Assignment 1 free essay sample

Professor Identify the pros and cons of the partnership as a form of ownership. Discuss funding options for small businesses. Determine and discuss how managerial accounting can help managers with product costing, incremental analysis and budgeting. Discuss the basic components of the marketing process using a product or service of your choice as an example. Discuss the roles of social responsibility and technology in the marketing function. A partnership as a form of ownership is formed quite simply. When two or more people get together and come to an agreement on what type of business to take part in, then all parties share investment, profit, and of course loss. Lets discuss the pros and cons ofa partnership. Pros, one of the many things all investors would like to see out weight the cons in anything they are engaged in mentally, physically, and of course financially. First of all, one pro would be how easy it is to create a partnership. We will write a custom essay sample on Assignment 1 or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page You simply get with at least one other person come to an agreement over all the business details, and BAM you have a partnership. Some people are comfortable in erbal agreements but I personally would suggest you get all your partnership details on a written legal document Just in case. Funding is another advantage toa partnership. When two or more people come together to form a business partnership money is invested from all parties involved in turn the business has a stronger financial backing to support it. Not only will the business have a strong financial backing all partners invested may have access to outside money to support the business even further along. One of the best advantages in being in a business partnership is shared responsibility. Shared responsibility is crucial in a successful business and of course partnership. When the business starts to get a bit heavy you can hand it to your partner or partners to carry the work load for a while. You can also look to your partners for moral support when you may think things arent going as stated in your business plan. So far we have heard the pros ofa business partnership but like every bandage that fixes that painful spot you eventually have to pull it off. Cons, the opposite of Pro, the many things that all business investors need to know before investing but never want to hear. You may be thinking since it was a breeze to create this business partnership the rest will come as a breeze. You could your mind; everyone who is a partner is liable for all debts. You and your partners are all Jointly or individually liable for all debts accumulated by the business. For example, lets say your partner or partners are taking the profits the business is making and gambling with it. Your partners blow away all the profits on poker games and skip town what then, thats right you are still liable for any debt accumulated by the business. Another obvious con is your business partners will want to share the rofits made by the business. You cant assume when the business makes profit everyone will agree on saving it. Your partner or partners may want to buy cars, houses, or maybe boats. You dont have total control of the business. Business decisions are made Jointly not on your own. You may run into disagreements that in turn create the other partner to leave the business, or even lead to buying out the other partner. Pros and cons are a great way to see if youre the, partner type, if so make sure you pick the right partner or partners for your business. There are many ther factors in owning and running a business. For example, in order to get your business off the ground you have to find the money to do so. Debt financing is one way you can start up your business. Debt financing is simply going to a bank that knows you have good credit, a good standing history with them, and apply for a small business loan. In the current economy most banks can be very hesitant to offer you the loan so another way is equity. Selling a share of your business meaning you arent solely in charge or will now be sharing the profits may be scary, but it can help you start up your business. After starting up your business you now have to manage the business or appoint someone for the Job. Managing the accounting is a great way to stay on top of product cost, and budgeting. Managerial accounting is detailed data used for inside members of a company. Managerial accounting includes things like cost of the product, cost of shipping, cost of employee benefits, cost of turnover, basically every number available to you and your partners. You can determine if you have the budget to raise wages for your employees to boost employee morale. Each business owner can use the data to do their Job better. You can go to your losses data and determine if your employees are stealing from you. Then determine how much more security you will need in order to prevent product loss. If you or your manager for your business needs to determine if their product was set at the right price they could view the sales data to see if the supply met the demand. If you see that one of your items hasnt been selling very well you can set it at a lower price or you can Just order less of such product. If you see you sold a lot of a particular product you can raise the price as you see fit. You now know if you are the partner ype, you know a couple ways to possibly fund your business, and you know how to manage your data and budget. How are you going to get costumers through your door or buying your product? How will you market yourself? Lets use my dream business as an example. I would like to open up a caf © lounge that serves fair trade coffee, craft beer, and fine wines. In order for me to make any kind of better profit for my business I have to market my business. You have to give the people what they want in my case I would produce amazing cups of coffee. My business would offer a coffee with better taste, and appeal. My coffee would be made with love and not thrown at you in the pickup line simultaneously saying, NEXT. My caf © lounge would major downtown street. Location is important for my caf © lounge so doing a little research of the area by visiting throughout all times of the day to see the amount of traffic the area receives is crucial. Then maybe you can ask around the nearby stores to see if customers purchase a lot of coffee. You can even go to the nearest coffee shop and see what coffee and vibe they offer and simply ask the locals what kind of coffee they like or would like to drink in what kind of atmosphere. After finding your target market, a great location, building your business, affordable product pricing, and setting your hours of operation it is time to promote your business. You can put ads in the local newspaper, ads in local magazines, and maybe even do a commercial broadcast in the tri county area. You will have to set your product apart from all the other competitors. For me coffee is all about personality, process, and taste. In order to retain customers your employees have to be personable, professional, and building customer relationships. Then theres process, customers will see you make heir drink every step of the way making it an enjoyable experience. Lastly is taste, my employees being highly trained baristas will make you a drink to your satisfaction in a timely fashion all the while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for my caf © lounge. Having the best tasting coffee and vibe may do Justice but for long term business it may not be enough this is when you bring in the events. Doing special events with your business such as charities, open mic nights, acoustic Jam sessions, and book clubs is a great way to attract more customers and maintain current ones. Internet is your best friend. Creating a website for your business is an amazing marketing play. It allows your customers to have 2417 access to information, and product choices. You can post updates on new product arrivals, special events, and specific information for each product you offer. The best part about having a website is they can look you up anywhere in the world that offers internet. Another great marketing strategy is purchasing ad space on other websites like a grocery franchise or sports sites. Green marketing is another great way to market your business. Customers love knowing your business is eco friendly by recycling, or using recycled aterial. By simply pushing customers to buy coffee to drink in house rather than take away conserves paper cups in turn less garbage. If customers choose to take to go anyways inform the customers all your paper products are recycled and recyclable. Offering organic treats to eat along with their coffee can promote a green business as well. In the end knowing everything there is to build, manage, and market your business your goal is to have long term profitability. You want to exceed customer satisfaction, you want to blow away the competition, and be prepared for even harder competition in the future. Assignment 1 free essay sample Can sit unsupported on floor for a period of 10-15 minutes. Is able to lean forward to pick up an object while maintaining balance. Can rotate body to look sideways and reach out to grasp a suspended object or to pick up a toy from the floor. Demonstrates energetic movements of entire body while in cot, pram or bath. Is able to advance across the floor by using rolling or squirming movements. Makes attempts to crawl and is occasionally successful. Has the ability to strand by using surrounding objects as support to achieve an upright position. But is unable to lower themselves back to the floor in a controlled fashion. When supported in a standing position, can take steps using alternative feet. Demonstrates a visual awareness of people, objects and events which occur in the environment. When offered an object, they will reach out to grab it. Handles objects eagerly and inquisitively, using hands to manipulate them for examination. We will write a custom essay sample on Assignment 1 or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Pokes at small objects with index finger and uses same finger to point at objects which are out of reach. Can pick up small objects between finger and thumb in a crude ‘pincer’ hold. Can release a held object by dropping it, but is unable to set it down in a controlled manner. Correctly follows the direction of fallen objects, including those falling out of sight. Observes actions of adjacent adults, children and animals with interest for period of a few minutes. Become steady on their feet and display more controlled movements. Can carry an object such as a toy whilst walking. Can climb onto a large chair and turn to sit on it. Kneel without any support and squat to pick up an object. Begin to run steadily but cannot avoid objects. Begin to walk upstairs using a railing, putting two feet on each step. Point to objects that they recognise. Build a small tower using 3-4 blocks. Hold their own spoon when feeding themselves. Hold a pencil with their whole hand or between the thumb and the first two fingers, known as primitive tripod grasp. Can thread large beads onto lace. walks or run by self up and down steps. can stand ,walk and hop. Skilfully climbs trees. Rides a trike expertly . Able to cross arms and legs. Able to throw, catch, Bounce and kick a ball. Dance to music Able to walk on a fine line Able to stand alone on 1 foot for about 1o seconds Can stretch touch toes without moving knees. Can grip strongly with both hands. Able to hop a short distance using both feet. Jump from objects with confidence Able to run and jump avoiding objects Hop with good balance and using both feet and kick a football Able to throw and catch with accuracy Use a two wheeled bicycle with or without stabilisers Skip alternating feet Build towers with blocks high and straight Hold a pencil, write numbers or letters, write their own name May start writing simple stories Walk along bean using arms for balance Use apparatus with skill Increased stamina Use colours naturalistic (green for grass/blue for sky Draw people with features Use a large needle to sew Can ride a 2 wheeled bike quite easily Can skip, hop and run quite confidently Begin to change in appearance and experience puberty Have more control in writing Become more detailed in drawing Growth accelerates Puberty Boys voice changes Girls breast grow Appetites increase Skin may become more oily, causing problems such as acne. Emotional, Social, Behavioural and Moral Newborn– 6 months 9 months –15mts 18 Months – 3 Years 4 – 5 Years 6 – 7 Years 8 – 12 Years 13 to 19 Years New born till 1 month:- Cuddling Shows pleasure at feeding 1-3 months:- Smiles at familiar adult Forces on adult face when being feed Starting to show emotions Take pleasure in sucking Looks in direction when someone is speaking 3-6 months:- Gets pleasure from familiar routine e. g. bedtime bath time Forces on parent/carer giver when feeding Shows enjoyment when cradled Smiles at everyone in their surrounding Stay awake for pro-longed periods At this age 70% sleep through the night 6-9months:- Copies other people emotions Starts finger foods Becomes upset when parent/carer leaves room Becomes shy around strangers Begin to share toys 9-12months:- Likes to chew/suck on objects Drinks from cup with a lid Takes pleasure in making noise with toys Gets pleasure from pointing at what they want Enjoys solitary play Likes familiar adult to be close by ( make strange) Gets pleasure from music and rhyme Know what they want when feeding and at bed time May want a comforter when unsettled

f=ma essays

f=ma essays The table below shows the results including average times and calculations of acceleration: Mass Force (N) Distance Speed (m/s) Average Time (S) Acceleration (m/s theoretically) Acceleration (m/s experiment) Firstly, the speed was calculated by dividing the distance by time. The common formula of speed, distance and time was used to work these results out. The distance is constant at 1metre divided by the average time (measured in seconds) equals to the speed written in the units of metres per second. From working out the speed the acceleration can also be worked out. The acceleration of an object is the rate at which its velocity changes. It is the measure of how quickly an object is speeding. With the results of this experiment the acceleration can be calculated by dividing the speed with average time. This should result to acceleration measured in m/s ². Graph 3 shows as the force of the object increases the acceleration also increases depending on the mass of the object. As the mass becomes heavier the acceleration decreases. Speed (m/s) = Distance (m) Acceleration (m/s ²) = Change in speed (m/s) Time taken (s) Time taken (s) Example: Velocity = distance divided time taken Velocity = 1 metre divided 3,16 seconds Acc = change in speed divided time taken Acc = (0.32 metres per sec - 0 miles per sec) divided 3.16 sec = 0.01 metres per second ² (m/s ²) Force (Newtons) = mass (kilograms) X Acceleration (metres per second ²) Example: Acceleration = force divided mass (F=MA) Acceleration = 0.1 Newtons divided 1 kilogram ...

International Strategy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

International Strategy - Research Paper Example Literature review This is a vital section of this project but while conducting the literature review, care should be taken so that only the relevant information is discussed. This will keep the literature review section specific and to the point. While starting the literature review section, a well defined definition of international strategy will be discussed. For example, with time how the concept of international strategy got modified (Root & Visudtibhan, 1992, p.44). The research conducted by different scholars on multinational companies regarding international strategies used by them will be discussed (Frankenberger, 2006, p.2). In the literature review section, some vital international strategies used by the firms will be explored (Mcfarlin & Sweeney, 2008, p.266). Some of the common mode used by companies to enter in international market will also be discussed (Hitt, Ireland & Hoskisson, 2009, p.225). The information strategy regarding related as well as unrelated diversificat ion will be discussed with help of some vital case studies (Johnson, Scholes & Whittington, p.285-295). Research methodology Being a descriptive research, in this project secondary research will be conducted. Data will be collected from different authenticated sources. As for example, the company website, books from renowned authors, journals and online data base will be used. The research will be a mixed one where quantitative as well as qualitative data will be collected. The aim of this research is to collect information that explains the international strategy used by the fast food industry. As for example how the company decided to avoid beef and pork products in India as these products raised religious issues. Again,... This essay streeses that Being a descriptive research, in this project secondary research will be conducted. Data will be collected from different authenticated sources. As for example, the company website, books from renowned authors, journals and online data base will be used. The research will be a mixed one where quantitative as well as qualitative data will be collected. The aim of this research is to collect information that explains the international strategy used by the fast food industry. As for example how the company decided to avoid beef and pork products in India as these products raised religious issues. Again, considering the preference of rice products over wheat product in Japan, McDonald introduced rice burgers. These are some of the unique international strategies followed by McDonald to cater unique requirement of its highly diversified customer base. The business strategy used by McDonald will be compared against other commonly used international entry model. The advantages as well as disadvantages associated with McDonald’s international business model will be discussed. This report makes a conclusion this will be closing part of the research; hence almost whole of the project will be briefed in this section. The vital finding will also be discussed once again. Finally, considering the analysis and finding of the research, some recommendation will be suggested.

Proposal Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

Research Proposal Example mpany improves conditions of their vehicles by servicing them after three months thus offering excellent services to their customers and minimizing damage on the environment. They have come up with new technology in their vehicles that do not consume a lot of fuel so thus reducing carbon dioxide emission (JÃ ¸rgensen, 2009). Vehicles in this company have achieved high emission standard throughout Europe. In addition, Stagecoach Company has set targets on carbon emission strategies as the main goal in their green program. This has been achieved by introducing an accounting and control system of carbon emission. This program has been linked to their business agenda to ensure transparency to their customers and realize control of carbon emissions. The title going green with stagecoach gives a reflection of the goal of the company. This shows that the company besides making profit from transportation it also cares about the environment. The title passes strong messages to other company on the importance of conserving the environment and sustainably using natural resources for the sake of coming generations. Both the employees and managers of Stagecoach Company will work toward realizing their goal in relation to their title. Our surrounding environment is very important because it carries a lot of natural resources. These resources include forests, rivers, swamps and biodiversity. Human should protect forests because they are habitant of many animals thus destroying forests interferes with biodiversity. These resources have both positive and negative impacts to the environment. Planting of trees help in water catchment as well as preventing soil erosion. Rivers are a source of water to human beings and habitant to aquatic animals like fish. It is also a source of food for both animals and human beings. There are rivers with beautiful scenery that attract tourists hence help in generating revenue. Natural resources should be use sustainably by the current generation

Concrete Elastic Modulus For Various Aggregate Types Construction Essay

Concrete Elastic Modulus For Various Aggregate Types Construction Essay Concrete generally, is an inevitable constructional material in civil Engineering for profitability and economy of designs in life. Therefore, much emphasis must be placed on the efficacy for sustainability of the people to avoid risk of progressive collapse due to the instability of its nature after design. It is a challenge to curb the menace of inadequacy of design for the durability of concrete all day. The heterogeneity of concrete is real to be composed of Cement, Water (uncontaminated), Fine and Coarse aggregates otherwise known as constituent materials. The fossils lie embedded in a matrix of cement, water, fine and coarse aggregates and, are so strong because of the binding ability of the properties, absorbency in nature and most importantly, skilful knowledge of the designers during construction. The volume of concrete occupied by the coarse aggregates is significantly great compared to other properties thereby, playing the biggest role in terms of given desired strength re commended by different professional associations in the world. Concrete also is made up high compressive strength and a low value of tensile strength. It is used to protect corrosion of steel reinforcing bars. The importance to investigate concrete Elastic Modulus for various aggregate types as a parameter which enhances deformation resulting to cracks during serviceability with time is a course that cannot be undermined in the study of concrete properties. This implies that Elastic Modulus is a property that depends on compressive strength and aggregates stiffness. Strength and Stiffness are termed as the most probable important of all the properties of concrete materials considered for suitable structures design. The strength of a material obviously controls the estimation of the collapse load of a structure. Stiffness is important to ensuring un-deflection too much under load as well as dominates the avoidance of buckling of compression members. The characteristic strength of concrete is said to be classified based on designated concrete called strength class that depends on the types of constructions to be executed. When the value of compressive strength is too high there is a probability that most of the structures will be constructed of concrete possessing strength below this value and, too low a value will cause inefficient use of materials. So, it is the characteristic strength value of the cube strength at 28 days below which not more than 5% of the test out comes may be expected to depreciate is the primary concern of every designer at every point in time. The British Standards BS8110 indentifies the clause: The Strength, below which, not more than 5% of specimen will fail to signify strength that is very close to the mean value of a large samples of concrete normally distributed in a Bell-shaped against the frequency. This is idealized that some samples of concrete are stronger while others are weaker in strength and these variations are measure of the standard deviation. 1.20. PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE IN COMPRESSION The properties of concrete in compression are attributed to Short- term and Long-term loadings when discussing the linearity and un-linearity of the stress-strain curve. Short-term loading is used for Normal weight or density concrete and represented the most linear part called the elastic region of the stress-strain curve. The curve defines the uniaxial compressive test performed at normal, average speed on concrete at 28 days. The straight elastic portion describes how stress and strain are closely related before maximum stress is effective. Modulus of Elasticity is a derivative parameter resulting from the slope of this linear portion of the curve and is always larger in value when the strength of the concrete increases. The stress-strain curve shape varies considerably for identical concrete of the same cylindrical strength under the same loading condition and this strange behaviour depicts the variability in concrete samples due to one factor or the other from testing procedures : Nilson, Darwin and Dolon (2004:40). Long-term loading is the creeping nature of concrete with time. This is the continuous loading of concrete beyond 28 days of aged. The deformations of concrete are practically observed at this point in time which are proportional to the magnitude of the stress. At this region on the stress-strain curve, the stress is not longer linear. In addition to the load level, creep depends on the average humidity which is an important parameter to be investigated when designing a concrete. 1.30. THE REVIEW OF OTHER WORKS Based on the review of others, the Magazine of concrete Research(1991), Kaplan revealed that concrete with the same compressive strength may have different dynamic modulus of elasticity of different aggregates. The British Standard Institute CP110, and European Code; model code for concrete structures whereas made no provision but grossly looked at estimating compressive strength only. ACI Code tried in its little way to include a term for concrete density the expression for elastic modulus, since this term is raised to the power of 1.5, it has considerable weighting. But the BS110 has provided bases to satisfy new expressions for estimating the elastic modulus based on the work of Teychenne, to conform to the Stress-strain relationship of concrete such that: Ec28 = Ko + 0.2fcu28 BS8110, Ec28 = 5.5cu28 /à ¡Ã‚ µ) and Et /Ec28 = 0.4 + 0.6ft /f28 where, Ec28 = concrete elastic modulus at 28 days. fcu28 = characteristic concrete strength at 28 days. Ko = stiffness factor of aggregates (usually taken as 20Gpa, and 0.2 is a coefficient) by Teychenne but Code varying from 14 to 26Gpa. t = required age in days. And these expressions have functional relationship which the elastic modulus yields to at all points in time for consistency of analysis of the properties of materials. Hence, this project is only pivoted on the overall ideas and assumptions of the BS8110 to investigation the effects of four aggregate types (Granite, Gravel, Grey Limestone and White Polar Chippings) of the same size of 10mm, on compressive strength at 28 days. OBJECTIVES: To have a thorough justification by testing the effects of these four aggregates on the Elastic modulus of concrete to conform to the generalized approach of the BS8110 expressions. To critically compare and contrast the similarities or uniqueness between the experimental values of compressive strength targeted at 40-50N/mm2 of high strength concrete. To generally examine the aggregates stiffness in relation to Elastic modulus. Comparing compressive strengths of concrete in different proportion by volume of fine coarse aggregates of the concrete samples ( and in this case, 30:70% and 40:60% ratios is used) respectively. To verify the justification that the compressive strength of a cube is feasibly higher than the compressive strength of a cylinder when tested. CHAPTER TWO LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1.0. BACKGROUND Concrete as heterogeneous material is categorized into normal and light weight concrete based on the design performance relating the characteristic strengths and densities of materials to suit appropriate constructions. The high strength concrete is term generally used to mean concrete with a uniaxial compressive strength value greater than 41Mpa, as assumed by the ACI committee 363. This is used for the Design of columns especially of high residential structures, Bridge of longer spans, offshore oil platforms and so on: Nilson, Darwin and Dolan (2004:52). Higher Elastic modulus and coefficient of creep lower reduce long-term deflection in compression. The disadvantages include the reduction in ultimate strain capacity, brittleness in compression and increase the tendency of cracks to occur and not economical. The requirement is of low water-cement ratio below 0.25 according to Nilson, Darwin and Dolan (2004:53). low strength is otherwise known as conventional concrete having the str ength less than high strength concrete according to Bashir, Almusallam and Maslehuddin; In constructional and building Materials (2003: 97-103). High strength concrete is relative to a uniaxial compressive strength that is greater than that which is derived ordinarily in a region because maximum strength of concrete that is currently being produced varies considerably from one region to the other: Bahshir, Almusallam and Maslehuddin (2003:2). Hence, the using of high strength brings about the reduction of cross sectional area and dead loads in a structure. The functional mechanism of concrete depends on the overall constituent materials which are basically cement, water, fine and coarse aggregates in defined proportions with different properties resulting to characteristic strengths. The efficacy of a characteristic strength is attained only when the materials are properly selected, manufactured and designed, and the properties well defined and handled to yield desired result. Several investigators and researchers have revealed through their experimental works the influence of materials composite on the Elastic modulus and Compressive strength. Specifically, the Construction and Building Materials research (2002) and (2003). These respective Materials recognized that concrete should be properly examined as a three phase constituent materials of aggregates, cement and a transition between them. Also, that the transition zone is ranged 10-50 thick and generally seen as being the weakest component of concrete resulting to influence on the mechanical behaviour of concrete as could be compared to volumetric importance according to the Construction and Building Materials (2010:505-512). 2.2.0.THE DEFECTIVES OF HIGH STRENGTH CONCRETE (HSC). The problem of the High Strength Concrete as justified by the Construction and Building Materials (2003:3) is that cracking is more generalize and tends to homogeneous material characteristic as compared to the normal concrete: Bashir, Almusallam, Maslehuddin (2003:97-103). Also, High strength Concrete behaves as a linear elastic property and being subjected to brittleness than Normal concrete strength hence, cumulated that it is paramount to propound data on the mechanical properties of hardened concrete particularly, its strength in relation to the ideas of Bashir, Almusallam, Maslehuddin (2003:97-103); further argued that there is a good correlation between the Engineering properties of concrete such as stiffness factor. Generally, it is understood that besides the constituent materials, Mix design and Stiffness also play importance roles to enhance strength accumulation in concrete design. And the below flow chart may be used simply to illustrate how concrete is form from various materials including design mix to achieve desired strength and durability. DESIGN CONCRETE MATERIALS CEMENT, WATER, FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES MIX-DESIGN PROPERTIES ( Strength, Workability and Durability ) Others Creep and Shrinkage Elastic modulus Fire resistance Resistance to abrasion Thermal conductivity Figure 1: Concrete Flow Chart 2.3.0. DESIGN MATERIALS There are basically three constituent materials of concrete for design purpose namely: Cement. Fine and Coarse Aggregate. Water. 2.3.1. CEMENT Cement as a design material is of various types but more importantly restricted to the Ordinary Port land type for the purpose of this investigation. It constitutes principally of chemical compound such as Dicalcuim and Tricalcium Silicates in different proportions by percentage. Cement fineness and soundness are the most properties of interest to be examined to achieve desired concrete strength according to the British Standard Institution (1991:20). It is believe that High Strength Concrete is resulting from high performance Ordinary Portland cement well ground in good proportion. The Cement paste helps to harden concrete to gain strength through a chemical reaction known as hydration property due to curing at 28 days age. It also mixes with water to fill the void of aggregates which enables the concrete to be easily placed and flows to avoid shrinkage. An Ordinary Port land Cement is one which all the particles will pass a No.100 sieve and over 95% will pass a No.200 sieve in British Standard (1991) and, must have minimum strength of (compressive strength) for 3-day mortal cubes of less than 15N/mm2, 7-day 23N/mm2 and 3-day concrete 8N/mm2 while, 7-day 14n/mm2, Kong and Evans (1996:20). Its weight is a function of the degree of compaction which is roughly taken as 1450kg/m2: Kong and Evans (1996). 2.3.2. AGGREGATES Aggregates are the most important constituent materials of concrete. These materials constitute about 65-75% by volume of hardened mass occupied in concrete mix thereby, constituting the highest quota of concrete strength. The High performance strength of concrete is due to the type of aggregates to be used in design. There are two main types known as fine and coarse aggregates. 2.3.2.1. Fine Aggregate This is natural sand from a good source free of impurities and contaminations that is capable of achieving the cohesiveness of the mix and desired strength: Kong and Evans (1996). Fine Aggregate is derived from natural sand or crushed stone sand or crushed gravel with particle capable of passing a 5mm sieve by Kong and Evans. A technically satisfied fine aggregate is one which has the capability of producing satisfactory concrete: Day (1999). It is said by Day to be standard and substandard if having the effect of retarding set, increased bleeding, excessive air entrainment, poor workability and increased water requirement, resulting in increase in shrinkage and extra cost. Most importantly, the features of a fine aggregate that affect the functionality of a design concrete has been identified by Day (1999): (i). Grading. (ii). Particle shape and surface texture. (iii). Clay. (iv). Chemical catalysts (salt and alkaline). (v). presence of mechanical weak particle. (vi). Water absorption level. (vi). source. However, this investigation only discus on the effect of Grading, Particle shape and texture, and more importantly source of the aggregates. 2.3.2.2. Coarse Aggregates . The properties of a coarse aggregate rely on solely the source of basic rock, the crushing process and its treatment in terms of separation into fractions, segregation and contamination as proposed by Day (1999). It is also noted that a coarse aggregate is one which is derived crushed stone, crushed gravel that can retain on a 5mm sieve according to Kong and Evans (1996). One important feature of a coarse aggregate is the bond characteristic usually associated high strength concrete which flexural and tensile strength are of special consideration, and it is a composite nature of chemical effects of surface roughness, particle shapes, water absorption and cleanliness by Day (19990. Again, Kong and Evans (1996); propounded that the durability and chemical inert under expose condition is the most requirement of a coarse aggregate, and the size, shape and surface texture and grading are said to be physical requirements must be examined because these are characteristics which enhance the strength or weakness of concrete. 2.4.0. GRADING A durable concrete must be dense, and when fresh, good enough for compaction: Kong and Evans (1996). There are voids comprise of mixture of cement, water and fine aggregate in mortar and that which is slightly more than sufficient is recommended to fill the voids of coarse and, cement paste slightly more than sufficient also to fill the voids of fine aggregate: Kong and Evans (1996). The voids are seen as functions of grading and particle size distribution by Kong and Evans. Generally, grading is the total way of accessing or categorizing the fineness and grade to which workability of concrete can be achieved considerably at a good flow. This is carried out through a comparative idea of sieve analysis as well as particle size distribution based on the recommendation by British Standards or ASTM of sieve sizes. These sieve sizes are used to estimate the cumulative percentage of finer of the weight retained particles on each sieve. And to comply with the BS 882, the percentages for the coarse aggregate and fine aggregate should fall within the limit the below tables: Kong and Evans (19960). Table2.10 Grading Limits for Coarse Aggregates Percentage by weight passing the standard sieves Nominal size of Aggregates Standards sieve (mm) 40mm to 5mm 20mm to 5mm 14mm to 5mm 50.0 100 37. 90-100 100 20.0 35-70 90-100 100 14.0 90-100 10.0 10-40 30-60 50-85 5.0 0-5 0-10 0-10 Kong and Evans (1996:36) Table2.20 Grading Limits for Fine Aggregates Percentage by weight passing the standard sieves Additional Limits for Grading Sieve Overall Limits C M F 10.0mm 100 5.0mm 89-100 2.36mm 60-100 60-100 65-100 80-100 1.18mm 30-100 30-90 45-100 70-100 600mm 15-100 15-54 25-80 55-100 300 5-70 5-40 5-48 5-70 150mm 0-15 0-15 Kong and Evans (1996:36). The above tables show that especially, the fine aggregate has zone division from coarse, medium and finer. The divisions are larger based on percentage passing the 600mm meaning in a fresh concrete mix, the content of the fine aggregate penetrating has an advantage over workability. 2.5.0. THE CONTENT AND PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION In the Construction and Building Materials (2010:505-512); Meddah, Zitouni and Belaabes used the effect of content and particle size distribution of coarse aggregate on the compressive strength as a base for argument of concrete strength. This revealed that several properties of aggregate such as degree of weathering, specific gravity, hardness, chemical, and mineral composition, shape, roughness, physical and chemical stability and pore structure are connected to the parent rock. Also, that adequate proportion of granular fractions depend on the type of concrete targeted and thereby, used similar aggregates such as Limestone, Basalt, Diabase, Granite and Quartz of the sizes of 15mm and 25mm for comparison; and ascertained after experimentation that the great effect on the usefulness of aggregates is largely depends on the particle size distribution. Meddah, Zitouni and Belaabes (2010) came to conclusion that; The value of compressive strength of normal concrete increases with the maximum size of coarse aggregates. The content of the coarse aggregates has a great influence on the compressive strength of both normal and high strength concrete, and increase in compressive strength is succeeded. The advantage of the coarse aggregate grains distribution on compressive strength of High Strength concrete is significant as compared to the Normal concrete. The compressive strength is strongly connected to the coarse aggregates parameters such as content proportion of fine to coarse aggregate and grain distribution of concrete mixture. Furthermore, Kong and Evans (1996) also supports these arguments but emphasize that higher coarse aggregate sizes results to lower water/cement ratio to achieve reasonable workability and higher strength of concrete. The reduced water/cement ratio is been offset by the strong effect of the lower bond area at the interface of the cement paste and the aggregate and of the discontinuities caused by the large particles. 2.6.0. EFFECT OF AGGREGATE SOURCE Relative to the action of various aggregate types on concrete properties called Elastic Modulus and compressive strength, several researches have been carried out by different people to justify the boredom to study how the negative impacts are reduced considerably on concrete strength collective sources of aggregates. In the Magazine of Concrete Research of (1999:291-304); this work reported the applicability of the BS approach to a range of 13 different aggregate types from a source in South Africa that the strength of concrete depends not only on stiffness, particle sizes, shape and texture, mix design but on selected sources of the aggregates. The source of controls the physical properties such as Relative Density RD, Look Bulk Density LBD, and Consolidated Bulk Density CBD, water absorption and Coefficient of thermal expansion should be examined in addition. Thus, Alexander (1991:291-304) concluded the results of his experimentation after thorough comparison to others that different aggregates produce different compressive and Elastic Modulus depending on their sources of selection which should be free from contaminations such as sodium chloride or alkaline and, was strongly supported by Day (1999); that chloride content of aggregates collected from beach sand is contaminated than dredge sand from sea. This contamination cause efflorescence and higher shrinkage and utter the setting and handing rates of concrete. 2.7.0. WATER Water is necessary for the design of concrete since it enables the concrete to be properly mix the constituent materials together for compatibility. This design water should be free of contamination of sodium chloride, oils, alkalis and sugar which are catalysts to reduce the effect or workability of the constituent materials of concrete. The requirement for water testing has been provided by the BS3148 for concrete suitability. Suitable water of concrete is otherwise known as design water when the measured volume is enabled to be predicted by the idea of mix design. It is also known as consumable water or hygienic water is necessary in concrete cast to have the desired strength and, if water is suspected to be contaminated, it is advisable by the BS3148 to run or cast a series of test sample made of contaminated and hygienic water to enable the designer to predict its effect on concrete and made decision on the selection of minimum quantity or volume of water is required for optimum strength of concrete whereas, large volume of water gives low strength of concrete. Excess volume of water leads to loss of slump. Workability of concrete depends on the water content used for design when considering the water/cement ratio criterion of mix design. 2.80. PRACTICAL MIX-DESIGN The term Mix-Design is the ability or a medium of selecting good components of concrete known as binders that are normally accessed on batching by weight or volume. The major aim of mix design is to select the optimum ratio of cement, water and aggregates to achieve a concrete with desired strength, workability, durability and economy: Kong and Evans (1996:50). It is strongly emphasize by Kong and Evans that practical mix design are based on the free water/cement ratio as the most important factor and the water content to determine or influence the strength of concrete. The batching relative to weight is preferably important in design of concrete for desired strength, and the idea or process revolves round water/cement proportion for batching weight of concrete for conventional aggregates especially with a constant density in question. 2.8.1. Water- Cement Ratio In general practice of concrete technology, water/cement ratio is perhaps the most important emphasized parameter to be examined in design. The base point of a typical mix design is the proper placed value of the water/cement ratio. It is simply the ratio of water to cement in terms of weight: Kong and Evans (1996). Practical mix design methods engaged the free water/cement and water content which are the two required factors that influence the strength, durability and workability of concrete. In the calculation of the water/cement ratio only the weight of the free water is used amongst the overall water absorbed by the aggregates and, it is the total water less the absorbed water while, the water content is the weight of the free water per unit volume of concrete: Kong and Evans (1996:50). Kong and Evans emphasized that the establishment by an initial mixes otherwise known as trails batch or adjustments on site: supported by Day (1999). Both researchers re cognised that there are two basically main methods of mix design captured from the works of Road Research Laboratory, the American Concrete Institute and Department of the Environment DoE known as the Traditional and DoE mixes. The water/cement ratio is chosen for strength and workability at average of 28 days called the mean target strength relative to characteristic strength: value that exceeds by a suitable margin known as current margin. 2.90. DURABILITY/ PEAMEABILITY OF CONCRETE 2.9.1. Durability The ability of a concrete to achieve its purpose of design in service is very important in design. The parameters that influence the potential integrity of concrete is over estimated in terms of durability of concrete. The provision of appropriate workability, suitable cement, aggregates and water as major ingredients of concrete in accordance with given standard and codes of practice are the base line. The tendency of concrete to exhibit a free corrosive nature and, a maximum protection against external forms of attack is impinge upon the correct choice of materials and adequate proportions: Lydon (1983). Durable design concrete is stable and capable of withstanding all the environmental conditions to which it is exposed: Kong and Evans (1996:38). 2.9.2 Permeability Permeability of concrete is related to durability and it is the crawl at which water can pass through the concrete: Kong and Evans (1996:39). Low permeable enables the concrete to withstand the effects of weathering, rain and action of freezing and thawing exposed conditions. The permeability of concrete increase rapidly with amount of voids and water/cement ratio and, when the amount over influxes the strength of concrete reduces. It is advisable that permeability should not exceed 7% else, bound to be corrosion in case of reinforcement: Kong and Evans (1996). 2.10. CREEP PROPERTY OF CONCRETE. Creep is a property of concrete that depends on loading duration. When there is an increase in strength in concrete with age, it is said to be under creeping condition. Creep is not actually proportional to strength but inversely related and can be estimated provided the strength-age could be determined. This is generally relative to the creep values of specimen concrete mixes which is derived from loading to one-third of the cube strength at 28 days curing age: Kong and Evans (1996:30). The concrete is unlikely to be stressed beyond one-half of the cube strength and, the creep of concrete at specified period of loading is roughly estimated to be proportional to the stress by Kong and Evans. Different concrete of the same cement paste content would produce creep that is approximately proportional to the stress/ strength ratio. Desired strength unaffected by creep is determined with respect to the avoidance of long term loading duration of concrete. The rate at which creep increases d epends on the increase in temperature as a linear function and, at a value of 1% of the 15 oC creep for each degree Celsius: Kong and Evans (1996:31). Generally, aggregate-cement ratio, aggregate content, cement content and water content do not have any significant effect on creep but water-cement ratio and cement type influence the level of creep in concrete design. 2.11. SHRINKAGE PROPERTY OF CONCRETE The shortening in length or contraction of concrete as a result of absorption of water in the gel is related to dry shrinkage: Kong and Evans (1996:33). It is a physical property of concrete unlike creep of chemical influence. Aggregate content, fineness of cement, and temperature influence the level of shrinkage of concrete. Low shrinkage concrete contains non-shrinking aggregates like limestone Quartzite gravel, mountain limestone, blast furnace slag, dolomite, granite and so on: Kong and Evans (1996:35). While, high shrinkage is as a result of aggregates volume change on wetting and drying such as slate, sandstone, basalt so on. Both coarse and fine aggregates influence the level of concrete shrinkage more importantly and, shrinkage is been reduced by using various aggregates of high Moduli of Elasticity that are dense and hard. 2.11.1. Aggregates Shrinkage Mechanism In Concrete Aggregates do undergo change in volume because they contain some minerals in form of clay which swell up when absorbing water or dry out and shrink. During setting of concrete, the cement paste volume changes. Forces are exerted during setting on aggregates resulting in moisture content affecting the overall size of the aggregate. The total weight of aggregates is that which is related to Elastic modulus and the volume ratio of the cement paste. It is reasonable to say that all aggregates suppose to be shrinkable to a greater or less extent as well as change in volume for proper classifications and selections for high or low shrinkage types: Pike (1990). The effect of high shrinkage causes unwanted movement or cracks and reduction in durability of concrete thereby leads to corrosion of the reinforcement members. 2.12. CONCRETE STRENGTH The design strength is associated with Compressive strength of concrete which is the common measure for judging a standard durable concrete at 28 days curing age. Buildings and other Engineering structures are purely designed with the most performance estimate of the compressive strength for stability, workability and durability of concrete. In the National Ready Mix Concrete association (NRMCA:2003); compressive strength is generally regarded as a measure by breaking Cylindrical Concrete Specimens in a Compressive Testing Machine basically, based on the precepts of the BS8110 and ASTM. The estimation of compressive strength is derived from the failure load over the cross-sectional area that is resisting the load of unit of mega Pasca (Mpa); an International standard Unit of measurement: BS8110 (1985) and NRMCA (2003). Compressive Strength of concrete varies from 17-28Mpa. The compressive needs to be determined from a concrete mixture to attain the desired or required strength for sp ecified for a job. The strength tested results from cast concrete cylinder is used for quality control, estimation of strength or acceptance of concrete in

Organizational Epistemology

Running Head: ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 1 Organizational Epistemology St. Rachel E. Ustanny University of Phoenix ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 2 There are different perspectives about the origin of knowledge, which have influenced the development of concepts such as a priori and a posteriori truth, epistemic regress, and sensual perception—Descartes (as cited in Cooper, 1999) argued that there are certain undeniable truths, which are obtained from our senses; Feldman (2003) noted that truth is obtained through one of or a combination of six means: perception, memory, testimony, introspection, reasoning, and rational insight; Feldman (2003) also reported that evidentialists believe that propositions must be substantiated; Bonjour (1978) articulated that truth is based on the existence of a priori knowledge, which is proven by engaging in epistemic regress; Schnapper (2009) noted that modern democracy calls for greater equality, including the recognition and acceptance of all perspectives as truth; and Webb (2007) reported that truth is that which is naturally experienced. In light of these varying perspectives about the origin of truth or knowledge, one cannot deny that the study of epistemology is very important to the development of new information, and socioeconomic progress. From an organizational perspective, epistemology provides a framework for critically analyzing and planning for the management and leadership of contemporary businesses—The change in the mode of production to that of knowledge work as reported by Drucker (1999) points to the need for contemporary organizational leaders to manage knowledge as a means of increasing productivity. This situation underscores the importance of deconstructing the origin of knowledge that workers produce on a daily basis. Epistemological Theories The multiple perspectives about the origin of knowledge have stimulated much criticism and skepticism about the validity and generalizability of epistemological theories. Nevertheless, this situation has continued to fuel the development of new theories, which have contributed to ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 3 the persistence of the epistemological debate over several centuries, and influenced its applicability to contemporary social problems. New theories about the origin of knowledge are still emerging as society is faced with unique challenges and alternate ways of learning and testing validity. Natural epistemology and the knowledge work theories will be examined as a means of garnering a better understanding of how modern society deals with and conceptualizes knowledge and uses it to improve social structures and systems. Four longstanding knowledge theories will also be discussed to facilitate an evaluation of the influence of past knowledge theories on contemporary problems—these four theories are: empiricism, rationalism, pragmatism, and relativism. Naturalized epistemology challenged the belief that one has to engage in epistemic regress to justify truth. It was proposed that truth is determined by scientific investigations and explanations (Feldman, 2003, p. 167). The tools, methods, and principles of science provide epistemologists with the means of testing and justifying knowledge, therefore machinery such as a lie detector enables contemporary investigators to examine individuals’ reactions (heartbeat, sweat production, and levels of anxiety) to determine if they are being truthful about a situation. This approach directly contradicts empiricism, which articulated that sensual perceptions enable human beings to determine truth. In this case, a lie detector would not be necessary to determine truth as the investigator would be able to use his or her senses to detect truth and untruth. While there is some merit in the empiricists’ approach, naturalized epistemology presented a replicable method that is less likely to fail due to human error. Knowledge work as argued by Drucker (1999) represents a shift in the nature of production from being purely manual as was contended by management theorists of the 20 th century (p. 79). This shift has increased the significance of epistemology in the workplace in that ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 4 managers are forced to contend with the sources and origin of knowledge that workers possess as a means of enhancing companies’ capacities to improve the productivity of the knowledge worker as was done by Taylor during the heyday of manual work. Knowledge work has challenged the society to come to terms with the importance of epistemology in everyday life and to find ways of optimizing it for development. Knowledge management is proposed by Wong and Aspinwall (2004) as a strategy for increasing the productivity of the knowledge worker, but despite this there are still challenges as it relates to those who possess tacit knowledge—the major concern for companies is the loss of productivity advances when the tacit knowledge worker leaves. It has therefore become increasingly important to find out how individuals gain knowledge in the first place, and then attempt to replicate those actions that are engaged in on a daily basis, which optimizes productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness. One cannot solve the epistemological problems of the contemporary workplace without reflecting on earlier conceptions about epistemology as articulated by empiricists, rationalists, pragmatists, and relativists. Empiricism argued that knowledge is derived from human sensual experiences and perceptions (Cooper, 1999, p. 117). This view is quite the opposite of rationalism, which contended that knowledge existed (a priori) before humans experienced it; therefore individuals derived knowledge out of necessity, which is later universalized if there are no exceptions (Cooper, 1999, p. 166). Pragmatism challenged empiricism and rationalism by arguing that the a posteriori and a priori conceptions of truth are false because knowledge is derived from practice, which results in the formulation of theories and provides opportunities for continuously evising and reformulating the theory to improve practice (Webb, 2007, p. 10691070). Relativism opened up the epistemological discourse to multiple perspectives of truth, so that knowledge is seen as socially constructed, experiential, dynamic, and variable—There is no ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 5 single truth that guides the solution to problems and knowledge is gained from all of the various means articulated by individuals, thus the empiricist is no more correct than the rationalist, nor the pragmatist, nor the natural epistemologist. There is merit in all perspectives and all must be considered when seeking justifications for the truth (Schnapper, 2009, p. 177). In light of the latter argument, management theorists must look to a wide range of epistemological perspectives to increase leaders’ understanding about knowledge work and how to increase its productivity. The tacit and explicit knowledge that workers possess is founded in first principles, as articulated by empiricists, and rationalists; as well as obtained from practice that the worker encounters as he or she carries out their duties—this (latter) pragmatic source indicates that each worker has the opportunity to discover truth in the execution of his or her duties. The fact that empiricism, rationalism, and pragmatism present valid perspectives about the sources of the knowledge worker’s knowledge indicates that there are multiple sources of truth, which contributes to the relativity of tacit knowledge work. Application of Knowledge to Organizational Leadership and Management The shift in the 21st century from manual to knowledge work has necessitated that management theorists and leaders critically examine and develop means for measuring and increasing productivity. This has contributed to the need for increased attention to different forms of knowledge, particularly distinguishing tacit and explicit knowledge to enhance management theorists’ abilities to capture the steps and processes involved in producing specific outputs (Manyika, 1996). Tacit knowledge is particularly difficult to capture, because it is the know-how that individual workers possess that they acquired as a result of their experience with particular tools, and their responses to unique challenges that stimulated them to innovate. ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 6 Making tacit knowledge more public within organizations is critical to the improvement of productivity and succession planning—According to Ambrosini and Bowman (2001) â€Å"tacit knowledge in particular may block adaptation to changes in the environment, hinder innovation and lead to the continuation of inferior work practices† (p. 812). It requires that organizational leaders examine epistemological theories to get a better understanding of the foundation of the know-how that individual knowledge workers possess. Pragmatism is the epistemological theory that facilitates the most likely explanation for the origin of tacit knowledge in organizations as according to Ambrosini and Bowman (2001) â€Å"tacit knowledge is context specific, is typically acquired on the job or in the situation where it is used† (p. 13); so pragmatists’ belief that theory emerges from practice and is applied back to it with the possibility of revising and reformulating it presents an explanation of tacit knowledge originating in experiences as they are encountered. Senge (2010) and Drucker (1999) have been my most influential theorists because of the fact that their propositions have helped to explain and present solutions to the challenges facing my organization. They argued that there are methods that can be used to help increase productivity of knowledge workers in an ever-changing world, which are aimed at measuring and improving the contribution of knowledge to organizational success. If companies fail to capture the tacit knowledge of workers, they are bound to face periods of slump when such workers leave the organization temporarily or permanently, as well as fail to make significant advances, because workers are not keeping abreast of new knowledge. The effective development of knowledge-based companies therefore depends on the implementation of strategies for standardizing and sharing such knowledge. In addition, there is a general need for the firm to control productivity so as to eliminate the possibility of being held at ransom by employees. ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 7 Converting companies to learning organizations was proposed by Senge (2010) as a means of increasing productivity and sharing knowledge. Five disciplines were proposed for solving the productivity challenges that face contemporary organizations: personal mastery, mental models, shared visions, team learning, and systems thinking. It is believed that the learning organization sought to create holistic changes in companies so that knowledge could be better managed, and all stakeholders could see that success was dependent on the relationship among the individual departments and the organization as a corporate entity (p. 2). It is important to note that in the learning organization, the tacit knowledge and skills that workers possess, is represented by personal mastery, and is shared with other workers and the organization through team learning. Knowledge management was proposed as a strategy for restoring power, over production, to the organization. Wong and Aspinwall (2001) noted that a knowledge management implementation framework should have five characteristics: â€Å"(1) a clear structure on how to conduct and implement knowledge management, (2) clear distinction among the types of knowledge to be managed, (3) highlight the necessary knowledge management processes or activities needed to manipulate knowledge, (4) include the factors that will affect performance, and (5) provide a balanced view between the role of technology and human beings in knowledge management† (p. 100). The knowledge management implementation framework serves as a strategy for reducing the autonomy of the knowledge worker, while increasing the control of the organization over productivity. Unlike the learning organization, knowledge management does not seek to create holistic change in the company, but isolates knowledge work as an aspect of production, and identifies the elements that are necessary for management to manipulate so as to increase productivity as was done in the time of Taylor (Drucker, 1999, p. 80). ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 8 The Future of Epistemology in Organizational Leadership Epistemology has an important role to play in the development of human services organizations. The concept of good governance that guides the effective management of such organizations articulates some of the productivity issues addressed by Drucker (1999). In the case of my organization, productivity is hindered by the fact that knowledge about specific critical aspects of work is possessed by the accountant who does not welcome succession planning, responds negatively to queries from the board of directors, works in isolation, and makes decisions for others and their departments unilaterally. This situation has contributed to inefficiency and ineffectiveness in a number of core areas of work, and as argued by Ambrosini and Bowman (2001) contributes to inferior work practices (p. 812). Good governance argues that successful management is characterized by accountability, transparency, participatory leadership, and responsiveness. This is reiterated by Drucker (1999) when he noted that productivity was curtailed by knowledge workers autonomy in deciding the task, and having unilateral control over the production process—The work done by the accountant is knowledge work and the fact that it is held only by him contributes to a situation where the organization is held at ransom. If there are opportunities for the improvement of the accounting function, this is hindered because of the lack of access by the organization to it, and the general lack of responsiveness to good governance practices. In the case of my accountant, deciding what to purchase without consultation, and refusing to answer questions posed by the board directors contributes to productivity problems. Drucker (1999) noted that overcoming this situation â€Å"requires changes in attitude not only on the part of the individual knowledge worker, but on the part of the whole organization† (p. 92). ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 9 The problems with the accountant articulated above can be solved by one of two or a combination of the following approaches. These recommendations were derived from weeks five and six discussion questions. These discussions enabled me to have a better understanding of the needs and challenges of my organization, and provided me with the opportunity to evaluate the company and make recommendations for its improvement. The following two recommendations represent the possible actions that I may undertake to increase organizational productivity: (1) reform the company to that of a learning organization, which takes a systems approach to productivity, thus the failure of accounts is not seen as an isolated element, but is the responsibility of all employees and departments, therefore all employees see it as critical to learn the tacit knowledge possessed by the accountant so that they are better poised to recommend changes. When all employees have a shared vision, greater pressure will be placed on the accountant to be accountable, transparent, and participatory in his leadership; and or (2) develop a knowledge management system to capture all of the job roles that are assigned to the accountant and the various steps that he undertakes to fulfill them—There will be need to integrate feedback components with the clinic nurse, statistical clerk, and clinic receptionist, before commodities can be purchased; and in order to successfully meet his reporting obligations he must answer specific questions about the financial status of the organization, which will automatically be shared with the board directors. Such a system could eliminate the lack of transparency, participation, and accountability that has curtailed efficiency and effectiveness. The implementation of a knowledge management system would also help the organization to be better operated as a learning organization, as the steps for each ta sk that is performed by the accountant would be accessible to leadership, which could be used to teach others by way of team learning strategies. ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 10 The future of management of human service organizations in the knowledge worker age is not totally distinct from traditional epistemology—it integrates critical concepts of the past to help solve new and emergent challenges. Empiricism, rationalism, pragmatism, and relativism are four of the longstanding epistemological concepts that guide management practitioners about the origin of tacit knowledge—On one hand know-how originates from the theoretical foundations of empiricism and rationalism as seen in the in the knowledge that individuals obtain through formal education that prepares them to fit into the workplace; and on the other hand it originates from the encountered experiences in the workplace. Both views are correct and hence when theorizing about the origin of knowledge in knowledge work, management theorists must be mindful that there are multiple valid perspectives. ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY References Ambrosini, V. & Bowman, C. (2001). Tacit knowledge: Some suggestions for 11 operationalization. Journal of Management Studies, 38(6), pp. 811-829. Retrieved from http://web. ebscohost. com. ezproxy. apollolibrary. com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer? sid=e9e 776b0-e4f1-46a2-af57-b1403102e01b%40sessionmgr112&vid=2&hid=107 Bayer, B. (2007). How not to refute Quine: Evaluating Kim's Alternatives to Naturalized Epistemology. The Southern Journal of Philosophy, 45(4), 473-495. Retrieved from http://search. proquest. com. ezproxy. apollolibrary. com/docview/218154099? accountid=35 812 Bonjour, L. (1978). Can empirical knowledge have a foundation? American Philosophical Quarterly, 15(1), 1-13. Retrieved from http://www. williams. edu/philosophy/fourth_layer/faculty_pages/jcruz/courses/Bonjour(1978). pdf Cooper, D. (1999). Epistemology: the classic readings. United Kingdom: Blackwell. Drucker, P. F. (1999). Knowledge-worker productivity: The biggest challenge. California Management Review, 41(2), 79-94. Retrieved from http://web. ebscohost. com. ezproxy. apollolibrary. com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer? sid=d0b 953c0-25c0-4ce2-acc3-a2eb62ec1545%40sessionmgr114=2=106 Feldman, R. (2003). Epistemology. New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Manyika, J. (1996). The coming imperative of the world’s knowledge economy. The Financial Times, 17. Retrieved from http://go. galegroup. com. ezproxy. apollolibrary. com/ps/i. do? =GALE%7CA145813050=2. 1 =uphoenix=r=GPS=w Moser, P. & vander Nat, A. (Eds. ), Human knowledge: classical and contemporary approaches. New York: Oxford. ORGANIZATIONAL EPISTEMOLOGY 12 Schnapper, D. (2009). Relativism. Society, 46(2), 175-179. doi:10. 1007/s12115-008-9181-6 Senge, P. M. (2010). The fifth discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization. Business Book Summaries, 1(1), pp. 1-8. Retrieved from http://ehis. ebscohost. com/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer? sid=05ba5549-4ada-47b6-aca7

Luxury Fashion Brand Essay

To be successful in India, it is both necessary to gauge the financial potential as well as the mindset of the Indian luxury consumer. This will help in bringing forth the right product offerings to the Indian consumer as well as targeting them better. There are conventional foundations for ensuring success of a brand and they are listed below in brief: * The brand must be â€Å"expansive† – Which means it should be full of innovation opportunities for the marketer and in terms of satisfying the different needs of the luxury consumer. * The brand must tell a story – One of the best ways for an organization to compete and distinguish yourself from the rest of the pack is to tell your brand story. The story should be so powerful that it should make customer act as the way you want. * The brand must be relevant to the consumers’ needs – Depending upon the mindset of the luxury class, it is necessary for a brand to satisfy those needs, whether they be for recognition or functional use etc. * The brand must align with consumers’ values – A brand that does not concur with the basic values of a consumer’s society has a small chance of succeeding because luxury items are identification for a luxury consumer. This makes it difficult for the consumer to adopt the brand in such cases. * The brand must perform – Irrespective of which category the brand belongs to, a performance assurance is a must for the brand. Based on the inputs given above as well as an understanding of the decision making process of the luxury consumer, we recommend the following paths for luxury marketers based on what Indian consumers really desire from their luxury brands, i. e. product brand, dealer/store brand and price/value relationship : (The price / value relationship has been accorded less focus since the Indian Consumer is at a phase when cost of luxury is secondary to its appeal / benefits) 1. Brand Me Affluent! – It is essential for marketers to ensure that the recognition value of their brands is always high so that it lends a sense of affluence to the consumer, which can only come if others around him / her perceive the brand to be a top-notch luxury brand. This can come from either being aligned with the most successful celebrities or being a part of elite events and promotions. 2. Nothing but the Best – This is a golden opportunity for the marketer to earn greater margins by adding customized value to his line of luxury goods. These added-value customized goods will ensure that the customer feels he has something more than just the ordinary range of luxury goods available. 3. Luxury is having the world at my fingertips – First! – A luxury marketer will not only have to be faster than his competitors in reaching out to the consumer, to gain a share of wallet but also continuously offer innovative products that serve to differentiate between the consumers. 4. â€Å"Ethnic Chic† – The Fusion of Local & Global goods – This point is connected to the strategy of a product being in line with the consumers’ values for it to be adopted. Apart from this, in the Indian context, ethnicity is also a fashion statement in many product categories. 5. You Think I’m Demanding? Next! – The marketer’s job should be a constant endeavor to offer newer luxury goods to the consumer, in sync with their needs. In addition to that, marketers will need to make sure that each and every single consumer has to be treated with a high-level of personalized attention, given the nature of the product and the consumer. Even minor Shortfalls in this case will have the consumer shifting their brand preferences to those marketers who can satisfy their needs better. 6. CANNIBALIZATION OF BRANDS – It thus becomes essential to ensure that successful celebrities are partnered with at the right time, thereby both eliminating chances of Competition as well as delivering the right aspirational / appeal message to the intended audience. Conclusion The starting point for identifying successful luxury brand strategies in India has been established by identifying certain salient aspects of luxury brands that remain constant as well as identifying the stage of mindset of the Indian consumer towards these brands. The focus is now towards ‘how soon’ luxury brands will enter the market to gain a first mover advantage, which is of significant importance in India. Apart from how soon, we primarily focus on ‘how will’ luxury brands cater to the mainly aspirational needs of the Indian consumer. A word of caution that goes for luxury marketers, irrespective of their brands and Geographical presence – The luxury consumer is always looking for newer ways to Satisfy his continuously changing needs. Hence, the need to keep a close tab through insightful research is of prime importance. As far as India is concerned, given the rapidly accelerating affluence of the Masses, the scenario is set to witness a boom. The ones who will be riding the Wave will be the ones who’ve kept their ears open to each and every word of their Each and every customer. After all, in the luxury business, no marketer can afford the luxury of treating its consumers as a loosely bunched segment.