Iron Crowned Chapter 21

For a few moments, we were frozen in time. It was Jasmine who finally got things moving again. â€Å"Oh,† she said. â€Å"Wow.† Kiyo's grip on the form tightened, and for a second, I feared he'd crumple or rip it. Instead, he let it fall to the floor and strode toward me as swiftly and fiercely as his predatory alter ego. I felt Jasmine shift – not away, but closer to me. â€Å"Are you sure?† he asked, in a low, deadly voice. â€Å"About which part?† I snapped. â€Å"That I'm pregnant? Or that it's yours?† â€Å"Both.† I felt my eyes narrow as I continued feeling angry and defensive. â€Å"Yes. Both.† Silence fell. Then: â€Å"When are you getting rid of it?† he asked. â€Å"Christ. You get right to the point.† â€Å"You know the point!† he exclaimed. â€Å"You know what it's always been! You're sure? You're really sure you're pregnant?† I'd had the same questions for Dr. Moore and found myself repeating her answer. â€Å"Yes. The tests are very accurate. Besides, why else do you think they'd schedule me for that?† I pointed to the referral lying on the floor. He might work with animals, but he'd still know what a CVS was. Jasmine, however, did not. She slipped away, gave him a wide berth, and retrieved the paper. â€Å"What's a †¦ chorionic †¦ vil-vil – â€Å" â€Å"It's a test to detect defects,† I said. I gave Kiyo a pointed look. â€Å"And gender.† â€Å"It's a waste of time,† he argued. He swallowed and attempted a kinder, more reasonable course with me. â€Å"Eugenie, you know the danger. You can't waste another day. If anyone finds out – if anyone in the Otherworld – â€Å" â€Å"I know, I know! Do you think I'm stupid? Do you think I somehow missed the constant rape attempts – and actual rape – based on that prophecy? Damn it, I know better than you what it means! But I can't – I can't get an abortion until I know what it is. If it's a girl or a boy.† â€Å"And then what?† he asked. â€Å"You'll keep it if it's a girl? You always said you weren't sure you wanted to have kids.† â€Å"I'm still not,† I admitted, my voice trembling. A baby – world conqueror or not – had never been on my agenda. â€Å"But I have to know.† His expression darkened, the coaxing gone. â€Å"It's better if you don't. It's better to keep it all anonymous, better not to think of it as a person. Stay ignorant. Just have the abortion and be done.† Jasmine hadn't moved from her spot, her eyes going back and forth as she watched my verbal volley with Kiyo. â€Å"Geez,† she said. â€Å"You don't seem too upset about killing your own kid.† I had been thinking the same thing. His cold detachment shocked me. He flinched and gritted his teeth. â€Å"I never said I'm not upset.† â€Å"But you're not just upset about what this means for the prophecy,† I pointed out. I studied him carefully, realization dawning. â€Å"You don't entirely believe it's yours anyway.† â€Å"Do you blame me?† he asked. â€Å"It's yours,† I said adamantly. The last time I'd been with Dorian, we'd had kinky oral sex. Maybe I hadn't known about antibiotics interacting with birth control pills, but I knew where a guy had to come to make you pregnant. â€Å"I know without a doubt.† This gave Kiyo pause, as though he really were truly pondering the reality of losing his child. â€Å"I told you: I never said I'm not upset about this. But it's got to be dealt with. How could you have let this happen?† â€Å"Oh, nice,† I said. â€Å"It's my fault. If you're so into caution, maybe you shouldn't have fucked me in that grotto.† Jasmine's eyes widened. â€Å"Okay, forget it,† he said tightly. â€Å"And forget your CVS. Just get the abortion while it's still easy. You can't be that far along.† I shot up. â€Å"While it's still easy? Like you know! You're not the one who has to go through it!† â€Å"Why are you fighting me on this?† he exclaimed in disbelief. â€Å"You always said you'd do this. Do you want the prophecy to come true? Do you want to have a son who leads armies here from the Otherworld to conquer and enslave?† â€Å"Of course not! You know that.† â€Å"Then stop wasting time! Look, if you're scared about getting it done †¦ you don't have to do it here.† â€Å"Oh? I can check in at the Otherworld's Planned Parenthood clinic?† â€Å"No,† he said wearily. â€Å"But there are potions. Maiwenn could help. Along with healing, she can work all sorts of other medical magic.† â€Å"I'm sure she can.† I couldn't hide the bitterness in my voice. â€Å"And I'm sure she'd be more than happy to.† â€Å"Eugenie – â€Å" â€Å"Look,† I interrupted. â€Å"Here's how it is. I don't like your attitude. I don't like you dictating this to me like I'm stupid or something. I know the consequences, okay? And you know where I stand on the prophecy. But I just have to know what exactly is in me first. Two days. We just wait two days for the test.† â€Å"And then how long until the results?† he asked. â€Å"More time passes. Every day is dangerous.† â€Å"But what if it's a girl?† This came from Jasmine. Both Kiyo and I turned to her. â€Å"What if Eugenie can have it? You're always going on and on about how awesome Luisa is. Wouldn't you want another one – especially with, like, your actual – sort of – girlfriend?† â€Å"It's not – † Kiyo bit off his words and turned back to me. Those dark eyes studied me, and I felt my anger diffuse as they softened. I felt his love and knew all of this was coming from panic, his fears about the prophecy finally coming true. â€Å"Two days,† he said at last. â€Å"Two days,† I repeated. â€Å"And then I'll do the right thing.† I wasn't exactly sure what the â€Å"right thing† would be if I was having a girl, seeing as motherhood still didn't really jump out at me. But that didn't matter right now. What mattered was that I had the choice. Then, abruptly and without warning, Kiyo wrapped his arms around me, crushing me to his chest. â€Å"I love you,† he said, voice shaking. It was the first time he'd spoken those words since we'd gotten back together, and they tore something inside of me. â€Å"But I'm just afraid.† â€Å"I am too,† I said, feeling tears spring into my eyes. Fucking hormones. â€Å"Everything'll be okay.† When he released me, I finally really comprehended that Jasmine had witnessed all of this. The dramatic factor had probably trumped anything she could find on TV. Her face was a blank mask now, which made me uneasy. What was she thinking about all this? For so long, she'd wanted to be the one to have the heir. I supposed she should be all for an abortion. Yet †¦ maybe she was so keen on our father's prophecy that she didn't care who had his grandson, so long as she could ride the power with us. â€Å"I need you to stay with Jasmine tomorrow,† I told Kiyo later, when we were lying in bed. â€Å"I wish she hadn't found out about this. Maybe I'm overreacting, but I'm worried she'll do something with the information. I could have Volusian watch her like he is now †¦Ã¢â‚¬  I usually summoned my minion for night watches. â€Å"†¦ But I'd feel better with you there.† Kiyo drew the covers up around us. â€Å"Where are you going?† â€Å"Where do you think?† He groaned. â€Å"Eugenie, you can't go back there until this mess is settled. If they find out – if anyone finds out – well. All hell will break loose, from those who are for the prophecy and those who are against it.† â€Å"I have to,† I said. â€Å"I realize now that most of my being sick is because †¦ well, you know. But being apart from those lands is affecting me too. I just need to check in.† No more full-fledged meditation sessions, though. I couldn't risk any more telltale signs of my pregnancy from that intense communion. I'd just do the bare minimum required. â€Å"And not just with the lands' magic. I need to keep an eye on the Rowan Land's transition.† I feared his reaction, particularly after his earlier outburst. Instead, he brushed a kiss to my lips. â€Å"Be careful. Be quick.† â€Å"I will.† I pushed my lips back, kissing him harder. I moved my body closer to his, wrapping our legs together. I was terrified of what was happening, terrified of what I might be carrying. But now, with Kiyo on my side, I felt safe. We would get through this together, and I suddenly wanted to connect with him and feel his love around me. He responded instantly to the kiss, one of his hands tipping my head back in order to consume more of my lips. His other hand gripped my upper arm, nails lightly scratching my skin as animal lust began to take over. Then, abruptly, he stopped and pulled away. â€Å"What's wrong?† I asked. I started to say he didn't have to worry about getting me pregnant, but that joke seemed kind of inappropriate. â€Å"Nothing †¦ I'm just †¦ I'm just tired.† He kissed me again, but this time it was on my cheek. â€Å"It's been a long day. Just not up for it tonight †¦ even though you're as sexy as always.† The lightness in those last words seemed forced, and I was glad he couldn't see my frown in the darkness. I had just been rejected because †¦ because why? Having sex during pregnancy wasn't harmful, I knew that much. Was I repulsive? Was the thought that I was carrying Storm King's heir putting him off? Whatever the reason, I didn't buy that he â€Å"wasn't up for it.† We'd been pressed hip to hip moments ago, and his body had most certainly been up for it. A sexless night was the least of my problems, and although neither of us spoke, I knew he slept as badly as I did. We tossed and turned, our movements as disturbing to each other as our individual worries. We both had bloodshot eyes when we woke. I headed off to the Otherworld as soon as I could after breakfast – well, after what passed as breakfast for me. My appetite was still low. Jasmine wasn't happy when I denied her request to come with me, but Kiyo and Volusian's presence was too daunting for her to put up much of a fight. I felt the Thorn Land's welcoming energy when I crossed over, but thankfully, it revealed nothing about my maternal state. My staff was equally happy to see me, particularly Shaya, who looked like she'd thought I wasn't ever going to return. It wasn't an entirely unwarranted fear. She and I sat alone in one of the parlors while she updated me on the situation. â€Å"Rurik feels the Rowan Land is stable enough to move in a governing body. There's still some unrest, and he'll stay on for a while, but most have accepted your rule. It's the way things go. He's also culled the Rowan military and feels you can trust who's left.† I tried not to grimace at that, wondering what his â€Å"culling† had entailed. â€Å"And Katrice and Cassius?† She shrugged. â€Å"Still imprisoned. Awaiting your verdict.† â€Å"I don't really want to do anything with them,† I admitted. â€Å"I don't know what to do with them.† â€Å"Honestly? With Katrice? You could set her free, and it wouldn't matter. Stripping the land from her stripped most of her magic. Her reason to live. She's harmless. Without hope. But Cassius †¦Ã¢â‚¬  Shaya frowned. â€Å"He's dangerous. He can't wrestle the land from you, but he's got enough power to make trouble. Dorian's already written and advised execution.† I scoffed. â€Å"I'm sure he has.† â€Å"Dorian's also provided a list of people he'd like to see installed in the Rowan Land. We settled the resources split, but he feels he deserves a controlling interest in your rule there.† â€Å"A ‘controlling interest?' This isn't a corporation!† I exclaimed. â€Å"Write him and make it very, very clear that his help isn't needed over there. It isn't wanted. He has no right to it. Tell him all of that.† Shaya hesitated, fretfully toying with one of her black braids. â€Å"No matter how diplomatically I word that †¦ well, the antagonism will still come through. It'll anger him.† â€Å"Good,† I retorted. Dorian was a safe target for my churning emotions at the moment, and God knew I needed some sort of outlet. â€Å"Let him be angry or pout or whatever. I'm pretty sure he isn't going to declare war on me.† It was something I'd figured out recently. Dorian had been an advocate of using the Iron Crown to scare other monarchs, but the thing was, now that we weren't together anymore, he had to realize it could be used against him too. I actually hadn't had to give in to his â€Å"spoils of war† demands. That had been a kindness on my part, and he knew it. I didn't have to fear Dorian. I no longer needed him. â€Å"Very well,† Shaya replied. Her tone was obedient, but I knew she dreaded that letter. She'd never lost her devotion to him, and I was forcing her to split her loyalties. â€Å"But we do need someone to manage the Rowan Land †¦ unless you're going to do it personally.† â€Å"No,† I said swiftly, not that I needed to. She'd already known I had no interest in it. â€Å"Do you have someone in mind?† â€Å"Yes†¦. Me.† I wasn't exactly surprised that she'd step up to the task. I was surprised, however, that she didn't look particularly upset about it. Maybe she relished the challenge. â€Å"I'm cool with that,† I said. â€Å"Hell, after what you did around here, I know you can get Rowan into shape. But †¦ who's going to run things here?† â€Å"I was thinking Nia could.† â€Å"Nia?† I asked, startled. â€Å"My hairstylist?† Shaya crooked me a grin. â€Å"What do you think she does when you're not around? She's been helping me and learning†¦. I think she'd do very well. There'd be others to assist her, and, of course, she could always contact me.† It was still an unexpected choice, but Shaya seemed confident. And, I supposed, we'd gotten the Thorn Land into good enough shape that it now functioned pretty smoothly. â€Å"Okay,† I said at last. â€Å"Let's make it happen. When do you plan on moving?† â€Å"Today,† she said. â€Å"I'll go when you go. My things are packed.† I couldn't help laughing. â€Å"You knew I'd agree. And you knew I'd refuse Dorian.† Shaya put on her primmest look, but her eyes sparkled. â€Å"Yes, Your Majesty.† I walked the Thorn Land before leaving, long enough to reassure the land I was there and boost the morale of the soldiers guarding my keep. Not that they needed it. We were victorious, and they were still celebrating. I'd donned my gold crown for the trip to the Rowan Land, and my men regarded me with adoration, calling out cheers for their brave, all-powerful queen. What would they do if they knew? I wondered. What would they do if they knew I was carrying a potential warlord? Somehow, it wasn't much of a mystery. They would cheer more. They would worship me and revel in the chance to extend our rule. It made me eager to go to the Rowan Land, where I was feared rather than adored. Of course, I didn't know if that was any better. If those people knew I was carrying Storm King's grandchild, it would simply intensify their fear and convince them more than ever that they were under the control of a tyrant queen. Kiyo was right, I realized. No one in the Otherworld could know about my pregnancy. Any reaction it drew would be a powerful one. The sooner I could leave, the better. Borrowed soldiers from the Thorn Land still made up the bulk of the guard at Katrice's former castle, and their expressions mirrored those of their colleagues back home. I played the part, smiling and walking among them confidently, not daring to show the fear and uncertainty I felt. Like the Thorn Land's, the Rowan Land's energy buzzed around me. Only I felt it, of course, but once, when I paused and talked to a guard for several minutes, I saw a small red flower growing where I'd stood. No one noticed, and I hastily headed for the castle, figuring nothing would sprout out of stone walls. Rurik greeted us happily, having already known about Shaya's new position. As we all converged, I saw something flash between them, something that surprised me. Affection. More than friendly affection. It was then that I also noticed a bracelet Shaya wore, made of emeralds and pearls. I'd seen it before. Girard had been working on it when I first met Imanuelle. It was the piece Rurik had commissioned. I tried not to gape as the truth hit me. Shaya and Rurik. They had a relationship going on, some romance, probably one that had been building right before me that I'd been too oblivious to notice. That was why she hadn't minded taking on stewardship of a kingdom conquered through unorthodox means. No one else seemed to notice – or maybe everyone already knew about them – but as I stood there and listened to more debriefings, I felt a pang in my chest. It was like Tim and Lara – and not because both couples were so bizarrely matched. No, the similarities came in that it was so easy for all of them. Just fall in love and go with it. No political machinations and motives. No world-altering prophecies to muck things up. I'd untangled myself from Dorian's scheming – and not without a fair amount of heartache – but things with Kiyo now were irrevocably altered. No matter how my pregnancy panned out, even if it had as happy an ending as it could, I knew things between him and me would never be the same. I would never have an easy relationship. Queasiness welled up in me, and I didn't bother trying to figure out which of the myriad reasons could be causing it. I leaned against the wall as Rurik continued speaking about troop placement. Even though it wasn't part of the land, the wall and castle's foundation touched the land, and I felt that magic warm and comfort me. I took a deep breath. I could do this. Everything would be all right, just as I'd told Kiyo. I'd know my child's gender soon. Then I'd know what to do. My intention had been to stay around longer and make sure Shaya was settled in, but I soon decided I needed to get back. The others looked like they would have liked me to stay a little longer too, but they were also used to my weird – or as they considered them, â€Å"human† – ways. I assured them all that I had the utmost faith in them, reminded Shaya to rebuke Dorian, and then headed back to Tucson as soon as I could. When I arrived home and analyzed how I'd been feeling today, it occurred to me that the transitions from world to world were making me sick. Transitioning wasn't an easy feat in general; some couldn't even do it. I'd grown adept at it, but now, it took its toll, even with the help of a gateway. I understood enough about pregnancy to know these annoying symptoms only lasted for a short time, but that didn't negate their annoyance. I didn't want anything slowing me down. I didn't want to be hampered. My body was turning against me, and Kiyo's urging just to end the pregnancy began to seem like a better and better idea. What did gender matter? I wasn't ready for this. He was relieved to see me back early and wrapped me up in another big embrace. â€Å"Everything's okay?† he asked in a low voice. â€Å"Nobody found out?† I shook my head. â€Å"No. And I'm not going back until †¦ until this is settled. I'm also starting to think †¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"What?† he prompted. â€Å"That you were right. That gender doesn't matter. The test is so close, though †¦ I'll still do it. But. Well. Like I said, it doesn't matter.† Relief flooded his features. â€Å"I'm glad, Eug. It's the right thing to do.† He hugged me again, and the hug was filled with more intensity. â€Å"You can always cancel the test.† â€Å"No, I'll do it. Especially after the fit I threw with my poor doctor.† â€Å"I wish I could go with you,† he said wistfully. â€Å"But I'm not sure I can. I'm taking a couple of work shifts.† Are you? Or are you running off to Maiwenn? â€Å"It's fine,† I said. â€Å"You wouldn't be able to find out anything that day anyway.† â€Å"But you'll let me know the moment you know?† he asked, staring at me hard. â€Å"The very moment.† Kiyo might not have been able to go with me †¦ but Jasmine did. Ostensibly, I told myself it was because she couldn't be left by herself. Yet, deep inside, when I really looked at my heart, I knew the truth. I didn't want to go through this alone. I knew what the test entailed, and even if we got no answers today, it was still one step closer to what could be a huge event. â€Å"You can do it, you know,† Jasmine told me. I'd let her come into the exam room with me. It was dimly lit for the ultrasound equipment, and the doctor and tech had stepped out so I could change. Undressing in front of Jasmine felt weird, so I kept my back to her as I put on the hospital gown. â€Å"Do what? This test?† â€Å"No. I mean, yeah, whatever, you'll be fine. But I mean, have the baby. Whatever it is. Even a boy. You can fulfill our father's prophecy.† There was a zeal in her voice I hadn't heard in a while – one I'd hoped had gone away. Gowned, I turned around. â€Å"No. That's out of the question. If it's a boy †¦ well, I can't have it. End of story. A girl †¦ I don't know. I'm probably not doing that either.† I couldn't help adding, â€Å"Besides, I thought you wanted to be the heir's mother.† Her face was deadly earnest as she considered my words. â€Å"I did. But maybe I'm not meant to.† The staff returned and situated me on the examining table while Jasmine retreated to a corner. They introduced themselves: Dr. Sartori and Veronica the tech. They explained the procedure to me, though I'd already read up on it several times. The doctor was going to – ack – stick a giant needle in me to collect cells and would use ultrasound to guide him. He made sure I understood the risk of such a test. A small percentage of women miscarried. Dryly, I told him I was willing to accept that. Veronica raised the gown to bare my stomach. As she rubbed gel on it, I stared down wonderingly. Honestly? It looked no different than in the past. I'd always been skinny, and with my lack of appetite, I probably wasn't putting on much weight. If not for my symptoms and Dr. Moore's â€Å"very accurate† test, I never would have guessed what was inside me. And what was inside me? My stomach took on a strange, sinister countenance. Again, I had that feeling of my body's betrayal. It was doing things out of my control. â€Å"Okay,† said Veronica, moving the paddle to my stomach. â€Å"Let's take a look.† Both she and Dr. Sartori watched a black monitor that had my name, birthday, and a few other stats at the bottom of the screen. When the paddle made contact, the screen flared to life, showing the indecipherable gray and white confusion I'd always seen when people had ultrasounds on TV. I could make no sense of it nor see anything resembling a baby, but sound immediately accompanied the images, repetitive swishing noises, kind of like waves. I at least knew what that meant. â€Å"That's the heartbeat, isn't it?† I asked, a strange feeling crawling over me. Heartbeat. Another creature's heart inside of me. Neither practitioner answered right away. Dr. Sartori frowned curiously, and Veronica shifted the paddle around to get more views. â€Å"Huh,† said the doctor. â€Å"What?† I exclaimed. Two immediate possibilities sprang to mind. One was that my gentry blood mixing with Kiyo's kitsune blood had created some sort of monster. The other thought – one that suddenly offered a world of safety – was that there had been a mistake. The test wasn't accurate, and I actually wasn't pregnant. â€Å"Isn't that the heartbeat?† Dr. Sartori's gaze fell on me, a small smile on his lips. â€Å"That's the heartbeats. You have twins.†

Narrative Technique of Sula Essay

Although Sula is arranged in chronological order, it does not construct a linear story with the causes of each new plot event clearly visible in the preceding chapter. Instead, Sula uses â€Å"juxtaposition,† the technique through which collages are put together. The effects of a collage on the viewer depend on unusual combinations of pictures, or on unusual arrangements such as overlapping. The pictures of a collage don’t fit smoothly together, yet they create a unified effect. The â€Å"pictures† of Sula’s collage are separate events or character sketches. Together, they show the friendship of Nel and Sula as part of the many complicated, overlapping relationships that make up the Bottom. Morrison presents the novel from the perspective of an omniscient narrator — one who knows all the characters’ thoughts and feelings. An omniscient narrator usually puts the reader in the position of someone viewing a conventional portrait or landscape rather than a collage. (In such situations, the viewer can perceive the unity of the whole work with only a glance.) To create the collage-like effect of Sula, the omniscient narrator never reveals the thoughts of all the characters at one time. Instead, from chapter to chapter, she chooses a different point-of-view character, so that a different person’s consciousness and experience dominate a particular incident or section. In addition, the narrator sometimes moves beyond the consciousness of single, individual characters, to reveal what groups in the community think and feel. On the rare occasions when it agrees unanimously, she presents the united community’s view. As in The Bluest Eye and Jazz, the comm unity has such a direct impact on individuals that it amounts to a character. In narrative technique for Sula, Morrison draws on a specifically modernist usage of juxtaposition. Modernism, discussed in Chapter 3, was the dominant literary movement during the first half of the twentieth century. Writers of this period abandoned the unifying, omniscient narrator of earlier literature to make literature more like life, in which each of us has to make our own sense of the world. Rather than passively receiving a smooth, connected story from an authoritative narrator, the reader is forced to piece together a coherent plot and meaning from more separated pieces of  information. Modernists experimented with many literary genres. For example, T. S. Eliot created his influential poem The Wasteland by juxtaposing quotations from other literary works and songs, interspersed with fragmentary narratives of original stories. Fiction uses an analogous technique of juxtaposition. Each successive chapter of William Faulkner novel As I Lay Dying, for instance, drops the reader into a different character’s consciousness without the direction or help of an omniscient narrator. To figure out the plot, the reader must work through the perceptions of characters who range from a seven-year-old boy to a madman. The abrupt, disturbing shifts from one consciousness to another are an intended part of the reader’s experience. As with all literary techniques, juxtaposition is used to communicate particular themes. In Cane, a work that defies our usual definitions of literary genres, Jean Toomer juxtaposed poetry and brief prose sketches. In this way, Cane establishes its thematic contrast of rural black culture in the South and urban black culture of the North. Morrison, who wrote her master’s thesis on two modernists, Faulkner and Virginia Woolf, uses juxtaposition as a structuring device in Sula. Though relatively short for a novel, Sula has an unusually large number of chapters, eleven. This division into small pieces creates an intended choppiness, the uncomfortable sense of frequently stopping and starting. The content of the chapters accentuates this choppy rhythm. Almost every chapter shifts the focus from the story of the preceding chapter by changing the point-of-view character or introducing sudden, shocking events and delaying discussion of the characters’ motives until later. In â€Å"1921,† for example, Eva douses her son Plum with kerosene and burns him to death. Although the reader knows that Plum has become a heroin addict, Eva’s reasoning is not revealed. When Hannah, naturally assuming that Eva doesn’t know of Plum’s danger, tells her that Plum is burning, the chapter ends with Eva’s almost nonchalant â€Å"Is? My baby? Burning?† (48). Not until midway through the next chapter, â€Å"1923,† does Hannah’s questioning allow the reader to understand Eva’s motivation. Juxtaposition thus heightens the reader’s sense of incompleteness. Instead of providing quick resolution, juxtaposition  introduces new and equally disturbing events. Paradoxically, when an occasional chapter does contain a single story apparently complete in itself, it too contributes to the novel’s overall choppy rhythm. In a novel using a simple, chronological mode of narration, each succeeding chapter would pick up where the last one left off, with the main characters now involved in a different incident, but in some clear way affected by their previous experience. In Sula, however, some characters figure prominently in one chapter and then fade entirely into the background. The first chapter centers on Shadrack, and although he appears twice more and has considerable psychic importance to Sula and symbolic importance to the novel, he is not an important actor again. In similar fashion, Helene Wright is the controlling presence of the third chapter, â€Å"1920,† but barely appears in the rest of the book. These shifts are more unsettling than if Shadrack and Helene were ancestors of the other characters, generations removed, because the reader would then expect them to disappear. Their initial prominence and later shadowy presence contribute to the reader’s feeling of disruption. The choppy narration of Sula expresses one of its major themes, the fragmentation of both individuals and the community. Sula. New York: Knopf, 1973. Rpt. New York: Penguin, 1982

IRB Company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

IRB Company - Essay Example Data Gathering Instrument(s): Not addressed from the previous review. Please include all data gathering instruments in the portfolio. IRB needs to review these. I have already included the interview guide. Let me know if you still do not have it so I upload it to you again. How will the participants be contacted about the study?Three levels of contact shall be designed. The first shall be through the use of official e-mail where the researcher shall contact the General Managers of these companies. Upon receiving a reply from the companies, the researcher shall then follow up with a telephone call to all the 8 companies. Where applicable, the researcher shall contact the companies in person to introduce the purpose of the research and the role to be played by the respondents to the managers. Who will contact the potential participants and in what manner? (in person, via email, via the phone, etc.) Also, if contact will be made at a place of business, via a business email or phone numb er, permission from that business too.Potential participants shall be human resource managers. These will first be contacted through their General Managers, using the official e-mail of the companies. Once the researcher visits the companies in person, the human resource managers shall then be contacted in person and presented with the consent forms, which will contain the purpose of the study, the role of participants, and arrangements made to secure the anonymity, confidentiality, and safety of participants.

Interpreting Popular Culture Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Interpreting Popular Culture Paper - Essay Example Invariably, as with most fairytales, there are indeed a myriad of different versions of Little Red Riding Hood; however, for a means of clarity and overall purpose of analysis, the forthcoming discussion will focus upon the least common denominator that is exhibited between all of these stories. This is of course the fact that a young girl meets a wolf/werewolf on the way to her grandmother’s to deliver food that her mother had prepared. Dressed in what can only be described as dainty attire, the beguiling creature attempts to ultimately trick her. In certain versions of the story the trick is successful and the wolf/werewolf eats the young girl. In other versions, the trick is unsuccessful and the girl is able to escape. However, regardless of the ending in question, the underlying moral and social representation that should be understood is one in which strong sexual overtones pervade this particular story and the importance of maintaining chastity and situational awareness are championed. One of the first elements that can and should be discussed in terms of Little Red Riding Hood and the sexual overtones that are represented throughout this story has to do with the detailed description of the little red cloak, the little red, or the little red coats that Little Red Riding Hood is claimed to wear in almost each and every variant of the tale. The importance of this symbol has to do with the fact that it ultimately represents the female hymen. As Little Red Riding Hood is depicted as a young, chaste, and ultimately your girl, the red tape that she wears is indicative of her nature and presents the analytical mind with a deeper level of understanding of the tale in terms of sleekness and sexual virtue. In many ways, it is somewhat surprising that such a painfully obvious illustration of human anatomy has gone unnoticed by countless generations of listeners, readers, and storytellers. Another core similarity that exists between almost all the variants

Feasibility Report ( Accounting Information System ) Essay

Feasibility Report ( Accounting Information System ) - Essay Example o help provide the company with better integrated working and also to meet the needs which include, a) Improved stock taking process, b) Improved customer relationship management, c) Inclusion of Pay Roll software for better calculation of wages and electronic payment to the staff, and d) Inclusion of sales forecast software to help in forecasting the sales easily and effectively. Based on the research two products have been shortlisted which show potential for SkiZone. These include, NetSuite SaaS and QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions 10. 0. A thorough analysis of the features of the two solutions along with relative merits and demerits indicate the effectiveness of using these systems at SkiZone. These solutions are also financially analysed using investment appraisal methods and the cost benefits are identified. It is identified that Quick Books results in higher returns to the company and also increases the value of the company by a significant amount. The cost benefit analysis indicates that the Quick Books Enterprise is the optimum solution for SkiZone covering all the requirements. Stock management and good book keeping play a very important role in every business. It is essential that businesses keep a clear record of all their finances as well as maintain their stocks effectively (Gelinas & Dull, 2009). Keeping a clear track of all aspects of the business will allow the businesses to have better control on the finances and will also allows the company to benefit from other costs like opportunity costs, stock holding overheads and also any possible risk of wastages (Romney & Steinbart, 2008). This report aims at analysing the current position of Ski Zone and investigating the current deficiencies of the systems used as well as recommending alternative solutions to the company in order to develop better stock management systems. The financial aspects of the alternative option have also been included to gain a better overview of the cost – benefit analysis

Case study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 47

Case Study Example Things would be different if there were no instructional videos, but the reality is that there are no excuses for hotel cleaners not to clean the rooms to a high standard. The $10 test may be viewed as somewhat tacky, but it has done the job because performance standards have been raised since the test was introduced. The types of control that are illustrated in this case are income and personal observation. First of all, employees have the ability to receive a bonus if they can do a good job, and this gives them an incentive because it will boost their income. Also, personal observation is present because the managers check the rooms themselves and then make a judgment based on what they have observed. For her new job Toby can use her previous knowledge about customer service skills to try and understand how decisions are made in her new department. Toby is a people person and so she should have little trouble getting to know her new co-workers and learning what exactly is required of her. Toby does have the ability to change the decision-making styles in her new department, but she needs to be this slowly because otherwise she will cause too much trouble. Toby would benefit because then she could properly understand the strengths and weaknesses of her department. Knowing what to change and what should remain is an important decision. If Toby does not do this, then she might make some changes that do not go down well with her boss and the other supervisors. Until Toby has established herself in her new role, she needs to just sit back and observe others so that she can make the right suggestions when the time comes. One public personality that had a distinct decision-making style was the late Steve Jobs. He was known for not wanting input from those around him, and it sometimes got him into trouble. He was a radical decision maker because he would often think outside the square and come up with new inventions, like the iPod

The description, feeding and threats of Arabian oryx Essay

The description, feeding and threats of Arabian oryx - Essay Example It has black markings on its face and legs and is of the size of a deer. It has reasonably long legs with wide hooves that help them in running in deserts. It possesses a splendid peripheral vision that helps it in spotting predators. It has the ability to increase its body temperature and make it higher than the ambient air in order to lose inordinate body heat (Walther, 1990). Although, sweating also helps the animal in loosing heat. The ability to increase its body temperature permits the Arabian Oryx to release heat into the surroundings. The brain is, however, protected during the process of increasing body temperature by the cool blood that returns from the nasal pathways, thus absorbing heat from arterial blood that is destined for the brain (Walther, 1990). (National Wildlife Research Center, 2007). The Oryx leucoryx (Arabian Oryx) is also known as white Oryx. It is a moderate-size antelope with a distinguishable shoulder bump, a tufted tail and long and unbowed horns. It is a bovine and is the smallest-sized member of the genus Oryx, native to steppe and deserted regions of the Arabian Peninsula. By the years 1970s, the Oryx leucoryx had vanished in the wild but was preserved in private preserves and zoos and then was reintroduced, in 1980s, into the wild (Wildscreen, 2013). It was enlisted as an endangered species in 1986 on the IUCN Red List while it was the first animal species that was reverted to vulnerable status after being categorized as extinct species in the wild. The populations of Arabian Oryx, in 2011, were estimated to be more than 1,000 animals in the wild while there are around 6,000-7,000 animals in the preservation areas and zoos worldwide (Wildscreen, 2013). General Description The scientific name of Arabian Oryx is Oryx leucoryx. It belongs to the Order Artiodactyla, family Bovidae. Its range of habitat noticed formerly was Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Israel, Arabian Peninsula and Sinai. Sand deserts and gravel plains constitute the habita t of Arabian Oryx. Its diet includes herbs, fruits, grasses, melons and roots. The average body length has been found to be around 5.3 ft/ 160cm. The average shoulder height is approximately 2.7-3.4 ft/ 81-102 cm. The tail length has been recorded to be 1.5-2 ft/ 45-60 cm while its weight is 143-154 lb/ 65-70 kg (AZA, 2009). The colour of its coat is white in colour, without any colour washes, as noticed in the other species of Oryx. The colour of its legs is brownish black, excluding the ankles, which have white bands. Its face is spotted with black splotches that run from the eyes, beneath the jowls and down the cheeks, and dark hair triangles are noticeable down the nose bridge as well as on the forehead. The tasselled tail of the Arabian Oryx is somewhat dark brown and black. The unbowed, long, ridged horns are noticed in both sexes of the Arabian Oryx, growing 1.6-2.2 feet/ 50-68 cm long (AZA, 2009). It is a white, graceful antelope, standing 3 to 4 feet tall and around 300 pou nds weight, with black markings on the legs and face. Its white cost radiates the sunlight while during cold mornings heat is absorbed by the dark legs from the ground. The wide ears of the Arabian Oryx are circular at the tips. It is a keen-sighted animal, alert and wary, which protects itself by lowering its head in order to point forward its horns (AZA, 2009). The wandering herd comprises a leading male and various females with their young ones. Arabian Oryx is able to go without water for long periods, and the

General Systems Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

General Systems Theory - Essay Example Thus Soft Systems Methodology is more holistic in comparison with the conventional approach. It understands the features and the systems associated with the problem environment and use this understanding to tackle problem situations. 2. Issues around models vs empirical reality, and what is meant by the term â€Å"human activity systems†. Does he use the term differently from Checkland? The concept of human activity system is based on the assumption that real life problems situations arise as a consequence of a human action which is perceived to be meaningful. According to Checkland, the human activity systems are defined according to the meaning that the observer connects with the human action. However, the paper states that this approach is wrong. This approach limits the scope of modeling a human action based on a certain perspective. The same model would go wrong with people looking at the same action at a different perspective. Checkland used the term Weltanschauung to ex plain the perspective which makes a particular perspective meaningful. The article argues that a model which combines human activity systems and Weltanschauung of the observer can only properly explain a real life human activity. 3. The process of inquiry and models of SSM. Which of these models might be useful for the GST systems project? The process of inquiry includes five steps. The first is to have an investigation on the situation and have intuitive information on the situation. Second step is to name specific ideas within the situation which is relevant to understand the situation. Thirdly, formalize the ideas into models. The fourth step is to compare the formalized models with the features of the situation. The last step is evaluating the attitude towards the situation based on the new formalized model from the process of inquiry 4. â€Å"Problem solving† vs â€Å"changing a problem situation† ? what is the difference? Problem solving is the convention manager ial approach of formalizing systems in order to attain the achieved objectives of a system being in a problem context. Changing a problem situation involves intervention in creating a model helping the actors in a situation to understand the problem situation in such a way that they can intervene to tackle the situation. ? Concern seems to be shifted towards process issues – is this reasonable? By what viewpoints? The focus of Soft Systems Methodology is on changing the mechanisms associated with the problem and not on finding specific solution to the problem. Thus the approach would identify issues in these mechanisms which could be a part of the process. Thus in the Soft Systems Methodology the concern shifts towards process issues. This is quite reasonable as the conventional method limits in developing formalities so as to solve the problem where as SSM offers holistic change in the processes which in turn would offer sustainable development in the systems. Week 10 What b enefits did the use of SSM bring to this review (benefits that would not have been evident if another approach was used)? When Eva’s reorganization project was planned, its scope was limited to the Information systems department with the Information Department. The research department was out of the problem situa

External Sources of Finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

External Sources of Finance - Essay Example Financing decisions are normally very fundamental considerations to be made by any multinational corporation like Acme which seeks to venture into large scale operations. As such, the whole prerogative clearly rests on the finance managers to appropriately select the best financing method out of the myriad option available in the world today. The various option of finance that Acme can opt for are lucidly outlined below. The corporation can opt for the issuance of preference or ordinary shares in order to raise sufficient capital for the foreign expansion. This is a major source of finance for most organizations across the world. Its advantage lies in the fact that it is â€Å"non-redeemable†. As such, it is an existing and permanent source of finance that is not to be repaid like other sources of fund. The repayment process only occurs upon the winding up of the company. On the contrary, it can be argued that this form of financing has the disadvantage of diluting the ownership strength of the company since it involves the addition of new shareholders into the company (Steffens 45-9). In the same vein, as the number of shareholders increases, the control of the company becomes very difficult as decision making becomes very procedural and bureaucratic due to the wide consultation needed before any major decisions are made. Bank loans Loans from banks and other financial institutions are usually good sources of finance for business organizations. Obtaining such loans is always simple for most large organizations that are known to have wide capital bases. The use of loans as a source of financing has the advantage that it never leads to a loss of direction for the business as in the case of issuance of new shares. Bank loans are normally long-term sources of finance and can always be obtained in large sums unlike other sources. In most cases, loans are used to buy fixed assets such as vehicles and machinery. The major disadvantage of using loans as sources of finance revolves around the huge interests paid (Gopalan 67). Most banks charge very high interest rates and it therefore becomes unprofitable to acquire loans without the assurance that the business will raise sufficient profits to cover for the high interest rates. Short term loans can also be obtained in form of overdrafts in which case most banks need no collateral. However, bank overdrafts are always charged at very high interest rates than other loans. Debentures The issuance of debentures is also another source of capital that Acme can adopt for its expansion program. Debentures are usually units of loan which a company issues to the debenture holders and are usually traded like shares. The advantages and limitations of using debe ntures are basically similar to those of most bank loans. The loans are usually obtained from other companies, individuals or financial institutions. In that regard, Acme will then be prepared to repay the debenture holders the interest accrued. One striking characteristic of a debenture is that it is only backed by the company without any form of collateral like other loans. It therefore leaves the company’s assets free which can then be used to obtain further financing in the future. Leasing Leasing is one of the most common sources of financing in the increasingly competitive business environment. In essence, a business cannot purchase all the fixed assets it requires to set up operation in a foreign land. Leasing enables companies to

The Right to Privacy and Personal Life Research Proposal

The Right to Privacy and Personal Life - Research Proposal Example Their main guiding principle is the aspect of confidentiality with customer data. Indeed, there is need to inculcate public trust in order to get more customers. Data recovery business is a very sensitive one which deals with handling customer information hence there is need to maintain a good reputation in order to remain in business. One of the guiding principles of this data recovery company is the aspect of confidentiality and this company is working as a private entity, not a jury or ought to perform other undercover investigations which is vital for the sake of earning public trust. Except in cases where someone is planning criminal actions such as murder, the company should not easily divulge any other personal information which in most cases is private that would have been retrieved from customers’ computers. In the given case, a technician comes across what seems to be a sensitive murder case. However, he should basically take into consideration the fact that their company is guided by principles which seek to ensure public trust. On the other hand, there is need to safeguard the interests of the public such as safety against criminal activities. The only problem emanating from this case study is that the alleged evidence of murder found in the study may not be abundant enough to lay a case against a client given that it may be fictional writing. After all, this company is not out to probe or do investigative work but only to recover data for the clients. 2. Roughly translated, an organization's ethics come down to the standards that are followed in a relationship with others. This basically is the real integrity of the organization. Mills’ principle cited in Fraser Seitel (1995) states that â€Å"ethical considerations always seek the greatest happiness for the greatest number.† The operations of any given organization should be within the generally accepted standards in a society of which they operate from. The aspect of privacy is also one very important component of the concept of ethics.

Paul Farmer Essay Example for Free

Paul Farmer Essay How far will one man go to achieve the impossible? How far can one man go to reach his goal? The country of Haiti is one of the most under developed countries in the world, but one doctor, Paul Farmer, is determined to help cure this country. No matter what the costs, Paul Farmer is willing to do whatever it takes to help those in need. A doctor who has graduated from Harvard, is also the founder of Partners in Health, and is also a teacher at Harvard. In the book Mountains Beyond Mountains, by Tracy Kidder, Kidder shows the perseverance, determination, and courage of Paul Farmer and how he tries to help cure an under developed country and how he treats his patients. Paul Farmer isn’t like any other doctor. He treats his patients with more care than an average doctor. In chapter 2 of Mountains Beyond Mountains, Paul Farmer is seen with a patient in Boston who is HIV positive. The patient, named Joe, doesn’t eat properly and doesn’t take his medication and is also a drug addict. Though Joe doesn’t follow the protocol of being healthy, Paul Farmer insists that he treats Joe with respect and care. The patient only wants to drink and wants somebody to take care of him. Farmer took the patient to a homeless shelter. During Christmas time, Farmer bought Joe a six pack of beer for Christmas as a gift. On a message board at the hospital, read â€Å" OUT- cold, their drugs, ? gal. vodka, IN- warm, our drugs, 6 pack bud. † (pg. 15) At the bottom of that message also read â€Å"Why do I know Paul Farmer wrote this? (Pg. 5) This shows how Dokte Paul Farmer cares for his patients and how the other doctors are used to his generosity with their patients. Not many doctors would go to the extreme in taking care of one patient, or bending the rules to suit a patient’s needs. This act of kindness shows how much Paul Farmer cares about his patients and the people of Haiti. Paul Farmer treats everybody equally, whether they’d be rich or poor. The US Army is in Haiti to reinstate the country’s democratically elected government and to take away the power of the Junta that is ruling the country of Haiti with cruelty. In chapter 1, Paul Farmer despises how Captain Carroll and his men release Nerva Juste, a sheriff who is accused of beheading the assistant mayor of Mirebalais. Because there wasn’t any hard evidence of Nerva killing the assistant mayor, the US army had to let him go. Paul Farmer says to Captain Carroll, â€Å"Two clear sides existed in Haiti, the forces of repression and the Haitian poor, the vast majority†¦it still seems fuzzy which side the American soldiers are on† (pg. 15). This shows that Farmer is defending the poor Haitians

Grand Canyon Essay Essay Example for Free

Grand Canyon Essay Essay Although not a more prominent theme, the theme of things happening for a reason and changing your life was also shown in the movie Grand Canyon. Through my own life experiences and the through the experiences of others I too have learned that things do happen with reason and that things may not seem good right at the moment, but things will turn out right in the end. To me, the movie showed this theme, but more subliminally then up front. When times do look bad, have faith and know that things will turn out for the better and that theres a reason for why things are the way they are. In the beginning of the movie we see that Mack gets into car trouble in the wrong side of town. As Mack is beginning to be harassed by a couple of gangsters, Simon comes to the rescue. Simon, the tow-truck driver tells the gangsters to back off, thus saving Macks life. Mack is therefore grateful of what Simon has done. Despite the fact that Mack couldve gotten himself killed, Mack wised up and made a new friend. In another part in the movie Simons sisters house was shot at (they live in the wrong part of town). At first, his sister decides to just stay there, but later moves into an apartment that Mack suggested they get. Then there was the part where Simon and Jane, a girl Mack set up with Simon hit it off right away after their first date. If you think real hard about it, all those things that happened never wouldve happened if that night Simon and Mack had not met. Even though it was a bad way to meet, things did turn out right. Everyone involved learned more about each other and themselves and everything did turn out for the better. As did the case with Macks wife, Claire. One day on one of Claires daily jogs she literally finds a baby behind some bushes. Claire takes the baby into her care and later plans to adopt the child. The child seems to be what Claire was missing all this time. The baby seemed to fill an emptiness she had. As these situations in the movie shows, there is reason for why things are the way they are and that in turn changes our lives completely. In my own life experiences, Ive come to terms with my faith in God and the belief that things happen with reason and that God would not abandon you. My mom has also taught me and instilled that belief in me. In the past couple of years things have been on the rough for my family and I. Four years ago  my dad lost his stable job of about 10 years. During and throughout that period of about a year, money was somewhat a problem and with each new day my dad became more and more depressed as each job interview passed with no reply. During that time my mom, told us to believe and kept telling us that bad things do happen, but they only happen when something better is to come. About 2 years ago, Bell Canada employed my dad. His office was even closer than the old one and his new office was larger and my dad loved his new job. My mom was right. But thats not where it all ends. A year and a half ago, my dad was transferred to a Mississauga branch. My dad hated the commute each morning and you could tell he wasnt liking it there. They were understaffed there so he always worked overtime, and that meant leaving later from his already far workplace. He was stressed a whole lot. Once again, my mom told us that this is just a period of time that tests us and that things would turn out for the best. About a year ago today, my dad was transferred to one of Bell Canadas downtown branches. My dad now works right in the Eaton Centre and my dad is so happy. Through just that whole ordeal Ive learned first, how powerful prayer really is and second, that things do happen for a reason. When my dad first moved to Mississauga he was thinking of quitting and looking for a new job, if he had done that he wouldnt have ended up where he was today. Through many other experiences I have learned that something very little can change your life forever and that God only gives you things He knows you can handle. It may seem like through my experiences Ive learned two different things, but to me they go together. God communicates to us through many different ways, so does fate. The littlest things like going to the mall or going home can change our lives forever. More recently, was the terrorist attack in the U.S. In the news and from various other sources you hear stories about people who missed their train or slept in that morning and therefore missing out on the Trade Centre collapsing. Just missing out by a few seconds how just by being late could change your life forever. It also shows the power of fate, it wasnt your time to pass on. As little as something may seem, it can alter your life in more ways than one. When your life seems out of place or when youre going through rough times,  youve got to just remember that things always turn out for the better. If something good has passed you by now, something better for you is bound to be coming soon. Though you may not be optimistic something better is coming, youve got to believe so. That something better may not come big, but it will change your life forever.

Environmental Impact on Retail Estate Business

Environmental Impact on Retail Estate Business What promotional strategies can be undertaken when environmental factors affect real estate business? Case study of â€Å"Magical Homes in London and Dubai† ABSTRACT Real estate business is one of biggest market of the business world, contained the largest surplus money of the business. The history of the real estate business is very strange and unpredictable. No doubt is slow moving industry with respect to time but it carries a lot. Past experiences shows that property investment was the first and safest priority in all over the world for long term investments and profit making business. Where the property investors has seen the huge profits there was also a slumps in the property market which made the real estate business an anonymous business. There were number of environmental factors behinds the uncertainty of the real estate business which influenced in the shape of recession, natural disasters, economic condition, political instability and some time in the shape of sports event like Olympics hit the real estate market positively and negatively. On time decisions and effective management can make things easier. Promotion plans and strategies can reduced the impact of environmental factors on the real estate business. This study was about learnt the past experiences and to find out the impact of new environmental factor and their influenced on the real estate market. The aims of the study was to learnt the behaviour of the environmental factors in the modern age with respect of politically, economically, sociologically, technologically and legally. Even in the modern world an other emerging factor was the hosting of sports events like Olympics and worst factor in the history was the recession which influenced the real estate market in very unexpected manners. The objectives of the study was to study the promotional plans and strategies which could be the best deal to reduced the impact of such environmental factors and to enhance the believe of the investors and builder to come forward and join the world leading business for huge profits and gaining. The on time decisions and the suggested strategy can raise the investment in the real estate business. The conclusion and recommendation can explain the objectivity of the study in a comprehensive manner. Chapter one 1 Introduction Real estate property business has a very interesting history of its own. It is a very uncertain and unpredictable market and because of its strangeness, this international business market is very charming for investors and entrepreneurs. The investments in this market usually much higher than expected therefore a huge surplus of money is still lying in this business market. Despite of recent terrible crash of real estate business, still got a large investment to spend. People visiting around the world for peace and looking for luxury living at minimum cost or affordable cost, So customers and investors need to know the ups and downs of the market in the mirror of past, present and future, no doubt its not perfectly doable but at least the research like this can make the investors wiser and predictable and they can think either their investments are in right direction or they going to make a dumb decision. There are number of factors which influence the real estate market directly and indirectly. This research would be the comprehensive discussion of these environmental factors like location, type of land, weather, culture, languages and legal property laws of that particular state. This study would be a revolution in the understanding of real estate property business. Affordable plans, promotions and advertisement can help to guide the investors in the right direction. In todays real estate market every investor is looking for a competitive price to gain a profit as well as the service provider company should be the responsible for the successful delivery of the project, after sales support services, dedicated advantages comes in houses, arrangement of resale of the property, arrangement of rental services and all other strategies which designed to help the investor in order to maximise the return on investments. So this kind of strategies can be undertaken in order to gain trust of investors. 1.1 Background of the study The current situation of real estate property business is very important after a terrible recession (2008-2009) in all over the world. The economic condition of the world developed countries is poor and struggling to get better environment for investments. This situation creates a compotation between the land giants but here the situation is different as we saw, State of Emirates getting better and have a sound position in terms of real estate property business infect Dubai got the attraction of the world investors and entrepreneurs because its past planning and attention in this market. Free hold property law of Emirates in 2003 has changed from its present condition and they are changing the map of the world in the shape of luxurious living, large resorts of islands, desserts villas, world tallest buildings, under water hotel and many more attractions made real estate property business in ‘Dubai a great success story. On the other hand in London situation has changed. After a terrible recession of (2008-2009) which had a worst impact on United Kingdom than European Union .UK is a huge economy of the world and has the opportunity to lead the world. The real estate property business in this country had faced the worst ever condition but now it is getting better day by day and it is going towards the peak point again. UK got the opportunity to host the Olympics 2012 in London. Olympics 2012 such a huge project with operating cost of  £580 millions and it could be increase than the expected cost. Comparison of real estate market of emerging city Dubai and developed country UK has raised many questions in the mind of investors, as time to time both countries has hit by the environmental factors like economic factors, political factors, social factors, cultural and legal factor. The uncertain situation of real estate market has created an economical crisis, because the financial institutions became tougher, the banks became stricter and this situation has affected the potential investors. In this situation real estate companies and the investors needs to adopt the attractive and affordable promotion plans that can develop the interest of investors and buyers. Theses plans and strategies can help to reduce the impact of environmental factors on the business of real estate market. 1.2 Research Background Jones, Lang, Lassalle entitled has given a report called ‘Reaching Beyond the Gold: The Impact of the Olympics on Real Estate Markets examines the impact of staging the Olympics on recent host cities and looks ahead to 2012.It shows that sports event like this has an impact not only on the real estate property business but also on the every institutions of the country. Past experiences shows a positive impact on the property like the prices of property in Sydney is still rising and even the prises are 50% higher than before. So the major impact of events like Olympics is on real estate property business which could be helpful to improve the prices of property after recession. London and Dubai, both of the cities have got their own entity in the market of real estate property business. Past experiences showed that the people of the urban areas have been moving towards rural areas and there were a number of reasons behind this migration. Even in last decade people like to buy or rent their properties in countries like Dubai. In case of city like London the situation will change because of the environmental factor has changed the economic, political, social and legal conditions of the country. UK has improved economically in last few months and the real estate market getting better especially in London and investors has risen dramatically since recession over and being the host city of Olympics. 1.3 Organisation Background This study has a case study of â€Å"Magical homes Dubai†, is a London based company, who dealing with the investors from all around the world, they offering them advice in off-plan, resale, renting or buying property. They are offering their services in UAE and especially in Dubai for buying, selling, renting, reselling of houses, apartment, offices, villas and commercial spaces. ‘Magical homes Dubai provided services to the customers from last ten years, is an expert in providing investment property in UAE and London. In addition providing investors with exclusive and the uniqueness in providing highly sought after property option with the best customer service is the core operation. 1.4 Rationale for the chosen topic The main reason of the topic to be chosen that the demand of the profession and the scope of profession are very high despite of bad turns real estate property business has a vast field of business. Living of people has changed completely and its need to change further in future which opens the new horizons in real estate property business. Infect both the developed and under developed countries have a huge market in real estate business and its growing day by day with passage of increase in population of the world, in other words shelter is the basic need of life and its never gone to end. So its a profession of life and it has a wide scope in international business. Currently if take a look on trends and developments of any country then its easy to say that the real estate property business plays a vital rule in assessment of the countrys economic condition. The real estate property business depends on different environmental factors which are important to study and need to have a good knowledge about so the investment needs to be invest in the right place, for this purpose of knowing this study could be a mile stone. This study would be helpful in the decision making and to find out the save investment plan on the international level. Although, Real estate property business has effected by different environmental factors directly and indirectly but critical analysis of these environmental factors in the light of past and present can make the decision making quite easier for the future prediction. Comparison of big markets like London and Dubai can make the job easier for the investors and entrepreneurs to find out the right choice around the world. 1.5 Statement of the problem World become a global market, any company can make strategy for its local market and the strategy to hit the international market but in this case there could be various environmental factors involved which influence the business either domestic level or international level. Theses environmental factors could be economical, political, social, cultural and legal factors. This study can help to understand the emerging problems of the real estate property business market. The population of any country shows the appreciation of the people and the development in the real estate property business show the growing power. The population of London was more than 8 million and its expected to be rise in the near future. After the recovery of economic crises the real estate property business has grown up and prices of the market is getting better and there will a positive chances of incoming investment for the near future because of the Olympics 2012. On the other hand Dubai has increasing popul ation of 1.5 million which is expected to exceed 1.9 million in 2010. With the increase in population has directly effect the demand of property so the study can guide the investors and the financial institutions that which strategies could be helpful for new plans and promotions. 1.6 Research aims and objectives This study contains a couple of aims and objectives but theses points cover a comprehensive study of knowledge which can provide a handsome idea to the investors and the entrepreneurs around the world.  · To examine the investors behaviour when environmental factors affect the development in the real estate sector. * To analyse the impact of environmental factors on the real estate business internally and externally * To find out the new strategies which could be helpful to reduce the negative influence of environmental factors * To explore the promotional strategies that can be undertaken to help the real estate companies to overcome the crisis  · To determine the new promotional strategies that can be attractive and feasible for the investors internationally The aims and objectives of the study is dame clear as it represents the importance and significance of the study. Real estate property business covers a big surplus of the business and it need to be study in terms of save and profit making business. So facts and s of this market are very uncertain and factors involved in the uncertainty of the market need to be study. These factors could be economic, geographical, cultural, demographical, legal and political. So the economic factor is very important in the real estate property market, it directly influence the price of the property, if the economic condition of that particular is not that well then the prices of the property could be lower than the expected prices but most of that type case the demand goes higher than higher but the supply of the property goes down and down. The political factor is the most affective factor in environmental factors, as the political condition of any country or state has a direct impact on the economic condition, so the more stability condition of the country leads the country towards the most stable place. The geographical factor is also an important factor in the real estate property market as it has direct impact on it, as the location of the property lies in the developed country then the prices and demand of that particular property goes high, and if the geographically it lies in the under developed country then the demand and prices goes down. The factor of the culture has a impact on the real estate property business market, as the culture is the representative of any population if the population have a culture of luxurious life style then the market of the real estate property business will be higher but if it prevail in lower standard living then the real estate property business growth will be lower. Demographical factor is very important factor of the real estate property business market because it has a direct influence with the real estate property business market like the first step of the building of a new housing unit is to commission the demographical study of that particular area, which shows the current population, density and the growth of the population, the age distribution of the population, the average size of the household, the race of the population, the sex of the population and the local market of the population, so demographic factor has its own importance. The factor like legal condition of that particular area plays a very important rule, if the legal condition of the state is worthy, provides facilities to the both buyers and sellers then it can create a big market and can attract the investors but if the legal condition is not that flexible then the investors can never be interested in such type of market. The seasonal factor has a very important place in the history of the real estate business market and it can change the destiny of the nation, as seen in the past that the seasonal events like Olympics had a positive effect on the real estate business market. The objectives of the studies are very clear which lead the study toward desirable results. This study basically provides the feasibility of the real estate property market in the new era of world. It has also conducted to find out the potential of the real estate property market either its a worthy business of market or dumb way of caring a business. This research will provides a brief but a comprehensive outline and relative concerns of the real estate property business market, which includes the brief knowledge of the market sector that how it can work? The pros and cons of the real estate property market, how the demand can be show?, how the property did suit the requirement of the investor?, how the offer can be made?, how to negotiate with the seller?, how the deal can be finalize the deal?, how to meet the legal laws of that particular part of the world?, how to make sure that the property is free hold or lease property?, how the survey of the property can be done?, how the demand and supply can be calculated?, how the demand and supply effect the prices of the property? Etc. it also includes the information about the financial estimate of the property that is very helpful to understand the feasibility of any property matches with the need of investors. It also includes the knowledge of the human resource that is required f or the investment and maintains of the property. 1.7 Structure of the dissertation 1.7.1 First chapter is introduction about the research work, tell about the research topic, its background, history, importance, aims and objective of the study, statement of the problem, scope of the study and then the structure of the study that how the reader can go through the study and find the guide for next study. 1.7.2 Second chapter This chapter was the literature review of the study, which gives the brief but comprehensive guide of the study that has a complete knowledge about the research that was done in respect of the topic chosen. 1.7.3 Third chapter This chapter is regarding the research methodology used in this study and has followed the recommended ‘harwared style of referencing and research process and eventually select the method of the research used to get the primary data and processed the secondary data. 1.7.4 Fourth chapter This chapter was about the outcomes and finding knowledge of the research study made, which gave a comprehensive idea of the solution of the problem. 1.7.5 Fifth Chapter This chapter was about the conclusion and recommendation of the study. The conclusion of the study was about the guideline for problems solution and some suggestions for the company or any other institution having same kind of difficulties and the recommend the way for further studies. Chapter Two 2 Literature Review In previous chapter of introduction presented the basic theme of this study that what has been discussed in the rest of the study. It showed the main aims and objectives and what research question have discussed to find the objectives of the study. In this chapter of literature review, a strong formation of knowledge and the efforts made in this study or the related study will be discussed that leads towards the finding and conclusion of the research work. Promotional strategies can be undertaken when environmental factors affect the real estate business and it is the phenomenon of every business that promotion plans and strategies like market pull and product push strategies could be helpful to make good business strategies accordingly. * A process can be a push operates as long as there all the goods or services to be processed, a system is said to be operate push if all its stages are push. * A process can be operate pull if it is dictated to work or remain idle because of the feedback from downstream. So the system is called pull operates if all the stages are pull. (Brassington and Pettitt, 2007). Push and pull strategy (Brassington and Pettitt, 2007) PUSH PULL 2.1 PESTLE Analysis of the real estate business 2.1.1 Introduction While analysing the factors affecting the real estate industry, it is vital to over look the factors that in one way or another affect the number of important variables that have there influence on the specific business or organisations supply and demand and its cost (Katter and Schlesinger, 1991; Johnson and Scholes, 1993). The radical ongoing recession in the entire business world brings change in the society and customers behaviour towards their purchasing power and on real estate has its wide spread affect. (Tsiakkiros, 2002) Number factors been catalogues have possible issues addressed in the recent days which directly or indirectly affect the industry. PEST analysis is one of them which categories environmental influence as political, economic, social and technological forces. In recent studies two additional factors of environmental and legal added to make it PESTLE analysis. Analysis and impact of these factors will be examined and to observe their affect on the entire indust ry later the findings will be used to make the contingency plans against the threats to the business strategy and its growth plans (Byars, 1991; Copper, 2000). According to Kotler(1998) PEST analysis is very influential tool for making business strategies for making growth and to understand the reasons for decline , positioning the product in the market, enhancing the product offer and its promotions, seeking the potential market and direction for operation. PEST is usually applied by companies for reviewing the business direction, and marketing proposition. Real estate business enhance its fortune in the modern world by this influential tool of PEST for making strategic planning , business and product development, and also for affective research of the market. PEST also ensures to the businesses that their performance in the market is aligned in positive direction while having the powerful forces of change which affect the business environment (Porter, 1985). PEST also helpful for the businesses which are which are new in the market operations in a very new market or country. Concluding the basic concept of PEST, it helps to effectively ch ange to the realities of the new environment. Main aspects of PEST analysis includes: 2.1.2 Political Government policies which include tax policy, employment laws, trade restrictions, reforms, tariffs and political stability influence many other environmental factors which can affect the organisations performance. Policies like European countries join the single European currency or remain outside. There are many other aspects in which government policies will affect the organisation and the countrys economic situation a as a whole as they provide opportunities and threats. Where capital markets responsible for determining the for the alternatives for funding the organisations and business and they are under control of the governments policies. Even in UK Bank of England, which also influenced by the government policies like rate of interest charged for the loans some times determined by the government. Thompson (2002), refers capital markets will be more buoyant when government spending increase the money supply. Company performance according to the shareholders expectations, their decisions to sell the companies shares and willingness for providing more equity will also be affected by the government policies. Labour market which represents the national and regional availability of specific skills which all influenced by the government and other regional agencies. The power of trade unions and inflation which influenced on labour cost all affect the business environment in one way or other. 2.1.3 Economical The economic condition which affects every business that how much its easy to flourish the business in easy economic conditions and what difficulties a business can face during the recession period of the economy . Economic conditions affect the success and profitability of the business at any time as it affects the capital availability, cost and product demand (Thompson, 2002). The timing factor for the investment also influenced by the economic conditions. When the economy as a whole or certain part of the economy sectors growing demand may exist for the product and services which are not in demand in economic recession circumstances. Recession and downturn situation in the economy is bad for most of the businesses but at the same time in these conditions some businesses prosper and avail some growth opportunities (Robinson and et al., 1978; Thompson, 2002). Economic condition of the current era is also the worst one of its kind. Which resulted in the low demand for the housing and real estate and this can be judged from the declining trend in the UK and Dubai real estate businesses. Many large firms like Barretts homes in UK and Emaar stop there progress work on the ongoing projects and recent economic downturn in the Dubai World business is directly affected by Emaar company slump. Economic factor is the most important factoring the PEST analysis in the recent time. 2.1.4 Sociological What is occurring socially in markets in which businesses operates , population growth rate , age groups , career attitude , emphasis on safety , global warming .Demand for fashion , taste and rapidly changing trends in the sociocultural environment both provide with threats and opportunities to the businesses (Thompson , 2002 ; Pearce and Robinson, 2005). Products production and promotion strategies affect to the change in the behaviour and liking and disliking of the customer. Changing behaviour of the customers affects the ways of routine production and forced the businesses to change the formal procedures of designing and producing the product. The demographic factor must be considered by the organisations while doing the overseas businesses as the products and services needs variations. The structure, age and the people working has vital important while bearing the demand and demand for the particular product and services. 2.1.5 Technological Rapid changes in the technology has forced the companies to update there ways of doing the businesses to meet the demands and services of the customers. |technology in a way or other also benefited the organisations for cutting there cost by outsourcing etc. Various literatures in strategic management recognised technology (Capron and Glazer, 1987; Johnson and Scholes, 1993; Jan, 2002) for giving the competitive advantage to the organisation; technology is used for creating the model. Breakthrough in technology resulted in the invention of new industries which also poses the threat to the existing organisations in the market for its products and services , the affected firms must be alert themselves for coping with the new innovation threat from the new industries by enhancing the business techniques by adopting the new technology . New technology can provide a useful input and procedures for manufacturing the products and offering services. It all requires the well trained and skill ed staff and there is a need for heavy funding. 2.2 SWOT Analysis of the real estate business 2.2.1 Introduction Accessibility of resources and environmental opportunity is one thing and proper utilisation of these opportunities by the champion or the strategic leader is both different aspects of organisations efficiency. Evaluation of environment opportunities is very important by analysing and in direct relation to the strengths and weaknesses of the organisations resources and culture. The close relation between environment, values and resources results in the existence of real opportunities. Evaluating and analysing the organisations strengths and weaknesses in context to the environmental opportunities is generally known as SWOT analysis. While studying strategic and marketing analysis history SWOT is considered to be a very important tool. Who actually explored and invent SWOT not known, but the text books in 1972 on strategy and marketing has some of its features. It advocates on the importance of SWOT in a way that, it is a tool to measure the fitness of the organisation‘s strategies and its environment and also used to suggest that the ways to defend the organisation against its weaknesses and threats (Adams, 2005). SWOT is criticised in recent period because of its simplicity as both the management and people at the academic level use and apply this tool without considering the long term impact of their decisions using SWOT which normally useless. The SWOT concept has been conceived and achieved in that simple time when there were no theories like trade-offs of strategic theory not comes into existence (De Witt and Meyer, 1998) 2.2.2 Strengths Internal and external customer s can only analyse and determine the strong aspects of an organisation. Strength is a, Resources of the firm which gives the competitive advantage in the market and cause to serve or expected to serve in the market. In SWOT, strength of the organisation refers to the comparative advantage of the firms distinctive competence on the other firms in the marketplace. Strengths of the company arise from the resources edge of the organisation available to the firm from other organisation. 2.2.3 Weaknesses The firms weaknesses also not determined from organisations point of view but again from customers view point. Usually it is quite difficult for the firms to admit and acknowledge its mistakes and shortcomings but as far as the business ethics are considered, they must admit their weaknesses and work for its improvement. A weakness of a firm is a, â€Å"Limitation or deficiency in one or more resources or competencies relative to competitors that impedes a firms effective performance† * https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkklx_EUaWglAim-1X-pwNeqpkoIZmJ1p_W88VikIgIXt7QLkeHGzgHeJNxlifDl0YorDJW5UGCiqBH_0QBWRB-D0QkotLiy_SxD9BCHHFFmFolh8Dy1UUM0eHtaXjzfmVnfDZNkGYWN0/s400/swot-analysis-image.png 25/12/09 2.2.4 Opportunities Organisations always try to continue to grow their business and opportunity is another major factor of SWOT which enables organisations to analyse the available opportunities in the marketplace to grow. Opportunities refer to the adaptation and use of new technology in the market, flexible government to encourage investment and new businesses, demographic and social patterns. Having an opportunity in the organisations environment is a big situation. Critical analysis of prior overlooked market segments, adaptation in competitive atmosphere, changes in technology and enhanced relationship between buyers or supplier relationship all refers to the strong opportunity for the firms growth. 2.2.5 Threats No one consider the threats what any business can face at any point of time during the course of their business , no matter with fact that they are not controllable , like, recent economic recession in the world , for which the world economy as a whole was not prepared . Here, it is very necessary for the strategic management of the organisation to be prepared themselves for the threats even in the peak time of their businesses. Threat considered being the major and unfavourable condition in the business life. Threats can also become the key factor in the firms current and future position. Threats refers to the easy entrance of the competitors in the market, slow grow rate , higher bargaining power of buyer or suppliers is another threat for the business and revised government regulations.(Adam, 2005) 2.3 Promotional strategies Every business needs to sell its product at an attractive price. For this reason the benefits of the products must be conveyed to the customers in a very smooth and easy way. In marketing, for addressing the benefits of the products to the customers directly, companies climb on the ladder of known as â€Å"promotion†. â€Å"Promotion is all about companies communicating with customers†. (Jobber, 2007) Walkers the UKs number one brand in grocery, which cover the lucrative market of over 37 percent. They are spending about  £17m on the advertising. It was heard that there is a nutrition shortage in children and the growing num

The Red Convertible Essay -- essays papers

The Red Convertible Vanished Brotherhood In the short story â€Å"The Red Convertible† you will find some important elements that are integral to the support and development of the theme brotherhood. First, you will see how the road trip gives a lesson in the story. Second, you will discover how the war affected the relationship of Lyman and Henry. Finally, you will understand the symbolism of the red convertible and the link it has between both brothers. One important element that has a powerful lesson in the story is the road trip. While Lyman and Henry went on a drive one afternoon, they met a girl named Susy in the middle of the road. Susy had her hair in buns around her ears and was very short. They let her jump in the car and they take her to Alaska, where she lives. They stood in Alaska for a while and the night before they went back home, Susy stood up on a chair and unclipped her hair, and it reached to the ground. They were both astonished when they saw her hair. Not only because it was very long, but perh aps because they never seen her hair from that perspective, â€Å"You couldn’t tell how much hair she had when it’s rolled up so neatly†. The moral of that scene was that even if we see things one way, there is always a different perspective to see it. Even the relationship that anyone can have with someone else can be seen in different perspectives. Another important element in the story is the effect that the war brought between both brothers. Henry is drafted to Vietnam as a soldier and when he returns from the war, he is nothing like his old self. As Lyman says laconically, â€Å"the changes in him from the war were no good.† Here you see that the effect of the war was negative. Lyman describes Henry as â€Å"quiet; he d... ...n on all the road signs, and he ultimately chooses to drown in â€Å"the Red River†. As you can see, Lyman is inventive, clever, and hard working but he cannot, eventually, help Henry overcome his damage from Vietnam. Lyman attempts to bring Henry back to spiritual life by the connective link they share in owning a shiny red Olds convertible together, but Henry’s hopes and dreams slowly fade out. As for Lyman, he destroys the car in the end because it no longer represents success and good times to him. Instead, it represents the white world, which has destroyed Henry. He recognizes the big sacrifice that Henry has made for him on behalf of the white culture, â€Å" He bought out my share†. By submerging the car beneath the water he completely disconnects himself from the white culture and confirms his status as a Native American when he says, â€Å"Lyman walks everywhere he goes†.

Nightlife Pleasure vs. Pressure Essay -- miscellaneous

Nightlife Pleasure vs. Pressure Lebanese nightlife mixes people of all ages & backgrounds together into a very unique mode of entertainment. Some people are against going out at night and others are addicted to going out nightly. The different perspectives of the various people give better insight on finding out just how serious some issues on nightlife affect one another. If there is a direct way to find out just how the night life is for those that go out, no other person would be better to hear it from then the average college student. Their perspectives are indeed varied, but the argument is good. â€Å"It is essential for my buddies and I to go out† said Marwan Nouihed, a Senior in LAU. â€Å"I just don’t like the way that people go out just to be seen, and they don’t notice that they are over-exposing themselves† quoted Yasmine Shuhaiber, a freshman. What many may know is the substance abuse that enhances people going out, but they have no idea as to the extent of how serious it is consumed. â€Å"If I don’t drink there is no party, so whenever I’m out at night people better pour out a little liquor† views Ali Bini a Junior. â€Å"It’s not about drinking, that’s for kids, these days we look forward to stronger drugs to make us feel good† whispers Yamen Sukkarieh, a 23 year old. In general everyone consumes alcohol, but for those that don’t enjoy it, they find other methods to feel good. â€Å"You know what the main problem is about drinking or taking drugs? It’s the price everyon...

Graduation Speech :: Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

I feel overwhelmed with emotions standing here before you this evening. It was only two years ago I remember sitting in this hot gym, on the hard bleachers, as many of you are tonight watching commencement. I was a newly single mother with three children. I had been homeless, had little education and did not have much self-esteem. Ron Wales, an attorney spoke at that commencement. Four months later he was shot and killed. I will always remember his enthusiasm and energetic presence when he spoke here that evening. It touched me deeply. He sent a strong message to "have a voice, take a stand in life, NOT letting life happen to you, but instead to be present in our lives." I took this message to heart. It gave me courage to NOT let the sadness of my divorce and loss of my home destroy my life. I now stand before you in my cap and gown, waiting to receive my Associate of Arts diploma and on my way to my next goal: earning a Master's degree in Social Work. All of us here this evening come from different backgrounds and will take different paths. Some of us will go on to a four-year college, for others we start new jobs, while some us will look for a new job. Whatever your circumstance, whatever your degree, remember YOU have a voice that no other has in this world. Your voice is important, and it needs to be heard. During my time, many students inspired and encouraged me to keep going in the midst of adversity. These students were international students, immigrants, single parents, families, young running start students and people retraining for new jobs. I wish I could share all their inspirational stories. What I can say now is, your lives speak volumes and I won't forget you. One particular student who stands out in my mind was a young blind man in my chemistry class. He put forth an incredible effort each day to get an education. I watched him learn molecular structures. I watched him labor over the assignments with a tutor. I saw him earn an A in the class. After the quarter ended, he told me he was taking a break from school because of the chronic pain he suffered from his eyes. A few months later, while I was with my daughter shopping in the University District, I saw him walking alone with a cane in the midst of traffic and crowds.

Hrm598 – Case Study 1

INTRODUCTION Given nine untitled job descriptions for the Whole Foods Market corporation, my assignment was to review them, give them appropriate job titles and assign a job structure, explaining my thought process and method of analysis. I was then to evaluate the job descriptions and provide feedback on what information was beneficial and what could be improved. EVALUATION OF JOBS After reading the job descriptions I assigned a job title that I felt both represented the job duties and aligned with the other Whole Foods job titles mentioned in the exercise.These are the job titles I originally decided on, prior to establishing a job structure. †¢JOB A: Deli Team Member †¢JOB B: Register Team Member †¢JOB C: Prepared Foods Team Leader †¢JOB D: Prepared Foods Assistant Team Leader †¢JOB E: Kitchen Team Assistant †¢JOB F: Grocery Assistant Team Leader †¢JOB G: Prepared Foods Associate Team Leader †¢JOB H: Regional Team Leader †¢JOB I: Grocer y Team Member ? JOB STRUCTURE When establishing the job structure, I realized there was no need for the department to be part of the title.Although the duties might be different depending on their assigned department, the level of responsibility was approximately the same and jobs could be considered one generic position (i. e. â€Å"Team Member†). Therefore, I made the positions more general in title and chose to conduct a basic ranking method in order to determine the job structure. WHOLE FOODS MARKET – STORE JOB STRUCTURE Regional Team Leader (Job H) Store Team Leader Associate Store Team Leader (Department) Team Leader (Job C) Associate Team Leader (Job G) Assistant Team Leader (Job D-Prepared Foods and Job F-Grocery) Team Member (Job A-Deli, Job B-Register, and Job I-Grocery)Team Assistant (Job E) PROCESS, TECHNIQUES AND FACTORS In my attempt to title each of the positions, I first simply read through the job descriptions multiple times, noting the job duties, lev el of responsibility and decision making and relationships to other positions, if any were mentioned. These relationships helped me to decide what appropriate titles would be for Whole Foods Market. Although my first set of job titles included â€Å"service clerks† in several positions, these were eventually changed to â€Å"Team Members† because of the obvious emphasis Whole Foods Market places on the team concept.Therefore, I chose to incorporate the word â€Å"team† into every title. When assembling the positions into an established job structure, the stated relationships between positions were key yet again. I wrote down every position mentioned, so that I could ensure my positions were accurately aligned and appropriately named in comparison to one another. I chose to look at knowledge, experience, responsibility/authority and leadership/guidance potential as the compensable factors which provide the most value. All of the positions have virtually the same work environment, which is why this factor was not considered.Similarly, customer service related attributes were also not selected, even though it is obviously a huge priority for the organization, because there were no positions where this was not the case†¦ all equally emphasize positive and courteous interaction with their customers. The above job structure was established by weighing the compensable factors of each position and considering any reporting relationships directly stated in the job descriptions. I believe that responsibility was the characteristic that clearly set the positions apart from one another.As you ascend the job structure you will find that each position has more responsibility, both in depth and breadth. Because of these additional job requirements, an advanced level of knowledge goes somewhat hand-in-hand. Higher level individuals must not only have greater in-depth knowledge of the Whole Foods Market policies and procedures, but they are involved i n a much wider scope of activities. Experience is a logical factor that also sets positions apart. A â€Å"team assistant† is an entry level job that requires no prior experience and is the kind of position that one expects an individual can learn as they go.A â€Å"Department Team Leader,† however, is expected to have already put some time in. They have learned process, procedure and the organization well enough to prepare them for the advanced responsibility. Finally, it seems as though Whole Foods Market places an emphasis on providing a career path for the employees, in order to encourage long term employment. This is emphasized by many positions requiring the provision of leadership and guidance to lower level positions. They want to encourage a strong relationship between all levels, to reinforce the team environment and ensure support of all employees.Although I have no doubt Whole Foods Market has a much more extensive job structure organizationally, this struc ture focuses specifically on an individual store location. Even the Regional Team Leader could probably be moved to another job structure focused more on organizational administration rather than individual store operations; however, I chose to limit the scope of my analysis to the given positions. EVALUATION OF JOB DESCRIPTIONS Overall, I think the job descriptions are fairly well written and provide a good base. They describe the scope of duties and what experience or skills are needed for each position.However, the main thing these job descriptions lack is consistency. Some clearly reference a relationship to other Whole Foods Market positions; some do not. Some state who they report to; some do not. Some clearly supervise, train and mentor other positions; some are not as clearly defined. Additionally, job duties in one job description which should probably apply to other positions as well, are not always listed (customer service, health and sanitation compliance, good communica tion skills, teamwork, knowledge of corporate policy and standards, etc). Something all of the job descriptions are missing is the applicable work environment.Although most of the positions will be performed in a similar environment, this information should still be provided. My suggestion to improve the job descriptions would be to establish a template that all positions would follow. The template would include the following categories: a brief summary of the position, the duties and responsibilities, who the position reports to, who the position supervises, the typical work environment, tools or equipment that will be used in the position, requirements for the position (knowledge, experience, education, skills, etc), and possibly a job classification.Job classifications are not a necessity but can be a good idea to distinguish between the fundamental types of job (i. e. entry-level, journey-level, mentor, supervisor, manager, executive, administrative, etc). CONCLUSION After my an alysis, I believe we have an excellent understanding of how the staff of a Whole Foods Market functions. It is clear that the organization highly values customer service and teamwork and wants to encourage â€Å"career† employees at every level.With the established job structure and implementation of the recommendations made to improve their job descriptions, positions would be more clearly defined. Employees would easily be able to understand every position, what it does, how it interacts with other positions and how to get there themselves. REFERENCES Milkovich, G. T. , Newman, J. M. , & Gerhart, B. (2011). Compensation, 10th Edition. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Whole Foods Market. (n. d. ). Career Paths. Retrieved March 2013, from Whole Foods Market: http://wholefoods. com/