External Changes And Internal Reforms Of The Last 40 Years

This essay will show that the external changes and internal reforms of the last 40 years have led to the retreat of the liberal democratic state. Perhaps, these changes and reforms have resulted in the revival of the state, but overall this has not been the case. This is due to the fragmentation and diminished accountability stemmed from the internal reform, new public management. Although the issue of Europeanisation is raised when discussing the state’s retreatment, I will focus on the topic of globalisation. This is because of the loss of power, sovereignty and nationality the state has suffered. The liberal democratic state has been in retreat due to its fragmentation and diminished accountability caused by the internal reform: new public management (NPM). NPM is an attempt to reform the public sector through the application of management techniques used in the private sector. In reality, NPM is a loose concept, consisting of different economic reforms. (Osborne 2009) While the adoption of NPM has had many advantages, there have been substantial unintended consequences from this implementation. This internal reform has resulted in a fragmentation of the state that has led to blurred and diminished accountability. Rhodes explains that within the UK civil service â€Å"the role of officials is increasingly constrained by new management systems and political controls. The obvious outcomes of these changes are fragmentation and diminished accountability.† (1994: 151) ThisShow MoreRelatedExternal Changes And Internal Reforms1865 Words   |  8 PagesHave the external chan ges and internal reforms of the last 40 years led to the retreat or revival of the liberal democratic state? Introduction Over the past 40 years, through internal reforms and external changes, many liberal democratic states are seen as losing their autonomy over their very own borders. Therefore, many assert that the states are in the retreat, however in this essay, it will argue that the states are in fact in the state of revival because of New public management and EuropeanizationRead MoreTaking a Look at the Banking Industry1648 Words   |  7 PagesBanks; Offshore Banks and Merchant Banks. 1.2 Focus areas of recent changes in the Banking industry The banking industry has experienced the rapid development during last decade. The development of banking industry can be seen from the large number of bank mergers and the increasing of average size of banks and the area over which they operate. However, the banking is passing through a period of substantial structural change under the combined and inter-related pressures of eight key areas in bankingRead MoreBrics ( Brazil, Russia, India, China, And South Africa1546 Words   |  7 Pagesforever change the competitive landscape of the global market place, and they show considerable promise in becoming dominant players in years to come (Jain, 2006). The BRIC was established on June 16, 2009 and the South Africa was subsequently added by China on December 24, 2011 finalizing the BRICS. This paper will discuss each of the BRICS economies in detail, identifying the reasons why the BRICS countries are growing in importance on the international stage, while recounting the internal and ex ternalRead MoreNorth Korea s Economic Development1566 Words   |  7 PagesOverview: North Korea Most have heard of North Korea. With a shroud of secrecy over internal and external matters and a dictatorial reign opposed to most outside nations, it is viewed as the most isolated country in the world. It is for this precise reason that we have chosen North Korea as our point of focus. Information on this country are unreliable and scarce, but if enough is pieced together then a closer picture of today’s most famous totalitarian regime will start to form. Economic GrowthRead MoreThe And Regulatory Reform Act 20131294 Words   |  6 PagesIn recent yearsï ¼Å'with the failures, people in prominent organisations are going to be requested to consider the applicability of their corporate governance. Moreover, the ‘Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013’ allowed the shareholders in UK have a binding vote on executive compensations. Corporate governance is defined as the regulations which are aimed to control those responsible for administrating an organisation (Boddy, 2014:p99). The wholesome corporate governance has been established throughRead MoreThe Complexities of Healthcare Reform in the United States1546 Words   |  6 PagesHealthcare in the United States has long been a heated topic of discussion, it seems that the biggest issue with Health care reform is the simple lack of understanding towards health insurance all together. A study done by the journal Health Affairs found that â€Å"only 60 percent of the peop le who should be signing up for the ObamaCare understand all of its key concepts†. Jimmy Kimmel did a segment on his show Jimmy Kimmel Live called â€Å"Six of One† in which he sent a film crew around Hollywood, CaliforniaRead MoreGlobal Economic Meltdown Of 20081477 Words   |  6 Pagesto make reforms in existing corporate sector. Strengthening business ethics by improving audit quality One of the most important factors that plays a huge role in the success of a company – is ethics, which can have long-term impact on the company. It does not matter how high the company’s profitability level is, if there is unethical behavior or a lack of corporate social responsibility it will eventually damage company’s reputation and make it less appealing to stakeholders. The last global economicRead MorePathways Through Financial Crisis7619 Words   |  31 PagesHow did internal and external constraints shape that country’s ability to respond to the crises? This article argues that India’s success can be attributed to four sets of decisions taken during the period 1991–1997: devaluation, involvement of the IMF, partial liberalization of the domestic financial sector, and gradual opening up of the external sector. The article analyzes the options, political opposition, and eventual outcomes for each set of decisions. India’s ownership of its reform programRead MoreThe Business Cycle Model : A Diagram That Shows How Economic Activity Fluctuates Over Time1352 Words   |  6 Pageslevel of output of goods/ services, income and employment. The government earns more tax revenue in this stage. For example, The Australian economy is currently growing at a rate of about 2.4% and is therefore in the upswing stage of the BCM. The last stage is the recession or trough stage, which is the opposite of the boom period. Expenditure, employment and income all fall to their lowest rates. Unemployment rises to its peak and deflation occurs because businesses cut prices to clear all unsoldRead MoreAgricultural Trade Policies During The European Union2976 Words   |  12 Pagesflagship areas of European collaboration since the early days of the European Community (EC). Agricultural trade policies in the European Union (EU) can be divided into roughly two parts: production support via the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and External Trade Barriers via tariffs and quotas set against non-member states. When the principles of the â€Å"Common Market† were decided in late 50s, France insisted on a system of agricultural subsidies as its price for agreeing to free trade in industrial

Minority Report Film vs. Short Story Essay - 937 Words

Minority Report: Film vs. Short Story Mutant humans, nicknamed precogs, have visions of future crimes. An entire police force is dedicated to interpreting these visions and catching the future criminals before they commit these foreseen crimes. Commissioner John A. Anderton was the creator of this institution called Precrime in New York City and has a strong pride in his work. Everything had seemed to be a success, there had not been a murder for five years, but it all starts to fall apart when the precogs have a vision of Anderton committing a murder of a man he has never met before, named Leopold Kaplan. The commissioner believes he has been set up by a young man, Ed Witwer, who will be taking Anderton’s place when he†¦show more content†¦The precogs are not mutant humans, but are praised as wonderful beings. John Anderton was not the creator of Precrime, Director Lamar Burgess and Iris Hineman were the â€Å"mother and father† of Precrime. Anderton’s pride in Precrime came fro m a previous experience he had with the kidnapping of his only child. His wife, Laura (not Lisa), separated from him and lived near a beach away from Anderton and Precrime, but in Dick’s story they are married and she works at Precrime with John. Danny Witwer (not Ed) is an FBI investigator, not Anderton’s replacement, who enters the film to discover flaws in the Precrime system, specifically human flaws. The precogs vision of Anderton’s future murder depicts him killing a man he does not know, but the man is Leo Crow, not Leopold Kaplan. Anderton, in the film, still believes he is being set up and goes on a quest, which is drawn out more than in the short story containing encounters with new characters and full of dramatic actions. Anderton kidnaps Agatha (not Donna), the female precog who supposedly holds Anderton’s minority report. He discovers, as he does in the short story, that he does not have one, but his curiosity gets the best of him and he cont inues to find who he is supposed to kill. Eventually, he ends up at the place in the foreseen crime and finds pictures of his kidnapped son with a strange man. Thinking this Leo Crow is responsible for the disappearance of Sean, Anderton decides he is going to kill him.Show MoreRelatedEssay about Gendered Media9688 Words   |  39 PagesArticle 7 Gendered Media: The Influence of Media on Views of Gender Julia T. Wood Department of Communication, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill times more often than ones about women (â€Å"Study Reports Sex Bias,† 1989), media misrepresent actual proportions of men and women in the population. This constant distortion tempts us to believe that there really are more men than women and, further, that men are the cultural standard. THEMES IN MEDIA Of the many influences on how we viewRead MoreStrategic Analysis for Imax10234 Words   |  41 Pagesthat helped us to analyse this case study were Startegic Management : Creating Competitive Advantage (5th edition) by Gregory Dess, G.T Lumpkin and Alan Eisner and Strategic Management (6th edition) by John Pearce and Richard Robinsons Description of Report: In Section 1 we analyize the corporate strategy of IMAX corporation followed by their integration strateges. In Section 2 we access the comparitive advantage of IMAX Corporation. Section 3 talks about the effect of enviorment on IMAX, both internalRead MoreGp Essay Mainpoints24643 Words   |  99 Pages GP NOTES 2010 (ESSAY) Content Page 1. Media a. New vs. Traditional b. New: narcissistic? c. Government Censorship d. Profit-driven Media e. Advertising f. Private life of public figures g. Celebrity as a role model h. Blame media for our problems i. Power + Responsibility of Media j. Media ethics k. New Media and Democracy 2. Science/Tech a. Science and Ethics b. Government and scientist role in science c. Rely too much on technology? d. Nuclear technologyRead MoreThe Idea Of The Absurd3255 Words   |  14 PagesSartre, is that humanity must live in a world that is and will forever be hostile or indifferent towards them. The universe will never truly care for humanity the way we seem to want it to. The atheist view of this statement is that people create stories, or gods, which in their minds transcend reality to fill this void and attempt to satisfy their need. Now Let’s Begin†¦ †¦ In many works of art there are many emphasizes of the absurdity of an individual’s existence while there are, at the same timeRead MoreFundamaental Analysis of LT18739 Words   |  75 Pagesanalysts, and savvy investors. The report â€Å"Fundamental Analysis Of Larsen amp; Toubro Ltd.† is aiming at understanding of Process of Equity research. Here example of Larsen and Toubro specifically taken for analysis as it is the top rated private sector infrastructure company in India. Also this company is known for its world class management style. Execution skill of this company is unmatched by any other private as well as government company in India. This report is an opportunity to understand theRead MoreAmerican Civil Rights Movement Essay15820 Words   |  64 Pageswomen, and others minorities. Critics charge that it results in reverse discrimination against qualified white males. PROBLEMS OF URBAN BLACKS Poverty rate for blacks – 31% compared with 11% for whites. Two-thirds of all black children are born to unmarried mothers. 1980 Leading cause of death among young black men is murder. Blacks account for half of the male prison population, while they are only 6% of all Americans. 2. David Griffith and the Stars of the Silent Films Era One ofRead MorePsy Evaluation Essay11057 Words   |  45 PagesB. 300,000 C. 700,000 D. 1.5 million ANS:D PG16 17. Which of the following treatment modalities was not highly rated in empirical research for effectiveness? A. self-control and social skills training B. use of educational tapes, lectures, and films C. motivational enhancement strategies D. cognitive therapy ANS:B PG39 18. According to the NIAAA (National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism), about how many previously diagnosable alcoholics matured out of their dependence? A. none B. onlyRead MoreMarriage Equality in Ireland4471 Words   |  18 PagesThis was done by producing videos featuring real families and couples with children. They tell how it is like to be in a same-sex relationship when it comes to child-rearing. The short film â€Å"Rory’s Story† is about the incapability of a man to be recognised as a next-of-kin of one of his mothers. â€Å"Yes to Love† is a short narration of some same-sex couples and how they are living in inequality in Ireland. This is similar to â€Å"Sinead’s Hand† where a man asks every single person he encounters if he couldRead More Analysis Of Using Marketing Strategies Of Branding Apple Inc. Essay10085 Words   |  41 Pagesand Recommendations 5.1 Conclusion†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..39 5.2 Recommendations†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..39 Bibliography†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 41 Appendices Appendix A – Cover letter†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.44 Appendix B – Questionnaire†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..45 Appendix C – Plagiarism Report†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...46 List of Tables and Figures Table no Page no Figure no Page no 1 23 1 8 2 24 2 9 3 24 3 10 4 25 4 10 5 25 5 10 6 26 6 13 7 26 7 23 8 27 8 23 9 28 9 24 10 28 10 25 11 29 11 25 12 29 12 26 13 30 13 26 14 31 14 27 15 31 15 27 16 32Read MoreMadoff Scandal6132 Words   |  25 PagesHedge Fund Transparency 20 Conclusion 21 Bibliography 25 Tables Table 1: List of Madoff Clients (taken from the The New York Times, last updated June 24, 2009) 15 Table 2: 2009 Ponzi Scheme SEC Charges 17 Figures Figure 1 Fairfield Sentry vs Gateway 6 Figure 2 Madoff Investor Funds (taken from http://orgnet.com/madoff.html) 7 Introduction Operating from central Manhattan, Bernie Madoff developed the first and biggest global Ponzi scheme, an event of greed and dishonesty that lasted

Why Has Utopian Literature Remained Popular Essay - 856 Words

All works of Utopian literature are designed to present ideologies and protest. Through this they have maintained their popularity whilst retaining the ability to reformulate. This ability to reformulate itself has created a way for authors to explore and investigate ideologies and protests whilst keeping the issues contextual to the time. More has done this extremely well, establishing the genre at the beginning of the 16th century, in his novella Utopia. By using Rafael as the narrator he successfully presents his alternative of a communistic style state where everyone is equal, whilst keeping him safe; also convincing them that it was a non-fiction text and as a result protecting himself from punishment. He did this so successfully that†¦show more content†¦But what the play is really doing is making us question the gender roles that currently exist. * De Groen does this by cleverly switching the roles of men and women in the imaginary society of the late twentieth centur y. * For example, in the imaginary society, women have the powerful jobs such as doctor and men are in lesser roles such as the orderly in the hospital. * In the opening scene Audra, the doctor, is a woman portrayed with traditional male characteristics, strong and dominant, unemotional, and says to Wayne â€Å"you’re cute, you’re funny, you make me laugh, and when I can get you to shut up, I like going to bed with you. That’s all there is to it†. * Wayne is portrayed as traditionally female, needy and emotional because he wants more from the relationship. Catch 22 uses its odd and dysfunctional characters and plots to portray the absurdity of war. * For example, in one scene Colonel Cathcart is feeling generous and tries to promote the absurdly named Major Major Major Major but he is rebuked by his superiors as they only have one Major Major Major Major and don’t want to lose him. Colonel Cathcart then sulkily threatens to bust Major Major Major Major down to Lieutenant and is teased by his colleague Colonel Corn who points out that they probably won’t let him do this either, for the same reason. * In another scene, Doc Daneeka isShow MoreRelatedThes Benevolent Association, The Knights Of Labor And The Farmers Union1223 Words   |  5 Pagesfarming and ranching. Free labor, supported by the legalized human enslavement led to a successful agricultural enterprise within the republic. While agricultural enterprise failed to support the hefty cost of the Texas republic, farming and ranching remained the primary industry in Texas up to and following the Civil War. Profits created through slavery’s labor savings became the mitigating factor in the decision by the later state of Texas joining the Confederate States during the Civil War. The combinationRead MoreThe Portrayal Of Heterosexual Love1669 Words   |  7 PagesChapter 2: Literature Review This literature review will explore research on the portrayal of heterosexual love in film and the effects that it has on millennial women and through the cycle of repression, its effect on minorities. The analytical framework consists of feminist theory as described by John Storey and Stuart Hall’s representation theory. Then, feminism in romantic fiction will be again be explored academically by Storey, exploring the power that romantic fiction in pop culture has on societyRead MoreIdeal. Flawless. Unrivaled. Quintessential. Too good to be true. Perfect. In addition to being2200 Words   |  9 Pagesthey all describe utopian societies. A utopia is generally defined as a ‘perfect world’. In this type of society, every individual is equal and the woes of humanity – greed, war, starvation – are nonexistent. However, this type of world can be found in an often-criticized government – socialism. Generally speaking, a socialist society is one in which the community owns and controls its assets as a whole. Thus, the two types of societies share many similarities. Furthermore, utopian societies are, inRead MoreTranscendentalism : The American Scholar1658 Words   |  7 Pagescollege-educated, remained loyal to his roots and dedicated his life to improving the conditions of the working class; his statements on the likelihood of class warfare between laborer and owner anticipated those of Karl Marx. Other Transcendentalists moved directly toward what we would recognize today as socialism. Brownson’s close friend George Ripley resigned from his Unitarian pulpit near the Boston waterfront and started the Brook Farm Institute of Agriculture and Education. Through this utopian experimentRead MoreEssay about Niccolo Machiavelli1653 Words   |  7 Pages According to legend, just before his death, Niccolo Machiavelli told his friends that had remained faithful to him up until the very end about a dream he had had. In his dream, he had seen a group of peasants, wretched and decrepit in appearance. He asked them who they were. They replied, ‘We are the saintly and the blessed; we are on our way to heaven.’ Then he saw a crowd of formally attired men, aristocratic and grim in appearance, speaking solemnly of important political matters. Again, heRead MoreImpact of the 1789 French Revolution on Literature3917 Words   |  16 Pagesï » ¿Impact of 1789 French Revolut ion on Literature Introduction - Outline ONE: Pre-Revolution Attitudes in France freedom of expression was repressed to a degree that became intolerable the pre-Revolution literature reflected and related to the upper class in France the French language was considered the Kings language and for those extolling the virtues of the king; the great bulk of the French population used Latin TWO: The Romantic Movement Following the Revolution of 1789 albeit theRead More Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow Essay3225 Words   |  13 Pagesâ€Å"populations, manners, and customs remained fixed,† and labels this place as haunted by superstition, Burton presents Sleepy Hollow as simply lacking in scientific knowledge, and thus plagued by literal murder. Writes Orr, As the films title implies, Sleepy Hollow itself is the most important dimension of Burton/Walkers revision, because it suggests not only an unleashing of the storys latent gothic energy... but also an increased scrutiny of Irvings utopian colony (Orr 46). Sleepy Hollow noRead MoreVictorian Novel9605 Words   |  39 Pagesshape and development. It was the novel that was the leading form of literature in the 19th century England. The term ‘novel’ itself was a simple narrative form, which in opposition to its forerunner, the ‘romance’ focused on the affairs of everyday life such as scientific discovery, religious debate, politics or colonial settlement. Though there are many arguments among critics which dates frame the period of Victorian literature, it is commonly accepted that it was the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901)Read More The Myths of Vietnam Essay5554 Words   |  23 Pages veterans. - Continuing questions about whether N.A.T.O. involvement in the former Yugoslavia could become another Vietnam. While the controversy over the war has often been reduced to simplistic pro-war or anti-war arguments as illustrated in the opening quotation, a more nuanced reading of post-war literature shows many more areas of controversy. All of these controversies cross over from hawks to doves and back again. Much of the post-war controversy over Vietnam can be summarizedRead MoreEssay Joseph Conrads The Secret Agent4969 Words   |  20 Pagessixty yards. Martial Bourdin remained alive for another half hour, but gave no hint as to the reason for his choice of such a bizarre target for a terrorist act (National Maritime Museum). To the chagrin of all anarchists, as Joseph Conrad observed, the outer wall of the Observatory, it did not show as much as the faintest crack (9). The British populace was outraged at this attack upon their cultured and refined society. London, which had been a center of many quasi-Utopian anarchist groups, soon began

Driverless Cars for Better Transportation Service - myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theDriverless Cars for Better Transportation Service. Answer: Introduction The paper reflects on Ethical and social issues that will affect the society if driverless cars are introduced in the future. According to Richtel and Dougherty, driverless cars are generally defined as robotic vehicles that are mainly designed for traveling between destinations without a proper human operator [5]. It is identified that driverless cars will be helpful in eliminating accidents that are generally caused due to the error of the driver. Furthermore, the driverless car will be advantageous in improving the traffic flow by dramatically enhancing highway capacity and will also assists in eliminating different types of traffic congestion [3]. In spite of the advantages, driverless cars can creates number of ethical as well as social issues that generally assists in affecting the society. In this report, different types of ethical as well as social issues that are associated with driverless cars are elaborated. Ethical as well as social issues that are associated with driverless cars The driverless cars are generally representing major innovation for the entire automotive industry as their potential impact in context to timing as well as uptakes remains hazy. The automotive vehicles are generally playing a significant role in context to economy, mobility as well as society [6]. They will be quite helpful in reducing traffic, enhancing safety, better transportation service, as well as helpful in reduced emission. In spite of the advantages, it is analyzed that there are number of ethical and social issues that will affect the society if driverless cars are introduced in the future. The technologies that are associated with driverless cars are presenting number of ethical challenges. One of the common arguments on behalf of driverless cars is that they are helpful in decreasing traffic accidents by enhancing the welfare of the humans. Even if it is found to be true, it is identified that deep questions remain about how the companies of car or the public policy will be helpful in identifying or safety. The question that whether artificial intelligence can actually replace the different capacities associated with moral agents leads to the rise of trolley problem [4].The engineers who are associated with driverless cars will need to tackle the questions as well as different complicated scenarios. Another ethical concern related with the introduction of driverless cars is the loss of number of the drivers. It is identified that more than 3.5 million drivers of truck generally overhaul cargo as per the statistics of American trucking associations [7]. If driverless cars will be introduced then the drivers of the automobile will lose their jobs which, is considered as one of the ethical responsibility of the society [2]. The displacement of the people from their job is not only the transformation of labor but also the transformation inn transportation whether transport, public or private. Autonomous cars generally will make decision depending on speed, road conditions, weather as well as data gathered with the help of different sensors that generally include LiDARS and radars. The driverless cars will generally calculate the course of action as per the speed of travelling as per example [1]. However the main problem is in processing as well as gathering the required data that quickly enough for avoiding dangerous situations. It is identified that during this situations, it only depends on the vehicle to keep an individual alive or dead. One of the biggest concerns is to keep the autonomous vehicle protected from hackers. Due to the use of driverless cars, there are number of understandable concerns that are associated with vulnerability as well as network malfunction that is generally an issue for individuals, governments as well as in business. It is identified that the security of customer data, software enabling as well as network co-ordination in autonomous vehicles must be secured properly due to Cybersecurity issues [7]. Data collection is considered as most common as the individuals have certain assurances around personal as well as private information. Self driving cars can struggle for interrupting with different unusual situation that is traffic officer who is waving vehicles. It is analyzed that simple programming will not work properly as it is quite impossible to code the entire scenario in advance [6]. Body languages as well as other conceptual clues are quite helpful in navigating with different situations but it is quite challenging for a computer to analyze all the scenarios and thus the rate of accidents can be enhanced on the roads if driverless cars are introduced in the future. Autonomous vehicles are unable to figure out the responsibilities as well as the future tricks. They are also unable to notify the passengers who is for example reading or taking a nap and therefore it is quite difficult to respond properly by the car at proper time which can create number of problems [3]. In addition to this, it is found that other issues like user acceptance as well as cost will be generally decided in the market place. One of the hardest issues that are associated with driverless cars is that they generally want to make proper societal tradeoffs between tremendous cost as well as wonderful benefits. As with proper technological transition, it is analyzed that driverless cars will generally face number of social as well as ethical issues. Conclusion It can be concluded from the entire assignment that in future if driverless cars are introduced, it have both advantages as well as disadvantages. It is identified that the driverless cars are helpful in eliminating accidents that generally occur due to the human errors. However, there are number of ethical as well as social issues that are generally associated with the introduction of driverless cars. Due to the ethical as well as social issues, number of problem can arise that include loss of personal data, increased road accidents as well as malfunctioning of network. Therefore, it is quite important to think about the mitigation plan for the social as well as ethical challenges which will be occurred before the introduction of the driverless cars. References Bonnefon, J.F., Shariff, A. and Rahwan, I., 2016. The social dilemma of autonomous vehicles.Science,352(6293), pp.1573-1576. Colquitt, J., Dowsett, D., Gami, A., Equities, I.F., Jaysane-Darr, E., Partner, I.P.C., Manley, C., Equity, F., Shad, R. and Income, I.F., 2017. Driverless cars: How innovation paves the road to investment opportunity. Greene, J.D., 2016. Our driverless dilemma.Science,352(6293), pp.1514-1515. Pendyala, R.M. and Bhat, C.R., 2014. Activity-Travel Behavior Impacts of Driverless Cars. In93rd Annual Meeting of the Transportation Research Board. Richtel, M. and Dougherty, C., 2015. Googles driverless cars run into problem: Cars with drivers.New York Times,1. Thierer, A. and Hagemann, R., 2015. Removing roadblocks to intelligent vehicles and driverless cars.Wake Forest JL Pol'y,5, p.339. Waldrop, M.M., 2015. No drivers required.Nature,518(7537), pp.20-20.

Staffing Plan free essay sample

In search for the vacant position of a Recruitment Specialist, and also keeping in mind future hiring the company will need to do in the next 3 months to two years. The sources, which can be greatly helpful in finding the right talent for our company from, are our Corporate website, Online recruiting websites and Executive search firms. With ample number of candidates that come from online recruiting websites, corporate websites can help narrow the recruitment process. Career pages on our company’s websites will educate potential candidates about the company itself, detailed requirements of the open position and other services offered. This will be our first source for selecting qualified candidates who will proceed with the next step in the recruitment process. Thus, the open position is posted on the company’s website, only people who are looking for a job as a Recruitment Specialist or in a Care Centre will apply through the website which will make it easier to pick out qualified applicants. We will write a custom essay sample on Staffing Plan or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Online Recruiting Websites such as Canadajobs. ca, Monster Canada, and Workopolis is one of the three sources our company will use in search for a Recruitment Specialist. These online websites have a pool of candidates applying for jobs who already have a post-secondary education or higher and experience in jobs. This gives us a base for our hiring specialists to go through applications and pick and choose the right candidates who best meet the job requirements and specifications. In addition, positing the open job position in various websites saves time and provides a handful of applicants in one place rather than collecting resumes from different agencies. Using Executive Search Firms provide a wide range of qualified candidates from agencies. Although, this maybe costly, given the accurate and complete information about the job being searched for can offer the right professional talent. With respect to our company and the services offered which helps in care of the elderly, the candidate hired should have experience in successful hiring, hiring according to company and health policies and following the right staffing plan. This search firm maybe used as the last source to find candidates, if the Corporate website, and Online recruiting do not provide qualified professionals. Candidate Requirements 1. Bachelors degree in Human Resources or related field 2. Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification preferred. 3. 3-5 years of recruiting experience 4. Effective team member with leadership skills and interpersonal skills 5. Outstanding organizational skills and ability to prioritize and multi-task, to maximize efficiency. 6. Excellent written and communication skills. Ability to effectively interact with all levels of the organization. 7. Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Database, and Human Resources Information systems. 8. Must have strong analytical, interpersonal skills, 9. Able to make decisions independently; problem solver Methods of assessment a) In sample structured interview questions, communication skills and persuasiveness are evaluated. Also, this will give us an idea of how comfortable the candidate is while speaking to employees, managers testing their human-relations skills. b) Sample situational interview questions evaluate the comfortability of the candidate on critical thinking, and coming up with strong and accurate results that best answer the questions asked. Also, the response given by the candidate should promote legal laws and HRM. This also benefits the candidate on how well he/she is on emotional aspects of different situations given. Also, in assessing how well his/her recruiting has been in the past, situations given from the candidate will help us decide how well of a Recruiter he/she had been. Evaluating his/her problem solving skills will give us a better understanding on how well the candidate understands the work given. c) Since the job posting is for a Recruitment Specialist, the candidate will be asked to give some of his/her successful recruiting methods and strategies to help the organization succeed. d) Evaluating organization and management skills cannot be assessed in one day. Management Assessment Centres test the candidate using various tests that use realistic exercises that are used daily at work. e) Job knowledge tests can consist of various activities. Firstly, testing the candidate of HRIS system, whether he/she is comfortable with working with the system daily. Orientation Preparing for a new employee’s first day will consist of: Reviews Orientation Checklist Discuss Orientation Checklist Present and discuss Benefits, formal paper work to be signed and completed Give new employee tour of the building/office Introduce employee to co-workers, managers and coordinate job specific training Employee continues job specific training, discuss job duties After one month of employment, HR will follow up with the new employee by calling him/her to solicit feedback Employee e-mails completed Employee Information Card to HR and submits other new hire paperwork Supervisor completes three month Performance Evaluation (if classified) and sends to HR The Importance of Staffing Building healthy human relationships. Staffing function helps to build proper human relationships in the organization. Smooth human relations are the key to better communication and co-ordination of managerial efforts in an organization. Staffing takes care of the need for building a strong organization Effectiveness of staffing and managerial functions lead to healthy, strong and successful capability of its workers Operative training during the selection and training process leads to help the organization prosper in the long run Prospective employees to meet the future challenges and goals of the organization need to address. Therefore the potential contribution of the staff in their expected future roles should also be taken into account in staff selection What I learned Upon finishing this assignment: I learned the importance of interviewing a candidate for a job; designing questions specific to what is required from the candidate narrows if the candidate will proceed to the next step in the interview. The importance of taking notes during and after the interview is crucial when there is more than one candidate to be interviewed. Taking notes during and after the interview helps the interviewer keep all the key points in mind while the interview is speaking. Emphasizing on the job description and specifications narrows what kind of candidates to bring in for interviewing rather than wasting time on everyone who applies. Learning about the various tests used for selection gave me a better understanding on which test to use depending on the job being applied for. For example, Recruitment Specialist job involves problem solving; situational testing and aptitude tests could be used while interview candidates. During the selection process it might be hard for some people to avoid their inner instincts or judgments that can come up during the interview, selection of the right candidate for the job. Applicants are only hired to help the organization succeed with the services it offers. Upon finishing this assignment, I learned the importance of sticking to the accurate information provided from the candidates and other resources to help the applicants succeed in getting a job with respect to the strategic ways of hiring. The Interview 1. Give examples of ideas youve had or implemented (in recruitment) 2. What parts of your education do you see as relevant to this position? Learning the various ways of hiring from an organization or externally through recruiting will come into play a lot in this position. Understanding the goals and the economic conditions of an organization is the first step in determining the need to workers. How to design a Job Analysis and the different types of ways there are in learning the duties and responsibilities of a position. 3. What steps do you follow to study a problem before making a decision? When a problem arises, the main points I look at are what caused the problem, how we as a company or the worker went wrong. After figuring out how the problem was caused, I look at the gain/loss that could come up. After determining if it was a gain or loss, next step is to come up with different alternatives that could be used to fix the problem. 4. List five words that describe your character. Dedicated, honest, always a positive attitude, confident and organized. 5. Would you say that you are most effective in communicating face-to-face, by telephone, or in written form? Tell me about why you consider yourself to be most effective in this area and describe a situation that illustrates this. Although, I have no problem communicating with people with either on the phone, face-to-face, or in written form, I work best with face-to-face. Communicating face-to-face always has a plus because both of the persons in the conversation know what his/her body language and tone is. Knowing how comfortable the person I am speaking to is the easier and more friendlier conversation we will have. 6. Tell me about a time when you had to analyze information and make a recommendation. What was your reasoning? What kind of thought process did you go through?

Diffusion of Innovations Essays

Diffusion of Innovations Essays Diffusion of Innovations Essay Diffusion of Innovations Essay The diffusion of innovations according to Rogers. With successive groups of consumers adopting the new technology (shown in blue), its market share (yellow) will eventually reach the saturation level. In mathematics the S curve is known as the logistic function. Diffusion of Innovations is a theory that seeks to explain how, why, and at what rate new ideas and technology spread through cultures. Everett Rogers, a professor of rural sociology, popularized the theory in his 1962 book Diffusion of Innovations.He said diffusion is the process by which an innovation is communicated through certain channels over time among the members of a social system. The origins of the diffusion of innovations theory are varied and span multiple disciplines. Rogers (1962) espoused the theory that there are four main elements that influence the spread of a new idea: the innovation, communication channels, time, and a social system. This process relies heavily on human capital. Th e innovation must be widely adopted in order to self-sustain. Within the rate of adoption, there is a point at which an innovation reaches critical mass.The categories of adopters are: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards (Rogers 1962, p. 150). Diffusion of Innovations manifests itself in different ways in various cultures and fields and is highly subject to the type of adopters and innovation-decision process. The concept of diffusion was first studied by the French sociologist Gabriel Tarde (1890) and by German and Austrian anthropologists such as Friedrich Ratzel and Leo Frobenius. [1] Its basic epidemiological or internal-influence form was formulated by H.Earl Pemberton,[2] who provided examples of institutional diffusion such as postage stamps and standardized school ethic codes. In 1962 Everett Rogers, a professor of rural sociology published his work:Diffusion of Innovations. In this seminal piece, Rogers synthesized research from over 508 diffusion studies and produced a theory applied to the adoption of innovations among individuals and organizations. Rogers work asserts that 4 main elements influence the spread of a new idea: the innovation, communication channels, time, and a social system. These elements work in onjunction with one another: diffusion is the process by which an innovation is communicated through certain channels over time among the members of a social system. Rogers adds that central to this theory is process. Individuals experience 5 stages of accepting a new innovation: knowledge, persuasion, decision, implementation, and confirmation. If the innovation is adopted, it spreads via various communication channels. During communication, the idea is rarely evaluated from a scientific standpoint; rather, subjective perceptions of the innovation influence diffusion.The process occurs over time. Finally, social systems determine diffusion, norms on diffusion, roles of opinion leaders and change agents, types of innovation decisions, and innovation consequences. To use Rogers’ model in health requires us to assume that the innovation in classical diffusion theory is equivalent to scientific research findings in the context of practice, an assumption that has not been rigorously tested. How can we spread and sustain innovations in health service delivery and organization? Greenhalgh et al. evaluate an evidence-based model for considering the diffusion of innovations in health service organizations. [3] The origins of the diffusion of innovations theory are varied and span across multiple disciplines. Rogers identifies six main traditions that impacted diffusion research: anthropology, early sociology, rural sociology, education, industrial sociology, and medical sociology. The diffusion of innovation theory has been largely influenced by the work of rural sociologists. [4] In 1971, Rogers published a follow-up work: Communication of Innovations; A Cross-Cultural Approach. uil ding on his original theory on the diffusion process by evaluating social systems. This extension aimed to add value to Roger’s 1962 touchstone work (Rogers ;amp; Shoemaker, 1971). Elements[edit source  | editbeta] The key elements in diffusion research are: Element| Definition| Innovation| Rogers defines an innovation as an idea, practice, or object that is perceived as new by an individual or other unit of adoption. [5]| Communication channels| A communication channel is the means by which messages get from one individual to another. 6]| Time| The innovation-decision period is the length of time required to pass through the innovation-decision process. [7] Rate of adoption is the relative speed with which an innovation is adopted by members of a social system. [8]| Social system| A social system is defined as a set of interrelated units that are engaged in joint problem solving to accomplish a common goal. [9]| Decisions[edit source  | editbeta] Two factors determine wh at type a particular decision is: * Whether the decision is made freely and implemented voluntarily, * Who makes the decision.Based on these considerations, three types of innovation-decisions have been identified within diffusion of innovations. Type| Definition| Optional Innovation-Decision| This decision is made by an individual who is in some way distinguished from others in a social system. | Collective Innovation-Decision| This decision is made collectively by all individuals of a social system. | Authority Innovation-Decision| This decision is made for the entire social system by few individuals in positions of influence or power. | Process[edit source  | editbeta]Diffusion of an innovation occurs through a five–step process. This process is a type of decision-making. It occurs through a series of communication channels over a period of time among the members of a similar social system. Ryan and Gross first indicated the identification of adoption as a process in 194 3 (Rogers 1962, p. 79). Rogers five stages (steps): awareness, interest, evaluation, trial, and adoption are integral to this theory. An individual might reject an innovation at any time during or after the adoption process.Scholars such as Abrahamson (1991) examine this process critically by posing questions such as: How do technically inefficient innovations diffuse and what impedes technically efficient innovations from catching on? Abrahamson makes suggestions for how organizational scientists can more comprehensively evaluate the spread of innovations. [10] In later editions of the Diffusion of Innovations Rogers changes the terminology of the five stages to: knowledge, persuasion, decision, implementation, and confirmation. However the descriptions of the categories have remained similar throughout the editions.Five stages of the adoption process| Stage| Definition| Knowledge| In this stage the individual is first exposed to an innovation but lacks information about the innova tion. During this stage of the process the individual has not been inspired to find more information about the innovation. | Persuasion| In this stage the individual is interested in the innovation and actively seeks information/detail about the innovation. | Decision| In this stage the individual takes the concept of the change and weighs the advantages/disadvantages of using the innovation and decides whether to adopt or reject the innovation.Due to the individualistic nature of this stage Rogers notes that it is the most difficult stage to acquire empirical evidence (Rogers 1964, p. 83). | Implementation| In this stage the individual employs the innovation to a varying degree depending on the situation. During this stage the individual determines the usefulness of the innovation and may search for further information about it. | Confirmation| In this stage the individual finalizes his/her decision to continue using the innovation. This stage is both intrapersonal (may cause cogni tive dissonance) and interpersonal, confirmation the group has made the right decision. Rate of Adoption[edit source  | editbeta] The rate of adoption is defined as the relative speed in which members of a social system adopt an innovation. Rate is usually measured by the length of time required for a certain percentage of the members of a social system to adopt an innovation (Rogers 1962, p. 134). The rates of adoption for innovations are determined by an individual’s adopter category. In general, individuals who first adopt an innovation require a shorter adoption period (adoption process) when compared to late adopters.Within the rate of adoption, there is a point at which an innovation reaches critical mass. This is a point in time within the adoption curve that the amount of individuals adopters ensure that continued adoption of the innovation is self-sustaining. Illustrating how an innovation reaches critical mass, Rogers outlines several strategies in order to help a n innovation reach this stage. Strategies to propel diffusion include: when an innovation adopted by a highly respected individual within a social network, creating an instinctive desire for a specific innovation.Also, injecting an innovation into a group of individuals who would readily use said technology, and provide positive reactions and benefits for early adopters of an innovation. Difference Between Diffusion and Adoption[edit source  | editbeta] Adoption is an individual process detailing the series of stages one undergoes from first hearing about a product to finally adopting it. The diffusion process, however, signifies a group of phenomena, which suggests how an innovation spreads among consumers. Overall, the diffusion process essentially encompasses the adoption process of several individuals over time.Adopter categories[edit source  | editbeta] Rogers defines an adopter category as a classification of individuals within a social system on the basis of innovativenes s. In the book Diffusion of Innovations, Rogers suggests a total of five categories of adopters in order to standardize the usage of adopter categories in diffusion research. The adoption of an innovation follows an S curve when plotted over a length of time. [11] The categories of adopters are: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards (Rogers 1962, p. 50) In addition to the gatekeepers and opinion leaders who exist within a given community, there are change agents from outside the community. Change agents essentially bring innovations to new communities– ? rst through the gatekeepers, then through the opinion leaders, and so on through the community. Adopter category| Definition| Innovators| Innovators are the first individuals to adopt an innovation. Innovators are willing to take risks, youngest in age, have the highest social class, have great financial liquidity, are very social and have closest contact to scientific sources and interaction with other innovators.Risk tolerance has them adopting technologies which may ultimately fail. Financial resources help absorb these failures. (Rogers 1962 5th ed, p. 282)| Early adopters| This is the second fastest category of individuals who adopt an innovation. These individuals have the highest degree of opinion leadership among the other adopter categories. Early adopters are typically younger in age, have a higher social status, have more financial lucidity, advanced education, and are more socially forward than late adopters.More discrete in adoption choices than innovators. Realize judicious choice of adoption will help them maintain central communication position (Rogers 1962 5th ed, p. 283). | Early Majority| Individuals in this category adopt an innovation after a varying degree of time. This time of adoption is significantly longer than the innovators and early adopters. Early Majority tend to be slower in the adoption process, have above average social status, contact with early adopters, and seldom hold positions of opinion leadership in a system (Rogers 1962 5th ed, p. 83)| Late Majority| Individuals in this category will adopt an innovation after the average member of the society. These individuals approach an innovation with a high degree of skepticism and after the majority of society has adopted the innovation. Late Majority are typically skeptical about an innovation, have below average social status, very little financial lucidity, in contact with others in late majority and early majority, very little opinion leadership. | Laggards| Individuals in this category are the last to adopt an innovation.Unlike some of the previous categories, individuals in this category show little to no opinion leadership. These individuals typically have an aversion to change-agents and tend to be advanced in age. Laggards typically tend to be focused on traditions, likely to have lowest social status, lowest financial fluidity, be oldest of all other adopte rs, in contact with only family and close friends. | Rogers’ 5 Factors[edit source  | editbeta] Rogers defines several intrinsic characteristics of innovations that influence an individual’s decision to adopt or reject an innovation.Factor| Definition| Relative Advantage| How improved an innovation is over the previous generation. | Compatibility| The level of compatibility that an innovation has to be assimilated into an individual’s life. | Complexity or Simplicity| If the innovation is perceived as complicated or difficult to use, an individual is unlikely to adopt it. | Trialability| How easily an innovation may be experimented. If a user is able to test an innovation, the individual will be more likely to adopt it. | Observability| The extent that an innovation is visible to others.An innovation that is more visible will drive communication among the individual’s peers and personal networks and will in turn create more positive or negative reaction s. | Failed Diffusion[edit source  | editbeta] Rogers, in his Diffusion of Innovation writings, discussed a situation in Peru involving the implementation of water boiling to obtain higher health and wellness levels of the individuals living within the village of Los Molinas. The residents of the village have no knowledge of the link between particular sanitation and reduced levels of illness.The campaign was working with the villagers to try and teach them how to boil their water to make it healthier for consumption, as well as to burn their garbage, install working latrines, and report cases of illness to local health agencies. In Los Molinas, a stigma is linked to boiled water as being something that only the unwell consume, and thus, the idea of healthy residents boiling their water prior to consumption was frowned upon, and those who did so wouldnt be accepted by their society.Thus, the two-year campaign to help bring more sanitary ways of living to this village was considere d to be largely unsuccessful. Much of the reason for the lack of success is because the social norms and standards of acceptance into society greatly outweighed the idea of taking on this innovation, even at the sake of the health, well-being, and greater levels of education to the villagers. This failure better exemplified the importance of the roles of the interpersonal communication channels that are involved in such a health-related campaign for social change.Burt, R. S. (1973) also looked at the process of diffusion in El Salvador and asks: Is there a differential influence exercised by social integration on participation in the diffusion process and is such influence, significant above that exerted by other important diffusion relevant variables? [12] Heterophily and communication channels[edit source  | editbeta] Lazarsfeld and Merton first called attention to the principles of homophily and its opposite, heterophily. 13] Using their definition, Rogers defines homophily as the degree to which pairs of individuals who interact are similar in certain attributes, such as beliefs, education, social status, and the like. [13] When given the choice, individuals usually choose to interact with someone similar to him or herself. [14] Furthermore, homophilous individuals engage in more effective communication because their similarities lead to greater knowledge gain as well as attitude or behavior change. 14] However, most participants in the diffusion of innovations are heterophilous, meaning they speak different languages, so to speak. [14] The problem is that diffusion requires a certain degree of heterophily; if two individuals are identical, no diffusion occurs because no new information can be exchanged. [14] Therefore, an ideal situation would involve two individuals who are homophilous in every way, except in knowledge of the innovation. [14] The Role of Social Systems[edit source  | editbeta] Opinion Leaders[edit source  | editbeta]Throughout the diffusion process there is evidence that not all individuals exert an equal amount of influence over all individuals. In this sense there are Opinion Leaders, leaders who are influential in spreading either positive or negative information about an innovation. Rogers relies on the ideas of Katz amp; Lazarsfeld and the two-step flow theory in developing his ideas on the influence of Opinion Leaders in the diffusion process. [15] Opinion Leaders have the most influence during the evaluation stage of the innovation-decision process and late adopters (Rogers 1964, p. 19). In addition opinion leaders have a set of characteristics that set them apart from their followers and other individuals. Opinion Leaders typically have greater exposure to the mass media, more cosmopolitan, greater contact with change agents, more social experience and exposure, higher socioeconomic status, and are more innovative. Research was done in the early 1950s at the University of Chicago attempting to assess the cost-effectiveness of broadcast advertising on the diffusion of new products and services. 16] The findings were that opinion leadership tended to be organized into a hierarchy within a society, with each level in the hierarchy having most influence over other members in the same level, and on those in the next level below it. The lowest levels were generally larger in numbers, and tended to coincide with various demographic attributes that might be targeted by mass advertising. However, it found that direct word of mouth and example were far more influential than broadcast messages, which were only effective if they reinforced the direct influences.This led to the conclusion that advertising was best targeted, if possible, on those next in line to adopt, and not on those not yet reached by the chain of influence. It can be a waste of money to market to those not yet ready to buy. Other research relating the concept to public choice theory finds that the hierarchy of influence f or innovations need not, and likely does not, coincide with hierarchies of official, political, or economic status. [17] Elites are often not innovators, and innovations may have to be introduced by outsiders and propagated up a hierarchy to the top decision makers.Electronic communication social networks[edit source  | editbeta] Prior to the introduction of the Internet, it was argued that social networks had a crucial role in the diffusion of innovation particularly tacit knowledge in the book The IRG Solution hierarchical incompetence and how to overcome it. The book argued that the widespread adoption of computer networks of individuals would lead to the much better diffusion of innovations, and with greater understanding of their possible shortcomings, and the identification of needed innovations that would not have otherwise occurred the Relevance paradox.The social model proposed by Ryan and Gross (1943) (Rogers 1962, p. 79) is expanded by Valente (1996)[18] who uses soci al networks as a basis for adopter categorization instead of solely relying on the system-level analysis used by Ryan and Gross. Valente also looks at an individuals personal network, which is a different application than the organizational perspective espoused by many other scholars. [18] Organizations[edit source  | editbeta] Innovations are often adopted by organizations through two types of innovation-decisions: collective innovation decisions and authority innovation decisions.The collective innovation decision occurs when the adoption of an innovation has been made by a consensus among the members of an organization. The authority-innovation decision occurs when the adoption of an innovation has been made by very few individuals with high positions of power within an organization (Rogers 2005, p. 403). Unlike the optional innovation decision process, these innovation-decision processes only occur within an organization or hierarchical group.Within the innovation decision pro cess in an organization there are certain individuals termed champions who stand behind an innovation and break through any opposition that the innovation may have caused. The champion within the diffusion of innovation theory plays a very similar role as to the champion used within the efficiency business model Six Sigma. The innovation process within an organization contains five stages that are slightly similar to the innovation-decision process that individuals undertake.These stages are: agenda-setting, matching, redefining/restructuring, clarifying, routinizing. Policy Diffusion[edit source  | editbeta] The theories of diffusion have spread beyond the original applied fields. In the case of political science and administration, policy diffusion focuses on how institutional innovations are adopted by other institutions, at the local, state or country level. An alternative term is policy transfer where the focus is more on the agents of diffusion such as in the work of Diane S tone.The first interests with regards to policy diffusion were focused in the variation over time (Berry ;amp; Berry 1990[19] or [1], state lottery adoption) but more recently the interest has shifted towards mechanisms (emulation, learning, coercion, as in Simmons ;amp; Elkins (2004)[20] or Gilardi (2010)[21] or in channels of diffusion (as in Jordana, Levi-Faur and Fernandez-i-Marin (2011)[22]), where the authors find that the creation of regulatory agencies is transmitted by country and sector channels).Diffusion of New Technology[edit source  | editbeta] Peres, Muller and Mahajan (2010) suggest that Innovation diffusion of a new technology is the process of the market penetration of new products and services that is driven by social in? uences, which include all interdependencies among consumers that affect various market players with or without their explicit knowledge. [23] Eveland (1986) evaluated diffusion of innovations from a strictly phenomenological view, which is very different than the other perspectives I found.He asserts that, â€Å"Technology is information, and exists only to the degree that people can put it into practice and use it to achieve values†[24] Diffusion of existing technologies has been measured in S curves. These technologies include radio, television, VCR, cable, flush toilet, clothes washer, refrigerator, home ownership, air conditioning, dishwasher, electrified households, telephone, cordless phone, cellular phone, per capita airline miles, personal computer and the Internet. This data[25] can be assessed as a valuable predictor for future innovations. Diffusion curves forInfrastructures[26] This data reveals stunning contrast in the diffusion process of personal technologies versus infrastructure. Consequences of adoption[edit source  | editbeta] There are both positive and negative outcomes when an individual or organization chooses to adopt a particular innovation. Rogers states that this is an area that needs f urther research because of the biased positive attitude that is associated with the adoption of an innovation (Rogers 2005, p. 470). In the Diffusion of Innovation, Rogers lists three categories for consequences: desirable vs. ndesirable, direct vs. indirect, and anticipated vs. unanticipated. In her article, Integrating Models of Diffusion of Innovations, Barbara Wejnert details two categories for consequences: public vs. private and benefits vs. costs. [27] Public vs. Private[edit source  | editbeta] Public consequences refer to the impact of an innovation on those other than the actor, while private consequences refer to the impact on the actor itself. [27] Public consequences usually involve collective actors, such as countries, states, organizations, or social movements. 27] The results are usually concerned with issues of societal well-being. [27] Private consequences usually involve individuals or small collective entities, such as a community. [27] The innovations are usua lly concerned with the improvement of quality of life or the reform of organizational or social structures. [27] Benefits vs. Costs[edit source  | editbeta] The benefits of an innovation obviously refer to the positive consequences, while the costs refer to the negative. [28] Costs may be monetary or nonmonetary, direct or indirect. 28] Direct costs are usually related to financial uncertainty and the economic state of the actor. [28] Indirect costs are more difficult to identify. [28] An example would be the need to buy a new kind of fertilizer to use innovative seeds. [28] Indirect costs may also be social, such as social conflict caused by innovation [28] Marketers are particularly interested in the diffusion process as it determines the success or failure of a new product. It is quite important for a marketer to understand the diffusion process so as to ensure proper management of the spread of a new product or service.Mathematical treatment[edit source  | editbeta] Main art icle: Logistic function The diffusion of an innovation typically follows an S shaped curve which often resembles a logistic function. Mathematical programming models such as the S-D model apply the diffusion of innovations theory to real data problems. [29] International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)[edit source  | editbeta] Several papers on the relationship between technology and the economy have been written by researchers at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA).The pertinent papers deal with energy substitution and the role of work in the economy as well as with the long economic cycle. Using the logistic function, these researchers were able to provide new insight into market penetration, saturation and forecasting the diffusion of various innovations, infrastructures and energy source substitutions. [30] Cesare Marchetti published on Kondretiev waves and on diffusion of innovations. [31] Grubler (1990) presents a mathematical disc ussion of diffusion and substition models. 32] Criticism[edit source  | editbeta] Much of the evidence for the diffusion of innovations gathered by Rogers comes from agricultural methods and medical practice. Various computer models have been developed in order to simulate the diffusion of innovations. Veneris developed a systems dynamics computer model which takes into account various diffusion patterns modeled via differential equations. [33][34] There are a number of criticisms of the model which make it less than useful for managers.First, technologies are not static. There is continual innovation in order to attract new adopters all along the S-curve. The S-curve does not just happen. Instead, the s-curve can be seen as being made up of a series of bell curves of different sections of a population adopting different versions of a generic innovation. Rogers has placed the contributions and criticisms of diffusion research into four categories: pro-innovation bias, individual-b lame bias, recall problem, and issues of equality. 35] One of the cons of the Diffusion of Innovation approach is that the communication process involved is a one-way flow of information. The sender of the message has a goal to persuade the receiver, and there is little to no dialogue. The person implementing the change controls the direction and outcome of the campaign. In some cases, this is the best approach, but other cases require a more participatory approach.

ORGANISATIONAL CHANGE MANAGEMENT ASISGNMENT Case Study

ORGANISATIONAL CHANGE MANAGEMENT ASISGNMENT - Case Study Example The first task looks at both internal and external drivers of change and the second task focuses on the nature of change. The third task critically examines possible types of employee reaction to proposed change and the forth task deals with recommendations that can be implemented to execute the planned change. The conclusion sums up the main points discussed in the report. In this particular context of Blue Marina Restaurant, change is driven by both internal as well as external factors as going to be illustrated below. Schultz et al (2005) suggests that internal forces of change mainly concern the issues related to human resources in the organisation such as low productivity due to different factors. A close analysis of this case shows that there is lack of coordination between the waiting and kitchen staff and this is a major challenge with regards to maintenance of the desired levels of customer service. Customers are forced to wait for long hours to be served and in some cases they have to leave without being served their favourite dishes. In other words, employee productivity has significantly declined as a result of poor coordination among them which has stimulated change to be implemented in the operations of the company. On the other hand, profit margins have remained low and this can be attributed to external drivers for change. The poor performance of the organisation is mainly due to the economic crisis characterising the environment in which the company is operating in. The other external factor which has necessitated change is related to competition which has suddenly tightened as a result of new entrants into the market. These opened a pub and two new restaurants within the shopping mall and there is a growing cluster of similar businesses within the vicinity of Blue Marina. This entails that dissatisfied customers now have an alternative