Business Environment of Sri Lanka Telecom Plc Essay Example for Free

Business Environment of Sri Lanka Telecom Plc Essay If not for all of them my assignment wouldn’t have been a success. Kevin De Silva Executive Summary This assignment gives an exhaustive analysis focusing mainly on the business environment on one of the most leading companies in the communication industry of Sri Lanka. It is also the national telecommunication service provider of the country, Sri Lanka Telecom PLC. Task one gives an in-depth analysis of what the organization is, on what corner stone’s it is built on, what it is now, and its purpose of existence, based on their norms, beliefs and traditions. Such as their vision, mission, aims, goals, market share and market growth. It also shows the relationship between the organization and its stakeholders, considering the expectations of the stakeholders, and the responsibility the organization has towards them. Task two (part one), explains the market types that are available in the industry, and in which market type SLT operates in. It also shows the demand in the total industry versus the supply of SLT showing how much of the market is being served and satisfied by them. The reasons for their success in being the number one service provider is identified through their level of innovation, technology and research and development, and is also shown how it is linked in operating in the global arena and the global impact of the organization, the markets they are targeting and how they are planning to enter those emerging markets. At the end of these two tasks we will have a very good understanding on the business environment of Sri Lanka Telecom PLC. Task two (part two), with related to the previous tasks have a more generalized approach. It speaks about two main instruments in the economy the monetary and fiscal policy. This is then related to Sri Lanka and United Kingdom by showing the similarities and differences in the execution of these policies. It then shows the effects of these economic policies on the communication industry, by showing how it affects the sales and production. The tax trend of the organization and reasons for the trend are also shown. All these information will be presented briefly and clearly in a single page poster. Task two (part three), is a presentation on the key economic factors of Mexico. The slides of the presentation are attached. California Management Review. 1983. Stockholders and Stakeholders: A new perspective on Corporate Governance. ) Diagram 3 – Categorization of Stakeholders â€Å"We have thus enhanced value with each of our stakeholder segments – shareholders, customers, employees, investors, suppliers, regulatory and other related state authorities, the media, the community and in the larger context, the State. † (Sri Lanka Telecom. 2011. Sustainability Report: 2010. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Telecom. ) 3. 2 Employees Employees are those who keep the organization in operation, while expecting salaries and wages in return, along with job security and job satisfaction. They have the power to influence the quality of the service of the organization. SLT has a labour force of 6,297 as of June 2011. (TRCSL. 13/10/2011. Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka: Statistics 2011 June. [Online]. Available: http://www. trc. gov. lk/information/statistics. html. [27/12/2011]. ) 3. 3 Shareholders Shareholders are those who invest in the organization expecting higher dividends. They have the power to elect the directors of the organization. Shareholders of SLT are as follows, * Government of Sri Lanka which holds 52% * Global Telecommunication Holdings N. V. of Netherlands 44. 98% * Public 3. 02% 3. 4 Customers Customers are the key stakeholders of any organization, if not for customers the organization wouldn’t exist. They expect value for money and good services, and they have the power to influence the revenue of the business. SLT’s customer base is over 5. 5million. â€Å"The SLT Group has a customer base of over five and a half million including multinational corporations, large and small corporate, retail and domestic customers† (Sri Lanka Telecom. 2011. Management Report: 2010. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Telecom. ) 3. 5 Suppliers Suppliers are those who supply all the raw materials for an organization to function. In the case of SLT it could be electronic equipment and accessories that aid the telecommunication industry. The suppliers influence the quality, price and availability of the products, and they expect prompt payments and long term contracts. Some of the suppliers for SLT are ZTE Corporation China and other suppliers from Thailand. â€Å"†¦. while related team members visited the equipment supplier in Thailand for more in depth skill development† (Sri Lanka Telecom. 2011. Management Report: 2010. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Telecom. ) 3. 6 Government Diversify our portfolio of products and services and diversify our business through new innovative business models, sustainable partnerships. (Sri Lanka Telecom. 2011. Management Report: 2010. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Telecom. ) 4. 5 Market Share Fixed and Mobile Broadband – Total Market Share Diagram 4 – Total Market Share (Fixed and Mobile Broadband) Fixed Line – Total Market Share Diagram 5 – Total Market Share (Fixed Line) (Sri Lanka Telecom. 2011. Annual Report: 2010,2009,2008,2007,2006. Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Telecom. ) 4. 6 Growth of Market Share

Disciplinary and Grievance policies

Disciplinary and Grievance policies Question 4: Asses the importance of having effective Disciplinary and Grievance policies and procedures in place within an organization. Response: Importance of having effective disciplinary and grievance policies. In order to run an organization properly, it is of vital importance that there should be an effective and well defined procedure for the employees discipline and grievance policies, so that in case of any problem, both parties have a proper guideline to follow to resolve any issue. While working in an organization, an employee sometimes, may violate some discipline procedures of company and depending on the seriousness of the violation, these disciplinary and grievance policies and procedures guide us how to resolve these issues, according to the guidelines, defined in these policies just like Grievance which is very common being difference of opinion over a matter. Such violations could be treated according to the nature of the misconduct, being minor, serious or gross. In fact, grievances is equally serious as discipline since these differences of opinion are usually more difficult to settle, just like discipline issues like seniority problems including promotion transfers and layo ffs. If we have a well defined and proper policies and procedures, related to such issues, then we can solve them according to the guidelines provided in these policies and procedures. The word organization means to keep in order to manage or to organize something so from the definition of organization, it link with discipline and grievance policies and planning is quite evident. Without discipline and grievance and careful planningthe organization cant be effective planning is actually a policy it is a statement to a directive for the development. The policy plays a pivotal role in influencing any type of organization .it is the result of a long strenuous deliberation made on various forums it provides a conceptual frame work and also a plan of action for any organization so the success and the climax of organization depends greatly upon the discipline and grievance policy procedure policy procedure also aims at achieving specific development goals of any organization is a continuous systematic process and the initial step in plan formulation of any organization without the policy procedure the aims and objects of organization cant be identified or achieved in a true sense of words. Thus discipline and grievance policy procedure go hand in hand in the way of progress of any organization. They enable the members of organization to create conductive and comfor table environment because disruption can create multifarious problems and they are hurdles in the way of progress. The survival of an undisciplined and unplanned organization is not at all possible. The effectiveness of policy procedure depends upon the careful planning and thinking of policy makers. It is necessary for every organization to plan the policies and to implement these policies in the best possible way. Without policy procedure there would be chaos and there would not be defined objectives to achieve. It is very well said that failing to plan actually means planning to fail so the strength and progress of the organization totally depends upon pure planning policy procedure and civilization. It is the collective effort of the planners policy makers and administration to do efforts for the development of organization. Single individual cant make it strong or power full. We can easily conclude that laws and rules for fabricated for safety of life and property. If someone violates a red traffic signal so he is fined whereas the purpose of red signal is to stop and wait for the green signal that is your safety and safety of your car. Violation of red signal it may cause some serious accident causing damage of life and your vehicle as well. In order to realize the importance of having effective disciplinary and grievance policies, we need to have a look on the basic reasons which causes these disciplinary and grievance issues, separately. Firstly, let us view grievance issues and then disciplinary issues laterly: Grievance related issues: From a practical point of view it is probably easier to list those items that dont precipitate grievances than to list the ones that do. Employees may use just about any factor involving wages hours or condition of employment as the basis of grievance. However, certain grievances are more serious since they are usually more difficult to settle. Seniority problems including promotion, transfers and layoffs would top this list, other would include grievance growing out of job evaluation and work assignment, overtime, vacations ,incentive plans and holidays. A grievance is often a symptom of an underlying problem. Some time bad relationships between supervisors and subordinates are to blame. This is often the cause of grievances over fair treatment for instance. Organizational factors such as automated job or ambiguous job description that frustrate or aggravate employees also cause of grievances, Discipline related issues: Discipline means the observance of certain well-defined rules. Without such regulation it is not possible to maintain humanness. Such regulation contributes to the glory of human existence. Disciplinary issues are concerned with any infringement of regulations, policies or procedures, or any failure to meet the required standards of behaviour, conduct, performance or attendance or failure to respond to previous written warnings, prolonged or repeated acts of misconduct. Examples may include theft, fraud (including attempts to commit theft or fraud) or other criminal activities, deception, serious breaches of confidentiality, gross professional negligence or misconduct or misrepresentation, serious misuse of or malicious damage to trust property or equipment or bringing the organisation into disrepute. What is the importance of disciplinary and grievance procedures? Disciplinary and grievance procedures tells a clear rules to deal with difficulties which may grow as part of their working relationship from either the employer or from the employees . It is necessary that everybody is treated in the same way in similar situation, to ensure issues are deal with fairly and reasonably and that they are accommodating with current policies and procedures. Why Grievance procedures are needed: * To provide employees with a course of action that they have a complaint (which they are unable to decide through regular communication with their senior manager). * To provide points of contact and timescales to resolve problems. * To try to resolve problems without alternative to other employment. Why Disciplinary procedures are needed: * Employees know what is expected from them in terms of standards of performance and the possible penalties in case of not completing these requirements. * To recognize difficulties to each employee obtaining the required standards such as training requirements, shortage of clearness of job requirements, additional support and take suitable action. * As an opening to agree suitable goals and timescales for development in an employees performance or behavior. * To try to solve problems and difficulties without going to an employment tribunal. Importance of Grievance and Disciplinary policies and procedures for the employees Grievance and disciplinary policies and procedures are equally important for employees as, it provides them guidance and job security, which in result, increase the efficiency of the organization. It is the duty of the organization (HRM Department) to provide a note book in which all these policies are clearly written for the guidance of employees so that they should be well aware of the organizational rules and regulations, and in case of violation of these rules, employee could be aware of the fact and should be ready for explanation or punishment according to the severity of violation. And in case of any injustice, employee could know about his rights and how he can get them. In general, these policies protect employees. The aims of these procedures include helping and encouraging employees to improve. If a decision is taken against an employee due to some misconduct and if the employee is not satisfied with the decision taken by the organization against him, he should be allowed to appeal in a higher panel. These grievance and disciplinary policies and procedures protects the employees and other side it provide the limits. The main importance of these procedures and policies to bring the improve and betterment in the conduct of the employees. In the some strict organizations some time different types of disputes are arises between the employees and the organization gave the employees heavy punishments and ignores the rules and regulations. The employees may suffer a big loss. And these policies and procedures at that time will helps the employees. With help of this policies we can enforce the employees to obey the laws and regulation of the company .when the employees knows the laws and procedures then they do not want to violates the company laws .In this way the employees can work without any fear. With the help of this we can increase the efficiency of the employees. The effective grievance Disciplinary policies and procedures tells how to deal in the difficult situation that is usua lly occurs in the organization. A good and effective policies and procedures give the job security to the employees of the organization. And the other side it permits that all employees should obey the law and regulation of the organization. On the basis of this, employee feels security and satisfaction in the organization. Importance of Grievance and Disciplinary policies and procedures for the employers These grievance and disciplinary policies and procedures are comparatively more important for the employers as a fair and comprehensive disciplinary procedure is necessary to deal with employees who deviate from these standards. The purpose of such a system is not just impose punishments on employees but also to assist employees improve performance or conduct with the exception of Gross or Serious misconduct. Examples of misconduct should be clearly written in the given notebook to employees. Employees are expected to seek guidance where they are unsure of what is permitted. The need for satisfactory standards of performance and behaviour from employees is essential for all organisations and these standards are set by the HRM department of the organisation. Dismissal should only occur when all other efforts have failed. When misconduct is suspected, the organization will use this procedure to investigate and take any resulting action, including dismissal in the most serious cases. Disciplining the employees is not commonly appreciated by staff, but on the other hand it is important to the overall well being of an organisation that it is carried out correctly. As it is the employer who is ultimately responsible for the behaviour of their employees, if misconduct goes unrebuked the whole organisation will suffer. An employee who misbehaves can upset the entire working environment, may cause good staff to leave and even bring the organisation into public disrepute. These grievance and disciplinary policies and procedures set the powers of the decision makers to handle any misbehaviour case. These policies protect the organization .it become compulsory for the organization to follow the policy because all rules and regulation are written in the note book .It is important for the organization when you handling the case you should follow the rules according to the policies .IT is also important all the steps should be fowled during handling the case .In the organiza tion some employees are senior some time they violates the law or rules .Then it became important for the organization to handle these case according to the policies are not but betterment of the organization is that to handle it according to the policies. Advantages of a Good Disciplinary Policy [1] A clear and effective disciplinary policy offers many benefits, including: * Clear guidelines for employee behavior. A straightforward, easy-to-understand disciplinary policy will tell your employees what you expect of them and what conduct you will not tolerate. Enforcing the policy in a uniform manner will show your employees that you take these rules seriously. * Good morale for other employees. Its true that the employee you discipline is not likely to enjoy a morale boost, but the rest of your workforce will. Other employees do not like to see a coworker getting away with poor, unproductive behavior while they work thanklessly at their jobs. And, if a problem employee is allowed to misbehave without suffering any consequences, others in the workforce will soon realize that they can get away with slacking off, too. * Protection against employee lawsuits. If you clearly inform your employees of the consequences of poor behavior and enforce your policy fairly, you will buy yourself some insurance in future disputes. It will be more difficult for an employee to argue that his or her termination was unjustified if you can show that you told your employees what conduct would result in discipline, and that this particular employee had been subject to prior disciplinary action. CONCLUION Discipline plays an important role in the any organization. Without discipline you cannot run any business. Every organization his own rules and disciplines it is the duty of the all employees to obey all the rules and regulation. Organizations should make such rules according to his environment. Strict discipline cannot achieve 100% result. If some employee breaks the discipline the company wants to give him punishment. According to the Collins 1995 suggests that punishment often fails to achieve the goals intended ,it hurts -emotional and mental pain .according to SALAMON 2000—argues that management continue to use punishment and reward to regulate the behavior of employees with the work place. Some time the old or senior employ unintentionally break them, the organizations should avoid them because they are seniors employ. Some time impacts on employee behavior are less likely to intentionally break the rules. In some organization strict discipline is very important just li ke hospitals Nuclear plants, Airlines. and in Forces. In these type of organization you should brief to the all employees about rules and regulations. In these companies strict discipline is very important .if you do not follow discipline. May be due to you the organization face irrecoverable loss or heavy loss. Strict disciplines sometimes lose the employee. GRIEVANCEs throws negative impacts in the organization. Due to this the company lose the loyalty of the employee and some time loses the good employee. In the big organization grievance normally take place. Good practice for management to identify dissatisfaction at early stage and deal with it fairly. It is the duty of the HRM department to solve all the matters related to grievance and discipline. And try to create loyalty of the employees. HRM department should understand the culture of the employee. In the European countries some organizations are very strict discipline and some are so soft. Good HRM departments solves all maters in a positive way. Problems with employees may arise from time to time in even the best-run businesses. Occasionally you may need to take disciplinary action against employees or deal with their grievances but its better to look at ways of preventing problems arising in the first place. If problems do arise, deal with them rather than let them fester into resignations and/or tribunal claims. Disciplinary and grievance procedures should be an aid to good management. Have clear written procedures and policies that are known and understood by all workers. Also, make sure you distinguish between discipline on conduct grounds and your procedure to improve performance though this may eventually require disciplinary action if performance does not improve. Organizations should set standards of performance and conduct reinforced by company rules. Problems when standards are not met or where grievances are raised by employees may often be dealt with informally but if a formal approach is needed then procedures help employers to be fair and consistent. Reference: [1] Wang, Hartmann, Gibbs Cauley, P.L.C. San Jose, CA www.whglawfirm.com 2. I have collected some data from internet, whom exact address I have forgotten.

Overview Of Science Teaching Yesterday Today And Tomorrow Education Essay

Overview Of Science Teaching Yesterday Today And Tomorrow Education Essay The development of science education in the United States is said to have been pushed by a perceived lack and deficiency with laggard innovations in science and the declining quality of students the science curriculum has produced. Reforms in the science curriculum in the past were triggered by Soviet Unions Sputnik launch and how the event placed the US behind their Russian counterparts (Matthews, 1994). Today, in the era of globalization, a growing concern is the declining standards and performance of American students in mathematics and science. The challenge falls upon the entire American education system to ensure scientific literacy among its citizens and equip them with the scientific competency to become productive members of a democratic society. This paper discusses the evolution of science education in the United States in order to evaluate how the science teacher or educator could initiate reforms in the classroom or the systemic setting. Science Education: The Past It is a common perception among students that science is a difficult and deplorable subject in school (Krehbiel, 1999). Responsibility has fallen upon policy-makers and science teachers to make the sciences more appealing to students. As Stephen Jay Gould said, We think that science is intrinsically hard, scary, or arcane, and that teachers can only beat the necessary knowledge, by threat and exhortation, into a small minority born with inborn propensity (as cited in Osborne, 2007, p. 117). Why has science education acquired this brand or label as a seemingly impossible subject which only a handpicked few could appreciate and comprehend? The history of science education suggests that the rigidity, prescriptive curriculum, and standardized form of science teaching as a subject based on memorization of facts on a very wide range of science content might have contributed to this perception (Matthews, 1994). The standardization of science teaching in the late 1800s was undertaken in order to address the problem of the lack of qualified science teachers. The school curriculum concept grew out of the London School Board in the United Kingdom in 1870, prompting the training of science teachers who can ably teach science courses to the general public. In the United States, the standardization of science education came in the 1890s and there was a great debate on what ideology should guide the school science curriculum: citizen science or professional training. In 1892, a group called the Committee of Ten was tasked by the National Education Association (NEA) to make recommendations for a school science curriculum. This commi ttee emphasized on science teaching as a citizen science that is important in grooming professional scientists in the future. As a result, the entire American education system applied the curriculum recommended by this Committee (Wallace and Loughran, 2003). The emphasis was theoretical and stressed on the teaching of facts and principles of the disciplines. The approach was foundationalist, where the curriculum attempts to make the future scientist learn all the basic concepts of every science discipline. Cohen opines that the tradition of attempting to make students memorize a series of dry facts was impractical because no practicing scientist readily memorizes such as the density of various substances, the atomic weight of different chemical elementsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ the distance in light years from the Earth to various stars (and so on) (as cited in Osborne, 2007, p. 173). This tradition still dominates science education today, but has also been challenged with the introduction of other ideologies to guide science teaching. One is the applied approach where science is taught in relation to how everyday things function and contribute to society, and the liberal or humanistic approach, where emphasis is given on the implications of science in a historical and cultural sense (Matthews, 1994). Science Education: The Present The same concerns still exist in science education today. Attitudes toward science and mathematics among students remain negative and parental support for a science-geared education has declined (Osborne, 2007). K-12 science educators in many states in the US still follow the rigid, theoretical tradition in science teaching and conform strictly to the curriculum and content prescribed among age groups. Policy makers and education lobbyists have expressed concern that emphasis on facts and theories have resulted to teachers who merely cover the material, without teaching the material. The process of science is overlooked and the student fails to develop critical thinking skills and appreciation for the scientific method. Osborne (2007) articulates the tension in science teaching today. She argues that the science curriculum is geared at developing future scientists, hence, the stress on factual and theoretical presentation on a wide range of content. This contributes to the perception that becoming competent in science is practical only to students who want to pursue a career in the sciences someday. The aim of scientific literacy for all citizens is missed if this kind of thinking is not corrected. According to Krehbiel (1999), science teachers have the responsibility of clarifying to students that science competency is not only suited for the future scientist, it is also beneficial to non-scientists. Scientific literacy contributes to the development of problem-solving skills that greatly benefit non-scientists and can be applied in everyday life. Science education development today wants to enhance the competency of teachers. Teachers are central to the development of scientific literacy which is the end goal of science education (Osborne, 2007). Their qualifications and their attitudes play a great role in accomplishing this mission. State Boards have specific requirements and credentials for science teachers. Studies have shown that teachers who possess subject-specific degrees are better qualified to influence positive science outcomes among students than those who do not (Cronginer et al., 2003). However, secondary characteristics such as teachers attitudes and belief systems play a major role in motivating students to learn. Wallace Loughran (2003) suggest that there are many factors that contribute to the belief systems of science teachers, such as social pressure (or the need to conform to prescribed methods of instruction) and the apprenticeship of observation (or the mirroring of style of teaching they experienced a s students in their science classes). Attitudes about practice reflect upon a science teachers teaching style, which in turn influence comprehension. Teachers who consider themselves as transmitters of knowledge apply a teacher-centered style of instruction where the main goal is the delivery of the content or subject matter (Wallace Loughran, 2003). A teacher who espouses this tradition adheres strictly to the organization of content while the needs of students are secondary considerations only. Lesson plans are designed to conform to prescribed content with no concern for student readiness or aptitude. Wallace and Loughran (2003) identify this method as the most dominant form in science teachers. An alternative style is the student-centered method which focuses primarily students comprehension. A teacher who practices this style first considers his or her students prior knowledge or aptitude before planning lessons and concentrates on forming social interactions or collaborative relationships with students (Wallace L oughran, 2003). Science Education: The Future If the international rankings of American students in science and mathematics are predictive of the quality of science education, then there are great challenges to be overcome in the near future. As American students lag behind their European and Asian counterparts in science competency, reforms in policy and corporate support are today heavily emphasized to produce more globally competitive students in the future. Microsoft founder Bill Gates has contributed billions to encourage students to take science course in college. Organizations such as Tapping Americas Potential provide scholarships for more students to graduate with degrees in science, mathematics, and engineering (Osborne, 2007). In the education system, policy reforms are also under way. In 1996, the National Committee on Science Education Standards and Assessment (NCSESA) came up recommendations on how to better produce more scientifically literate students for the future. Standards related to science teaching were presented in the book National Science Education Standards, such as: The vision of science education described by the Standards requires changes throughout the entire system. What students learn is greatly influenced by how they are taught. The actions of teachers are deeply influenced by their perceptions of science as an enterprise and as a subject to be taught and learned. Student understanding is actively constructed through individual and social processes. Actions of teachers are deeply influenced by their understanding of and relationships with students. (p. 30) Among the reforms in elementary and secondary science education emphasize on the need for inquiry-based and hands-on curriculum used in schools. It has been a major thrust advocated in the National Science Education Standards and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Conclusion The development of science education has been made possible by the careful study of its past, an assessment of the present, and a positive outlook on the future. Remnants of the heavily theoretical orientation of science teaching of the 19th century are still practiced today. At present, there has been a noticeable decline in the competency of students in science and mathematics, pushing the drive for more reforms in science education. The recommendations, while focusing on the systemic need for science education reform, also highlight the important role of the science teacher in achieving better science outcomes among students. Teachers competency, decisions about the content, peer interactions, behaviors, attitudes, and belief systems significantly influence students comprehension, appreciation, and attitudes toward science.

Tahiti and the French Polynesia :: essays research papers

Spread across nearly 2,000,000 square miles of the South Pacific, in an area as large as the continent of Europe, lies the Territory of French Polynesia and its principal island, Tahiti. Settlers from Southeast Asia are thought to have first arrived in the Marquesas Islands, in the northeastern part of what is today called French Polynesia, around 300 AD and in the Society Islands, including Tahiti, to the west by about 800 AD. Prior to the first European contact, the islands were ruled by a hierarchy of hereditary tribal chiefs. The first Europeans to visit the area were the English explorers Samuel Wallis in 1767 and James Cook in 1769. French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville arrived in 1768 and claimed the islands for France. In the late 1700s occasional ships arrived in the islands, most notably the H.M.S. Bounty in 1788, captained by William Bligh. The first missionaries, from the London Missionary Society, arrived in the islands in 1797. By 1815, with the support of the most powerful ruling family in the islands, the Pomares, the British missionaries had secured a strong influence in much of the Society Islands, doing everything possible to eliminate traditional Polynesian culture by barring traditional dance and music as well as destroying carvings and temples associated with native religion. The French continued to hold influence over the Marquesian Archipelago and eventually were successful in expelling the British and securing influence over much of what today constitutes French Polynesia, leaving the ruling Pomare family as little more than figureheads. In 1880, King Pomare V was forced to abdicate, and a French colony was proclaimed. By 1901, the colony included the Austral Islands, the Gambier Archipelago, the Marquesas Islands, the Society Islands and the Tuamotu atolls to the southeast. The first half of the twentieth century saw periods of nationalistic protest in the colonies which were by then called the Établissements franà §ais d'Ocà ©anie (French Pacific Settlements). It was not, however, until after World War II, when Tahitians who had served France returned home, that pressure forced the French government to extend French citizenship to all islanders. The first territorial assembly was established in 1946, and by 1949 the islands obtained representation in the French Assembly. In 1957, the territory was officially renamed the Territory of French Polynesia. The Republic of France is represented in the territory by a high commissioner appointed by the Republic. Throughout the second half of the twentieth century, limited autonomy was granted to the territorial government to control socioeconomic policy but not defense, law and order, or foreign affairs.

Footsteps Of Time: Eb Whites Once More To The Lake :: essays research papers fc

Dombroski 1 Lisa Dombroski Prof. Harrison English 101 18 September 2000 Footsteps of Time E.B. White's essay, Once More to the Lake demonstrate his own security in consistency from growing up on into adulthood. White begins to set the stage mid way through the first paragraph, mentioning that he and his father "returned [to the lake] summer after summer- always on August 1 for one month" followed up by the fact that "has since become a salt-water man," longing to one day return to the "holy spot." This trip back to the lake brings back a great deal of memories, as if there "[had] been no passage of time." It is on this trip that White begins to realize that his son seems to possess the same enthusiasm that he did when White was a boy. To White, all of this is a shock because now his role is now reversed from a flamboyant and energized child to an observational parent, as he remembered his father. This vacation spot White describes through memories of his boyhood days always seemed to be so wonderful no matter what had gone wrong. White recalls the time when "[his] father rolled over in a canoe" and another time when "[they] all got ringworm" but none of this mattered in the long run, after all, this was the best place on earth. To White the mountain lake is seen as "constant and trustworthy", and on the trip back there with his own son, White wondered if "time would have marred" the appearance of the lake. Thoughts of the time spent there summer after summer continued to revisit White throughout the trip and everything from thunderstorms to the stillness of the water Dombroski 2 was seen as a work of art, falling into place and creating an illusion as if it were known what was to follow. White's son acted in the same manner as White did back when he was a young boy, recalling how "I was always the first up" and now, he lay still in bed while his son snuck out early in the morning headed down to the lake. Having seen this anxiety in his son, White "began to sustain the illusion that he was I." Many times during their trip White would feel confused, unable to distinguish who he was, a father with his son, or him with his own father. In a way this means a great deal to White, because now he and his son share a bond, very similar to White and his dad and can enjoy this haven together over the years.

Exporting Rubber Products to China

The manufacture of rubber based products such as industrial tyres, tubes, auto parts and components has been a part of Sri Lanka’s economy since the early 1930’s. As one of the largest rubber producing countries, Sri Lanka produces different types, forms and grades of rubber as well as rubber based products for export markets. China accounted 0. 45% of total exports from Sri Lanka to the world, but on the current trend it’s optimistic that China will increase the potential items of exports from Sri Lanka such as rubber products, tea, spices and confectioneries and seafood. China’s demand for rubber was expected to rise 8. % tonnes in 2010 to reflect strong growth in the country’s auto sector. The development of the auto industry is the main driver for the development of market for rubber products in China. The development of highway construction and transportation industry will drive the demand for tyres, engineering rubber products and other rubber products. China consumes 16% of the world’s natural rubber. China has already become the world’s largest rubber consumption than any other country, estimated statistics illustrate China’s top rubber consumer’s position will not be shaken in the period ahead. In recent years, the world’s major rubber companies such as Goodyear, Bridgestone, Michelin and other tire companies have entered China, mass production of export products. As the emerging economic super power, China led solid foundation for the exporters of rubber products by creating potential market opportunities due to its sustained high growth in exports of rubber. Many opportunities are available on improving trade with China considering the strength of the cordial relationship maintained between the two countries by continuous dialogue and trade agreements on mutual understanding. It is reasonably appropriate to commend the trade relationship between the two countries considering the fact its historical relationship and the monumental development in China who will indisputably become the giant in trade & industry during this century. China’s membership of Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) would provide Sri Lanka access to one of the largest markets in the world. It was becoming more important as it gave Sri Lankan exporters access to the emerging giant economies in the world such as China, India and South Korea. Rates of utilization of key trade deals such as the Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) and South Asia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) were low by Sri Lankan rubber exporters. It might be due to exporters are not obtaining certificates of origin from the department of commerce, exporters are not aware of the Free Trade Agreements (FTA) or the importer is not presenting it and getting duty concessions. It’s important to improve exports to China because the potential market for the rubber based products is enormous. Sri Lankan exporters should make aware of the preferential trade terms between China and Sri Lanka and utilize them in the best possible way to develop the export of rubber products. Recently, Sri Lankan Government has used trade policies which would further their foreign policy objectives such as building strong relations with China. Despite Sri Lanka rubber industry being adversely affected by this world crisis, Sri Lanka was able to recover the lost market share and offer its natural rubber at a highly competitive rate under these trade agreements. China commenced import of rubber from Sri Lanka in 1951 even before agreements became effective. China extended a remarkable sense of generosity to the people of Sri Lanka in becoming the principal importer of rubber from Sri Lanka. Although exports under APTA have grown, it was still only about 50 million dollars worth of goods to China, Korea, India and Bangladesh with about 1,800 certificates of origin issued by the commerce department. Natural rubber and rubber products are one of the main products exported under South Asia Preferential Trading Agreement (SAPTA) and Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA). Under SAPTA also total Sri Lankan exports remains modest. While the Free Trade Agreements do not eliminate import tariffs on rubber, it would facilitate to ensure stable cost and supply for China suppliers. The agreement can encourage Sri Lankan exporters to set up distribution offices in China and sell directly to downstream manufacturers in the country. Southeast Asia is the largest source of rubber in the world, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia. All of these countries are huge competitors from the Sri Lankan perspective. The quality of output from the region is good and stable as well. China, on the other hand, is the largest global manufacturer of tires and China requires at least 60% of natural rubber used for the industry is currently sourced overseas. There would be a potential market not only for rubber products but also for natural rubber for the exporters of Sri Lanka. China's rubber market has maintained rapid consumption growth and booming growth patterns remains unchanged. If Sri Lankan rubber producers seek the markets available in the world such as China and build international competitiveness in the industrial rubber products, it would help Sri Lanka to raise national income and create jobs in the particular sector. Rubber industry helps to utilize underemployed labour resources because it needs intensive labour resource and it is also kind of forest rehabilitation. Sri Lanka could shift from exporting of long lived forest products to relatively short lived forest products such as rubber. Sri Lankan rubber products manufacturing industry could achieve remarkable progress with the use of novel technology and sophisticated production facilities. In tandem with the increase in rubber consumption in China, the corresponding increase in the volume and value of exported rubber products has grown significantly. Factors of rapid growth of China’s rubber consumption * Rapid economic expansion As China is at present stage of heavy industrialization there’s a vast need of rubber based products for the appliance manufacturers, automobile companies and various other industries. Major economic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Industrial Production annual growth rate, Fixed Asset Investment Growth Rate and annual growth rate of China demonstrate the potential opportunities available in China. * Automakers have been strong. There’s a rapid growth in vehicle production with the improvement of people’s income levels, middle class expansion of automobile consumption. * Dramatic increase in the road traffic Expansion of the economic output, the acceleration of urbanization, domestic and foreign trade and enhanced standard of living has increased the road traffic significantly in China. Considerable increase in road traffic is a direct stimulus to the major rubber product, industrial tyres. RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUTION 1. It ‘s necessary for private sector to develop and add more value on their rubber based products so as to improve their competitiveness in the Chinese markets as well as to make the best use from the abundant natural rubber in Sri Lanka. * In order to improve their competitiveness, producers of rubber products should develop and enhance their human resources skills, improve their production process to be more efficient and produce higher quality rubber products. In addition, Sri Lankan firms should focus more attention on research and development (R&D) to enhance and upgrade their products to be a higher quality in order to meet product standards and requirements in China. * The most important fact is that producers, suppliers and related institutes (Research Institutes, Testing laboratories and so on) should hold hands to form a cluster in order to help and support each other in the integrated supply chain. 2. To improve the quality of rubber products to export to China, the producers should study and possess good understanding on China’s compulsory standards and recommended standards. 3. Before exporting to China, the exporters should study and have a good understanding of the current situation in the Chinese rubber markets, the transportation and logistics system in China, regulations and other related policies of the Chinese Government and China’s commitment in the WTO as well as China’s FTA agreements with Sri Lanka. 4. Be cautious of selecting business or trade partners, and select one with potential and credibility. The exporters should emphasize on building close relationships with their Chinese partner to allow for smooth business operations. Connections are one of the most important business customs in China and other social and cultural aspects include joining a meal together and gift giving using two hands as it demonstrates sincerity and intention between two parties. The system of Chinese networking is heavily focused on personal relationships. . The Government of Sri Lanka should encourage public and private sector to add more value on natural rubber, which are abundant in Sri Lanka in order to produce processed rubber products by financially supporting the rubber industry, providing technical and other assistance, developing the human resources, conducting more researches on rubber products as well as encouraging rubber producers to improve the quality of Sri Lankan rubber products to meet the required standards in oreign markets, particularly in China and other foreign countries. 6. The Sri Lankan Government should financially support and establish the research and testing laboratories as well as Sri Lankan researchers and specialists to improve the production processes and upgrade higher standards of Sri Lankan products, including the equipment, machinery and innovation to produce new hi end products. . When taking into consideration fundamental factors such as size of economy, size of population and size of domestic market, it seems that Sri Lanka is not in a position to compete with China. Therefore, its necessary to adapt strategic approaches to co exist with China, particularly to be part of China’s economic growth rather than to explicitly compete with China. Therefore, we suggest the Sri Lankan Government to implement the â€Å"Rise with the Dragon† strategy, in terms of trade and investment in order to be part of China’s production and consumption processes. The export of rubber products to China would be economic growth driven international business to Sri Lanka. As Rubber fall under the main export categories of Sri Lanka, we have a potential of developing the quality of rubber products and there’s a vast opportunity exists in China for Sri Lankan Rubber Products.

Corporate Philanthropy Essay

Introduction In an increasingly competitive global environment, businesses are challenged with demands for profitability and responsibility. To create value for all stakeholders, corporate leaders meet these demands with integrated strategic philanthropic programs. More and more companies encourage and embrace greater collaboration and cooperation between corporations and communities. I. The competitive advantage of corporate philanthropy In this first part, we will demonstrate that usually businesses that choose to employ corporate giving attitude benefit in many different ways from their actions. * First, these businesses could increase their reputation amongst the general public, and also begin to attract new consumers to their business as well. * Secondly, businesses that choose to help out their communities could increase their employee retention rates significantly as well. Happy employees will increase their productivity levels. * Thirdly, when companies opt to engage in this giving activity their shareholders begin to build a level of confidence in the business. TRANSITION: In addition to customers’ behavior vis-à  -vis different philanthropy programs or CSR in general, it was also been proved that philanthropy inside a company increases the employees’ motivation and thus their commitment and productivity A. Corporate philanthropy boosts employee morale One of the most important components of corporate philanthropy is to provide avenues/means for employees to be personally involved in a company’s commitment to social responsibility. It is widely understood that supporting local causes is a good way for a business to develop a positive image and reinforce its relationships with customers. In the process, it can also boost morale among employees. * According to experts employees who have a favorable impression of their company’s philanthropic program are four times more likely to be truly loyal employees than those who do not, and are five times more likely to remain with their employer. * They concluded that philanthropy is definitely a factor in how employees evaluate their employers. In all, employees whose companies participate in good corporate social responsibility and philanthropy reported feelings of pride in their workplace, a sense of belonging as part of a family, and admiration for the good deeds their compan y accomplished. * Corporate philanthropy programs also present many opportunities for team building that would not normally occur during a typical day in the office. Employees are able to partner together and work in team environments outside of their direct work groups. People from different departments or offices, who typically wouldn’t see each other during a workday, can serve a meal, volunteer in a classroom or help build a home, side-by-side. This promotes a greater sense of camaraderie. Concretely, to encourage employees participation in corporate philanthropy, experts advices businesses to implement some practices: – Involve employees in community outreach decisions: many companies create committees to make decisions about contributions or company volunteer activities; – Start a matching gifts program: this allows your company to add to employees’ donations designated for nonprofit organizations. It can encourage charitable giving while showing appreciation for em ployees. – Encourage volunteerism. Many people want to volunteer, but can’t find time in their lives to do it. Participating in employer-sponsored programs allows employees the opportunity to volunteer.. Some businesses provide paid time off for employees to devote time to a nonprofit, while others structure an annual company-sponsored employee volunteer day or series of ongoing events. B. Corporate philanthropy builds shareholder value According to the Harvard Business case on coporate philanthrophy, Professor Friedman said that business executives who speak of the social responsibilities of corporations are â€Å"preaching pure and unadulterated socialism.† He claimed that corporate executives must have only one objective- to make money as much money as possible-and that spending corporate funds to promote social goals detracts from the bottom line. However, according to William C. Steere, Jr, Chairman of the Board Emeritus Pfizer Inc, corporate philanthropy also enhances shareholder value. Pfizer, Inc. is an American multinational pharmaceutical corporation headquartered in New York City. It is the world’s largest pharmaceutical company by revenues. Pfizer develops and produces medicines and vaccines.