Reward Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Reward Management - Essay Example Employees in present times are no longer satisfied with mere cash-based rewards (Dewhurst, Guthridge, and Mohr, 2010). They are increasingly seeking alternate sources of reward mostly non-financial such as recognition of their work and contribution made towards organizational success, health benefits, policies that enable them to strike a perfect work-life balance, positions of authority that enable them to exercise control and take risks to accomplish challenging objectives, etc among others. Motivating such diverse and talented pool of human resources has hence become highly challenging for the organizations. They are now compelled to reassess their reward management strategies and revise them in accordance with the changing demands of the industry, and include novel strategies that appeal to the individual tastes and preference of their employees. This includes initiating organization wide changes in the management styles, re-organizing the design systems, and incorporating the principles of transparency and fairness, by seeking active participation of employees in the reward design process. The rules of the workplace have evolved during the last couple of decades and the realities of yesterday no longer hold true in present times. The drastic change brought about by information technology, globalization, and expansion of the marketplace has entirely changed the rule of the game. Organizations today are no longer chasing customers but are also compelled to come up with innovative strategies to retain their skilled pool of human resources. Employee retention through implementation of motivational reward oriented strategies has assumed a top priority for the management. This paper on reward management discusses the various issues concerned with performance oriented pay structures, including the effectiveness of rewards on employee performance, the relationship between non-financial rewards and employee performance, the application of flexible reward policies, impact of non-financial rewards, the relevance and significance of integrated approach to total reward, and the issue of employee entitlement trap. 2. Relationship between rewards and performance: Various studies have indicated that there exists a strong relationship between rewards and employee performance (Guzzo et al., 1995; Jenkins et al., 1998; Hansen, 1997; Stajkovic & Luthans, 2001). Employees play a key role in enhancing the organizational performance. Hence it is imperative for organiz ations to ensure that the employees are appropriately rewarded for their contribution towards organizational development through an effective reward framework. The significance of effective reward management strategies for organizations can be ascertained by the fact that rewards help the management in preventing employee burnouts and provides them with adequate strength and motivation to address the various challenges encountered on the job (Schaufeli et al., 2002). It has been observed that employees are often subject to severe stress. This is particularly evident in service industries such as banking and the hospitality sector where the employees are directly in touch with the customers. Consumers today are getting more and more demanding

Investor Relations with Bear Mountain Wind Park or as stated by Review Dissertation

Investor Relations with Bear Mountain Wind Park or as stated by Review Board in my notes to be uploaded - Dissertation Example ......................................................... Anthony Boydell, PhD, Director School of Environment and Sustainability ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY December 2010 Â © Marie Louise Vander Heiden, 2010 Abstract This study addressed the communication efforts of Peace Energy Cooperative (PEC) leading residents of the Peace River region in North Eastern British Columbia to invest in the Bear Mountain Wind Park (BMWP), a renewable, locally-based, environmentally-responsive wind energy project. A survey and subsequent email correspondence further explored local investor interest in renewable energy stakeholder relations. Respondents were motivated and aspired to be a component of environmental change; PEC allowed residents to act through financial investment. This study demonstrates media-based communications acting as a strong diffusion method in driving social networks to invest in renewable energy; however, it does not identify the single ideal method. Understanding significant infl uential factors that draw individuals towards renewable energy investment sources will act positively towards progression to a sustainable planet. Acknowledgements I would like to give thanks to the administrative support I received from PEC and all the members of PEC who kindly participated in my surveys. Great love and appreciation goes out to my kind, helpful and always encouraging husband, Michael. Thank you to my supervisor, Dr. Richard Kool who made my MEEC thesis experience very challenging but worth the sweat and tears. Rick, you pushed me to be better than I thought possible. My highest regards to Royal Roads University and Staff who were always there for me when I needed the support and guidance, especially Dr. Milt McClaren who went far beyond my furthest expectations, you are one-of-a-kind. I acknowledge support of my editor, Dr. Marie-Terese Little, who provided excellent guidance on APA and Royal Roads University-specific formatting and styling, grammar, sentence struc ture, syntax, punctuation and verbosity. Finally, to my lovely daughter Leila, I gave birth to you during this entire thesis process and you not only made it all worth it but you inspired me to be the best Mom and Environmental Educator I can be. Table of Contents Public Interest and Stakeholder Relations 3 Alternatives to Fossil Fuel Energy Sources 4 Purpose of Study 4 Research Questions 5 Research Objectives 7 Chapter 2: Literature Review 9 Climate Change and Global Warming 9 Renewable Energy Sources and Public Interest 10 Wind Energy- Attributes 24 Supply and Demand 25 Research Design and Rationale 26 Participants and Site 29 Data Analysis 31 Early Investors 35 Late Investors 35 No Investors 55 Conclusion 62 List of Abbreviations B.C. British Columbia BMWP Bear Mountain Wind Park EAO Environmental Assessment Office km Kilometre LP Limited Partnership MW Megawatts PEC Peace Energy Cooperative RECs Renewable energy certificates REEEP Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnersh ip RPS Renewable Portfolio Standards Chapter 1: Introduction The Peace Energy Cooperative is an education and investment cooperative that promotes the development of renewable energy and looks for investments to make these developments happen while making a return on investment for their member investors. Their only investment to date has been the Bear Mountain Wind Park, described below, although they are also involved with research and development with several other concerns. PEC boasts 400

The History Of Payless Shoesource Inc Marketing Essay

The History Of Payless Shoesource Inc Marketing Essay Payless ShoeSource Inc. is a self-serve fashion-focused low cost shoe retailer.   The company was founded in 1956 in Topeka, Kansas and has expanded significantly within the domestic and international markets to almost 4,500 stores.   On their website, the stated mission is to democratize fashion and design in footwear and accessories.   Payless seeks to compete effectively by bringing to market differentiated, trend-right merchandise before mass-market discounters and at the same time as department and specialty retailers but at a more compelling price.  [1]  Payless is a subsidiary of Collective Brands, which a holding company for three business units: Payless ShoeSource,  Collective Brands Performance  + Lifestyle Group,  and Collective Licensing International. These units function separately, but have significant business relationships especially in brand licensing for Payless. In 2009, Payless reported $2.576 billion in sales and capture a large percentage for the cost-leader footwear market.  [2]  Payless is represented in all 50 states.   Internationally, Payless has multiple locations in Central and South America, Canada, and the Caribbean.   In 2009, Payless opened stores in the Middle East and has signed agreements to franchise into Russia, the Philippines, Israel, Malaysia, Singapore, Mexico and Indonesia.  [3]  Ã‚   When Payless was founded, it was based on being a low cost provider of shoes for families in a self-service format.   During the 50 years since, Payless has evolved from a low cost distributor to a low cost producer to an on-trend fashion, cost conscience producer and provider while retaining the self service format.   This evolution was a result of changing customer demands and increased retail competition.   Payless retooled their strategy when other low-cost shoe providers such as Wal-Mart and Target entered the shoe market.   This increase in competition on the cost-leader strategy forced Payless to examine their core competencies and their position in the marketplace.   As a result, the emphasis on fashion and design became a priority which is reflected in both their shoe and retail store design.  [4]  Ã‚   Over the past fifteen years, Payless has been increasing the fashion level of their products and have now repositioned themselves as an on-trend fashion outlet with trendy names at reasonable prices.   Payless has formed several partnerships with designers to create capsule collections exclusively at Payless that comprise one season; however due to the success of these designer collections Payless has been expanding these designer relationships.  [5]  Ã‚   The partnerships with designers started in 2007 with Abaetà ©, as a seasonal collection.   The success of the Abaetà © collection leads Payless to develop other partnerships with designers like Lela Rose, Alice + Olivia as well as Zack Zoe.   The most recent guest designer, Christain Siriano, has been a success due to both his design and his popularity of winning season four of Project Runway.   With the immense success of the show, there was instant name recognition and the target audience of the show is in line wit h the target market of Payless.   In fact, Christian Sirianos capsule collection contract was recently extended to be a multi-year contract to its immense success in the market.  [6]   External Analysis When looking at the external analysis for Payless ShoeSource, the general environment is composed of elements that influence the shoe industry and the companies within it. These elements group into six different environmental segments: demographic, economic, political/legal, sociocultural, technological, and global. Demographics for Payless have always played an important role in their overall strategy. Targeting women 16-49 with an income lower than $75,000 USD is their key to success.  [7]  This target market is ideal because individuals within this demographic express themselves through fashion. The economic factors for their general environment are a major downfall. With a target segment on a middle-class income, economic hardships are going to be devastating for Payless. Consumers will spend less on non-necessity goods in hard times, shoes being one of those items. The economy will also influence Payless because they compete based on lower priced fashion items to gain market share. However, since Payless is an international business, economies in other countries such as Latin America or the Middle East can offset these issues in the domestic market. International expansion is where political and legal elements can comes into play for Payless. Currently Payless has 643 international stores with plans to expand heavily in the years to come. By executing joint ventures and franchising, Payless is able to mitigate some of the political and legal risk it could encounter in foreign markets. The sociocultural environment for Payless externally is again positive. Since they are well known in the United States and Canada for keeping up with the latest trends, they can leverage this strategy worldwide. Each country is researched constantly for new trends or looks in the footwear and accessory industry. This research combined with knowledgeable local partners helps Payless with product selection to meet local demand. By researching and overcoming the sociocultural factor, Payless has gained market share each year, even in rough economic times in the United States.    When looking at the technological external environment for Payless, the company is far beyond its competition. Although Payless is based in Topeka, Kansas, all of their shoe manufacturing is completed in the Unites States and 13 other countries around the world. Their main warehouse is 807,000 square feet designed with a state of the art coordination system. These systems keep all the stores replenished with new supply at least twice a week based on style, color and size of the shoes. The global environmental factor for Payless is also a significant part of their strategy. Global factors influencing business are legal, political, social, technological and economic. Each country Payless enters, these influences will change. Moving into global markets via joint ventures or franchising helps lessen the risk for Payless because the partner understands the market and environment the store is operating in. When looking at the supplier power for Payless, 85% of their footwear comes from Chinese factories, 10% from Vietnam and the other 5% from Brazil, India, Indonesia and Thailand.  [8]  Since Payless depends on third parties to manufacture and supply their products, this could cause several problems. There could be a shortage of raw materials, inadequate manufacturing and shipping capacity of the product. In addition, the third parties price fluctuations of raw material, skilled labor as well as currency exchange risk could impact the low price strategy of Payless. Payless also has risk in transportation since it relies on third parties to transport and deliver its products. These third party relationships impact the ability to deliver footwear on time and at a low cost. The buyer power for Payless is a significant threat. Given their current fashion strategy, Payless could one day overcome buyer power, but as of now, they still compete on price and focus this incentive to benefit the consumer. With this buyer power, the threat of substitution is very high for Payless. The footwear industry is all about the latest styles, colors and looks. If Payless did not have a research team focused on implementing new products, substitution would be high for Payless. Bringing in Christian Siriano, Lela Rose and Isabel Toledo as new designers has given Payless a more upscale look at a cost effective price for the consumer. Though there are substitutions for their brands in each product category, Payless is less expensive overall. Competitive rivalry in the footwear industry is never ending. Payless has to compete with the big box stores such as DSW, Famous Footwear, J.C.  Penney, Kohls, Macys, Marshalls, Ross Stores, Target, TJ Maxx, and Wal-Mart. All of these competitors have the capability to hurt Payless in a cost leadership strategy. However, Payless competes in fashion at a lower price point. This fashion focus aligns with their target market that will buy these designer shoes with Christian Siriano, Lela Rose and Isabel Toledo.  [9]   The threat of new entry for Payless is currently small. Although Payless has many competitors in their industry, it would be almost impossible to compete with their net sales and store locations around the world. The startup costs would be high and the sourcing for factories would be time consuming. Designers would need to be experienced and willing to work with foreign factories. New competition could compete on price, but not on quality fashion footwear. Payless has a very favorable position and it should be easy to defend against new entrants. Internal Analysis Payless ShoeSource is dedicated to democratizing fashion and design in footwear and accessories to the world and inspiring fun fashion possibilities for the family.   We provide our customers with the style they want at a great price, and our nearly 4,500 store locations offer an engaging, easy-to-shop experience and outstanding customer service.  [10]  The current mission of Payless ShoeSource has not been long-lived in this form.   After the company experienced it is first lost in 2003, the company worked hard to turn things around.   Beyond working to increase sales and correct the inventory problems, the company revised its mission statement, vision, and company strategy in 2005.  [11]  Ã‚  The current mission has driven the company to develop strategies, which have led the company to exhibit internal strengths and prevailing weaknesses. The most obvious overlying strategy for Payless is cost leadership.   This can be determined not only by the mission statement,  [12]  but also by the name of the store.   As the mission statement states, Payless wants to provide their customers with the style they want at a great price.   Also, the title Payless gives the impression that customers will pay less when buying their shoes at Payless Shoe Source.   This name not only exhibits the goals of the company but what customers can expect by shopping at any of Payless ShoeSources 4470 locations. With the major changes made in 2005, Payless developed new strategies to expand their customer base, which would in turn lead to more sales. These strategies developed in 2005 will be focused on in this analysis as 2005 was a monumental year for strategy development and will be compared to the 2009 annual report analysis of the success of such strategies. One of these new strategies was that Payless would go forward with an offer of on-trend, differentiated products.  [13]  Ã‚  With this, it would increase its accessories and offer a larger athletic footwear section.  [14]  In the 2009 Annual Report, Payless stated that they advanced their strategy to grow beyond footwear as broader and deeper product offerings drove dramatic improvement in the accessories business at Payless ShoeSource.  [15]   Another strategy developed in 2005 was to strengthen and reposition Payless by introducing a house of brands available to the consumer at a discounted price,13 which would fall directly in line with their overlying cost leadership strategy.   This house of brands allowed customers to have access to a variety of brands within Payless, which, according to Matt Rubel, CEO of Payless, would fulfill their focus of democratizing design and fashion in footwear and accessories and their goal to inspire fun fashion possibilities for the family.   Acquiring brands like American Eagle à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢, according to Mr. Rubel, is an important step in achieving this and to our ability to connect with young consumers.   The house of brands includes American Eagleà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢, Champion ®, Airwalk ®, Spalding, and Shaquille ONeal endorsed Dunkmanà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ .  [16]   The third strategy developed in 2005 was to enhance the customer experience by hiring friendly, helpful employees to improve customer service.  [17]  The 2009 annual report confirmed that one aspect of this customer service included measuring childrens feet, which helped increase the sales of the childrens shoes segment.  [18]  Ã‚  Beyond this, there is no data shown as to how successful this strategy has been. The last change in strategy added in 2005 was to improve the efficiency of the business by introducing better technology including a POS system in order to shorten checkout time and keep better track of sales.   In addition, a logistics network would be introduced to improve the companys inventory system and also to improve flexibility in the inventory.13 As far as efficiency goes, the 2009 annual report stated that an added U.S. distribution center shorted replenishment times and lowered costs, improving the gross margin by changing how sizes were assorted and defined store clusters, improving productivity and profitability in 2009.  [19]   Beyond the 2005 strategy developments, a more recent development for Payless is its newly defined international expansion strategies as outlined in the 2009 annual report. Looking at Payless specifically, Collective Brands began franchising Payless internationally 18 months ago and predicts that it will have about 700 locations abroad within the next five years, including 300 of those in Indonesia.  [20]  Ã‚  In the 2009 annual report, it was stated that Payless opened a significant amount of stores in Columbia within the year.  [21]  Ã‚  In 2010, the store introduced a new franchising business model to expand internationally in a quick, low-risk, capital-efficient manner.  [22]  Although the strategy was introduced in 2010, the first three franchised stores opened in the Middle East in 2009.  [23]   Ownership strategy differs by geographic regions.   In North America, mainly the USA and Canada, Payless stores are company-owned.   In Central and South America, stores have been opened as joint ventures with a multitude of partners.   As stated above, franchised stores have existed thus far in the Middle East with franchising as a strategy for future expansion, mainly focused on the Middle East and Asia.  [24]   The last strategy to be assessed in this analysis is a method Payless developed just this year.   Ã‚  This strategy is to develop a recognition of the company as social responsible in order to lure in the socially conscious consumers.   Payless has teamed up with Airwalk   for The Good Shoe Project to allow shoppers to Buy-One-Give-One to a child in need where customers can buy a pair of Airwalk shoes for $19.99 and Payless will give a pair of kids shoes to a child in need through their new partner, World Vision.   Payless plans to give a minimum of 100,000 pairs of shoes to children in South America this Christmas season.  [25]   The core competencies and strengths of Payless ShoeSource exist in its store presence, financial stability, and its ability to keep prices low.   Store presence encompasses the fact that it has already established itself in all 50 states plus a growing number of international locations.  [26]  Ã‚  This presence includes 4470 stores total in 19 countries as of 2009, with 18.6% of stores abroad, or 873 total in 2009.   According to many sources, Payless can be considered one of the largest footwear retailers in the Western Hemisphere selling 140 million pairs of footwear and over 40 million accessories in the US, Canada, Caribbean, Central America, and South America in 2009.  [27]   Financially, Payless has grown its gross margin regardless of the 3.9% decrease in sales due to the recession.   This includes a 5.2% increase in gross margin in 2009, increasing the gross margin to 34.5%.   However, this is primarily due to a low gross margin in 2008 attributable to pre-tax charges of $88.2 million related to the impairment of trade names, $45.1 million due to pre-tax litigation expenses, and $13.2 million of pre-tax charges related to the tangible asset impairment and other charges.   However, the higher gross margin can also be attributed to lower product costs and higher initial mark-on prices of footwear in 2009.  [28]  Ã‚  Though all of these additional charges decreased the gross margin in 2008, a better representation of gross margin improvement is to compare to the 2007 32.6% gross margin.   From 2007 to 2009, the gross margin was improved by 1.9%, or 0.95% per year. Lastly, Payless has been rather successful in their skill to encompass a wide variety of skills including supply chain management and sourcing to keep prices low while also focusing on fashion.   This has allowed Payless to capture the market of moms and middle-class people who care about both fashion and their budget, which is considered to be a success factor of 2009 in the annual report.  [29]   The supply chain management procedures of Payless assist in keeping prices down by making the company more efficient.   This includes the strong supply chain management (SCM) system satisfying the 2005 strategy to improve inventory levels.  [30]  Ã‚  In 2009 annual report, Payless manages inventory through the use of a variety of systems and models related to planning, forecasting, pricing, and allocations to help align promotions, product flow, and pricing with customer shopping patterns.   Although the annual report does not give technical details on these systems, it is clear that the organization of Payless SCM systems have proven to increase the efficiency of the company, and improve the gross margin as previously stated.    One way it has done this on a large scale is by reducing markdowns through using intelligent SCM tools which have been able to stock stores by use of customer clusters, or customer profiles based on lifestyle, demographics, shopping behavior, and appetite for fashion.   Also, the systems keep track of seasonality and climate considerations by geography which have improved the timing of inventory distribution.   The SCM systems have the ability to track historical data to use as a precedent of stores sales volumes and categories that stores tend to sell well along with specific proportions for inventory forecasting.   The high amount of data stored in this system also involves a size assortment matrix tool. This data has reduced old product markdowns by analyzing sizes that could have been avoided in initial purchasing.  [31]  Ã‚   On a smaller scale, the supply chain management systems have provided store-level data management which allows for pricing and inventories to be adjusted on a per-store basis based.   Product pricing is performed per store in order to price products appropriately on a smaller scale rather than one corporate or regional price.   Size variations are also taken into account on a per store basis in order to produce sales forecasts for ordering inventory, optimizing gross margin dollars and reducing markdowns by giving each store individualized attention.  [32]   Another resource advantage of Payless is its sourcing capabilities.   Payless sources out 72% of production to large factories which serve as their manufacturers, consisting mainly of 26 core factories which account for 75% of Collectives footwear purchases.   These factories are given specification and performance standards and then bid for jobs on a competitive basis.  [33]  Ã‚  This network of factories allows Payless to manufacture their products at low prices with companies that they know and trust.   This is a core asset in its ability to keep prices low in its overall strategy of cost leadership. Other than supply chain management and sourcing, other factors providing key assets and skills to Payless are listed in the 2009 annual report.   These factors are the companys ability to develop fashionable, high-quality merchandise in an assortment of sizes, colors, and styles appealing to their target customers; the ability to anticipate and respond to changing customer demands in a timely manner; creating an acceptable value proposition for customers; providing an inviting, customer friendly shopping environment; and, providing effective marketing support.  [34]   Resource disadvantages, or assets and skills that are lacking at Payless, mainly include its lack of knowledge in a few key markets, its marketing resources, its financial resources, and its lack of independence.   These factors keep Payless from optimizing its ability to compete in the market of footwear and accessories. Payless lacks significant knowledge in operating in South American markets.   According to the 2009 annual report, the firm closed 26 Payless stores in Peru and Chile and were categorized as discontinued operations in the report.   The closing of these stores eliminated 200 management and administrative positions, concerning the company with its failure in these markets and the reduced employee morale based on the elimination of these positions.  [35]   Next, the report states its lack of marketing and financial resources as compared to competitors such as Wal-Mart, Target, and other department stores.   Payless is concerned in their ability to continue to compete against these low-cost retailers which provide more of a one-stop-shop for consumers and who also have much larger marketing budgets.   Beyond this, Payless lacks financial ability to withstand reduced shoe sales whereas these competitors have the ability to withstand fluctuations in the market.   High fixed costs in proportion of operating expenses cause declines in operating performance to be magnified with sales shortfalls.   Major fixed costs include leasing costs of stores, debt service expenses, and labor expenses which will all remain regardless of sales.   Labor expenses in particular remain the same as the stores generally employ minimum employees regardless of sales volume.  [36]   The last resource disadvantage to be concerned with in this analysis is the lack of independence from third parties to manufacture and distribute products.   Though this is somewhat an external concern, it is also a problem internally as the company is weak in its ability to withstand factors affecting the manufacturing line.    Overall, the internal analysis of Payless is strong in many areas, mainly its ability to follow execute its mission statement and strategies following directly in line with this mission.   A competitors analysis will get more into the analysis of Payless ShoeSources ability to compete in the footwear and accessories market on both a short and long-term basis. Comparison to Competitors   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The retail footwear and accessories industry is highly competitive. It is comprised of department stores, footwear specialty stores, discount mass-merchandisers, sporting good stores and on-line competitors. In addition, many retailers that have not carried footwear have added footwear and accessories lines to their stores.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For Payless Domestic, they compete mainly with DSW, Famous Footwear, J.C. Penney, Kohls, Macys, Marshalls, Ross Stores, Target, TJ Maxx, and Wal-Mart and they seek to compete effectively by coming into the market with differentiated, trend-right merchandise before mass-market discounters. Besides the timing of producing new merchandise, Payless also requires their trend-right merchandise to be priced below department stores and specialty retailers. In the worldwide footwear industry, Payless faces various competitive challenges from retailers and wholesalers since their financial and marketing resources are less than some competitors. Although under high pressure of increasing competitiveness, Payless still focuses on the following points as bases of enhancing their low cost on trend-fashion competitive advantage: Developing fashionable, high-quality merchandise in an assortment of sizes, colors and styles that appeal to their target consumers: For example, Dyelightsà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ is exclusively offered by Payless ShoeSource stores. It is a unique feature that sets Payless apart from the competition. The shoes are dyed to the customers specifications and are available for pick up in about 10 days at the Payless ShoeSource store or delivered to the customer for an additional shipping fee.  [37]  As previously mentioned, Payless also has strategic partnerships with designers that emphasis high fashion for under $60. With their extensive licensing Payless is also able to have a house of brands that appeals to fashion focused consumers. Ensuring product availability and optimizing supply chain effectiveness: Payless uses different systems and models to ensure timely delivered to meet customer demand, which drives sales and margin growth. The company creates targeted assortments based on localized demand and specific product lifecycles. Payless also prices their products at the store level to manage aged inventory. Payless has a global supply chain structure that integrates their design, product development and sourcing functions. Coordinated transportation is also a vital component of efficiency for Payless. They employ the just-in-time model and each distribution center only has eight days of supply for store replenishment.  [38]   High quality assurance and low price:   Payless contracts with factories that meet their specified quality and safety standards for shoe production; minimum capacity requirements; production control processes; and agree not to use forced or child labor.  [39]  Payless also provides technical design support for their direct purchasing functions. For example, Payless locates their field inspection personnel close to the factories and freight consolidation facilities that they use throughout the world. By concentrating on quality, Payless is able to reduce rework costs. Shopping environment and customer service: Payless uses a customer focused sales staff to provide attentive, product knowledgeable service. Payless also offers customers a self-selection shopping environment, which allows customers to select their shoes freely. Shoes and accessories are displayed neatly and grouped by type of shoe ensuring self-selection is easy.  [40]  Customers can seek help from trained and professional associates if they need any help. In addition, Payless executes an easy and convenient return policy even if the shoes are worn. This emphasis on cost containment through efficient supply chain management helps Payless maintain its historic low-cost position. This, when combined with its retail product selection optimization, increases profit margins. Payless is focused on the customer experience through excellent customer service and accessible on-trend fashion. Their competitors compete on cost or brand, but are unable to combine the strategies efficiently. Payless has developed a competitive advantage by leveraging their house of brands, designer partnerships, efficient supply chain, and optimized product mix. Recommendations Although Payless has made some bold and aggressive steps in recent history in order to further strengthen their position in the marketplace, we feel Payless needs to initiate changes on four unique planes. Continued and expanded efforts in pricing strategies and product differentiation, a refined domestic retail system, new strategic marketing initiatives, and a revised overseas expansion policy are all necessary for Payless to realize sustainable competitive advantages in

Epic of Beowulf Essay -- Epic of Beowulf Essays

Chivalry is Yet, Not Dead In some select stories of old/middle english, we can see that people have been fascinated by ideals of heroism, chivalry, and what we now refer to as romance for a very long time. I will argue in this document, that our fascination with such imaginary laws has never ceased, and in some ways is even more fantastic. Every further mention of romance will refer to all of these ideas, the way it did when the term was introduced into english. If all things are to be considered this short essay would turn into a book. I would like to compare and contrast Beowulf, Lanval, and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with some of the modern day creations especially in looking at the values, and belief systems in all of the three â€Å"classic† stories. I will apologize in advance to those who will read this and are not familiar to the texts that are mentioned, due to restrictions in size I must mention all of my topics without specific description of how the stories are told, please at least re ad â€Å"Beowulf† before considering this essay. Beowulf has and will live in the hearts of many people today, whether they have actually read and studied the text itself or they have merely been exposed to modern movies, books, and music that idealize a classical heroic ideal.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   We might consider in this topic the modern police officer, soldier, paramedic, FBI/CIA agent, and any who take on with their livelihood the motto â€Å"to protect and to serve.† I believe we will most likely see and inherent desire for honor, and for glory. These in certain individuals seem to overpower the desire and will to help other people. A scholar by the name of George P. Fletcher states when looking at romanticism and its opposites, â€Å"On the one hand, we have stability, order, universality, and the boredom of the predictable and domestic. On the other hand, we have revolt, disorder, partiality, and the intense flames of lust and creativity. This is, of course, the way Romantics might describe the sentiments that move them† (p. 17). He even goes on to hint that the reason we have waged war on Iraq was because of romantic ideas. We'll stay away from that debate in this essay and just say that the idea of glory and honor is summed up completely in â€Å"Beowulf† by the line †Heaven swallowed the smoke† (L. 3155), in Lanval when he will not lie, despite the costs, despa... ...ork:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Norton. 2000. Alexander, Michael, trans. Beowulf. Harmondsworth: Penguin, 1973. Bradley, S. A. J., trans. â€Å"Beowulf.† Anglo-Saxon Poetry: An Anthology of Old English   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Poems in Prose Translation with Introduction and Headnotes by S. A. J. Bradley.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Everyman's Library. London and Melbourne: Dent, 1982. Chaucer, Geoffrey. â€Å"The Canterbury Tales.† The Norton Anthology of English Literature:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  6th edition New York: Norton. 1996 Donaldson, E. Talbot. â€Å"Beowulf: A New Prose Translation.† The Norton Anthology of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  English Literature: 6th edition. New York: Norton. 1996. Fletcher, George P. Romantics at War. Princeton: Princeton UP. 2002 Laven, David, and Lucy Riall. Napoleon's Legacy: Problems of Government in Restoration   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Europe. Berg. 2000

Since X Ray Was Discovered Health And Social Care Essay

Since X ray was discovered by Roentgen in 1895, its medical application has grown to be a fast and dynamic imaging mode. Today ‘s imagination section consists of an impressive array of diagnostic and curative devices from x-ray machines, CT Scan, PET Scan, additive gas pedal, which chiefly use ionising radiation for diagnosing and intervention of unwellnesss ; and with the add-on of ultrasound and MRI that use sound moving ridges and magnets for diagnosing alternatively of X raies. Therefore, radiology is considered as the window of the healthcare establishment and the radiologic engineers are the individuals behind these state-of-the art machines. In the x-ray section, one of the divisions of radiology section, the x-ray machines are used for diagnosings of unwellnesss. For 100 old ages the film-screen system has been the imaging system of pick. This system uses radiographic movie, screen and wet chemical science to bring forth an image merely like conventional picture taking. Every RT ‘s end is to supply high quality images for accurate diagnosing ; hence each measure is really critical. The RT must be equipped with cognition and accomplishments from anatomy, positioning and exposure techniques. One little error can endanger the image and outputs an unacceptable radiogram which entails repetition scrutiny that chiefly means extra radiation dosage to the patient. This is one of the disadvantages of a film-screen system wherein one time the movie has been processed ; there is no manner to change it. What you see is what you get. Fortunately, with the turning engineering of imaging modes came the debut of digital imaginati on which follow the same construct as digital cameras wherein brightness and contrast of the image can be changed and images can now be cropped. Its advantage compared to film-screen is really obvious, since images can be altered, repetition scrutinies, oftentimes is no longer necessary. The engineering is brilliant and its introduction has grown the wonder of every RT whether it is efficient compared to the traditional system. And of class, it is. However, as with every other engineering has its drawback. Since the new engineering chiefly uses computing machine and computer-aided equipments oftentimes do the full occupation. The inquiry lies wherein will the competency of the RT in footings of exposure technique factors be same as utilizing the conventional manner? Several international surveies stated that because of the convenience of the system, the RTs utilizing the machine oftentimes fail to see the criterion protocols in every technique choice because images can be manipulated subsequently. Change of images from clip to clip should non be a day-to-day scenario because use sometimes interfere accurate diagnosing. As of the research workers ‘ cognition, there are no known local related surveies in the diminution of RT ‘s competency in utilizing CR. One of the grounds may be this mode is still in the phase of debut in the Philippines and that its deduction is non yet intensively studied. But this does non halt the research workers to seek of happening out if there is so a diminution in RT ‘s competency with the new system. This survey is a comparative-correlational research in finding the degree of radiographic competency between film-screen system and CR on exposure technique factor choice. The chief aims of the research workers are to compare if there is a important difference in footings of radiographic competency in the RT who uses film-screen from CR and to find if the respondents profile and bureau has a important relationship in footings of radiographic competency. Base on the consequence of the survey, the research workers will be able to measure the indispensable acco mplishments needed for the profession. Technology so has helped us in many ways. However, without the competency of the professional manipulating the equipment is futile. This means that the engineer who has the exclusive duty of manning the state-of-the art equipment should non trust from engineering, alternatively engineering should trust on them.REVIEW OF LITERATUREThis survey chiefly aims to compare the degree of radiographic competency on exposure technique factor choice between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy ( CR ) . Exposure technique factor choice is an of import foundation for these two types of image receptor ( IR ) or imaging system. Image receptor is a device that converts X raies into seeable visible radiation. Competence should non change whether the radiologic engineer ( RT ) is utilizing the conventional or digital system, otherwise, it will get the better of the intensive survey of the exposure techniques during the undergraduate old ages. Furthermore, s upplying appropriate exposure techniques is paramount in the profession since these techniques besides mean radiation dose on the portion of the patient. Harmonizing to Fauber & A ; Johnston ( 2012 ) , the radiographer ‘s actions at the control panel straight determine the nature and the makeup of the x-ray beam. This means that the selected exposure technique factor is straight relative to patient dosage. In add-on, it is the duty of the radiographer to larn the doctrine, factors and methods that minimizes ionising radiation exposure to the patient ( Callaway, 1996 ) . This besides means that an RT is supplying quality patient attention when he/she gives an adequate and necessary sum of radiation to the patient.Competence in Radiologic TechnologistKlemp ( 1980 ) defined competency as â€Å" an implicit in feature of a individual which consequences in effectual and/or superior public presentation on the occupation. † A competent individual is imbued with the right cogni tion, accomplishments and attitude on a peculiar undertaking. Other writers define competency as â€Å" a bunch or related cognition, accomplishments, and attitudes that reflects a major part of one ‘s occupation, which has a relationship in the public presentation on the occupation that can be measured with well-accepted criterions, and that can be improved with preparation and development ( Parry, 1996 ) . † In radiologic engineering, for illustration, an freshly licensed RT already possess cognitive and motor accomplishments at an entry degree, nevertheless, it can merely be enhanced through proper and consistent preparation in a chosen specialised field during the class of his/her work as an RT.Knowledge, Skills, AttitudeAs mentioned, competency is a combination of cognition, accomplishments and attitudes. These constituents are indispensable as a whole because the absence of one constituent greatly affects 1s public presentation. Harmonizing to Dowd ( 1996 ) , cogn ition as portion of competency includes theories and constructs which were gained as a consequence of the experience of executing certain undertakings. Furthermore, in the field of radiologic engineering he added that cognition includes job-specific nomenclature, methods of forming information and an apprehension of rules and generalisations. On the other manus, Hans Reynold in 1928 defined accomplishment as combined mental and physical qualities which make it utile to industry. Knowledge if combined with accomplishments is of import in the workplace. Furthermore, one can non develop a accomplishment without cognition and at higher degrees, cognition are converted to accomplishments ( Klieme, 2004. ) The last constituent that determines competency is the attitude. The attitude such as beliefs, values, traits, and motivations is a portion of competency because it indicates the individual ‘s response to a peculiar event or state of affairs. Attitude refers to the sensitivity or mental province of individuals/users towards a merchandise, thoughts, or attributes. It besides implies on mental preparedness on a peculiar object or his properties toward an object or his penchants. ( Hulse & A ; Dowd, 1996 ) . In the field of radiologic engineering, competency does non merely intend that the RT is equipped with the cognition and accomplishments but RT is besides imbued with the right attitude and judgement to supply each patient with quality attentionOn Radiographic CompetenceIn the field of radiologic engineering, one facet of the profession requires competent accomplishments in radiographic exposure factor technique. The said competency is indispensable particularly in the diagnos tic x-ray imagination, wherein exposure factors are the key to accurate diagnosing and supplying radiation dose to minimum degree. For 100 old ages, film-screen technique has been the method of pick in radiographic imagination ( Bushong 2009 ) . Film-screen system uses radiographic movies, radiographic intensifying screens and wet chemical science to do the image seeable. Furthermore, this conventional system should adhere to the criterions of the darkroom demands. Film-screen system has the same construct as a typical conventional camera. In a film-screen technique, radiologic engineer should be certain on the exposure factors to be applied in a peculiar exposure because improper choice of exposure factors can take to overexposure or underexposure of the movie. Overexposure or underexposure degrades image quality and hence, it can take to rejection of movie, therefore necessitates the demand for repetition scrutiny. Repeat scrutiny provides unneeded dosage to the patient and extra costs to the section. On the other manus, as with the other inventions in engineering, diagnostic imagination has shifted its class from conventional to digital. Computer applications are employed presents in diagnostic imagination modes. An appropriate analogy that is easy for most people to understand is the replacing of typical movie cameras with digital cameras: images can be taken, instantly examined, deleted, corrected, and cropped, and later sent to a web of computing machines. Computed skiagraphy system ( CR ) is an low-cost solution to digital imagination. Alternatively of the movie, CR employs an imaging home base to capture x-rays and makes it seeable when the home base is scanned into a computing machine and digitized it. Once the image is converted to informations, it can be recorded on a optical maser printed movie or can be transmitted and stored digitally. It has particular characteristics like use or sweetening of the image. Its specialised package is used to image sing with enhanced maps similar to film-screen system, such as contrast, brightness, and rapid climb. ( dicomsolutions.com, 2011 ) . Computed skiagraphy has practical proficient advantages compared with conventional techniques, such as broad contrast dynamic scope, post-processing functionality, multiple image screening options, and electronic transportation and file awaying possibilities. In this system, image quality can be achieved because of the post-processing techniques that are non possible with film-screen system. This system is convenient for the engineers because the RT can counterbalance for exposure technique inaccuracies by seting the technique during post-processing stage of the image instead than that clip of exposure. In radiologic engineering field, competency agencies that the RT is equipped with the cognition, accomplishments, attitude and judgement to supply each patient with quality attention. Harmonizing to Olavidez ( 2005 ) , competency is indispensable in the field of Radiologic Technology because RT is a fast growth profession ; RT trades with human lives and most of all, the RT course of study is non plenty to fix the pupils to be equipped with the accomplishments necessary for the profession particularly in the particular Fieldss of radiologic engineering. For an RT to go competent, he/she should hold undergone formal educational background followed by specialised preparation in their chosen field that takes months. As an RT, he/she should hold comprehensive cognition and accomplishments in patient attention, radiologic processs and radiation dose.Exposure Technique FactorsExposure technique factors influence and find the measure and quality of X ray to which the patient is exposed ( Bu shong, 2009 ) . Kilovolt extremum ( kVp ) , milliamperage ( ma ) , exposure clip and source-to-image distance ( SID ) are the chief exposure technique factors. Furthermore, the said factors besides affect image quality. Milliamperage and exposure clip are the exposure factors that affects the measure of radiation. Milliampere is the step of x-ray tubing current, whereas milliampere-second ( ma ) is the green goods of exposure clip and exposure tubing current. They straight affect the optical denseness ( OD ) of the movie. Optical denseness is the overall darkening of the movie. The darker the movie, the higher figure of x-rays is given to the patient. The higher the figure of X raies that are the given to the patients, the greater the radiation dose they receive. Source-to-image receptor distance besides affects the measure of the radiation. The closer the patient is to the x-ray beginning, the higher dose the patient gets. For chest X ray, the standard SID is 72 inches, while for the other x-ray scrutinies, the standard SID is 40 inches. Kilovoltage extremum ( kVp ) , straight affects the quality of radiation. kVp is the maximal electric potency that travels across the x-ray tubing. Since kVp affec ts the quality of the x-ray beam, it besides affects the quality of the radiographic image. Kilovoltage straight affects contrast. Contrast is the fluctuation of densenesss on the movie. The advantage of utilizing higher kVp is that the patient will have lower dose of radiation because it will non be absorbed. However, higher kilovoltage produces more spread radiation, therefore increases the transmittal of X raies to the image receptor and degrades image quality. The best techniques to forestall spread radiation are utilizing beam restrictors such as collimator to filtrate low energy X raies and to cut-off low energy beams utilizing radiographic grids. By using beam restrictors and grid will heighten image contrast because spread radiation will be prevented. Furthermore, spread radiation will besides supply unneeded dosage to the patient. Therefore, exposure technique factor choice is indispensable. To supply quality radiogram and to restrict patients to radiation should be a end for every RT. Harmonizing to Bushong ( 2009 ) , RTs are required to utilize their accomplishments to bring forth the best possible image with individual exposure ( Bushong, 2009 ) . Otherwise, repeat scrutiny will supply unneeded radiation dosage to the patient. Therefore, it is necessary for the RT to be equipped with cognition and accomplishments to pull strings these exposure technique factors to bring forth coveted optical denseness, contrast, and image item on the finished radiogram.RT in Film-Screen SystemIn conventional film-screen system, before each scrutiny, the radiologic engineer must choose the optimal radiographic technique factors- kVp, ma, and exposure clip ( Bushong 2009 ) . There are many considerations to find the value of each factor and they are complexly interrelated. Contrast and Density are the photographic factors of the radiogram and it functions to do the image seeable. Visibility of image is of import so that anatomical image will look for proper diagnosing. After each exposure, there is no manner to pull strings its contrast and denseness and that ‘s what makes film-screen system hard as unequal contrast or denseness entails repetition scrutiny. Since use of the image is non possible in this system, the RT should be certain with the technique factors prior to the exposure ; otherwise, misreckonings can ensue to underexposure or overexposure. In a film-screen system, overexposure and underexposure of the image is considered unacceptable because the of import constructions are non seeable and therefore it is non a tool for proper diagnosing. In other words, image quality is dependent on exposure factors.RT in Computed RadiographyIn CR system, image quality is non dependent on exposure factors. Digital image is unrelated to dose, kVp becomes less of import. Since, image quality is non dep endent on exposure factors, image can be manipulated. In a conventional system, the movie serves as both image acquisition and show medium. With CR, the image home base serves as the acquisition medium but does non expose the image. Since these maps are separate in CR, the digital signal can be altered to counterbalance for underexposure or overexposure and an acceptable image can be displayed on the proctor ( Shephard, 2003 ) . With CR system, post-processing is possible that helps heighten image therefore leting the RT to change image contrast and denseness. Since image can be manipulated or modified, underexposure or overexposure is no longer a job with this system, because it can normally salve fluctuations from the optical technique, whereas proficient mistake with a screen-film system frequently requires a repetition exposure ( Pizzutiello, 1993 ; Cesar, 1997 ) . Therefore, with CR, proficient mistakes are eliminated because of exposure discrepancies that are possible with sal vageable consequences, presuming equal kilovoltage is used ( Ballinger, 1999 ) .On Assessment of RT CompetenceIn order to cognize the competency of a professional, assessment plays a critical function. Assessment is of import so as to measure if the RT is still competent to make the occupation. Since we are in the epoch of rapid engineering, it may come to a point that we will merely set our assurance on computing machines instead than our competency. Harmonizing to Olavidez ( 2005 ) , competency is an discernible ability and it can be measured against set of criterions. Appraisal of competency is a combined cognition, accomplishments, and attitudes that reflect the current work pattern. Furthermore, it can bridge the spread between workplace demands and criterion. Choice of exposure technique factor is of utmost importance because RT trades with exposing patients to radiation. Exposure technique factor is tantamount to the quality and the measure of radiation that exits the patient, hence, the RT should be precise in giving exposure technique factors. Supplying appropriate radiation dosage is necessary to forestall the patients from the jeopardies of the ionizing radiation, hence anterior to the exposure of the patient, accurate exposure techniques should be practiced. The issue of supplying accurate techniques lies in a digital system, wherein images can be manipulated during post-processing. Harmonizing to Fredrick Walker ( medicalimagingmag, 2008 ) , a radiologic engineer at Sharp Rees-Stealy in San Diego, CA, he pointed out if the image is excessively dark, we can pull strings the image utilizing post-processing techniques like windowing or shadowing or to set contrast without holding to reiterate the scrutiny. Furthermore, since image can be manipulated during post-processing, it can promote complacence instead than truth with exposure techniques which can ensue in overexposed or underexposed images ( Medicalxray, 2010 ) . In add-on, harmonizing to Enfinger ( 2012 ) , that it is true that the image can be adjusted, nevertheless, it is non recommended because the natural information from the initial exposure will incorporate information from spread radiation that degrades image quality even if it is manipulated subsequently. Harmonizing to Shephard ( 2003 ) , it is likely that digital imagination will replace conventional screen-film skiagraphy in many modern medical imagination centres in the close hereafter. It has already been stated that even if the image can be manipulated during post-processing, this should non be a pattern because somehow it can deteriorate image quality which consequences in inaccurate diagnosing. One retrospective analysis of patients who had undergone lumbar spinal column radiogram for the diagnosing of osteoporosis comparison diagnostic truth with screen-film versus digital skiagraphy. The writers suspected that bone mineral loss could be more easy seeable with screen-film imaging due to the fact that image contrast can non be adjusted with this mode, whereas CR ( and DR ) images undergo digital post-processing techniques to maximise contrast. This could ensue in misdirecting consequences that confound diagnostic strength in osteoporosis. Therefore, this is a challenge now for the RT to keep their competency amidst the assistance of engineering. Competence of RT is the foundation of supplying quality patient attention by supplying appropriate radiation dosage for accurate diagnosing.SynthesisThe focal point of the literature and surveies cited was the radiographic competency of RT between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy and it is through this survey that the research workers can place and compare whether their competency will differ based on the image receptor that is being used. In add-on, competency in exposure technique factors is indispensable because this will besides intend radiation dosage to the patient. It has already been affirmed that the construct has been there for the past few old ages and hence the present survey is surely non a new construct. Nevertheless, the research workers deemed it necessary to carry on a survey measuring the competency of the RT for the benefit of the establishment whe re they belong because the research worker wants to suggest a professional plan that could beef up the foundation of the RTs ‘ . It is besides of import for the school to offer the plans since about the RT from the different infirmaries in Davao City are merchandises of this establishment. This survey is similar to the other surveies cited in this subdivision because it stated on the effects of digital imagination on the radiographic competency of the RTs. Furthermore, old surveies dealt with the effects of image use on image quality and it indirectly link to the competency of the RTs.Conceptual ModelIn this position, the research workers attempted to measure the degree of radiographic competency of the RTs in footings of cognition, accomplishments and attitude. Through measuring the competency of the RTs, the research workers are able to find the degree of radiographic competency ; their strengths and failing of radiographic techniques. On the other manus, the research workers identified the factors that can impact their competency, such as the respondents ‘ demographic profile in footings of age, sex, figure of old ages in service and educational attainment and the profile of establishment such as bureau and its categorization are besides considered. To hold a graphic image of the survey, Figure 1 served as the research paradigmSCHEMATIC DIAGRAMIndependent Variables Dependent VariablesFactorsRespondents ‘ ProfileAge Number of old ages in serviceAgencyPrivate PublicImage ProcessingFilm-Screen System Computed RadiographyDegree of Radiographic CompetenceCognition Skills AttitudeFigure 1Conventional Diagram demoing the relationship between the independent and dependent variablesSTATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMThe survey aims to compare the degree of radiographic competency in utilizing a film-screen system and computed skiagraphy on exposure technique factor choice ; specifically it aims to reply the undermentioned inquiries: What is the respondents ‘ profile in footings of: Age Number of old ages in service What is the bureau of the health care establishments in footings of: Private Public What is the degree of the respondents ‘ radiographic competency in utilizing film-screen system on exposure technique factor choice in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude What is the degree of the respondents ‘ radiographic competency in utilizing computed skiagraphy on exposure technique factor choice in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude Is there a important relationship between the respondents ‘ profile and the degree of radiographic competency in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude Is there a important relationship between the bureau of health care establishment and the degree of radiographic competency in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude Is there a important difference in the degree of radiographic competency between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy in footings of: Cognition Skills AttitudeHypothesisThere is no important relationship between the respondents ‘ profile and the degree of radiographic competency in footings of: Age Number of old ages in service There is no important relationship between the bureau of the healthcare establishment and the degree of radiographic competency in footings of: Public Private There is no important difference in the degree of radiographic competency between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy in footings of: Cognition Skills AttitudeDEFINITION OF TERMSAccuracy- refers to the grade of conformance of a measured or calculated value to its existent or specific value. Computed Radiography- is an low-cost solution of digital imagination system that uses a photostimulable phosphor as the image receptor. Digital Radiography- an all-digital technique in which x-ray soaking up is quantified by assignment of a figure to the sum of x-rays making the sensor ; this is besides called as cassetteless system. Exposure- step of ionisation produced in air by X raies or gamma beams. Exposure Factor Selection. It is the factor set by the radiographer ( kVp, and ma ) to bring forth visibleness of constructions in the radiogram. Film Screen System- is the conventional image receptor that uses radiographic movie, radiographic escalating screen and wet chemical science to visualise the image in the radiogram. Image receptor- is a device that converts x-ray beam into seeable image. Degree of Radiographic Competence- refers to the step of the degree of competency of the radiologic engineer in accomplishing ends and aims in supplying quality radiogram with minimal radiation dosage to patients. Private hospital- is a infirmary owned by a net income company or a non-profit organisation and in private funded through payment for medical services by patients themselves. Public hospital- is a infirmary which is owned by the authorities and have authorities support.Significance OF THE STUDYThis survey seeks to find if there is a important difference on the degree of the respondents ‘ radiographic competency in exposure technique factor choice between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy ; and to find if there is a important relationship on the degree of radiographic competency between respondents ‘ profile and bureau. Based on the consequences of this survey, the research workers can place the strengths and failings of the RTs and if it shows important diminution in the competency of the RT in the CR system, the research workers will suggest an enhancement plan for the professionals. The said plan will besides be a portion of the Continuing Professional Education ( CPE ) , and it will be added to the CPE units needed to regenerate RT licences. This survey will be most helpful to the radiology section of the infirmary to heighten Health Care Delivery by restricting radiation dosage to the patients. Furthermore, finding the attitude toward the imagination system will assist the section to reassess the mental and the emotional province of the RT ‘s. Mental and Emotional province of the RT are of import since they are covering with patients. It is the duty of the RT to render quality patient attention by supplying appropriate radiation dosage. Furthermore, this survey will besides be of most helpful to the schools offering radiologic engineering as to escalate the foundation of the pupils in footings of exposure technique factors. Based on the consequence of the survey, there may be a demand to revise the course of study to further escalate the accomplishments of the RT pupils. Computed Radiography is non a portion of the standard RT course of study, and it may be one factor that affects the diminution of competency on the portion of the professional every bit good as the pupils.Chapter 2MethodologyThis part discusses the research design used, the research venue where the survey will be conducted, the description of samples and the sampling technique, the instrument used, the inside informations of process and the statistical analysis to reply the research job.Research DesignThe survey will use a comparative-correlational research. To find the difference between the degree of competency in film-screen system and computed s kiagraphy, comparative survey will be used. Furthermore, to find the relationship between the respondents profile and bureau between the degrees of the radiographic competency, correlational design will be employed.PutingThe survey will be conducted from the selected infirmaries in Davao, Digos and Tagum City using either film-screen system and computed skiagraphy. The infirmaries utilizing film-screen system are the undermentioned: Alexian Brothers Health and Wellness Center, Km. 4, McArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City ; Davao Regional Hospital, located at Apokon, Tagum City 8112 and Davao Del Sur Provincial Hospital which is located at Lapu-lapu St. Digos, City Davao Del Sur. On the other manus, the infirmaries utilizing the computed skiagraphy system are the undermentioned: Davao Doctors Hospital ( DDH ) , E. Quirino Ave. , Davao City ; Southern Philippines Medical Center ( SPMC ) , J.P Laurel Ave. , Bajada, Davao City and Davao Medical School Foundation and Hospital ( DMSF ) , M edical Drive, Bajada, Davao City.ParticipantsThe respondents of the survey are the Registered Radiologic Technologists and Associate X-ray Engineers coming from the selected infirmaries in Davao City using a film-screen and computed skiagraphy system. Furthermore, the qualified respondents should be at least six months in service at the clip of the rating.MeasuresThe research appraisal is composed of four parts. The first portion of the appraisal consists of inquiries refering to the profile of the respondents and infirmary. The 2nd portion consists of inquiries on the respondents ‘ degree of cognition on exposure technique factor choice. The inquiries are specifically structured in such a manner that assesses the respondents ‘ acquired cognition on technique choice. Based on the consequences, the attitude in footings of respondent ‘s response in both film-screen and CR system will be categorized as follows depending on their average mark:Points Obtained Qualitative Description30-25 Very High 20-24 High 15-19 Reasonably High 10- 14 Low 13- 0 Very LowInterpretationThe aforesaid appraisal signifier that will be used as instrument of the survey is constructed and designed by the research workers as to mensurate the basic cognition in exposure technique factor choice regardless of the imagination system used. Its cogency and dependability was attested by experts of the field. Furthermore, the 3rd portion of the appraisal is an existent rating wherein the respondents are observed during x-ray scrutiny. They will be assessed in the existent choice of the exposure technique factor and the result of the image. The said appraisal is a point system ; the appropriate the RT performs in technique factor choice and the acceptable the image, the higher the points. Based on the consequences, the degree of radiographic competency in footings of respondent ‘s accomplishments will be categorized as follows depending on their average mark:Points Obtained Qualitative Description10 Very high degree of radiographic accomplishments 7-9 High degree of radiographic accomplishments 4-6 Reasonably low degree of radiographic accomplishments 1-3 Low degree of radiographic accomplishments Low degree of radiographic accomplishments means that the respondents were non able to execute the appropriate exposure techniques and came up with an unacceptable radiogram. Reasonably low degree of radiographic accomplishments means that they were non able to execute appropriate exposure techniques and came up with a passable radiogram. High degree of radiographic accomplishments means that they were able to come up with a quality radiogram but did non execute appropriate exposure techniques. Last, really high degree of radiographic accomplishments means that they were able to come up with a quality radiogram and performed appropriate exposure techniques. The appraisal is limited in the x-ray scrutiny of the skull and thorax. Furthermore, the last portion of the appraisal is consists of inquiries sing the attitude of the respondents. The respondents ‘ attitude will be assessed base on their attitudes about the imagination system and its facets. The research workers will use the Likert Scale wherein the respondents are asked to bespeak a grade of understanding and dissension with each of a series of statement. The consequences will be categorized as follows depending on their average mark:Points Obtained Qualitative Description5 Strongly Agree 4 Agree 3 Indifferent 2 Disagree 1 Strongly differ In add-on, the research workers will utilize purposive sampling as to measure up the respondents for the survey.Ethical ConsiderationResearch blessing will be obtained through the research reappraisal section or human resources section from the six infirmaries. To promote voluntary engagement of the RTs ‘ in this survey, the cover missive of the intent and nature of the survey, informations confidentiality, and research support will be attached. The namelessness of the respondents will be ensured.Procedures1. Letter inquiring for permission. 2. After the blessing of the proposal of this survey, the research worker will organize with the human resource section and the radiology section caputs. Once approved by radiology caputs, the research workers will get down the rating procedure. The research workers will aim two months in assemblage of informations get downing October 1- November 1. Based on the consequence, the research workers will so place the area/s of troubles by the respondents and so proposed an enhancement plan for the professional concentrating on the failings identified.Datas AnalysisThe undermentioned statistical methods will be utilized for the analysis of the informations and reading of the consequences:To reply the undermentioned jobs, obtaining Frequency, Mean and Percentage will be employed.What is the respondents ‘ profile in footings of: Age Number of old ages in service What is the bureau of infirmary in footings of: Private Public 3. What is the degree of the respondents ‘ radiographic competency in utilizing film-screen system on exposure technique factor choice in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude 4. What is the degree of the respondents ‘ radiographic competency in utilizing computed skiagraphy on exposure technique factor choice in footings of: Cognition Skills AttitudeThe Pearson Product-Moment Coefficient of Correlation will be used to correlate the respondents ‘ degree of radiographic competency and the ( 1 ) respondents ‘ profile and ( 2 ) profile of the healthcare establishment. It seeks to reply the undermentioned jobs:5. Is there a important relationship between the respondents ‘ profile and the degree of radiographic competency in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude Is there a important relationship between the bureau of health care establishment and the degree of radiographic competency in footings of: Cognition Skills AttitudeLast, T-test will be used to compare the degree of respondents ‘ competency between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy:Is there a important difference in the degree of competency between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy in footings of: Cognition Skills Attitude The processing will be done with the usage of SPSS.Scope and RestrictionThe chief intent of the survey is to find if there is a important difference on the degree of the radiographic competency of radiologic engineers on exposure technique factor choice between film-screen system and computed skiagraphy. Furthermore, the research workers will besides seek to find if there is a important relationship on the degree of radiographic competency between radiologic engineers ‘ profile and bureau. The research workers will use the three competences viz. : Knowledge, Skills and Attitude. The survey is limited merely to six health care establishments in Davao, Digos and Tagum City with the following profile:Name of Hospital Image Receptor AgencyAlexian Brothers Wellness Center Film-Screen System Private Davao Doctors Hospital Computed Radiography Private Davao Del Sur Prov. Hospital Film-Screen System Public Davao Regional Hospital Film-Screen System Public DMSF Computed Radiography Private SPMC Computed Radiography Public Furthermore, the survey is limited to skull and chest scrutiny. Since the survey discusses the quality and measure of radiation, nevertheless, it does non cover the radiation dose the patient receives. The survey merely focuses on the image quality based on the exposure techniques -kVp, ma and SID- selected by the respondents.Appendix 1: Communication LetterRaymund CS. Del Val Davao Doctors Hospital President Thru: Mirasol B. Tiu Director Human Resources Department Beloved Sir/Madam: We would wish to seek permission to carry on our survey in this establishment specifically in the Radiology Department. Our survey is entitled â€Å" Radiographic Competence between Film-Screen System and Computed Radiography on Exposure Technique Factor Selection † . The chief aim of this research is to place the radiographic competency between the radiologic engineers ‘ using film-screen image receptor and computed skiagraphy ( CR ) . Through your engagement, we finally hope to find if competency in exposure technique choice varies or non. We assured that this information will be held in confidential and will be used merely to broaden the position of our survey. Your blessing on this affair will be extremely appreciated. Respectfully Yours,Dannalyn D. Ibanez, RRT Jules King Defensor, RRTResearcher Researcher DDC- RT Department DDC- RT DepartmentTheresa T. Eguia, RRTResearch worker DDC- RT Department Noted By: Joshua P. Sero Dr. Lucila T. Lupo RT Program Chair Head of Research Dept.Appendix 2: COVER LETTERDear Respondent, We are the module of Davao Doctors College- Radiologic Technology Department and soon carry oning a survey entitled â€Å" Radiographic Competence between Film-Screen System and Computed Radiography on Exposure Technique Factor Selection † The chief aim of this research is to place the radiographic competency between the radiologic engineers ‘ using film-screen image receptor and computed skiagraphy ( CR ) . Through your engagement, we finally hope to find if competency in exposure technique choice varies or non. Enclosed with this missive is a brief questionnaire that asks a assortment of inquiries. The questionnaire is composed of five parts. First portion is your personal profile. Second, is your establishments ‘ profile. The 3rd portion is a quiz-type that measures your cognition about exposure factor techniques on skull and chest scrutiny. In the 4th portion, we, the research workers will detect you based on your existent choice of the exposure techniques during the x-ray scrutiny. And in conclusion, we will be inquiring sing your attitudes and positions toward your current occupation as an RT. Your replies and responses are confidential and will be used for research purposes merely. We hope you will take a few proceedingss to finish this questionnaire. Without the aid of people like you, research on radiographic competency could non be conducted. Your engagement is voluntary and there is no punishment if you do non take part. If you have any inquiries or concerns about finishing the questionnaire or about take parting in this survey, you may reach us at 222-0853 local 107 or 09161932693 or you can e-mail us at danna_rrt @ yahoo.com. Sincerely,Dannalyn D. Ibanez, RRT Jules King C. Defensor, RRTResearcher Researcher DDC- RT Department DDC- RT DepartmentTheresa T. Eguia, RRTResearch worker DDC- RT DepartmentAppendix 3: Samples of QuestionnairesDegree of Competence in Exposure Technique Factor SelectionEvaluation FormPart I: Respondent ‘s ProfileName ( Optional ) : ______________________________ Rating: _____________ Sexual activity: ______________________ Date: ______________ Age: _________ Number of Years in Service: ________Part II: Healthcare Institution ‘s Profile:Type of Institution: ( ) Primary ( ) Secondary ( ) Tertiary Type of Imaging System: ( ) Film Screen ( ) Computed RadiographyPart III: CognitionSKULL RADIOGRAPHYThymineFIn skiagraphy of skull, particularly for paediatric and geriatric patients, short exposure clip is required. 2. Use of grid is required in skull skiagraphy 3. In skull skiagraphy, wherein a smaller field size is required exposure factors may hold to be increased. 4. In skull imagination, a 15 % addition in kvp should be accompanied by half decrease in mom. 5. Skull skiagraphy requires a high contrast image, which requires a high kvp choice. 6. When utilizing a grid, it may non be necessary to increase the exposure factor. 7. When exposure factor is done with the usage of bucky, it is of import to see an addition of ma to keep the movie denseness. 8. In skull skiagraphy, the usage of medium kVp and short exposure clip and the highest possible ma is recommended. 9. It is necessary to increase kVp when an x-ray requisition indicates status such as: hydrocephaly, osteochondroma, and Paget ‘s disease. 10. A sidelong skull place will necessitate lesser exposure than PA skull X ray. 11. When tube angulation is applied during skull x-ray, there is an addition in exposure severally. 12. 40 inches distance is used during skull skiagraphy to obtain appropriate degree of denseness. 13. Skull with injuries due to vehicular accident will necessitate lesser exposure factor. 14. ma is the factor of pick for skull process. 15. Skull process with air spreads due to trauma, kVp is the factor of pick.CHEST RADIOGRAPHYThymineF1. Aerated tissue such as lungs require high sum of exposure to enter appropriate degree of denseness. 2. The thickness of the thorax is normally measured with callipers as a usher to the proper ma choice. 3. In portable thorax X ray, the ma value is decreased. 4. Pathological status of the thorax may non be taken into history in gauging the electromotive force value. 5. To find farther the pathology emphysema the usage of lower kVp exposure requires. 6. By and large, kV should be high plenty to ensue in sufficient contrast to show the many sunglassess of grey needed to visualise the finer lung markers. 7. Chest skiagraphy requires the usage of high mas and long exposure clip to minimise the opportunity of gesture and attendant loss of unsharpness. 8. Chest transcending 30cm in thickness requires an addition non merely in ma but besides in kVp 9. In pleural gush, normal thorax technique will ensue in underexposed image. 10. 72 inches distance is officially use during chest skiagraphy to obtain appropriate degree of denseness. 11. In chest x-ray utilizing air spread technique, normally gives lower patient dosage. 12. Chest is considered as a low contrast anatomy. 13. In patients with pneumonia, it is ever appropriate to diminish exposure techniques. 14. In patients with pneumothorax, it is ever appropriate to increase exposure techniques. 15. By and large, as grid ratio additions, patient dosage will diminish.Part IV: SkillsExposure Technique Factor SelectionMarkDid the engineer usage calliper to mensurate the thickness of the portion? ( to use appropriate kVp ) 1 point. 2. Make the engineer suitably use radiographic grids? 1 point. 3. Make the engineer collimate the portion of involvement? ( collimation reduces spread radiation therefore provides high contrast image ) 1 point. 4. Make the engineer usage appropriate source-to-image distance ( SID ) ? 1 point.Radiographic ImageIs the radiogram acceptable in footings of contrast? 2 points. ( 2- acceptable 1- moderate 0- unacceptable ) Is the radiogram acceptable in footings of denseness? 2 points. ( 2- acceptable 1- moderate 0- unacceptable ) Is the image decently collimated? 1 point Is there a presence of image fuzz? ( Long exposure clip contributes to image fuzz ) 1 point.EntirePart V: AttitudeFor Film-Screen user:Film-Screen SystemStrongly AgreeAgreeIndifferentDisagreeStrongly Disagree1. Film-Screen imagination system still is the best mode of pick in bring forthing a quality radiogram. 2. Film-Screen imagination system gives more accurate consequences compared to digital system. 3. Film-Screen imagination system is the most convenient mode in choosing proper exposure technique. 4. Since I can non pull strings the image in a Film-Screen system, I should be precise in choosing kVp and ma in every scrutiny. 5. If the image becomes underexposed, I normally do repeat scrutinies. 6. If the image becomes overexposed, I normally do repeat scrutinies. 7. I normally choose high exposure factors in Film-Screen. 8. Collimation is really of import in Film-Screen. 9. I think film-screen bounds patient radiation dosage. 10. I feel that my competency on exposure technique factor choice is great in film-screen system. For Computed Radiography user:Computed RadiographyStrongly AgreeAgreeIndifferentDisagreeStrongly Disagree1. CR is the best mode of pick in bring forthing a quality radiogram. 2. CR gives more accurate consequences compared to digital system. 3. CR is the most convenient mode in choosing proper exposure technique. 4. Since I can pull strings the image in a CR system, sometimes I am non certain in choice of kVp and ma. 5. If the image becomes underexposed, I normally do repeat scrutinies. 6. If the image becomes overexposed, I normally do repeat scrutinies. 7. I normally choose high exposure factors in CR. 8. There is no demand for collimation since cropping is available during station processing in CR. 9. I think CR bounds patient radiation dosage. 10. I feel that my competency on exposure technique factor choice is lesser in CR.Appendix 4: MentionBooksBallinger, PW, Frank ED: Merill ‘s Atlas of Radiographic Positions and Radiologic Procedures, Volume 3, 9th erectile dysfunction. St. Louis, Mosby-Year Book, 1999 Bloom BJ, erectile dysfunction. Taxonomy of Educational Aims: Cognitive Domain. New York, NY: David McKay Company ; 1956. Bontrager, K, Lampignano, J: Textbook of Radiographic Positioning and Related Anatomy 7th erectile dysfunction. Singapore, Mosby, 2010. Bushong, SC: Radiologic Science for Engineers: Physicss, Biology, and Protection, 9th erectile dysfunction. St. Louis, Mosby-Year Book, 2001. Callaway, W, Gurley, L: Introduction to Radiologic Techology. Mosby-Year Book Inc. 1996. Cesar LJ: Computed skiagraphy: its impact on radiographers. Radiologic Technology 68:225, 1997. Dowd, SB. The profession ‘s hereafter: leading development. Radiologic Technology. 1992 Fauber TL: Radiographic Imaging and Exposure. ST. Louis, Mosby, 2000. Fauber, TL & A ; Johnston, J: Necessities of Radiographic Physics and Imaging. Mosby. 2012. Klieme, E. et al.The Development of National Educational Standards: An Expertness, Berlin: Bundesministerium fur Bildung und Forschung. 2004. Lauer OG. Principles and Practices of the College-Based Radiography Program. St. Louis, Mo: Warren Green Inc ; 1984. More, C. Skill and the English Working Class, 1870-1914, London: Croom Helm. ( 1980 ) Piaget, J. La psychologie de l'intelligence, Paris: Colin.1947. Pizzutiello RJ, Cullinan JE: Introduction to Medical Radiographic Imaging. Rochester, NY, Eastman Kodak Company, 1993. Shephard, C: Radiographic Image Production and Manipulation. Nashville, Tenessee, 2003. Yumul, R. Introduction to Radiologic Technology with Science, Technology and Society. Manila. 2012DiariesSiddiqui, Nazlee & A ; Khandaker, Shahjahan. Comparison of Services of Public, Private and Foreign Hospitals from the Perspective of Bangladeshi Patients. 2007. Balasubramanian, Siva K. and Wagner A. Kamakura, August. â€Å" Measuring Consumer attitudes towards the market topographic point with tailored interview † , Journal of Marketing Research, Vol. 26. 1989.Unpublished ThesissPabunag, Richard et Al. â€Å" Level of Professional Competence of Radiologic Technologist in Davao City on Factor Selection of X-rays of Skull, Extremities and Chest † . Davao City. 2008.Online BeginningsEnfinger, Jeremy. Subjects in Radiography. April 22, 2012 Medicalxray.com.cn July 12/2010 Dicomsolutions.com ( www.discomsolutions/ds-digital-radiology/acquire.html ) . 2011 Dilulio, Renee. CR versus DR: Which is the Techs Choice? ( hypertext transfer protocol: //www.medical imagingmag.com/issues/articles/2008-05_02.asp. May 2008 hypertext transfer protocol: //www.libraryindex.com/pages/1831/Health-Care-Institutions-TYPES HOSPITALS.html † Health Care Institutions – Types of Hospitals.2007Appendix 5: BUDGETARY RequirementBUDGETARY RequirementManpower ( Representation fee/ Burden fee )Statistician 3,000 Research Adviser 4500 ( Proposal, Final ) Validators of Research Instruments ( 3 ) 900 Meals and bites 1500 Subtotal P 9,900Transportation system Allowance:2 Calendar months 5,330 Office Supplies ( booklets, paper, cartridge, ink ) 1000 A? of the Contingency Fund 1,623TOTAL P 17,853

Gothic Cathedrals Essay

Gothic architecture flourished during the Medieval times or Middle Ages. It evolves from the Romanesque style of architecture. The best example of Gothic architecture are the Gothic Cathedrals, specifically the La Sainte-Chapelle Cathedral in France and the Salisbury Cathedral in England. This paper will discuss the main and identifiable features of Gothic Cathedrals and explore the changes and evolution in floor plans and sculptural program of the exterior of the church from a stylistic and conceptual point of view. It will also explain how Christian religion’s needs and preoccupations changed overtime by using the buildings of La Sainte-Chapelle Cathedral and Salisbury Cathedral. II. Identifiable features: pointed arch, flying buttresses and ribbed vaulting The three most noticeable characteristic of Gothic Cathedrals are its height (tall), spaciousness and good ventilation (light). This is made possible by the development of new style technology, the pointed arch, flying buttresses and the ribbed vaulting. Prior to the use of pointed arch, the roofs of churches in the olden times were supported with a rounded arch. However, architects discovered that with a pointed arch, they can build taller buildings. With a higher building came a new type of buttress that takes care of the weight of the roof by supporting the walls from the outside by leaning arches called â€Å"flying buttresses† which are usually placed one above the other. As a result walls could be made taller and less massive, enabling a wide expanse of wall space for stained-glass windows. Meanwhile, the idea of ribbed vaulting also becomes popular. Instead of the groin vault of the Romanesque period, the Gothic architects discovered that ribs (diagonal arches) could be built that would support the entire weight of the roof. The space between the ribs could then be filled in with lighter material (Dudley & Faricy, 1973, p. 291-295; Perry, 1988, p. 189). With the adoption of these three technological styles, the Gothic cathedrals as compared to the somber, dark churches that preceded it are much higher, lighter and more spacious making it more inviting for the Christians. On the other hand, the concept of allowing more light inside the church is derived from the concept that God is Light. As much as possible partitions in the floor plans were removed so that a dazzling light will emanate from the choir toward the congregation. Moreover, the concept of building tall churches with tall towers and spires conveys the idea of the supremacy and importance of Christian religion in a person’s life especially that it towers above all other buildings surrounding it. Such are the qualities and impression that La Sainte-Chapelle Cathedral and Salisbury Cathedral projects. Both two cathedrals still uses the cross floor plans, the Salisbury cathedral, however, though it contained two transepts, is much simpler than the La Sainte-Chapelle which was built upon the order of the fashionable French monarch, Louise IX. La Sainte-Chapelle is elaborately decorated, the elaborate ornamentation conveying the idea of the wealth of the church and hence the prosperity of the Kingdom (Scott, 2003, p. 21-23; Vauchez, 2000, p. 1228). II. Reflection of Christian needs and Preoccupation of the Middle Ages The Gothic cathedrals, although took many years (even centuries) to build, first began to be created during the Middle ages, a time characterized by feudal wars ,famine and epidemics. In spite of these unfavorable conditions, the Christians took the effort to make a big church, as an expression of their Christian devotion. One notable feature of Gothic stained glass windows, as seen in the two cathedrals, are the paintings of Biblical characters. The primary purpose why they paint them all over the walls is so that the illiterate could picture out what was written in the Bible (Perry, 1988, 189). Le Sainte-Chapelle, howvere, housed important Christian relics collected by Louise IX signifying the preoccupations of the rich Christian monarchs with anything regarding Christianity. The facade of Gothic cathedrals are also elaborately decorated using sculptured human figures ( saints ,kings and peasant life) as the main features, illustrating their growing interest in humanism ideas ( human life and accomplishments) as it replace the usual carvings of animals, fruits and other figures. The story of Christ, specifically his incarnation, decorate the entrance of the church, urging whoever will pay homage or pilgrimage to the church not to admire its gold or cost but to focus their attention to Christ ( Dudley, 1974, p. 291; Scott, 2003, pp. 47-48) . II. Conclusion Gothic Cathedrals, like the Salisbury Cathedral and La Sainte-Chapelle, are the best representative of Gothic art. The knowledge of new style of architectural technology by using a pointed arch, flying buttresses and ribbed vaulting paved the way for a taller , more spacious and well-lighted or ventilated churches. It erased therefore the somber, gloomy aura of the Romanesque churches, and the new concept of God as Light and Supreme was successfully incorporated into the church structure. In spite of the presence of wars, famines and epidemics, this ambitious project was embarked on, signifying the Christian devotion of the people of the Medieval era. Works Cited Dudley, Louise and Austin Faricy. The Humanities, 5th edition. New York: McGraw-Hill Company, 1973. Perry, Marvin. A History of the World. New York: Houghton-Mifflin, Inc, 1988. Scott, Robert A. The Gothic Enterprise: A Guide to Understanding the Medieval Cathedral. Berkeley: University of California Press, 2003. Vauchez, Andre, and et al. Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages. New York: Routledge, 2000.

buy custom Morgan Heritage Family Financial Plan essay

buy custom Morgan Heritage Family Financial Plan essay Families need a committed financial planning for objective and control of home affairs. The financial plan ranges from the small to large depending on the size and general requirements of the family. Importantly, it is prudent to involve professionalism at the time of drafting the plan. Key elements in any family financial plan involve; differentiating want from need, set time for a through home work and maintaining the purchase. The strategies that are involved in differentiating a want from need, perhaps is the most daunting task of most families. Simply, a want is what is most important to you while a need is what you cannot do without. A good financial plan should be systematic and divide into categories from the essential to the least. More Importantly, Family financial plan is meant to secure your future together with that of your family. Overall, it is a common feature across all households to find financial problems, such problems are being behind on debt and credit accumulat ing and being coerced for a second mortgage, are common features in most households. All these problems can be solved through systematic financial management. Morgan Heritage Family Background Morgan Heritage is a family of four, consisting of the Father, Morgan, Mother-Natasha and two daughters, Megan and Laura. Morgan, the father is a consulting physician in New York while Natasha is an accountant with City Bank. They are both 40 years of age while daughter Megan is 18 years old and a sophomore at New York State University. Laura is pursuing her last year in a private high school and is 17 years old. A general overview is that, the family is well endowed with secure occupations; however the needs of the family are overwhelming. For instance, Mr. Morgan takes a monthly salary of $10,000 while his wife is entitled to a monthly salary of $12,000. Megans University tuition demand that she pays a yearly fee of $30,000 while Laura $15,000. Apart from that, the family also has other expenses that they need to cover, such as food, mortgage, insurance, gas and medical. In order to balance these expenses, it is vital that an accurate financial statement is drawn, reflecting on eac h entity within their domestic surrounding. The Morgan`s have devised a system whereby each member of the family has set goals that are categorized into three. The following is a breakdown of Morgan Heritage family goals. Morgan (Father) Short term goals To buy a SUV - Intermediate goals- To pay fees for his daughters - Long term goals - To Start private consultancy firm Natasha (Mother) Short Term Goals- family food - Intermediate goals Liberty and Lauras college upkeep - Long Term Goals - Invest in the stock market Megan (Daughter) Short Term goals finishes College - Intermediate goals dream holiday - Long term goals Secure a rewarding job Laura (Daughter) Short term Goals To finish high school - Intermediate goals Join University - Long term goals Pursue higher education Financial Information Collection Balance Sheet It shows the financial status of the family at a given point in time. The balance sheet contains the assets and the liabilities of the family. In other words, it shows the net worth of the family. In case above, the family has no tangible assets. The family relies on the income of the parents and therefore drawing a balance sheet would not be easy. In other words, the family has monetary assets. This is the major reason why the Morgan family has financial problems. If the family could invest in assets, they would short term assets as well as long term assets. Some of the investment opportunities that earn the family assets include mutual funds. In order to boost its assets column, Morgan family can consider investing in Bonds and Real estate. This will guarantee the family additional source of income which will help offset the family needs that are currently overwhelming. Income statement Income statement shows the sources of money for family such as salary and also how the money will be spent. Income statement relates income with expenses. It shows whether the family is living beyond its means or whether it is living with at par with the income. In the above case, the income totals to $22000 per month. Expenses include, gas, school fees for the two daughters (Megan = $2500 per month and Laura =$1250 per month) Creating a budget Work Sheet The following is a template Category Monthly Budget Amount Monthly Actual Amount Difference INCOME: Wages and Bonuses Interest Income Investment Income Miscellaneous Income Income Subtotal TAXES: Federal Income Tax State and Local Income Tax Social Security/Medicare Tax Income Taxes Subtotal Spendable Income EXPENSES: Mortgage Homeowners/Renters Insurance Property Taxes Home Repairs/Maintenance/HOA Dues Home Improvements FOOD: Groceries Eating Out, Lunches, Snacks UTILITIES: Electricity Water and Sewer Natural Gas or Oil Telephone (Land Line, Cell) FAMILY OBLIGATION Child Support HEALTH AND MEDICAL: Insurance (medical ,Teeth, eye) Unrefunded Medical Expenses, The above work sheet can enable the Morgans Family to have a proper for their finances. Financial Analysis and Advice A professional glimpse into the financial goals of Morgans reveals that, they are short of the expected financial achievement of the overall goals they have set. Relevant and realistic financial measures have to be undertaken in order for them to achieve individual as well as family goals. A more resourceful means of the Morgans to achieve their goals is to get rid of non essential allocations. Given that their total combined income is $22,000, and their estimated expense is $30,000, they are way out of their income bracket. Several financial mechanisms will assist the Morgans get out of this financial doldrums. Creating an expense scheme The first step towards creating an expense plan is creating a budget that is concomitant to the total income of the household. Importantly, have a joint meeting and agree on unnecessary expenses that you can do away with. The second strategy is to use expense reduction strategies and savings friendly methodologies. The fundamentals behind this are to match the family income with the total financial expectations. Also important is for the Morgans to reflect on their earlier budget expenses and make alterations that rhyme with set goals. Further, it is vital that the Morgans set goals that are financially viable using the following key statements. Goals should either aim for, debt reduction, savings and expenses. Also importantly, develop a brand new budget and follow it to the letter. The best known method of following your families spending is to note in detail the exactness of what they spend. This will enable you have a precise plan of item by item and how much it cost. If the budg et becomes too small and restrictive, always be in a position to make adjustments, however, small they make a difference. This a much better way than abandoning your financial plans altogether. It is possible to avoid a domestic financial crisis by drawing up a budget that is realistic and to the point of your expenses and income. Conclusion A possible and realistic method for Morgans is to set up a savings goals scheme. Savings are a positive way in which many families have emerged out of the financial crisis. This works in many circumstances including where families are in abundance of debts. For instance, saving $10 every day will have an accumulative effect to $300 in a month. This can be done through having part of your salary secured in a fixed deposit account. In this way, two things will happen, first you will always have money, and second you will not be able to access it easily. This also ensures that savings are divided into pools. With each pool, there will be a specific purpose and goal. Another important milestone for the Morgans is to always set realistic goals, goals that are achievable. The best way is make short term goals whose feedbacks are foreseeable and viable. Long term goals are unpredictable and are subject to many elements which could interfere with them. All said and done, financial planning r anks high in the success of our homes. It facilitates a quicker way of solving domestic problems and a proof that indeed the finances were not used haphazardly. Buy custom Morgan Heritage Family Financial Plan essay