Loyalty is just a tattoo

Having to realize that not everyone means what they say Is a hard Idea to fathom when you're someone who means everything they say. This past summer I found out my boyfriend had been cheating on me. To me this was the hardest news to swallow, to think the person you trusted with everything, who was your backbone and your shelter In midst of the storm was not only thinking about you and saying, â€Å"l love you† to only you but to someone else as well.Instantly my world turned upside down, I ad to face the reality of the news I had found out. He apologized of course and in the end decided that I was the best choice for him, he wanted to make things work and go forward in our relationship, but how do you begin to trust again? Where do you start? Is he sincere this time? So many questions running through my head so much hurt and pain still. From then on I have guarded my heart like the jewel it is and protected it from anyone's harm. This situation elicited the most change on me because never will I ever love the same.I take my life day by day now, planning a future with someone Is so cliche © too me. Had to realize that forever really is not forever and that relationships are day by day, anything could happen tomorrow. People change every day, they meet new faces all the time I feel as if someone finds a person who fits your spot in there life and who plays the role better will become your replacement and you will become nothing but a memory, to some people what means everything to them today can, become nothing to them tomorrow and that's just how some people are.Reminiscing on the days when I thought people waited till they were 21 to drink. Couples waited until they were married to have sex, people didn't do drugs. I thought you would always end up marrying your soul mate, I thought your friends were your friends and they would never leave your side, that everyone you said â€Å"I love you† too would say it back, and that your love story will e nd up like the movies. It's Just crazy how you grow up with all this love and hope in your heart and then you're thrown into what you think Is a twisted. KC and cold world but It's actually Just life and you Just have to live It. In my head I tell myself I'm still the same person I was a year ago but in all reality I'm not. This situation caused me to become more sensitive and more protective of myself more than anything. Never did I realize that a person could cause so much Inner pain and there was no cure, no David or Misspoken can fix this boo boo, but too face the reality of it all, and over time hoping to get better. My approach is sterner in dealing with certain situations, I feel as if people take me serious that they will knowI'm not the type to mess around with and will not play games. I quickly closed my heart and right now thinking about forever with someone Is Just put on the backbencher for now. Trusting someone has never been so hard until now. You never know what's go ing through the other persons mind and there honest intentions with 1 OFF be more to myself and not trust anybody but God. I Just play the role, and Just make it seem as if I'm okay but deep down inside I'm hurting everyday and I always ask myself what did I do wrong to make him want to cheat? Does he really love me?Does he deserve this second chance? It's eating at me all the time and I Just want the truth but no one seems to know the answer. That to me is what is affecting me the most. That causes me to zone out, get distracted, cry at night, ignore and push away anybody who tries to get to know me. I'm not sure how long will I be hurt or when I will find closure to my situation but it this has had the biggest impact on me this summer. The scariest thing about loyalty is that everyone has their own definition of it. When I thought of my boyfriend I thought he was the most loyal of them all.I thought he would be different from the rest and that he could prove to me that all guys we re not the same. When he said he loved me I believed it, when he said he had my back I believed it, when he said he was loyal to me and only me I believed it but when all these emotions that I thought were so pure turned out to have flaws. I had begun to think maybe he was not lying and that he was exhibiting his own definition of love, compassion and loyalty or maybe he had been hurt before and his heart is guarded ND never realized instead of being the heartbroken became the heartbreak.Then I try to analyze the situation like I do all situations but still till this day I cannot come up to a conclusion as to why†¦ He would do that and maybe I will never know the real reason or never will I know the whole truth but for now I have to face the reality of it and in hopes to move on and be able to love again someday. The reality of it all is that not everybody means what they say, everyone has their own definition of love and that forever does not exist in this love story.

Ooad Design Specifications

Restaurant All-in-one Management System (RAMs) Design Specification with UML by Leung Chun Kit and Leung Ting Fong 03011720 and 03011739 (Group 22) COMP 2221 Lecturer: Prof. Jiming Liu December 4, 2004 I. Table of Content I. Table of Content1 II. Graphical Notion Used2 Notation of Use Case Diagram2 Notation of Class Diagram2 Notation of Sequence Diagram3 1. Use Case Diagram4 1. 1. Use Case Diagram of End User Acting with the RAMsystem4 2. Class Diagram5 2. 1. Class Diagram of RAMsystem5 3. Sequence Diagram6 3. 1. Sequence Diagram of staff6 3. 2. Sequence Diagram of manager8 3. 3. Sequence Diagram of administrator9II. Graphical Notion Used Notation of Use Case Diagram [pic] Notation of Class Diagram [pic] Notation of Sequence Diagram [pic] 1. Use Case Diagram 1. Use Case Diagram of End User Acting with the RAMsystem Description: End users(administrator, manager, staff) can perform ordering, editing ,checking and management function insider the RAMsystem. End user can use food ordering function and food editing function only bill had been created by user. Only manager can manage the duty roaster. No one can edit the database or checks the password database execpt the administrator. [pic] 2. Class Diagram 1.Class Diagram of RAMsystem Description: All user and database of RAMsystem is created by the administrator. Administrator can modify any of the data in the RAMsystem. Staff and manager can create or edit bill but only manager can edit duty roaster. Bill has id, date and cost. Each bill has a unique id. User can be categorized into 3 types, administrator, manager and staff. All users have their own unique id and password. Both the administrator and the other user can change their own password. However, administrator can change the password everyone. [pic] 3. Sequence Diagram 1. Sequence Diagram of staff Description:Staff can only add order, create bill, check bill. As well as edit the bill that responsible by he/she and check duty. [pic][pic] [pic] [pic] 2. Sequ ence Diagram of manager Description: Manager can do all the function which the staff has the right to do if. Furthermore, manager can edit any of the bills but not only that responsible by he/she. Also, manager can also manage duty roaster and check all the data in the database except the database that store the password. [pic] [pic] 3. Sequence Diagram of administrator Description: Administrator can do all the function of the RAMsystem including modify all of the databases. [pic]

Why Fairy Tail Is a Bad Manga

Why Fairy Tail is a Bad Manga One of the most popular manga in circulation today is Fairy Tail. It is about a wizard guild named Fairy Tail, and the adventures of two of its members, a boy named Natsu and a girl named Lucy. In all, it seems like it could be a good story, but the writer could just not pull it off. Fairy Tail has one of the worst plots and character backgrounds of all the mangas still going today. To start off, we can review the problems with the main characters. Natsu, a boy who uses â€Å"Dragon-slayer† magic was found in the woods and brought up by a dragon.The dragon taught him too read, speak, and learn a secret technique that could be used too kill dragons! Not only does the author, Mashima Hiro, ruins the character background with an almost alternate version of â€Å"Tarzan† he also screws up the girl, Lucy, role in the story. She can’t really do anything. She just has a set of keys that summon magical spirits that she sends to fight for her . But, usually they are useless since she can only use each key on certain days. Her spirits also hardly ever follow her directions, so her whole character I completely useless.Her only real contribution too the story, is the comical situations that she is put in, and her figure, which consists of blond hair, brown eyes, and large breasts, which add sex appeal. Natsu on the other hand gains the ability to â€Å"eat† and control fire, from his â€Å"dragon-slayer† magic. The next problem in the story is the character development. In most well written mangas, the main characters either, mature or get considerably stronger while the story goes on. Yet, in for Fairy Tail, this is not the case. Instead, the main character remains the exact same way throughout, most of the story.For instance, Natsu, only gets stronger for brief periods of time every now and then, before going back too his normal level. Lucy acquires more keys, yet is still at the same level she started off a s, because her spirits hardly ever do anything right so she still ends up becoming useless. In other famous manga, the main sometimes, goes off for a couple years in the story, too do some kind of intense training, then comes back, extremely strong, like One Piece or Naruto. However in Fairy Tail the main characters disappear for seven whole years, and still don’t get stronger, as they were supposedly frozen in time!Finally, we have to look at the emotional aspect. Mashima Hiro, fails too bring out emotion in the reader. Whenever a bad something bad happens, it is almost immediately resolved. For instance, in volume 25 chapter 257, Lucy finds out her father has died, after the time skip. She starts crying, but not three pages later, gets over it, and goes on another adventure. Fairy Tails only good point in the whole manga, is its entertainment factor. If anything, it is funny and again, has a certain sex appeal, since most of the women in the manga have large breasts and wea r revealing clothing.It has a more upbeat kind of theme, were the villains practically say, â€Å"O well. You beat me too a pulp. I have now found the error in my ways and am going too join you/be good. † Besides its entertainment factor, there is no way; Fairy Tail would be as popular as it is now. The character development majorly lacks, the backgrounds of different characters are unsophisticated, and the author fails at creating emotion. So if you enjoy a manga, with a good plot and story line, please do not choose to read Fairy Tail, as you will be extremely disappointed.

(a) What are ten small decisions that you as an individual make that Essay

(a) What are ten small decisions that you as an individual make that impacts upon the environment (b) How might you make each decision differently if you took - Essay Example Even though I live 5 minutes away from the university, I still get a ride rather than chose to walk. As a consequence of this decision, I burn a lot more fuel than I need to and in the process release gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere. A healthier alternative is to chose to walk, cycle, carpool or use the public transportation system more often. This way I can save significantly on fuel consumption. Again, I should plan ahead and schedule my errands such that I can get everything done in one trip. Another decision as a result of which I waste a lot of fuel is not switching the engine off when I am waiting to pick up a friend to go someplace. At times I would have waited for as long as 15 minutes. This decision has a two-fold impact on the environment. Firstly, since the fuel used in the vehicles is fossil fuel, it is a waste of the limited resources that we have and secondly, keeping the engine running would result in the production of dangerous gases including carbon monoxide, which pollutes the atmosphere. As an alternative, I can turn off the engine and start again when all my friends get into the vehicle and we are ready to leave. While driving, I prefer to keep my vehicle’s air conditioner turned on at all times – even in stop-and-go traffic. According to Environment Canada (2003a), air conditioning can increase fuel consumption by as much as 20% (para. 1). This decision again results in the release of dangerous gases into the atmosphere. The solution to reduce fuel consumption is to turn of the air conditioner when I have to drive slowly especially at stop and go traffic. Moeller (2004) emphasizes that an average human being breathes about 20 cubic meters of air each day. This amount of air roughly amounts to about 24 kilograms in weight. Hence lungs are by far the most important pathway for environmental pollutants

Inserting Foley Catheters and Infection risks involved with them Essay

Inserting Foley Catheters and Infection risks involved with them - Essay Example These considerations are based on evidence based practice (EBP) and associated with reduction of CAUTI risks and incidences in short term indwelling catheter patients. They include; educating staff on catheter management and monitoring of CAUTI incidences on regular basis, programs for prompt removal of catheters, cleansing of urethral meatus using perineal cleansers and maintenance of closed drainage system for urine. Introduction Self actualization is an important aspect of Maslow’s need theory which forms a central part of humanistic philosophy. This theory delineates self actualization which is the driving force behind reaching full potential and tantamount to self fulfillment. When basic and essential needs have been met, an individual moves to become self-actualized through doing what they are supposed to do. In the nursing context, this theory comes to life when nurses initiate the process of patient caring by using curative factors. By exploring self belief and utiliza tion of caring processes, nurses usually achieve self actualization for themselves as well as their clients. In Foley catheter insertion, Maslow’s theory is important in that it allows the application of nurses’ education to cater for the medical needs of their patients. ... Feedback by staff with regards to CAUTI prevention is very important coupled with principles of catheter care (Tenke, Kovacs, Johansen, et al., 2008; Trautner, 2010). Catheter Insertion and Removal There is mixed evidence that prompt programs for the insertion and removal of catheters can lead to reduction of CAUTI. However, a successful program needs to have different elements such as having a multidisciplinary team (nursing and medication). A team to control infection is important for catheter removal after 3-4 days. Besides these two, staffs also need to be educated about feedback of results and prompt removal of catheters (Trautner, 2010). Sterile Insertion of Catheter Evidence suggests that aseptic techniques such as use of sterile gloves, perineal washing and no touch techniques of insertion may very little influence on CAUTI and bacteriuria during or after indwelling catheter insertion. The use of aseptic techniques is often recommended as category II (Tenke, Kovacs, Johansen, et al., 2008; Willson, Wilde, Webb, et al., 2009). Routine Urethral Meatus Care EBP suggests that undertaking of meatal care by use of ointments or antiseptic cleansers should be part of genital and perineal care. Other studies have come with a contrasting opinion that shows the use of antiseptic agents may increase colonization of the meatal by bacteriuria which may increase CAUTI risk (Tenke, Kovacs, Johansen, et al., 2008; Trautner, 2010). Catheter Securement Apparatus Securement devices have little or no influence on development of CAUTI risks. However, further studies and research are needed on ability of securement apparatus to minimize CAUTI risks and urethral trauma (Tenke, Kovacs, Johansen, et al., 2008). Closed

Arbitration Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Arbitration - Essay Example Arbitration is the submission of a complainant to an intended respondent for a settlement of a dispute. The result of the settlement will be final, binding and executive in nature between the two parties. Mediation is done before arbitration or litigation. Through mediation, both parties are tried to reconcile with each other. Mediation is done through communication between parties to settle the dispute on their own by coming up with a solution agreeable to both parties. (Arbitration & Mediation, 2008) Arbitration and mediation, according to Newhall (2008), is more private in nature rather than a court proceeding. The importance to the confidentiality of the issue is also addressed more positively through the said methods. Moreover, through arbitration and mediation, a dispute can be settled faster as compared to going through court litigation, in which cases are scheduled to be settled many days, even months, after. There are numerous arbitration and mediation associations in America with each providing its own set of rules or policies. One arbitration and mediation agency in the US is the United States Arbitration and Mediation (USA&M). USA&M has a general guideline that once its services are sought, both parties are required to comply with the requirements of the said agency such as submitting documents for evidence, appearance during investigation, testify on the credibility of evidence gathered, and others. However, rules and guidelines differ on a case-to-case basis. (USA&M Rules of Arbitration, 2008) Carmen worked for her mother for several years in their restaurant business, her mother as the restaurant manager. Despite being treated abusively by her mother, Carmen endured such treatment and worked faithfully for the restaurant. When both of her parents died, she thought that she will be made manager in exchange for her faithful service. However, her parents’ last will and testament gave the managerial position to

Deliberative and civil society models of democracy Coursework

Deliberative and civil society models of democracy - Coursework Example According to the research there are two central view of democracy. In the republican model of democracy, there is solidarity between disparate groups of people. The different groups who comprise society recognize that they are all unified, and that there is a common good that must be sought after. In this kind of democracy, therefore, there is a societal consensus of norms, so that there is a centralized core of democratic principles which underpin the political process. In the liberal model of democracy, however, there are disparate groups, and these disparate groups do not try to unify with society as a whole. Rather, they compete with one another for political power and resources, and the people vote on whose interests prevail. Therefore, society does not have a centralized core and is in danger of disintegrating. The liberal society is marked by societal preferences, whereas the republic society is marked by societal values. Because of this, some critics, including Habermas and B oesche, believe that liberal societies have a problem with legitimacy of laws, as these laws are not based upon societal norms, but, rather, are based on something less, and these laws are subjected to being dismantled by lawmakers on a seeming whim. The international stage is a macrocosm of these problems, according to Dryzek, as the international relations are marked by competition between disparate groups who do not necessarily agree upon becoming a unified whole. Deliberative democracy may help to overcome the problems which are inherent in a liberal democracy. Deliberative democracy introduces reasoned discourse into the political process, therefore it provides more of a substantial underpinning to the moral arguments which mark liberal societies. The way that deliberative democracy benefits liberal societies is that deliberation provides an educative function, as well as a way of bringing disparate communities together in realizing that they might have common ground. It also i s beneficial in that it introduces an element of reason into procedures which determine the common good, which makes these procedures more legitimate. The outcomes are also based upon rationality, which makes the outcomes more legitimate as well. More than this, however, deliberative democracy recognizes that there are certain fundamental truths which should govern all reasoned discourse, these fundamental truths being such aphorisms as respect for others. In this way, deliberative democracy may benefit both state liberal societies and the international stage, which retains many of the elements of a liberal society. Discussion In order to determine the essential question of how deliberative and civil society models of democracy overcome the problems of the liberal democracy, liberal democracy must be compared and contrasted with republican democracy. According to Habermas (1994), these are the two received views of democratic politics. The liberal democratic process, according to Ha bermas, programs the government in line with societal interest. In this way, the government is an apparatus or tool to achieve the ends of society, and society itself it a connection between individuals. The individuals in this view band together to push government in a way that meets their collective goals. In the liberal democratic process, Habermas states that the government is a mediating process. The republic process, on the other hand, requires solidarity between the disparate groups of people. With the republican view, the different groups of society realize that they are all unified, and there is a recognition that society must be oriented towards the common good. In the democratic process, social integration is achieved through the hierarchical regulations of the state and the decentralized regulations of the market. The orientation towards the common good is the third way that social integration is achieved in the republic view of democracy. It is this horizontal method of social integration

Terrorism in Sudan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Terrorism in Sudan - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that terrorism is one of the most complex problems facing the modern world at present. It is difficult to tackle terrorism effectively because of the wide spread roots of terrorism in different countries. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan etc are some countries from which the terrorists are operating. At present war on terror is going on in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. However, Sudan has not faced such problems even though its role in encouraging terrorist activities suspected for the last few years. â€Å"The U.S. has charged the Sudanese government of being liable for the al-Qaeda attack on the USS Cole missile destroyer in 2000†. Moreover, U.S. believes that Sudan is supporting various terrorist organizations in many ways to conduct attacks in various parts of the world including America. Since Sudan is a country with a poor economy, it is easy for the terrorists to operate from its soil. It should be noted that poor countrie s normally have weaker administration and hence terrorists may not face many problems while operating from such countries. Poverty, unemployment, lack of education of the people, religious fundamentalism etc are some of the major factors which contribute heavily to the development of terrorism in Sudan. Sudan is a strategic location for many of the terrorists. Majority of the people in Sudan are Muslims and they do not have enough education. Moreover, it borders with some of the prominent Muslim states like Egypt, Libya and some of the Muslim dominated African countries. Religious fundamentalism is widespread in Sudan because of lack of education of its public. These are the factors, which encourage Osama Bin Laden and his followers to select Sudan as his country of operation in the 1990s. America knows very well that Sudan is playing a major role in the spreading of various kinds of terrorist activities all over the world. It is believed that Sudan is currently providing military training and support to terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Egyptian Islamic Jihad, Algeria's Armed Islamic Group etc. Moreover, many of the Islamic terrorist groups in other parts of the world are sending their people to Sudan for getting proper training on conducting terrorist activities. The current Sudanese president is behaving like a dictator and he is using iron fist to suppress the agitations against his administration. Because of that, internal problems and political unrest are common in Sudan. The northern and southern regions of Sudan are behaving like independent states even though the current president is trying hard to stamp his authority all over Sudan. America has enforced lot of economic embargos and sanctions with the help of UN against Sudan for the last few years. They have also listed Sudan in the category of State Sponsors of Terrorism from 1993 onwards. From 1996 onwards, Sudan is under diplomatic sanctions by the UN.â€Å"The U.S. government offered to take Sudan off its State Sponsors of Terrorism list in exchange for the northern government allowing a referendum on southern secession to take place without obstruction† (U.S. Offers to Remove Sudan from State Sponsors of Terrorism List, p.39). However, the northern government is not much i nterested in this offer and hence internal agitations are still going on in Sudan. â€Å"In 2008, the International Criminal Court at The Hague charged Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir with crimes against humanity and genocide in Darfur† (National Security p.86). In fact, the ICC issued arrest warrant against the president in 2009. Even though human right activists have seen this arrest warrant as a positive step, so far the president has been successful in avoiding or ignoring the arrest warrant. Al-Bashir’s anti-American or anti-western stands are inspirational to the terrorists in Sudan. His remarks against America and

How Aircraft and Aircraft Carriers helped the U.S in WWII Research Paper

How Aircraft and Aircraft Carriers helped the U.S in WWII - Research Paper Example Air power facilitated the surveillance of the U.S land. The use of aircraft in the World War II was part of a national grand strategy. Higham observes that the use of aircraft in the war during the 20th century consisted of strategic planning by the government and tactical operations, which follows the, principles of war and commerce (2002, 1). In this paper, we focus the discussion on how aircraft and the aircraft carriers were of help to the U.S army during the World War II. Air power consists of the air forces, airlines, aircraft and the ancillary industry. For the operation of this industry, it requires management that entails command control communications and intelligence. All this things were a vital part for any U.S air force soldier to be familiar with before taking command of any U.S air force airline. During World War II, Higham points out that the air power was still a not an area familiar to the American army. However, over the years the airpower became a force to reckon with, the air force was vital to the ground power in the World War II. ... At the pacific, see the land, based air forces and the carrier task forces were in use. The U.S utilized the air force to patrol the sea-lanes in the north Atlantic; photoreconnaissance was also a part of the role done by the air force in the wars. The British and Americans used the air power for guerrilla warfare. In his book, the rise of American Air power, Sherry examines the American bombing strategy of specific interest is the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing. The author approaches this from the cultural point of history. Sherry points out that the U.S utilized the dropping of the atom bombs as a defence and due to its terror potential. Culturally speaking the use of air power was not because of the technological advancement of the weapons used in war but it was a continuation of the fantasy of scientific warfare and the evolving of political social and military views (1987,239). With the technological advancement in the air power, the dropping of the atom bombs was an easy way fo r the U.S to block the enemy’s ability to wage war. The Japanese according to sherry’s observation gave in to an unconditional surrender. Sherry does point out that in the use of aircraft; the aerial bombing was a chaotic and haphazard affair that yielded unintended consequences that included massive civilian casualties. This to sherry was a failure because it did not in any way address the necessity to defeat the main body of the enemy military forces (1987, 145). Sherry observed that the use of aircraft as an offensive strategy in the warfare did achieve its target because it did fuel for revenge between combatants. This was because of the inhumane pain inflicted upon the civilian population. The whole idea of developing technology related to aircraft warfare

Aviation Security 2 Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Aviation Security 2 - Case Study Example It can either be private, run by the government or both (Zellan, 2003). This is because there are many airports with the three forms of ownership and operates smoothly. It is important for the airline to choose the best form of ownership (Zellan, 2003). Each form has some advantage sand disadvantages that should be well analyzed before a final decision is made. The three methods are good and have worked in many parts of the world but choosing the best option is the challenge. a. The government ensures that its people are well protected. It will do anything to guarantee secure flights for the passengers. This is why it came up with the Transport Security Administration after the September 11 accident (National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.). & National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.), 2003). b. There will be minimal financial constraints because the government will be responsible for providing funds that will ensure that all security details are in place (National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.). & National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.), 2003). c. All activities will be under the Federal Aviation Administration that is known for quality control this assures passengers that they will have the best that the government can offer (National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.). & National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.), 2003). a. The first disadvantage is in the delays in implementation of projects. The government has a history of, not implementing all the ideas right in time. There is historical evidence of the slowly run projects that have lead to inconveniences in the airline industry (National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.). & National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.), 2003). b. When funds are not available, there are no alternatives methods of looking for money. It has to be released by the treasury regardless of the delays (National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.). & National Research Council (EÃŒ .-U.), 2003). a. All projects and operations will be successful because of completion from

The value of communication skills in the workplace Research Paper

The value of communication skills in the workplace - Research Paper Example o and Sanchez believe that â€Å"if the idea received is not the one intended, communication has not taken place; the sender has merely spoken or written† (Guo & Sanchez, 2005, p.78). The present study focuses on the skills of communication that are necessary within an organization for achieving successful communication between the organizational employees. As Guffey & Loewy reflect in their views, effective communication is essential within an organization for advancements of the organization. Organizational members including leaders, managers, supervisors and employees need to communicate well among themselves. Proper skills of communication are hence necessary both within the organization as well as outside. Excellent communication skills enable an organization to advance more than others. In today’s organizations there is a greater need to understand different data, figures and words where written communications also prove to be highly significant (Guffey & Loewy, 2010, p.30). It can thus be said that communication in any form proves significant in order to pass any message internal or external to an organization. Guffey & Loewy also mentioned that today’s business organizations reflect dynamic trends where there is tremendous need for excellent communication. This is accompanied by flattened hierarchies of the organizational managements, expansion of the management based on teams, use of innovative technologies for the purpose of communication particularly where the office works occur anywhere and at anytime, diverse workforce, as well as enhanced focus on business ethics (Guffey & Loewy, 2010, p.30). Hence it can be realized that modifications in businesses in the present times require that organizational members are strong in their communication capabilities. This would enable messages to be communicated effectively. Effective decision-making may be obtained in this way with exchange of needful information. Also, effective communication would allow

Metamorphosis and the Yellow Wallpaper Essay Example for Free

Metamorphosis and the Yellow Wallpaper Essay Charlotte Perkins Gilmans The Yellow Wallpaper and Franz Kafkas Metamorphosis contain many similarities. They both have the common theme of the deterioration of the main characters life and mind, as well as the theme of the ostracism of outcasts in society. They also both deal with the main characters gaining a freedom through the demise of their previous lives. The woman in The Yellow Wallpaper is slowly deteriorating in mental state. When she first moves into the room in the old house, the wallpaper intrigues her. Its pattern entrances her and makes her wonder about its makeup. But slowly her obsession with the wallpaper grows, taking over all of her time. She starts to see the pattern moving, and imagines it to be a woman trapped behind the wallpaper. The total deterioration of her sanity is reached when she becomes the woman she imagined in the wallpaper and begins creeping around the room. Similar to the woman in Gilmans story, Gregor, in The Metamorphosis, watches as his life slowly deteriorates. He woke up one morning to find himself to have taken the shape of a bug. But early on he tried to continue in his normal activities; he focused on how he was going to make it to the train station so he did not miss his train, and how his employer would be upset with his absence from work. Then he begins to realize that he is a bug, and he cannot live his life the same way he used to. His sister begins to take care of him, and he loses touch with everything human that he used to know. His mother and father take away all of his furniture and other possessions. Gregors family come to the agreement that the bug must be eliminated, it was not

Evaluation Of Total Quality Management (TQM)

Evaluation Of Total Quality Management (TQM) A critical evaluation of total quality management (TQM) and its influences on competitive advantage. The case of Trinidad and Tobago Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP), automotive lubricant division 1.1 Background Slack (2004) explains that Quality management is extremely important in gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Growth, survival and attainment of strategic goals are all major issues of any organization quality therefore become a major issue. Existing as a private label company NP has made their way into a market filled with experienced multinationals via for increased market share. Competitors compete in terms of pricing and quality, thus NP has to make a strong dent into the impact of the customer on these bases. Vying for increased market share the need for core competencies arises and as such quality should be the number one focus. 1.2 Company background As with many companies The Trinidad and Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP) has an unfolding history. This company is owned by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and incorporated in 1972. Many acquisitions by the Government took place which put NP in its position within the industry today. NP acquired the assets of Shell Trinidad Limited thereby inheriting their Lubricant Blending Plant sited at Sea Lots, on the outskirts of Port of Spain. Under license, it continued to produce a range of lubricants, blended according to the Shell formulations, until the National Petroleum Brand of lubricants was launched in 1981. Since then NP continues to improve its product rating, they keep abreast of significant technological advancement in the lubricants industry. Despite competition from multi-national companies, NP brand continues to be a major player in the local and Caribbean markets, where ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s automotive and industrial lubricating oils and greases hold varying, but significant market share. NP stands out as one of the most successful state enterprises in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.  [1]   1.3 Mission 1.4 Vision 1.5 Rationale for the study Rivalry has always been a major determinant of quality of products or services. Quality management and competitive advantage is a marriage necessary for the success of a company. Thus the researcher believes that total quality management principles can be applied within NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s operations to gain an advantage over their competitors. In todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s competitive arena brand image is everything, therefore if a company is able to sell their image then increased market share can be attained. The researcher therefore believes that quality will be a key determinant on NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brand image and overall head point within the industry. A customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ right to boast of brands have always been a trend in todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s world, thus the ability to gain customers who can boast of NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brand is essential. This aspect will be the basis of the issue as NP exists in an industry filled will multi-national players, thus competition is fierce and forceful. With the economic downfall, companies were faced with increases in production costs, thus this cost was transferred to consumers. In the first quarter of 2010 NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s prices of its automotive lubricants rose twice. During an economic turmoil customers demand value for their money. Essentially quality will determine customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s perception of products, thus ensuring a sale and continued loyalty. New methods of operations are expected to arise in an attempt to improve quality standards towards gaining a better positioning within the industry. Insights of best practices are also expected to arise. Improved efficiency and effectiveness in operations, branding, communication and services are all areas in which the researcher expects quality management to impact, thus this research can shed light on all of these areas to assist NP in attaining their mission and vision statement. 1.6 Research Aims Research question: Can the adoption of TQM contribute to competitive advantage at NP? Objectives: To critically assess the strategic TQM at NP. To evaluate the industry standards to benchmark TQM at NP. To ascertain the extent to which NP is in compliance with industry standards. To formulate recommendations with reference to quality management best practice and based on research findings. These aims are found to be most important as it is hoped to achieve a firsthand view into the quality management practices in relation to operations and how these practices contribute and impact on competitive advantage. 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW First hand knowledge is gained through the experiences of trial and error; companies have been able to create quality initiatives relevant to their operations. Various scholars have also contributed to the field of quality management by proposing models and frameworks. The researcher will examine secondary data from research to be conducted and analyze this against the literature review. Major areas of this literature review will therefore be: Total quality management Quality management systems The process approach Six sigma Balanced scorecard It is against these criteria that this literature review aims to provide pertinent information to critically assess the topic at hand. A definition of what a literature review is given as 2.1 TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT (TQM) When considering business activities, ignoring quality can be a key ingredient for inefficiency and loss of profits. Hannagan (2002) claims The main objective of businesses is to make the highest profits possible; therefore one must consider the TQM issues in an attempt to succeed. 2.2 ORIGIN OF TQM Slack (2004) explains that the origin of TQM was a development by several à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"quality gurusà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ beginning from as early as 1957. Feigenbaum 1957 introduced the term TQM and he defined it as 2.3 WHAT IS TQM? Slack (2004) further goes on to state that TQM is best thought of as 2.4 TQM QUALITY INITIATIVES MANAGED Hannagan (2002) presents the thought that Organizations adopt TQM as a way of life as it is proved by quality throughout production until the product or service reaches the external customer. This process is measured by the quality of materials purchased from suppliers, the approach to defect control on the production line, the appearance of the building, the way problems are solved for customers, the way employees are organized and the organizations internal communication system. Hannagan (2002) continues by saying that Hannagan (2002) goes on further by claiming that TQM is a strategic approach within an organisation which can provide an à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"umbrellaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ under which a number of quality initiatives can be managed. These initiatives include: Statistical process control Right-first-time Just-in-time Quality assurance Benchmarking Quality circles Tauguchi method 2.5 CRITISM OF TQM IMPLEMENTATION Slack (20004) argues that These programmes may loose their impulse over time. This has been variously described as quality disillusionment and quality droop. Various researchers and consultants who have implemented TQM, Slack (2004) argues have put forward prescriptions which are intended to reduce the risk of recurring. These include the following: Do not define à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"qualityà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ in TQM narrowly; it includes all aspects of performance. Make all quality improvement relate to the performance objectives of the operations. TQM is a means of improving performance and not an end in itself. TQM should not be viewed as a substitute for responsibilities of normal managerial leadership. It is important to note that ineffective managers are not made better simply by adopting TQM. TQM is not an attachment of a company. It should be integrated with and indistinguishable from everyday activities. TQM has a considerable intuitive attraction. It is sometimes tempting to exploit the motivation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"pullà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ of TQM rather than thoroughly thought-out plans. Different organizations will have different needs depending on their circumstances. TQM should be adapted to these circumstances. Companies may push quality for its own sake, and shift too much responsibility down to the shop floor. In addition TQM is incompatible with more radical improvement approaches such as business process reengineering (BPR). TQM may also imply empowerment and liberal attitude toward shop floor staff; however it is argued that this is merely a further example of management exploiting workers. Critics have been known to define TQM as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“management by stressà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬?. 2.6 QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (QMS) AND PROCESSES A SIMPLE FLOWCHART SHOWING HOW PROCESSES ARE CHARTED IN AN ORGANISATION SOURCE: http://www.praxiom.com/process-approach.htm QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (QMS) PRINCIPLES AND STANDARDS SOURCE: http://www.abcb.demon.co.uk/iso9k2kworkbook_part5.html Quality management system seeks to identify external quality related input requirements specified in Licenses to Trade, regulations, specified customer requirements and the chosen management system standard(s). In addition quality systems seek to define performance measures, as applicable, to the system requirements and generate the result or evidence that system requirements have been executed. The next step is to measure, monitor and report extent of compliance with these performance measures.  [2]   To achieve a standard the first step is to implement a QMS. Implementing a QMS can help your business to: achieve greater consistency, reduce expensive mistakes, increase efficiency, gain customer satisfaction, effectively market your business, exploit new markets manage growth more effectively and constantly improve your products, processes and systems. 2.7 THE PROCESS APPROACH The ISO 9000 series of standards is the main set of International Standards applying to the management of quality systems. It includes ISO 9001, the key internationally agreed standard for a QMS. Achieving ISO 9001 certification could mean new business. This certification can help distinguish à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ from competitors.   Slack (2004) refers to the ISO 9000 series as Slack (2004) recognizes that there are four additional principles which ISO 9000 stresses upon. He argues that quality management should be customer focused. In addition he states that quality performance should be measured. Thirdly Slack sees the need for quality management to be improvement driven. Fourthly top management must demonstrate their commitment to maintaining and continually improving management systems. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF CERTIFICATION ADVANTAGES: 1. Increased Efficiency: Companies that go through the ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management Standards certification process have given a lot of thought to their processes and how to maximize quality and efficiency. 2. Increased Revenue: Studies have shown that ISO QMS certified companies experience increased productivity and improved financial performance, compared to uncertified companies. 3. Customer Satisfaction: Client confidence is gained because of the universal acceptance of the ISO standards. Customer satisfaction is ensured because of the benefits of ISO 9001:2000 QMS to company efficiency, consistency and dedication to quality service.  [3]   DISADVANTAGES: The actual change to ISO 9000 for operations can be very expensive. As is well known in business and industry, it is difficult to change the habits of long-time employees. New ways are usually resisted by everyone. This resistance cuts into profits and also decreases company morale. There are times when companies feel that the existing set of operational procedures is already working well and they do not feel a change is necessary. Now these companies have the choice of loosing a customer or implementing ISO 9000. Either way money is lost in the short term.  [4]   2.8 SIX SIGMA INITIATIVES Six Sigma simply means a measure of quality that strives for near perfection. Six Sigma is a disciplined, data-driven approach and methodology for eliminating defects in any process whether it is from manufacturing to transactional and from product to service. The fundamental objective of the Six Sigma methodology is the implementation of a measurement-based strategy that focuses on process improvement and variation reduction through the application of Six Sigma improvement projects.  [5]   Slack (2004) explains that Six Sigma processes are executed via belts. Master Black Belts are the experts in the use of Six Sigma tools, techniques and implementations. Six Sigma Black Belts can take a direct hand in organizing improvement teams. Green Belts work within improvement teams; they are not full-time positioned and have normal day-to-day process responsibilities. It is expected that they spend at least twenty per cent of their time in improvement projects. ARGUMENTS FOR AND against THE SIX SIGMA INITIATIVE Slack (2004) identifies the following positive perspectives of the Six Sigma initiative: Improvement activity is generally neglected in most operations and if it is to be taken seriously, it deserves the significant investment required. If operated well, Six Sigma improvement projects controlled by experienced personnel can save more than their cost. Slack (2004) identifies the following flaws of the Six Sigma initiative. It can be too hierarchical in the way it structures its various levels of involvement in the improvement activity. It is expensive. Training and improvement time can prove to be costly. 2.9 THE BALANCED SCORECARD The balanced scorecard is a strategic planning and management system that is used  to align business activities to the vision and strategy of the organization, improve internal and external communications, and monitor organization performance against strategic goals. It was originated by Drs. Robert Kaplan and David Norton  as a performance measurement framework  that  added strategic  non-financial performance measures to traditional financial metrics to  give managers and executives a  more balanced view of organizational performance.   DIAGRAM SHOWING THE VIEW OF THE BALANCED SCORECARD FROM FOUR PERSPECTIVES SOURCE:http://www.balancedscorecard.org/BSCResources/AbouttheBalancedScorecard/tabid/55/Default.aspx The balanced scorecard suggests that we view the organization from four perspectives, and to develop metrics, collect data and analyze it relative to each of these perspectives: The Learning Growth Perspective includes employee training and corporate cultural attitudes related to both individual and corporate self-improvement. The Business Process Perspective refers to internal business processes. Metrics based on this perspective allow the managers to know how well their business is running, and whether its products and services conform to customer requirements. The Customer Perspective explains that the realization of the importance of customer focus and customer satisfaction in any business is essential. The Financial Perspective states that often there is more than enough handling and processing of financial data. With the implementation of a corporate database, it is hoped that more of the processing can be centralized and automated.  [6]   Quality indeed provides companies with a competitive edge. Total quality management looks at a companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s operations holistically and determines best practice quality initiatives. Though there are pitfalls to the strategic implication of TQM, compilation of proper initiatives can reduce the occurrence of such pitfalls. TQM initiatives can also result in customer satisfaction, thereby resulting in customer loyalty. 3.0 METHODOLOGY Saunders (2003) simply defines methodology as Haralambos (2000) however goes a bit further by explaining what methodology is concerned with. He sees methodology as being The research to be conducted will take a deductive approach. This research approach is found to be the most appropriate, as a topic/ hypothesis is designed and a research strategy is designed to test the topic/ hypothesis. Although the research is a deductive piece of work, the researcher will adopt a mixed approach to data collection. That is the research paradigm will be a mixture of both qualitative and quantitative data. Generally the philosophies used are positivists and phenomenologist. Triangulation research will be conducted as this will increase validity and reliability. Research question: Can the adoption of total quality management (TQM) contribute to competitive advantage at NP? Having formulated the research topic it is essential that the researcher answers the research question. Thus essentially the researcher will undertake many strategies in addressing this question. By conducting structured research via hypothesis testing and analyze of information based on best practices and recommendations the answer to the research question will be attained. Thus the use of both primary and secondary data collection tools will be profound for this question. OBJECTIVE ONE: To critically assess the strategic total quality management initiatives at NP. In collecting data for objective one the researcher has found it fit to use case studies. Robson (2002) defines case study AS The data collection methods will include questionnaires, interviews, observations and documentary analysis. The researcher will select interviews and documentary analysis in an attempt to collect the data required. Interviews will be conducted by the researcher. Structured interviews will be utilized. Two groups will be targeted: quality control managers and quality supervisors. This will be done in an attempt to gain information based on the quality methods and standards N.P. currently has. Also to establish the quality initiatives deployed from subordinates in the upper section of the organizational structure. This data collection method will be of primary nature. Interviews will be conducted to these groups because these are the groups with the required information. Documentation analysis will also be selected as a means of data collection. The method used is necessary to gain information about N.P. and their documents based on quality control. It is intended to identify inspection points, certifications, specifications and any other relevant documents based on quality control initiatives. This data collection method is of secondary nature. This method will be used as it is upon these documents that N.P. thrives for their quality standards. Analytical technique: the funnel technique will be used in conducting interviews. Quality initiatives are not easily shared therefore by beginning the interview with general questions and narrowing down, the groups targeted will feel comfortable and easy going thereby gaining the information desired. Justification of methods: The researcher has found it useful to conduct interviews as detailed information is gained from people in a face-to-face situation, thereby allowing interviewers to explore issues in- depth. This method has its downside as it gives rise to the possibility of biasness due to interaction. In conducting documentation analysis the researcher will analyze documents in an attempt to identify trends in sales performance relative to competitorsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ performance with respect to the quality initiatives employed at this company. OBJECTIVE TWO: To evaluate the industry standards to benchmark TQM at NP. In collecting data for objective two the researcher found it useful to conduct surveys. Letts (2000) explains Saunders (2003) goes on further on this point by claiming that Data here is collected by using questionnaires, structured observations and structured interviews. Data collected from surveys are standardized, allowing easy comparison. The researcher will use questionnaires and structured observations in an attempt to collect the necessary data. A questionnaire will be constructed containing twenty five questions, in which respondents will be asked to answer. The questionnaire will be handed out to other companies within the industry. These companies include Bel-Ray, Castrol, Havoline and Shell. A total of 10 questionnaires each will be given out at these companies. These questionnaires will be given to members within the quality departments of these companies. These members will be randomly selected within the department. Questionnaires will be given out to these members as it was them who will have the required information. Structured observations will also be used to collect data. The researcher will adopt a participant observation approach to this method. While at the various service stations, quick shops and auto mechanic parts shops the researcher will spend time observing customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ choice of lubricants when other brands are available. In addition observations will be made based on the prices of other brands compared to N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brand and customer perception of quality based upon this factor. Research will be done on both customers and companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ quality departments. This will be undertaken as gaining an increased market share results in gaining a resource capability towards having a competitive advantage. Thus customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s preferences of one product over another will give the researcher the entities of what constitutes competitive advantage based on quality. Thus making room for opportunities for benchmarking based on specifications u tilized by other companies within the industry. Justification of methods: Questionnaires will be utilized as the researcher wishes to question a large number of individuals within a short space of time. Time would constraint the researcher in conducting interviews with 40 persons individually within the industry. Participant observation will be used in an attempt to gain a complete understanding of the views, preferences and beliefs of the people being surveyed. In addition the researcher will interact with individuals of the sample in an attempt to gain reasons for their choice. The researcher will acknowledge that there will be a major drawback by using questionnaires. That is they cannot address issues in-depth. It is for this reason that participant observation will be used hand in hand with the questionnaire as it will allow individuals to go in depth on issues. Analytical technique: the researcher will use cognitive access in an attempt to gain information from customers. Participant observation requires interactive processes, therefore it is crucial to gain entry and carry out the research. The researcher acknowledges the fact that informal acceptance from intended participants will be necessary in order to gain access to the required information. Cognitive access will be used as it is necessary for participants to feel understood and this will allow the researcher to gain an understanding of their social reality by allowing them to know what is being studied and the objective. This aims at making participants openly give information based on the objective of the research. Objective three: To ascertain the extent to which NP is in compliance with industry standards. Documentation analysis will be selected as the means of data collection for the attainment of this objective. This method is necessary for analyzing the information gained about N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s documentations based on quality control. The N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s quality initiatives discovered will be scrutinized along side information attained from the industry analysis. It is intended to identify gaps within the operation requirements relevant to inspection points, certifications, specifications and any other relevant quality control initiatives. This data collection method is of secondary nature. This method will be used as it is upon these analyses that gaps will be identified and compliance standards assessed. Justification of methods: documentation analysis was found to be the most appropriate method as it will provide comparative and contextual data. This method will allow the researcher to compare and contrast findings when compared to secondary data. OBJECTIVE FOUR: To formulate recommendations with reference to quality management best practice and based on research findings. In collecting data for objective three the researcher will use the multiple- source secondary data process. This objective will be achieved by evaluating the literature and documentary secondary data and matching up the findings to the survey- based secondary data. Documentary secondary data uses a combination of primary and secondary data. By reviewing the literature based on the selected topic, quality management best practice in relation to N.P. will be determined. In addition companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s print out from their intranet will be used to gain an inside view of N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s perspective of quality management best practice. Survey- based secondary data will allow the researcher to compare the findings gained from doing research via survey and case study methods to information derived from documentary secondary data. The researcher will be able to make recommendations based on this comparison. The comparison of the findings from both documentary secondary data and survey base secondary data will be necessary as this is the method which will reveal the necessary information. Justification of methods: The multiple- source secondary data process was found to be the most appropriate as it will provide comparative and contextual data. This method will allow the researcher to compare and contrast findings when compared to secondary data. The researcher however acknowledges the fact that there may be no real control over the quality of data. 3.1 ethical issues The research will guard against any unethical methods of data collection. Essentially the criteria relevant to the methods of data collection chosen are as follows: Voluntary participation and conformed consent: all participants will not be coerced into participating in the research. Consent will be sought after from all parties to be studied. All participants will be given a through breakdown on the study and its aims. Confidentiality and anonymity: the researcher will not seek after names or any personal information which may reveal the participantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s identity. This will be made clear to all parties in advance of the method of data collection. 3.2 Limitations of study When conducting research and collecting data one must consider the limitations of the study as this may provide boundaries and barriers to gaining a representative and accurate piece of work. The researcher will therefore guard against the following: Response rate: limited time and anonymity of respondents may provide barriers to the researcher for following up on people who didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t respond, thus resulting in a low response rate. Scope of information: Companies cherishes their quality management secrets and guiding principles, therefore information on the characteristics of the quality management initiatives may not be divulged. Time: the limited timeframe allotted to conduct this study may constrain the researcher form collecting sufficient comparative data from competitors in an attempt to present a more in-depth comparative analysis. Generalization: due to the nature of the topic and the research objectives, the findings may not be applicable to other organizations. The situation, time and place may be of a different nature. 3.3 RESEARCH TOOLS The researcher will ensure that the tools and resources are available to carry out the research designs. These materials will include: Stationary tools: pens; paper and note pads. Data collection tool: questionnaires and voice recorder. Monetary tools: The researcher will require finances to reach destination to attain data. 3.4 MARGIN OF ERROR: DATA RELIABILITY, VALIDITY AND ACCURACY Reliability and accuracy: McNeil (à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"research methodsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢) defines data as Data reliability therefore, is concerned with ideas such as: 1. The consistency of the data collected 2. The precision with which data is collected 3. The ability to replicate a piece of work. The reliability of data collected will be an important consideration since if data used is not reliable, then the conclusions or findings drawn will be fairly useless. Data reliability will be affected by such things as researcher bias into data collection processes, standardization and interpretation. The inability to record data accurately will cause the data to be less reliable. Validity: Data is only useful if it measures what it is supposed to measure. Validity refers to the extent to which the data collected gives true measurement of social reality.  [7]   When conducting research the concepts of reliability, validity and accuracy go hand in hand. It would be safe to say therefore that if data is reliable but not valid then it may have limited use. Also if data is valid, but not reliable the researcher may not be able to make general statements. In undertaking this research the researcher acknowledges the fact that the research will not be one hundred percent (100%) reliable, valid and accurate. However the researcher will make every attempt to achieve these in an aim to stand against scrutiny. The researcher will conduct the research in a highly professional, ethical and confidential manner. In addition all interpretations and collection of data will be made in an attempt to be unbiased. 4.0 Justification of time plan Essentially projects must conform to set deadline dates. Thus a plan is essential to ensure the successful completion within the timeframe allowed. The dates proposed are expected to conformation however contingencies will assist the researcher in any short comings. These dates are given in medium term expected time span, therefore any additional times required will be attained via slack times gained form other tasks running simultaneously. Therefore undergoing a successful dissertation a timescale becomes necessary to use to gain efficiency and complete the project on time. For the purpose of this study the duration will be six months. The stating date will be June 15th 2010 to December 15th 2010. Evaluation Of Total Quality Management (TQM) Evaluation Of Total Quality Management (TQM) A critical evaluation of total quality management (TQM) and its influences on competitive advantage. The case of Trinidad and Tobago Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP), automotive lubricant division 1.1 Background Slack (2004) explains that Quality management is extremely important in gaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Growth, survival and attainment of strategic goals are all major issues of any organization quality therefore become a major issue. Existing as a private label company NP has made their way into a market filled with experienced multinationals via for increased market share. Competitors compete in terms of pricing and quality, thus NP has to make a strong dent into the impact of the customer on these bases. Vying for increased market share the need for core competencies arises and as such quality should be the number one focus. 1.2 Company background As with many companies The Trinidad and Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Limited (NP) has an unfolding history. This company is owned by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and incorporated in 1972. Many acquisitions by the Government took place which put NP in its position within the industry today. NP acquired the assets of Shell Trinidad Limited thereby inheriting their Lubricant Blending Plant sited at Sea Lots, on the outskirts of Port of Spain. Under license, it continued to produce a range of lubricants, blended according to the Shell formulations, until the National Petroleum Brand of lubricants was launched in 1981. Since then NP continues to improve its product rating, they keep abreast of significant technological advancement in the lubricants industry. Despite competition from multi-national companies, NP brand continues to be a major player in the local and Caribbean markets, where ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s automotive and industrial lubricating oils and greases hold varying, but significant market share. NP stands out as one of the most successful state enterprises in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.  [1]   1.3 Mission 1.4 Vision 1.5 Rationale for the study Rivalry has always been a major determinant of quality of products or services. Quality management and competitive advantage is a marriage necessary for the success of a company. Thus the researcher believes that total quality management principles can be applied within NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s operations to gain an advantage over their competitors. In todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s competitive arena brand image is everything, therefore if a company is able to sell their image then increased market share can be attained. The researcher therefore believes that quality will be a key determinant on NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brand image and overall head point within the industry. A customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ right to boast of brands have always been a trend in todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s world, thus the ability to gain customers who can boast of NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brand is essential. This aspect will be the basis of the issue as NP exists in an industry filled will multi-national players, thus competition is fierce and forceful. With the economic downfall, companies were faced with increases in production costs, thus this cost was transferred to consumers. In the first quarter of 2010 NPà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s prices of its automotive lubricants rose twice. During an economic turmoil customers demand value for their money. Essentially quality will determine customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s perception of products, thus ensuring a sale and continued loyalty. New methods of operations are expected to arise in an attempt to improve quality standards towards gaining a better positioning within the industry. Insights of best practices are also expected to arise. Improved efficiency and effectiveness in operations, branding, communication and services are all areas in which the researcher expects quality management to impact, thus this research can shed light on all of these areas to assist NP in attaining their mission and vision statement. 1.6 Research Aims Research question: Can the adoption of TQM contribute to competitive advantage at NP? Objectives: To critically assess the strategic TQM at NP. To evaluate the industry standards to benchmark TQM at NP. To ascertain the extent to which NP is in compliance with industry standards. To formulate recommendations with reference to quality management best practice and based on research findings. These aims are found to be most important as it is hoped to achieve a firsthand view into the quality management practices in relation to operations and how these practices contribute and impact on competitive advantage. 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW First hand knowledge is gained through the experiences of trial and error; companies have been able to create quality initiatives relevant to their operations. Various scholars have also contributed to the field of quality management by proposing models and frameworks. The researcher will examine secondary data from research to be conducted and analyze this against the literature review. Major areas of this literature review will therefore be: Total quality management Quality management systems The process approach Six sigma Balanced scorecard It is against these criteria that this literature review aims to provide pertinent information to critically assess the topic at hand. A definition of what a literature review is given as 2.1 TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT (TQM) When considering business activities, ignoring quality can be a key ingredient for inefficiency and loss of profits. Hannagan (2002) claims The main objective of businesses is to make the highest profits possible; therefore one must consider the TQM issues in an attempt to succeed. 2.2 ORIGIN OF TQM Slack (2004) explains that the origin of TQM was a development by several à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"quality gurusà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ beginning from as early as 1957. Feigenbaum 1957 introduced the term TQM and he defined it as 2.3 WHAT IS TQM? Slack (2004) further goes on to state that TQM is best thought of as 2.4 TQM QUALITY INITIATIVES MANAGED Hannagan (2002) presents the thought that Organizations adopt TQM as a way of life as it is proved by quality throughout production until the product or service reaches the external customer. This process is measured by the quality of materials purchased from suppliers, the approach to defect control on the production line, the appearance of the building, the way problems are solved for customers, the way employees are organized and the organizations internal communication system. Hannagan (2002) continues by saying that Hannagan (2002) goes on further by claiming that TQM is a strategic approach within an organisation which can provide an à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"umbrellaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ under which a number of quality initiatives can be managed. These initiatives include: Statistical process control Right-first-time Just-in-time Quality assurance Benchmarking Quality circles Tauguchi method 2.5 CRITISM OF TQM IMPLEMENTATION Slack (20004) argues that These programmes may loose their impulse over time. This has been variously described as quality disillusionment and quality droop. Various researchers and consultants who have implemented TQM, Slack (2004) argues have put forward prescriptions which are intended to reduce the risk of recurring. These include the following: Do not define à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"qualityà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ in TQM narrowly; it includes all aspects of performance. Make all quality improvement relate to the performance objectives of the operations. TQM is a means of improving performance and not an end in itself. TQM should not be viewed as a substitute for responsibilities of normal managerial leadership. It is important to note that ineffective managers are not made better simply by adopting TQM. TQM is not an attachment of a company. It should be integrated with and indistinguishable from everyday activities. TQM has a considerable intuitive attraction. It is sometimes tempting to exploit the motivation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"pullà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ of TQM rather than thoroughly thought-out plans. Different organizations will have different needs depending on their circumstances. TQM should be adapted to these circumstances. Companies may push quality for its own sake, and shift too much responsibility down to the shop floor. In addition TQM is incompatible with more radical improvement approaches such as business process reengineering (BPR). TQM may also imply empowerment and liberal attitude toward shop floor staff; however it is argued that this is merely a further example of management exploiting workers. Critics have been known to define TQM as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“management by stressà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬?. 2.6 QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (QMS) AND PROCESSES A SIMPLE FLOWCHART SHOWING HOW PROCESSES ARE CHARTED IN AN ORGANISATION SOURCE: http://www.praxiom.com/process-approach.htm QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (QMS) PRINCIPLES AND STANDARDS SOURCE: http://www.abcb.demon.co.uk/iso9k2kworkbook_part5.html Quality management system seeks to identify external quality related input requirements specified in Licenses to Trade, regulations, specified customer requirements and the chosen management system standard(s). In addition quality systems seek to define performance measures, as applicable, to the system requirements and generate the result or evidence that system requirements have been executed. The next step is to measure, monitor and report extent of compliance with these performance measures.  [2]   To achieve a standard the first step is to implement a QMS. Implementing a QMS can help your business to: achieve greater consistency, reduce expensive mistakes, increase efficiency, gain customer satisfaction, effectively market your business, exploit new markets manage growth more effectively and constantly improve your products, processes and systems. 2.7 THE PROCESS APPROACH The ISO 9000 series of standards is the main set of International Standards applying to the management of quality systems. It includes ISO 9001, the key internationally agreed standard for a QMS. Achieving ISO 9001 certification could mean new business. This certification can help distinguish à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"youà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ from competitors.   Slack (2004) refers to the ISO 9000 series as Slack (2004) recognizes that there are four additional principles which ISO 9000 stresses upon. He argues that quality management should be customer focused. In addition he states that quality performance should be measured. Thirdly Slack sees the need for quality management to be improvement driven. Fourthly top management must demonstrate their commitment to maintaining and continually improving management systems. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF CERTIFICATION ADVANTAGES: 1. Increased Efficiency: Companies that go through the ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management Standards certification process have given a lot of thought to their processes and how to maximize quality and efficiency. 2. Increased Revenue: Studies have shown that ISO QMS certified companies experience increased productivity and improved financial performance, compared to uncertified companies. 3. Customer Satisfaction: Client confidence is gained because of the universal acceptance of the ISO standards. Customer satisfaction is ensured because of the benefits of ISO 9001:2000 QMS to company efficiency, consistency and dedication to quality service.  [3]   DISADVANTAGES: The actual change to ISO 9000 for operations can be very expensive. As is well known in business and industry, it is difficult to change the habits of long-time employees. New ways are usually resisted by everyone. This resistance cuts into profits and also decreases company morale. There are times when companies feel that the existing set of operational procedures is already working well and they do not feel a change is necessary. Now these companies have the choice of loosing a customer or implementing ISO 9000. Either way money is lost in the short term.  [4]   2.8 SIX SIGMA INITIATIVES Six Sigma simply means a measure of quality that strives for near perfection. Six Sigma is a disciplined, data-driven approach and methodology for eliminating defects in any process whether it is from manufacturing to transactional and from product to service. The fundamental objective of the Six Sigma methodology is the implementation of a measurement-based strategy that focuses on process improvement and variation reduction through the application of Six Sigma improvement projects.  [5]   Slack (2004) explains that Six Sigma processes are executed via belts. Master Black Belts are the experts in the use of Six Sigma tools, techniques and implementations. Six Sigma Black Belts can take a direct hand in organizing improvement teams. Green Belts work within improvement teams; they are not full-time positioned and have normal day-to-day process responsibilities. It is expected that they spend at least twenty per cent of their time in improvement projects. ARGUMENTS FOR AND against THE SIX SIGMA INITIATIVE Slack (2004) identifies the following positive perspectives of the Six Sigma initiative: Improvement activity is generally neglected in most operations and if it is to be taken seriously, it deserves the significant investment required. If operated well, Six Sigma improvement projects controlled by experienced personnel can save more than their cost. Slack (2004) identifies the following flaws of the Six Sigma initiative. It can be too hierarchical in the way it structures its various levels of involvement in the improvement activity. It is expensive. Training and improvement time can prove to be costly. 2.9 THE BALANCED SCORECARD The balanced scorecard is a strategic planning and management system that is used  to align business activities to the vision and strategy of the organization, improve internal and external communications, and monitor organization performance against strategic goals. It was originated by Drs. Robert Kaplan and David Norton  as a performance measurement framework  that  added strategic  non-financial performance measures to traditional financial metrics to  give managers and executives a  more balanced view of organizational performance.   DIAGRAM SHOWING THE VIEW OF THE BALANCED SCORECARD FROM FOUR PERSPECTIVES SOURCE:http://www.balancedscorecard.org/BSCResources/AbouttheBalancedScorecard/tabid/55/Default.aspx The balanced scorecard suggests that we view the organization from four perspectives, and to develop metrics, collect data and analyze it relative to each of these perspectives: The Learning Growth Perspective includes employee training and corporate cultural attitudes related to both individual and corporate self-improvement. The Business Process Perspective refers to internal business processes. Metrics based on this perspective allow the managers to know how well their business is running, and whether its products and services conform to customer requirements. The Customer Perspective explains that the realization of the importance of customer focus and customer satisfaction in any business is essential. The Financial Perspective states that often there is more than enough handling and processing of financial data. With the implementation of a corporate database, it is hoped that more of the processing can be centralized and automated.  [6]   Quality indeed provides companies with a competitive edge. Total quality management looks at a companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s operations holistically and determines best practice quality initiatives. Though there are pitfalls to the strategic implication of TQM, compilation of proper initiatives can reduce the occurrence of such pitfalls. TQM initiatives can also result in customer satisfaction, thereby resulting in customer loyalty. 3.0 METHODOLOGY Saunders (2003) simply defines methodology as Haralambos (2000) however goes a bit further by explaining what methodology is concerned with. He sees methodology as being The research to be conducted will take a deductive approach. This research approach is found to be the most appropriate, as a topic/ hypothesis is designed and a research strategy is designed to test the topic/ hypothesis. Although the research is a deductive piece of work, the researcher will adopt a mixed approach to data collection. That is the research paradigm will be a mixture of both qualitative and quantitative data. Generally the philosophies used are positivists and phenomenologist. Triangulation research will be conducted as this will increase validity and reliability. Research question: Can the adoption of total quality management (TQM) contribute to competitive advantage at NP? Having formulated the research topic it is essential that the researcher answers the research question. Thus essentially the researcher will undertake many strategies in addressing this question. By conducting structured research via hypothesis testing and analyze of information based on best practices and recommendations the answer to the research question will be attained. Thus the use of both primary and secondary data collection tools will be profound for this question. OBJECTIVE ONE: To critically assess the strategic total quality management initiatives at NP. In collecting data for objective one the researcher has found it fit to use case studies. Robson (2002) defines case study AS The data collection methods will include questionnaires, interviews, observations and documentary analysis. The researcher will select interviews and documentary analysis in an attempt to collect the data required. Interviews will be conducted by the researcher. Structured interviews will be utilized. Two groups will be targeted: quality control managers and quality supervisors. This will be done in an attempt to gain information based on the quality methods and standards N.P. currently has. Also to establish the quality initiatives deployed from subordinates in the upper section of the organizational structure. This data collection method will be of primary nature. Interviews will be conducted to these groups because these are the groups with the required information. Documentation analysis will also be selected as a means of data collection. The method used is necessary to gain information about N.P. and their documents based on quality control. It is intended to identify inspection points, certifications, specifications and any other relevant documents based on quality control initiatives. This data collection method is of secondary nature. This method will be used as it is upon these documents that N.P. thrives for their quality standards. Analytical technique: the funnel technique will be used in conducting interviews. Quality initiatives are not easily shared therefore by beginning the interview with general questions and narrowing down, the groups targeted will feel comfortable and easy going thereby gaining the information desired. Justification of methods: The researcher has found it useful to conduct interviews as detailed information is gained from people in a face-to-face situation, thereby allowing interviewers to explore issues in- depth. This method has its downside as it gives rise to the possibility of biasness due to interaction. In conducting documentation analysis the researcher will analyze documents in an attempt to identify trends in sales performance relative to competitorsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ performance with respect to the quality initiatives employed at this company. OBJECTIVE TWO: To evaluate the industry standards to benchmark TQM at NP. In collecting data for objective two the researcher found it useful to conduct surveys. Letts (2000) explains Saunders (2003) goes on further on this point by claiming that Data here is collected by using questionnaires, structured observations and structured interviews. Data collected from surveys are standardized, allowing easy comparison. The researcher will use questionnaires and structured observations in an attempt to collect the necessary data. A questionnaire will be constructed containing twenty five questions, in which respondents will be asked to answer. The questionnaire will be handed out to other companies within the industry. These companies include Bel-Ray, Castrol, Havoline and Shell. A total of 10 questionnaires each will be given out at these companies. These questionnaires will be given to members within the quality departments of these companies. These members will be randomly selected within the department. Questionnaires will be given out to these members as it was them who will have the required information. Structured observations will also be used to collect data. The researcher will adopt a participant observation approach to this method. While at the various service stations, quick shops and auto mechanic parts shops the researcher will spend time observing customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ choice of lubricants when other brands are available. In addition observations will be made based on the prices of other brands compared to N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s brand and customer perception of quality based upon this factor. Research will be done on both customers and companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ quality departments. This will be undertaken as gaining an increased market share results in gaining a resource capability towards having a competitive advantage. Thus customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s preferences of one product over another will give the researcher the entities of what constitutes competitive advantage based on quality. Thus making room for opportunities for benchmarking based on specifications u tilized by other companies within the industry. Justification of methods: Questionnaires will be utilized as the researcher wishes to question a large number of individuals within a short space of time. Time would constraint the researcher in conducting interviews with 40 persons individually within the industry. Participant observation will be used in an attempt to gain a complete understanding of the views, preferences and beliefs of the people being surveyed. In addition the researcher will interact with individuals of the sample in an attempt to gain reasons for their choice. The researcher will acknowledge that there will be a major drawback by using questionnaires. That is they cannot address issues in-depth. It is for this reason that participant observation will be used hand in hand with the questionnaire as it will allow individuals to go in depth on issues. Analytical technique: the researcher will use cognitive access in an attempt to gain information from customers. Participant observation requires interactive processes, therefore it is crucial to gain entry and carry out the research. The researcher acknowledges the fact that informal acceptance from intended participants will be necessary in order to gain access to the required information. Cognitive access will be used as it is necessary for participants to feel understood and this will allow the researcher to gain an understanding of their social reality by allowing them to know what is being studied and the objective. This aims at making participants openly give information based on the objective of the research. Objective three: To ascertain the extent to which NP is in compliance with industry standards. Documentation analysis will be selected as the means of data collection for the attainment of this objective. This method is necessary for analyzing the information gained about N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s documentations based on quality control. The N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s quality initiatives discovered will be scrutinized along side information attained from the industry analysis. It is intended to identify gaps within the operation requirements relevant to inspection points, certifications, specifications and any other relevant quality control initiatives. This data collection method is of secondary nature. This method will be used as it is upon these analyses that gaps will be identified and compliance standards assessed. Justification of methods: documentation analysis was found to be the most appropriate method as it will provide comparative and contextual data. This method will allow the researcher to compare and contrast findings when compared to secondary data. OBJECTIVE FOUR: To formulate recommendations with reference to quality management best practice and based on research findings. In collecting data for objective three the researcher will use the multiple- source secondary data process. This objective will be achieved by evaluating the literature and documentary secondary data and matching up the findings to the survey- based secondary data. Documentary secondary data uses a combination of primary and secondary data. By reviewing the literature based on the selected topic, quality management best practice in relation to N.P. will be determined. In addition companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s print out from their intranet will be used to gain an inside view of N.P.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s perspective of quality management best practice. Survey- based secondary data will allow the researcher to compare the findings gained from doing research via survey and case study methods to information derived from documentary secondary data. The researcher will be able to make recommendations based on this comparison. The comparison of the findings from both documentary secondary data and survey base secondary data will be necessary as this is the method which will reveal the necessary information. Justification of methods: The multiple- source secondary data process was found to be the most appropriate as it will provide comparative and contextual data. This method will allow the researcher to compare and contrast findings when compared to secondary data. The researcher however acknowledges the fact that there may be no real control over the quality of data. 3.1 ethical issues The research will guard against any unethical methods of data collection. Essentially the criteria relevant to the methods of data collection chosen are as follows: Voluntary participation and conformed consent: all participants will not be coerced into participating in the research. Consent will be sought after from all parties to be studied. All participants will be given a through breakdown on the study and its aims. Confidentiality and anonymity: the researcher will not seek after names or any personal information which may reveal the participantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s identity. This will be made clear to all parties in advance of the method of data collection. 3.2 Limitations of study When conducting research and collecting data one must consider the limitations of the study as this may provide boundaries and barriers to gaining a representative and accurate piece of work. The researcher will therefore guard against the following: Response rate: limited time and anonymity of respondents may provide barriers to the researcher for following up on people who didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t respond, thus resulting in a low response rate. Scope of information: Companies cherishes their quality management secrets and guiding principles, therefore information on the characteristics of the quality management initiatives may not be divulged. Time: the limited timeframe allotted to conduct this study may constrain the researcher form collecting sufficient comparative data from competitors in an attempt to present a more in-depth comparative analysis. Generalization: due to the nature of the topic and the research objectives, the findings may not be applicable to other organizations. The situation, time and place may be of a different nature. 3.3 RESEARCH TOOLS The researcher will ensure that the tools and resources are available to carry out the research designs. These materials will include: Stationary tools: pens; paper and note pads. Data collection tool: questionnaires and voice recorder. Monetary tools: The researcher will require finances to reach destination to attain data. 3.4 MARGIN OF ERROR: DATA RELIABILITY, VALIDITY AND ACCURACY Reliability and accuracy: McNeil (à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"research methodsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢) defines data as Data reliability therefore, is concerned with ideas such as: 1. The consistency of the data collected 2. The precision with which data is collected 3. The ability to replicate a piece of work. The reliability of data collected will be an important consideration since if data used is not reliable, then the conclusions or findings drawn will be fairly useless. Data reliability will be affected by such things as researcher bias into data collection processes, standardization and interpretation. The inability to record data accurately will cause the data to be less reliable. Validity: Data is only useful if it measures what it is supposed to measure. Validity refers to the extent to which the data collected gives true measurement of social reality.  [7]   When conducting research the concepts of reliability, validity and accuracy go hand in hand. It would be safe to say therefore that if data is reliable but not valid then it may have limited use. Also if data is valid, but not reliable the researcher may not be able to make general statements. In undertaking this research the researcher acknowledges the fact that the research will not be one hundred percent (100%) reliable, valid and accurate. However the researcher will make every attempt to achieve these in an aim to stand against scrutiny. The researcher will conduct the research in a highly professional, ethical and confidential manner. In addition all interpretations and collection of data will be made in an attempt to be unbiased. 4.0 Justification of time plan Essentially projects must conform to set deadline dates. Thus a plan is essential to ensure the successful completion within the timeframe allowed. The dates proposed are expected to conformation however contingencies will assist the researcher in any short comings. These dates are given in medium term expected time span, therefore any additional times required will be attained via slack times gained form other tasks running simultaneously. Therefore undergoing a successful dissertation a timescale becomes necessary to use to gain efficiency and complete the project on time. For the purpose of this study the duration will be six months. The stating date will be June 15th 2010 to December 15th 2010.

Air Pollution In Beijing Environmental Sciences Essay

Air Pollution In Beijing Environmental Sciences Essay Air pollution is the substances that accumulated in the atmosphere, which will endanger human health or produce other measured effects on living matter and other materials. [1]Air pollution is mainly emitted from the exhaust of motor vehicles, the combustion of fossil fuels as well as the burning process of coal and oil. As can be seen, the production of electricity generates the most of the pollution through coal burning. Generally speaking, pollutants can be in the form of solid particles or gases. In addition, they may be natural or man-made. [2] Pollutants in the air can be classified as either primary or secondary. Usually, primary pollutants are substances directly emitted from a process by human or natural sources, such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, dust, sea salt, smoke from forest fires, ash from a volcanic eruption and chemicals from human activity. (See picture1.1) Picture1.1 Sources of primary pollutants Secondary pollutants are not emitted directly, they occur when primary pollutants react with atmospheric gases to make new, hazardous substances. An important example of a secondary pollutant is ground level ozone. [3] However, some pollutants may be both primary and secondary: That is, they are both emitted directly and formed from other primary pollutants. As is addressed in an overview by World Bank of the 20 cities exposed to highest concentrations of particulate matter, which are tiny subdivisions of solid or liquid matter suspended in a gas or liquid, quite a lot of Chinese cities were mentioned, as Beijing is the sixteenth. In fact, not only the concentration of particulate matter, the overall environmental situation of Beijing is indeed a serious problem. Since the mid-1960s, industrialization took the place of agriculture and became Chinaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s primary economy. However, the pollution generation and resource depletion followed, which directly contributes to environmental degradation. The high density of fine particulate matter, ozone as well as SO2 and NOX is the major air problem in China. When it comes to the effects of air pollution, the damages to human health, vegetation and materials fully account for the reasons why it is important to pay attention to air pollution management. Exposure to these air pollutants has been associated with the increases of mortality and hospital admissions due to respiratory and cardiovascular disease. In fact, air quality management is not simply a euphemistic synonym for air pollution control; rather it represents a well defined process or rationale for establishing and enforcing regulations governing emissions of a wide array of pollutants from diverse urban and rural sources. Beijing, a typical representative of rapid developing cities, is an example to illustrate the measures that are applied in urban air pollution controlling and management concerned with a sustainable perspective. Conclusion and Limitation Conclusion As can be seen from this dissertation, the most serious air pollution in Beijing is the concentration of PM10, which is mainly from dust-soil, coal burning, construction, vehicle exhaust emission, waste incineration, concrete manufacturing, metal smelting industry emission, as well as urban road traffic. In addition, because Beijing is located at the downstream of Mongolia and Inner Mongolia which are the source areas of the dust storms, and therefore makes the density of PM10 more complicated. In addition to the PM10 problem, the influences caused by O3 and SO2 could not be ignored. High temperature and relative humidity conditions in summer accelerate the transformation of air pollutants, which results in high concentration of O3. While in winter, high demand of coal consumption leads to the dramatic increase of SO2 concentration. Due to the damages such as human health, vegetations and materials, caused by these air pollutants, the municipal government of Beijing starts to pay mor e attentions to this aspect. To reduce the air pollutants in Beijing, a more reasonable transportation system had been implemented already. For example, the new city planning called à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Two Axles, Two Corridors with Multi-centeredà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  was adopted by the government, which could divide the traffic flow effectively during the rush hour. This leads to the reduction of air pollutants from vehicles when they are at idle. Moreover, public transportation like bus, light rail, and subway are encouraged, the amount of such public transportation is increasing, and light rail and subway were sped up several times. When the usage of public transportation is at an increasing trend, trips by private cars are at a decreasing tendency, and then the emissions from vehicles reduced. What else, the quality of vehicle fuel was also improved, Euro 5 standard tends to be adopted around 2012 in Beijing, the content of sulfur in Euro 5 standard for gasoline and diesel is less than 10 ppm. Beijing municipal governm ent also carried out a lot of incentives on vehicle retrofit, scrappage and purchase to make the on-road vehicles cleaner and emit less air pollutants. Apart from traffic system, there is also transition in energy system. For example, government encourages the usage of renewable energy such as nuclear, solar, wind, biomass, and hydrogen, etc. Economic incentives are applied to encourage the enterprise to invest in the renewable energy. For customers, there are discounts when purchase the electricity that produced by the renewable energy. What is more, green planning is also important in controlling the air quality in Beijing, because trees can absorb air pollutants. And vegetation can also conserve the soil, which would improve the dust storm situation. Although the air pollution level is still high compared with some European countries, it is developing at a satisfied trend with these efforts from municipal government of Beijing, which means a gradual improvement of air quality every year. In the August of 2008, the average air pollution index was about 56, which was 30% lower than API 80 at the same period of last year. The PM10 concentration during the Olympics stayed at a satisfied level, and there were even 9 days, in which, the concentration of PM10 came to be lower than 50 micrograms per cubic metre, achieving the WHO air quality target. With regards to the density of O3 in this period, the mean value in the daytime came to 42 ppb, which was the lowest point during these three years. These improvements provided a sound environment for the Beijing Olympic Games. Limitation Before the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, Beijing municipal government carried out a set of phased measures and policies such as the odd-even day vehicle operation and closure of some construction sites. There were also restrictions for the coal-burning facilities. The results of these policies were significant, which made the air quality during the Olympics even achieve the WHO air quality target instead of the WHO interim target for developing countries. However, from the perspective of author, air quality during Olympics has its particularity, and the specific measures that were applied to improve the air quality during this period have their limitations when continue after the Olympics. For example, coal is still the primary energy in China and this situation will last a very long time in future. In addition, coal burning industries could not be restricted too much, which may affect the economic growth significantly. Therefore, attentions should still be paid to the general policies or measures the author mentioned above. Developing a better city map and improving the vehicle fuel quality are necessary. The encouragement of public transportation and renewable energy can contribute to air quality. Furthermore, improving the efficiency of energy and expanding the green areas in urban area of Beijing should be advocated by government and citizens. These measures are mainly applied within Beijing, in the authorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s opinion it is not enough. As is propounded that the surrounding provinces Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, and Shanxi contribute a lot of air pollution to Beijing through the activities such as rural biomass burning, which is an important contributor to fine PM concentrations. The emitted air pollutants pervade the entire region and add to the local pollution in Beijing during transport on the prevailing winds. These four provinces are also the most polluted provinces in China. [68] So in order to improve the air quality in Beijing, the measures should not only be implemented in Beijing, but also applied in the surrounding provinces. Further researches and investigations of the surrounding provinces are of consequence needed. Furthermore, the whole dissertation is based on the analysis of relative literatures, without any research activities such as questionnaire and interviews, and this may make the dissertation less realistic. To improve this situation, more research methods such as empirical study and observations should be encouraged if available in the further research. What is more, sometimes the opinions and conclusions from the authors of the relative literatures may be subjective which would influence the analysis results. As a student at the university, both the analysis ability and research ability are sometimes not skillful enough for academic work.