooperation with other units. As a result, administrative organizations of federal government will encounter problems in macro policy makings which consider al peoples interests in l ong-term. 7. Discussion and conclusion: While the development of technology using satellite and information networks pass the borders and do not confine themselves to national governments and geographical borders , insisting on nationalism- in its chauvinistic form-, lingual and ethnical excellence indicates of a historic straying and lack of knowledge. It is taken for granted that any activity in the direction of federalism and political and economical unions requires extensive and open insights in which moderateness and negligence replace ethnical and cultural differences, then the prosper

Human Capital In International Companies Management Essay

Human Capital In International Companies Management Essay To expand internationally, arises different problems and challenges for HR managers in human resources department. It is more difficult to manage employees abroad, than if employees were in the home base. The growth of Wooden Bakery internationally determined new assignment and tasks. There is a need to successfully manage this for the benefit of both Wooden Bakery and the individuals. The paper observes the change from domestic to international HR management, which examines issues of culture, contracts, agreements, recruitment process, and remuneration in Wooden Bakery expansion to other countries. All the same, the paper discusses suggestions for HR managers, which involve cultural research, and the functions of selection, training, performance management and remuneration. In this new era of globalisation, international human resource management is becoming a vital concept for human resource managers to be able to practice human resources functions, starting to mention, recruitment selection, performance appraisal, compensation benefits, training development and finally employees relations. This is important for human resource managers in multinational corporations and also in domestic based human resource managers who import employees from overseas. To stay updated with the changing world, human resource managers will have to have an international vision of how to manage their individuals successfully both at home and abroad. Managing international human resources allows wooden bakery to participate more effectively in the market place, and is a developing tool for its employees. Part 1: Introduction Human Resources Definition Human Resources is not only involved in paying the employees their salaries and providing them with the benefits; however it comprises one of the organizations important resource that is the Human resource through hiring, training and developing and most importantly retaining them for the benefits of both parties. Human Resources refer to the policies, systems and employment practices that are used to attract, motivate, develop and retain firms employees. In other words, human resources is considered as an organization function, that focus on recruitment, providing career path for the people who work in the firm, and deals with personnel issues such as hiring, compensation benefits, performance appraisal, safety, employees motivation and finally training development. Human resources is no longer a traditional personnel, and administration, however Human resources role is more strategic and deal with strategic aspect, to make sure that employees contribute effectively and works in parallel with the company direction to achieve the firms goals and objectives. Human Resources functions are common to most firms, first by attracting talented people by recruiting and selection, secondly retaining talented people by wage and salary, benefits and employees relations and finally developing the people by training, development and performance appraisal. Nearly every company says ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Human Resources importance and Need in International Companies The Human Resources department is important in all multinational and international companies. Recruiting and selecting is one function completed by HR, and their main responsibility is hiring and retaining companys most important asset that is our PEOPLE. Failure to do so, and lack of strong, motivated and satisfied employees, working in the right place in a firm will leads to hiring the wrong people, high turnover, employees will not do their best in their jobs and having some candidates demotivated. Thus, without good employees, the best business plan and ideas will be unsuccessful. As well, Human resources take care of all the employees concerns, make sure to solve employees issues immediately and to play the fair judge between the employee and the organization, for both sides advantage. Nevertheless, Human resources guarantee smooth functioning of the operation, good and safe working conditions and ensure that all staff is performing their jobs efficiently and toward the organization goals and objectives. Accordingly, Human Resources Manager evaluates all the employees, reward, takes disciplinary actions or dismissal. Another important role under the human resources umbrella is training and development, and creating career path for all employees, to retain and develop the existing employees, and attract new talented people, in this way the HR will improve the organization reputation, credibility and commitment from staff, thus become an employer of choice and reduce turnover. In this world of globalization, and companys expansion to other countries, Human resources adopt new cultures, and take care of all legal requirements as per the new country rules and regulations, as well as managing payroll, and other presented benefits. As per the strategic approach, human resources play an important function in developing an organization strategy, and managing the employees activities. Part 2: Analysis of the Organization 2.1- Wooden Bakery History Wooden Bakery was founded in Jal El Dib Lebanon in 1969 by Mr. Edward Bou Habib. It was a simple Bakery providing the market with freshly baked quality Bread. In the last decade Wooden Bakery literally revolutionized the bakery industry in Lebanon by setting new standards and upgrading its products and services. Edwards two sons Assaad and Ghassan Bou Habib planned and designed the new concept on paper in 1996. With immense vision and an innovative spirit, Wooden Bakery developed a unique concept gathering Bread (of all kinds), Pastries, Sweets, Sandwiches, Salads and Deli. The first Wooden Bakery Outlet opened at Zalka highway in October 1999. Wooden Bakery launched the first franchised operation in 2002 and expanded to 26 franchised outlets in Lebanon by the end of the year 2012. Wooden Bakery opened the first Master Franchise Operation in Saudi Arabia in July 2009, and currently negotiating the sale of the Master Franchise with a number of companies from the GCC countries. The Concept of the Factory Wooden Bakery system revolves around a state of the art industrial baking facility. It includes the latest and most advanced machinery and equipment in the baking industry. Human Resources department make sure to hires top Master Bakers, Pastry Chefs, and highly qualified Managers and Quality Controllers to assure the freshest and most consistent products for our markets. The Wooden Bakery factory produces from 100 to 150 tons of flours per day depending on the market need and factory size. Wooden Bakery is the leading supplier of high quality Freshly Baked Arabic Bread in the Lebanese market. The Wooden Bakery Factory is capable of supplying a large number of: Arabic and European Bread Products Bread Sticks Dry Desert Products French Pastry Cakes Cakes for any occasions (Wilton Cakes) Croissants and Danishes Arabic Sweets The Wooden Bakery Factory houses a central kitchen facility which produces Mixes and Semi Finished Products for the outlets such as: Marinated Chicken and Beef Cheese Blend A Variety of Mixes and Blends Frozen Appetizers PAR Baked Products The Concept of the Outlet Wooden Bakery Outlets are designed to service all classes of people in any market around the globe. All Wooden Bakery Outlets are located on Main Road Arteries in Strategic Areas, and considered as a One-Stop-Shop where one can buy Fresh Hot French and Arabic Bread, French, Arabic and American Sweets. The Wooden Bakery Outlets offers all mentioned products at Competitive Prices and offer a warm ambiance through its Unique Design, Clean Safe Environment and Excellent Service for its customers. The Wooden Bakery Outlets offer a wide variety of products: Fresh Hot Bread Appetizing Vienneoiserie Mouth-Watering Arabic, French and American Pastry items Scrumptious selection of hundreds of Cheese Deli products Self-Service Products offering the Top 100 items found in every Home Delicious Manakish, Salads, Sandwiches, Submarines, Pizzas, etcà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ 2.2- Mission and Vision Mission Statement: Our mission is to push our presence and create a brand in the Bakery Industry by Offering MORE and Delivering BETTER Vision Statement Our vision is to dominate the market by building stores on all main road arteries and major cities and towns in Lebanon and beyond, Our products would be available at ALL grocery stores, supermarkets, catering companies and therefore in every single home in Lebanon. 2.3- Local and Multinational Expansion Wooden Bakery first Outlet opened at Zalka highway in October 1999. The first Wooden Bakery franchised operation launched in 2002 and expanded to 26 franchised outlets in Lebanon by the end of the year 2012. Baabda- Hazmieh Mansourieh Bauchrieh Elyssar Awkar Zouk Mikael Zouk Mosbeh Jounieh Jbeil Kfarhbab Amioun Tripoli Zahleh Zalka Jal El Dib Fanar Dekwaneh Chtaura Roumieh Burj Hamoud Sour Zgharta (Soon) Achrafieh (Soon) Chiah (Soon) Naccach (Soon) Bayada(Soon) Wooden Bakery opened the first Master Franchise Operation in Saudi Arabia in July 2009, and currently negotiating the sale of the Master Franchise with a number of companies from the GCC countries. Wooden Bakery KSA Wooden Bakery  plan was centred on the key concept that customer satisfaction all over the world is the main goal. It has established and developed its first Master Franchise in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on July 2009. Its successful set up  can be measured by how our products and services that we supply meet however surpass the Saudi customers expectations. The Bread Factory Outlet was built on a 10,000 m2 space to house all the production equipment  that will  supply Bread and Pastry products and Central Kitchen Food Production to a number of outlets along with the wholesale distribution of Wooden Bakery Products. The Store is spread over two levels that house a main showroom with an eating area and a restaurant. Wooden Bakery has received the award for the Fastest Growing Lebanese Company at the prestigious Social Economic Award 2011, instituted by the global communications agency First Protocol to recognize outstanding achievements by organizations in the social and economic sphere. Today, the name of Wooden Bakery not only spells trust and quality, however, it has become a marked proof that a brand can be born, even in the Lebanese bakery industry. Wooden Bakerys expansion in the Lebanese territory has facilitated the achievement of the owners mission, proving that Wooden Bakery is worthy of the award that comes as a natural translation of its ever-expanding drive to Offer More and Deliver Better. 2.4- Wooden Bakery SWOT Analysis SWOT Analysis Strengths Serves all classes of people Big Variety of products (produced and non-produced by WB items) One Stop Shop Mushrooming Franchise (outlets are located on main roads in strategic areas) All outlets have the same image Product differentiation in the PRESTO section sandwiches. Ex. Rustic Bread Customers loyalty Quality (Shelf life limited) Freshness products (core value) Diversity of products (Arabic, French Pastries Viennoiserie charcuterie Arabic Bread) Rank among the top 25 companies in Lebanon Hold high level of market share in Leb. Balance menu (variety, quality, and price) Quality Control Management during process, on final product and in outlets Franchise Support Weaknesses Outlets are rented premises which leads to increase the operating expenses Franchise operated outlets might not have same level of loyalty as the outlets owned by Wooden Bakery Increase in raw materials and labour costs Not every franchised store owner get involved in the PL statement No direct authority High start-up cost Delivery Service Advertising plan to increase sales through brand awareness Family Business Opportunities Market trend turning bakeries into a wider shopping outlets Healthy eating trend Opening new and international markets New inventions for competition Threats Increase in Labour costs put pressure on button line margins Increase in raw materials costs put pressure on gross profit margins Quality of service focus with the presence of competitors in the market Many competitors (bakerys, supermarkets, etcà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Part 3: Methodology and Results 3.1- Describing Human Resources at Wooden Bakery At Wooden Bakery, the human resources department used to work the traditional personnel management tasks, generating payroll and registering employees in NSSF. The Main human resources achievement was shifting from personnel management to human resources management, implementing all human resources functions, and be more involved in Wooden Bakery strategic plan. Human Resources department today mainly concentrates on recruitment, management, and providing directions and guidance for the people who work in Wooden Bakery. Human Resources department deals with employees concerns such as compensation, hiring, performance appraisal, employee motivation, safety, benefits, employees relations, and training development. However, Wooden Bakery HR department make sure that all the employees are effectively contributing to the overall company direction and to accomplish the organization goals and objectives. The administration roles usually played by the Human Resources department are becoming increasingly aligned with the company strategic plan, which in turn is evolving the HR into becoming: Human Resources Management.   3.2- HR Functions in Wooden Bakery 3.1.1- Recruitment and Selection The ability of Wooden Bakery to achieve its objectives of profitable and sustainable growth and high-quality product and service standards depends on the quality of its Human Capital. The recruiting function, which directly affects the quality of Wooden Bakerys human resources, will represent a critical function in the companys development. It is therefore important that a clear recruiting mechanism is established in order to optimize applicant selection, while supporting Wooden Bakerys strategic orientation and values. Proper and professional recruiting is necessary in order to avoid undesirable effects, including: Negative publicity or damage to the companys image Wasted time and effort to interview applicants who do not meet Wooden Bakerys needs Cost incurred in training recruits who should not have passed the recruiting interviews High turnover rates The hiring process in Wooden Bakery includes Recruiting, Processing, Eliminating, Selecting, Rejecting, File Building, Placing, and Orienting. The recruiting process is divided into three phases: Pre-recruiting, Recruiting, and Post-Recruiting. It involves: Posting a job advertisement in appropriate places Evaluating the information provided on each application Screening candidates to determine which ones to interview Verifying references and information Conducting personal interviews Deciding who will be offered the job Orienting the new employee about the organization 3.2.2- Performance appraisal Wooden Bakery use a new assessment concept for evaluating employees, 365 Evaluation, that is created to monitor and evaluate the productivity of Wooden Bakery administration and management staff throughout the year. The concept covers three different aspects and tackles employees productivity by looking at: Missions accomplished (Monthly Evaluation) Key performance indicators (KPI) (Quarterly Evaluation) Yearly competency evaluation The purpose of the 365 Evaluation is to: Monitor the productivity of Wooden Bakery administration and management staff throughout the year. Compensate and reward exceptional achievements, and where applicable take disciplinary actions against under-achievers. The benefits to be gained from conducting performance appraisals include: Recognizing accomplishments and reflecting the results through monetary terms (Salary increase, Promotion, Bonus, etc.) Identifying newly acquired competencies Preparing employee development plans Planning improvement where deficiencies are found Goal-setting Communication between supervisors and employees Monthly Evaluation Mission Based Mission based evaluation is a tracking system that records and rates the mission undertaken by Wooden Bakery administration and management staff on Monthly Basis. Title Subtitle Illustration 1-Mission Details Title Missions name Date Duration Date of registering the idea and expected mission duration Owner The employee who created the idea and who is the custodian for its implementation Department Self-explanatory Mission Scope Objectives Scopeis the sum total of all products, services and outcomes needed to make sure that the mission is successfully done. Objectivesare the benefits, outcomes, or performance improvements that are expected to be accomplished by the mission. Authority Structure List of personnel involved and needed for the completion of the mission and the designed authority distribution 2-Mission Program Task Breakdown Breakdown of tasks and assigning a start and a duration for each task Start Duration 3-Mission Kick-off Registration Owner Signature The mission owner has to register the mission with the HR department after it has been noted by the direct supervisor and approved by the concerned VP Direct Supervisor VP (Concerned) Human Resources Manager 4-Mission Evaluation Score for Innovative At the completion of the mission, the owner has to get the formal evaluation of the concerned VP. 3 criteria will be used to evaluate the mission (Innovative, Importance, Impact) Score for Importance Score for Impact 5- Approvals 3 parties and the checking of the Internal Audit department Once rated by the concerned VP, the mission score is registered by the HR in the Mission Tracking System. The internal Audit team is entitled to monitor the proper implementation of the system. Quarterly Evaluation (Productivity Based) The Quarterly Evaluation is a system that measures the productivity of Wooden Bakery administration and management staff by looking at five (5) aspects: Attendance Mission Accomplishment Policy and Procedure Development (creation and implementation of new procedure) Introduction of Improving Ideas (Cost saving ideas Process improving ideas) Productivity Measurement (Vary from one department to another each department will be evaluated by using five indicators) Yearly Evaluation (Competency Based) The Yearly Evaluation is a systematic way of measuring, reviewing and analysing employee performance on a yearly basis and using the information gathered to plan for the employees future with Wooden Bakery. The feedback is used to judge employee effectiveness as well as provide necessary Training and development to improve the employees contributions to the Wooden Bakerys goals. The purpose of the Yearly Evaluation at Wooden Bakery is for the manager or the direct supervisor and the concerned employee to have an open discussion about performance expectations and actual performance. The employees actual level of performance is compared to the estimated level of performance using standards that were developed by the supervisor. This expected level of performance is to be derived from competencies needed to perform the job in the highest level of professionalism. The comparison of actual performance with expectations and standards serves as a basis for recognizing accomplishments and planning for improvement where insufficiencies are found. Performance appraisals may also be utilized in a progressive disciplinary process to resolve continuing poor performance. 3.2.3- Training and development Wooden Bakery encourage growth and career development of its employees by coaching, and helping them to achieve their personal goals, through providing adequate training, encouragement of staff development, and chances for growth. Wooden Bakery training methods include: Orientation training, Orientation training is the process Wooden Bakery use for welcoming a new employee into Wooden Bakery family. New employee orientation, often organized by a meeting with the Human Resources department, that generally contains information about the new job description, the work environment, company culture, company history, the organization chart, tour of department, introduction to colleagues, Wooden Bakery rules and regulations, etcà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ On-the-job-training On the job training is used in both our branches and factory to teach new employees how to perform job duties. Sometimes training sessions take place in the headquarters and some other times on site. For example, customer service, food safety and hygiene, menu implementation. Conferences and Seminars Wooden Bakery works on developing its employees skills by sending them to international conferences, Seminars and Workshops. Some of the trainings attended by Wooden Bakery administration employees: RD Technician and RD Manager were sent in 2010 to Las Vegas to attend Baking Industry Trade Fair Production Manager and RD Manager were sent in 2012 to Bulguim to attend Professional training session held by PURATOS Quality Controller Supervisor and RD Supervisor were sent in 2012 to Paris to attend training with Chopin Technologies Maintenance Manager was sent in 2012 to Vienna to attend a conference in ROSENDAHL Company. 3.2.4- Compensation and benefits The term compensation in Wooden Bakery refers to the wages used to reward employees. As for benefits, Wooden Bakery offers paid vacations to its employees. Wooden Bakery wishes to maintain a sense of fairness and equity within the pay structure Grading System. For each position at Wooden Bakery the following will be defined: The Minimum, the Middle, and the Maximum fixed salary range The minimum and maximum of each fixed salary range is selected in line with market realities, and based on external salary surveys of comparable organizations. The parameters used to determine the weight of each job and thus giving an accurate grade based on numerical study: Know How Technical Knowledge Management Extent Human Relations Highest Education Level Problem Solving Reasoning Decision Making Communication Influence on Others Accountability Freedom to Act Magnitude of Action Impact of Decisions Working Conditions Long Working Hours Working during Holidays Extensive Traveling Hazardous Environment and Critical Encounters The grading system at Wooden Bakery offers a clear career path for employees who show potentials to advance within the company hierarchy. Moving horizontally within the same grade is governed by different factors including: Seniority (1.5 years spent in each level) Performance Appraisal Recommendations Acquiring Additional Skills (Experience and Education) Top Management Discression Moving vertically is governed by different factors including: Performance Appraisal Recommendations Acquiring Additional Skills (Experience and Education) Availability of the vacancy 3.2.5- Employees Relations Wooden Bakery promotes a positive atmosphere, and encourages positive relations between employees, to be able to reach the organization goals and objectives. Employees Relations is concerned to prevent and resolve problems involved by employees which arise out of or might affect Wooden Bakery work atmosphere. Wooden Bakery employees relation involves the relation between the employees with each other or their relation with their supervisors. Wooden Bakery concerned supervisors provide advises on how to correct poor performance and employee misconduct. The Company Disciplinary Action is to help and encourage employees to improve, achieve and maintain standards of conduct, attendance and job performance. It also enables management to deal effectively with those employees who do not comply with Wooden Bakery standards of conduct, attendance and performance in the workplace. Employee relations are designed in a manner which is non-discriminatory and which is Fair consistent and effective. It must also be applied in a timely manner and without undue delay. 3.3- Human Resources Planning for Global expansion Global expansion is a growth strategy for the future. It is at the heart of Wooden Bakerys development strategy. The owners are constantly striving to raise market share through expansion primarily in the Middle east and subsequently worldwide, in order to win over increasing numbers of customers. Wooden Bakery began seeking out growth and expansion, looking to reach out into new markets through Master Franchising and/or Partnership/Joint Venture. Wooden Bakery planned to expand worldwide after going through a number of challenges and risks that need to be taken into consideration along with is the Human Resources. The human recourse factor refers to the hiring of employees in the foreign markets, and the challenges and risks that come with doing so. Wooden Bakery will always take into consideration the foreign country laws, rules and regulations, which might be far different from our country of origin and which may seem difficult to manage with. One of the differences is the employees contracts in other foreign countries, which define the parameters of an employees job benefits, including vacation time, working hours, salaries, compensation, severance pay, etc. The differences stated earlier will mandate that the total packages offered abroad are tangibly higher than those offered within the Lebanese region. Thus, the existence of all the above variances means that any organization looking to expand internationally will need to do unlimited researches in regards to the foreign markets, since it might affect its operation. Implementing a global business strategy requires having the right people in the right places; it requires specialized leadership skills-managing the work of people with different backgrounds and customs. 3.4- Global Expansion Requires New HR and Training Strategies Recently the role of HR shifted from being a normal cost center and support service into becoming a strategic partner. Most organizations simply understand that their people are their competitive advantage, and view human resources as an investment, not an expense. Companies invest in their employees, because the future of the company belongs to the people who are continually involved in educating themselves and developing their skills and knowledge. As companies grow internationally, it is so crucial for global regular employees training. It is human resources challenge to train employees to be able to meet the organization mission as well as the requirements needed and the new region customs. Unfortunately, the majority of companies have the passion and commitment, to invest in their employees and provide them the necessary training for international exposure, but the budget necessary to achieve these goals may not. However, Wooden Bakery focuses on training and has enlarged its training department with highly qualified people who provide all the employees with necessary trainings and skill development opportunities to make sure that organizational goals are achieved. Top Master Bakers, Pastry Chefs, and highly qualified Managers and Quality Controllers are being sent to Wooden Bakery KSA to provide necessary training that ensures standardization and product consistency are being implemented. Companies that have a clear training and development strategy will note growth in the following areas, Reduced turnover: well trained employees are more likely to stay with your organization and it decreases the expenses of employing and training costs. Better productivity: well trained employees are more productive. Workforce: employees will have a deeper understanding of organization goals and mission, and will know their role in reaching those aims. 3.5- The HR Challenges of International Expansion One of the very important skills for domestic companies to grow global is the international HR management. As much as it is important for multinational and international companies, it is essential for HR department in domestic companies that recruit people from abroad. Nowadays there are many challenges that international human resources department has to take into consideration, starting to mention the cultural impacts, the local rules and regulations and finally working conditions and salary packages. HR policies and leadership development should grow since almost every business in all sectors risk a big share of their growth strategies on global expansion. There are many activities and skills that have become crucial to success. These activities include attracting and retaining skilled employees, increasing productivity, improving the workforce in the market, organizing the company by placing the competent and credible leadership in the right positions and moulding the beliefs and differences between personnel. Ethnical preferences and expectations can weaken a companys human resource strategy in globalization and can affect its effectiveness due to the influence of the economy.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In order to i