Community Service Essay Topics and Ideas

<h1>Community Service Essay Topics and Ideas</h1><p>There are numerous approaches to handle your locale administration article subjects or thoughts. On the off chance that you don't have any information on what you ought to expound on, it tends to be difficult to tell what to expound on. Be that as it may, on the off chance that you have a few plans to work with, you can begin simple and stir your way up in trouble as you come. Here are a couple of thoughts to get you started.</p><p></p><p>Often, people group administration is related with noble cause works. By expounding on this part of your life, you are demonstrating your duty to other people and to buckling down to benefit others. Giving back can be both troublesome and fulfilling. To help your locale through foundation, you might need to concentrate on exercises that require classic, hard work.</p><p></p><p>However, it's not simply the recipients of your cause wor k that are the ones that issue. You are really adding to the network where you live. Your difficult work will give extraordinary chances to others to find out about the qualities and ethics of being associated with altruistic works. At the point when your locale's kin profit by your commitments, it implies that you have genuinely made a difference.</p><p></p><p>In expansion to good cause, network administration can be cultivated through exchanges, too. Numerous exchanges can be network administration exercises, including such things as janitorial administrations, planting and beautification. These exercises would all be able to be taken on with network support and with some assistance from you. It's critical to require some investment and ensure that you are having a genuine effect for the network by attempted these activities.</p><p></p><p>There are a great deal of free assets online that you can use to assist you with finding the cor rect network administration paper themes. These assets are additionally accessible in books and book shops, so they aren't that hard to find. They can likewise be utilized to get thoughts for your exposition too. While you won't get everything in one shot, you can utilize an assortment of apparatuses to ensure that you have various subjects to expound on. You may even get some imaginative thoughts that you hadn't thought of previously, which is another acceptable thing!</p><p></p><p>While these online assets can be useful in picking various exercises to expound on, you can in any case get some good thoughts by taking a gander at nearby papers, magazines and online networks. This can assist you with getting a few thoughts that you probably won't have thought of something else. On the off chance that you are fortunate, you may run over people who are doing these network administration exercises and who are happy to impart their experience to you.</p><p ></p><p>You can likewise utilize these assets to get thoughts that you might not have thought of previously. At the point when you converse with others who are associated with network administration, they may enlighten you concerning the little things that they like to do, for example, planting or decorating the area. On the off chance that you have a thought for an exposition, don't be reluctant to attempt an assortment of thoughts and see what works best for you.</p><p></p><p>The key to handling your locale administration paper subjects or thoughts viably is to glance around at various exercises that you might want to do. Ensure that you comprehend the correct strategies for doing them appropriately and that you see how to do them as well as could be expected. Great luck!</p>

Howto Find Creative Writing Tips

Howto Find Creative Writing TipsCreative writing can help you to create a book manuscript that can get your in the process of writing a creative, persuasive piece of content. The best way to have creative writing work for you is to write a lot of content. This will help you to be more familiar with the language, and you will understand why it is important to think through the content before you write it.If you want to publish a book, writing one or two pieces will not suffice. You will need to work on one story at a time, and to do this, you need to read everything you can get your hands on, and take notes. You should also write a novel, rather than just a short story. It is a far better writer when they are able to mix two or more different areas of their expertise and learn how to integrate those into one cohesive narrative.One of the best ways to learn about how to write an essay is to read books that provide sample topics, or worksheets. You can also use books as reference materi al when you are looking for some material. Many people will skip over this step, as they want the answers to be intuitive. The fact is that there are several different things that will be used in the process of creating your own book. You will need to think about all of them, and in order to learn about creative writing, you will need to know them.Essay writing should never be considered a part-time job. One of the best ways to keep up with the writing process is to write a lot of content, so that you can get your feet wet in this area of writing. Start with one short piece, and see how you feel about it. After a few days, you should be able to create a topic that is compelling enough for you to work on, and that you are able to establish a style for yourself.At this point, you should develop a style that works for you. It is a good idea to develop a style and a message that is consistent throughout your essays. Then, to keep up with the topics you have established, you should look for more interesting topics to write about. Most people will avoid writing about current events, since most topics are already covered in other parts of the college curriculum.The next step in this process is to start doing research into the essay topic. While this may seem to be unnecessary, you should find out what information is available, and you should be able to create an essay based around this information. Some topics can be covered in one chapter, while others may require a series of articles.One of the greatest benefits of having a style is that you can start with one topic and then turn your focus to others, once you have established the basics. However, it can be quite the challenge to come up with original ideas for your essay topics. In this case, if you do not have any prior experience with the topic, it will be best to rely on other people to supply you with ideas, rather than trying to come up with new ideas on your own. When you use others to supply you with ideas, you can develop a great deal of confidence in your ideas, and this will make your task of writing your essay much easier.As soon as you have developed your own unique style and the right content, you can move on to providing original ideas. You can do this by coming up with creative solutions to problems, or by creating an original piece of literature based on some type of real life event. The best way to learn about essay writing is to sit down and write a lot of topics, and to sit down and write lots of essays. After a while, you will be able to come up with more original ideas, and will be in a position to provide the advice you are hoping to receive from those who offer their suggestions.

3 Essay Writing Methods to Get the Best Out of Your Essay Writing

3 Essay Writing Methods to Get the Best Out of Your Essay WritingThe reflection paper essay is one of the popular essay formats. This type of essay has been created to allow a student to express their personal views, and also to help the students reflect on certain facts that have shaped their lives.Essay Writing Methods - Most of the students love essay writing because they love giving a thorough explanation on why and how the writer thinks and feels about the topic. To allow students to express their thoughts effectively, you can use reflection paper essay writing method.An essay should be given a fair evaluation based on its structure, length, and readability. You must make sure that your essays are very easy to read and simple to understand. This way you will not have to spend time in researching and analyzing the topic.Assignments - One of the best ways to ensure your essays are being written accurately is to assign the essays to certain sections of the class. It is important th at you assign the essay for each section so you will know the different ways to compose the essay based on the assignment.Structure - Another great way to ensure your reflection paper essay is being written correctly is to use paragraphs that contain information related to the topic. This is a good way to learn how to structure an essay and make sure you do not forget to include the proper sentence structure, spelling, and grammar rules.Theme - You can use the theme in conjunction with the topic to guide the way your essay will be presented. You can read some inspirational verses or even sing a favorite song.In order to have an excellent essay, you must make sure it is a well-organized and professionally written essay. This means that you should read through the essay to see if it is well written. Writing an essay can be a stressful experience, so make sure you learn to avoid the common mistakes.

Unions Vs. Non Unions Essay - 981 Words

Unions vs. Non Unions Beginning, in the early 18th Century, labor unions formed in order to benefit the working class during the industrial revolution in Europe. It is a natural human instinct to seek the company of others with similar aspirations. For years, men have formed organizations around common interests, including religious and political interests. The rise of capitalism in the U.S. made labor organization inevitable (Flagler, 17). In the early 19th Century in the United States, labor unions formed upon the founding of the National Labor Union in 1866, (Union Plus). Although this organization terminated early on, it was the catalyst to the rest of the labor unions extant today in our country. Despite their controversy, unions help the economy because the working class receives fair benefits, wages, and working conditions, all of which allow them to purchase goods and services. These purchases, in turn, help to employ more people. By being union members, workers tend to receive better benefits than nonunion workers. â€Å"Some 93 percent of unionized workers were entitled to medical benefits compared to 69 percent of their nonunion peers, according to the National Compensation Survey published last year by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,† (Bank Rate what year is this citation). Additionally, â€Å"Workers with union representation also had 89 percent of their health insurance premiums paid by their employer for single coverage and 82 percent for family coverage. ForShow MoreRelatedUnion vs Non-Union1321 Words   |  6 PagesUnionized and non-unionized organizations are quite different in how they regulate pay increases for employees. In 2-4 pages explain each one s strengths and weaknesses. What impact do unions have on the workplace and do you think union membership is going to increase or decrease over the next few years? Unionized organizations:- Union is a group of workers who have come together to make collective decisions about their work and their working conditions. Unions work based on the idea that groupRead MoreHospital Union vs. Non Union795 Words   |  4 PagesLutheran Hospital in Des Moines is a non-union facility. Both facilities strive to give its patients excellent care but the working conditions vary somewhat due to the difference between a union and non-union facility. From Mary Greeley’s I interviewed Mrs. Lorna Hamilton, the Emergency/Security Management Coordinator and from the Iowa Lutheran Hospital I interviewed Mr. Jeffrey L. Bebensee, the Security Manager. Both managers were familiar with the labor unions effect on their workplaces. LornaRead MoreWage And Salary Issues Union Vs. Non Union Workers1308 Words   |  6 Pagespaper I will be discussing how unions help all workers when it comes to salary and wages. Unions have a substantial impact on the compensation and work lives of both union and non-union workers. I found a report where current data on unions effect on wages, benefits, total compensation, pay inequality and workplace protections. But I will be focusing on two areas in this paper, and that is wage and salary issues union vs non-union workers. What is a union? A labor union is an organization that actsRead MoreWhy Texas Race Racial Discrimination Is Because Of The Size Of Its Population Essay836 Words   |  4 Pages4.8 percent of total employment compared to New York 24.6 percent. Texas with more wages and salary workers of 11,205, only has 543 union members in 2014. On the other hand, New York has 8,060 workers, of which 1,980 are union members (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Texas with only 4.8 percent of union members in 2014 can easily be exposed to the risk of workplace discrimination. Generally, workers in unionized workplaces would be ableRead MoreWilliam Freehling, The South Vs. South1476 Words   |  6 PagesSouth Vs. The South The South vs. The South by William Freehling is a narrative that focuses on the civil war that affected a vast number of Southerners who opposed the Confederacy regardless of whether they were white or black. These ?anti-Confederates,? as termed by Freehling comprised Slaves and Boarder state whites who together formed half the southern population and were significant to the Union victory. By weakening the Confederacy military, contributing manpower and resources to the Union andRead MoreEssay on Case study: Local 28 vs. EEOC899 Words   |  4 Pages Case study: Local 28 vs. EEOC GB541: Employment Law Local 28 vs. EEOC 1. Is it clear to you why a court would be able to include in its remedies those who were not directly discriminated against by any employer? Yes, it is clear to me how and why the judge was able to include those who were not specificity directed by the company’s actions to be included in the outcome of the ruling. Title VII was put in place to help protect minorities in the workplace and those in search ofRead MoreSouth Vs. The South By William Freehling1461 Words   |  6 Pages The South vs. The South by William Freehling is a narrative that focuses on the civil war that affected a vast number of Southerners who opposed the Confederacy regardless of whether they were white or black. These â€Å"anti-Confederates,† as termed by Freehling comprised Slaves and Boarder state whites who together formed half the southern population and were significant to the Union victory. By weakening the Confederacy military, contributing manpower and resources to the Union and dividing the southernRead MoreUnion Organizing Case Study : Union1314 Words   |  6 PagesUnion Organizing Case Study Individuals have been at work for thousands and thousands of years. Over the last century there have been many changes in the United States that protects workers in their positions and the duties they perform. There has been many changes for employers as well that protects companies and organization and offers beneficial information to keep them in compliance with changes and away from any from and form of discrimination. Over the last century there has been the organizationRead MoreUnions Must Pay More Wages1431 Words   |  6 PagesUnions lead to higher prices for consumers since companies must pay more for wages and benefits, which are then passed on to customers. The cost of labour is like any other for a business. It must be added to the expenditures of the income statement, which leads to diminished profit margins or losses unless amounts can be raised to pass the costs onto consumers. Thus, when buying North American cars or buying any other product that comes from a unioni zed industry; we as a country pay for the increasesRead MoreThe Ensuing Conflict Of Labor Vs. Capital1627 Words   |  7 PagesThe ensuing conflict, between labor vs. capital, during the late 1800s initiated a struggle of power in the workforce between the rich-industrialists (or corporate leaders) and the middle-class/lower-class workers. The Capitalists had intervened with the protests orchestrated by the workers, ensuring that the power remains with them. The strategies of the industrialists and the unique ways of protesting from the workers, contributes to spur a vigorous argument between the employers and their employees

Business Law Substantive Law of the EU

Question: Business Law for Substantive Law of the EU. Answer: Part 1 Introduction A contract of service is used to define the legal relationship between an employee and an employee. A contract of service is used when an individual agrees to perform certain work or services for another under certain conditions and in return for remuneration. It is through this relationship between an employer and an employee, subsequent rights and obligations are created towards both the parties. The Employment Rights Act 1996 is an Act passed by the United Kingdom Parliament to makes rules in relation to the labor laws in United Kingdom. This Act makes various laws and sets minimize standards which every employer and employee has to comply with while dealing with each other (Guest, Isaksson and De Witte 2010). One such rule under the said legislation is the obligation on part of an employer to provide employees with a written statement of terms. Sources of the terms of the employment contract Section 1 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, states that, when an employee starts his employment with a particular employer, it is the duty of the employer to give the employee, a written statement which state the particulars of his employment. The said particulars of employment are in the form of an employment contract that consists of every condition imposed on the employee while the employment continues. The source of these contract terms can be different and varied. Thus, an employment contract term can be accepted verbally, in the form of a written contract, in an employee handbook or companys notice board, in an offer letter or email to the employee, in form of collective agreement, as required by legislation and statute in United Kingdom and in the form of an implied term (Gebel 2010). Common law duties of the employee When an employee begins employment under a particular employer, he has certain duties and obligations towards his employer even if when these duties and obligations are not drafted in writing. Some common law duties of an employee are implied and do not require any formal contract term in writing for the same. These duties of an employee under common law are as follow:- Duty of obedience Every employee owes a duty to obey the reasonable and lawful orders of his employer. This is stated as a condition essential for a valid contract of service. However, an employee is allowed to disobey orders which are unreasonable or pose a threat on health and safety (Kahn 2010). In Turner v Mason when health threat and safety was the concern, the Court held that an employee is permitted to disobey the orders of his employer which includes an order to allow a servant continue a task which can be violent in nature of lead to an infectious disease. Duty of mutual trust and confidence The relationship of an employee and employer should be based on trust and confidence. Thus, it the duty of every employee to give his best effort for guarantees the smooth and efficient running of the employers company. The duty of trust and confidence goes up to include within its scope many other duties like honestly, disclosure of wrongful conducts, keeping the confidential information of the employer safe, work with reasonable care and diligence, no taking of bribe and no competing against the employer. It is also an obligation of the employees to not participate in industrial actions which disturbs business (Noon, Blyton and Morrell 2013). Thus, the common laws duties of an employee are mostly implied in nature. Common law duties of the employee As the employees have certain common law duties, the relationship between the employer and the employee also creates certain duties and obligations on part of the employer. Again most of these duties are implied in nature and need not be in writing. The common law duties of an employer in United Kingdom are as follows:- The primary duty which can employer has towards his employee is to ensure that he provides them with a safe and healthy working environment and condition. It is the primary duty of an employee to take care of his employees health and safety. Thus, it is the duty of employers to do everything that is reasonably possible to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees including the other parties or individuals whose health can be affected by the employers business (Martin 2013). Under the health and safety laws in United Kingdom, it is the duty of every employer to provide safe workplace, safe working environment, safe machinery and equipments, safe and efficient individuals working alongside, and minimizing potential hazards at workplace. Additionally, due to the legal relationship between an employer and his employee, the employer owes duty of care towards his employees. The duty of care is in relation to their duty to look after the health, safety and wellbeing of employees. In case, any employer fails to provide a safe working condition which results in injuries to an employee, the employer will attract the tort law of negligence (Banker, Byzalov and Chen 2013). Additionally, the employer has the duty of mutual trust and confidence towards his employees and should ensure that the employees in his organization are treated equally without any discrimination and should uphold the respect and dignity of each of his employees fairly dealing with all complaints that come to him from employees (Bruner 2013). Part 2 Introduction Every country has labor laws which are established to benefit and protect the employees and workers in the country. Similarly, the employees and workers in the United Kingdom have their rights protected under various labor acts, legislations, law, equity and common law. These laws include many labor legislations like the right to minimum wage under Minimum Wage Act 1998, right to paid holidays and breaks under the Working Time Regulations 1998 and equality amongst all the employees under the Equality Act 2010 (Collins, Ewing and McColgan 2012). The Equality Act 2010 is an Act passed by the United Kingdom Parliament which mirrors and implements the EU Equal Treatment Directives. The said act was codified with the primary objective of bring the various anti-discrimination laws and rules in United Kingdom under one single statute. Scope and structure of the Equality Act 2010 The Equality Act 2010 came into force in the United Kingdom on 1 October 2010. The Equality Act 2010 was established in United Kingdom for two primary reasons which were to harmonies laws of discrimination and to strengthen and promote the laws which support progress on equality. The said Act has codified together all the separate legislations to form one single statute in United Kingdom concerning anti-discrimination laws (Dolzer and Schreuer 2012). Within the introduction of the Equality Act 2010, various anti-discrimination laws became strict in United Kingdom and required certain public authorities to review the socio-economic hardships suffered by individuals while making strategies. The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals who fall under the protected characteristic in the Act from discrimination, victimization and harassment. The said Act sets a duty on employers to undertake positive actions to ensure that potential and existing employees do not suffer from discrimination o r any disadvantage which arises out of protected characteristic (Porteous 2012). The structure of the Equality Act 2010 is divided into many Chapters and Parts including Schedules which list outs various anti-discrimination laws and the penalties of violating the said laws. Chapter 1 states the protected characteristics and Chapter 2 discusses the prohibited conduct and so now each chapter lists down a key concept which helps to maintain anti-discrimination behavior in the United Kingdom (Lockwood, Henderson and Thornicroft 2012). Different types of discrimination covered by the Equality Act 2010 The Equality Act 2010 lists down certain types of discriminations which if conducted by any employer towards his employees will be in violation of the said Act. The Chapter 2 of the Equality Act 2010 states the different types of discriminations and they are as follows:- Direct Discrimination Under the Equality Act 2010, direct discrimination occurs when an employee discriminated against his employee resulting from protected characteristic, irrespective of the fact that employee posses they said protected characteristic. The protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010 in Chapter 1 is described to include age, gender, disability, race, marriage, pregnancy, religion, sex and sexual orientation. Additionally, it is also unlawful to discriminate against an employee based on their association with someone who falls within the scope of protected characteristic (Conley 2012). Indirect Discrimination Section 19 of the Equality Act 2010 discusses indirect discrimination. Indirect discrimination arises when an employer applies a clause, prohibition or engages in a practice which is discriminating in relation to the protected characteristic. For example, an employee is treated less favorably because he is gay or a policy is introduced which will make it difficult or a pregnant employee to continue with employment. Harassment Section 26 of the Equality Act 2010 describes harassment and states it arises when any individuals engages in any conduct which is unwanted in relation to the protected characteristic and the effect of the said conduct violates the employees dignity and creates a humiliating and offensive environment for the employee (Ashe et al 2010). Victimization Victimization is defined under section 27 of the Equality Act 2010 and states that it is illegal to subject an individual to any disadvantage or detriment because the individual has taken an action under the Equality Act 2010 or initiated any proceeding under the said Act (Barnard 2013). Action employers must take to ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010 Every employee in the United Kingdom has to comply with the rules under the Equality Act 2010 which require him to ensure that no employee working under him is treated in a discriminatory manner in association with all the protected characteristic listed down in the Equality Act 2010. Therefore, every employer engages in conducts which ensure that the anti-discrimination laws are complied with in his organization. Thus, it is the duty of every employer to take full particulars of a individual before hiring him and be assured about his health, age, religion including the fact whether he has any disability which can put him on a disadvantage at work (Foster and Norton 2012). Thus, under Section 20 of Chapter 2 of the Equality Act 2010 it is the duty of every employer to make adjustments for his disabled employees. Thus, the duty of reasonable adjustment arises when an policy or criteria initiated by an employer, or when a physical nature of a premises which is occupied by the employer or where there is lack or fault in the auxiliary aid leading to which a disables employee is put to suffer an substantial disadvantage or detriment compared to other people who are not disabled. Thus, it is the duty of every employer under the said section to avoid such incidents that promote discrimination towards certain employees who possess certain disability. Part 3 Main sources of European Union (EU) Law European Union is a political and economic associate of around 28 states which are located mostly in the continent of Europe. The European Union has established an internal system of law which applies to its member states. The European Union Law is derived out of three different sources which are primary law, secondary law and supplementary law. The fundamental source of European Union laws are the treaties which the member states sign and ratify (Klarsfeld, Ng and Tatli 2012). Sources of Primary Law The primary law of European Union is sourced out of treaties especially the Treaty on the EU and the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU. These treaties described the ability of Union and Members states and gave powers to European institutes. The primary law also includes protocols and amending treaties. Sources of Secondary law The source of secondarly law are derived from unilateral contracts and agreements between members states. Thus, agreements signed by member states in and outside the organization are also useful in deriving the European Union Law. This includes agreements between the institutions of member states (Sang and Powell 2012). Sources of Supplementary laws The Court of Justice are the court created as the highest court in European Union and is recognized in every member country. The case laws, precedents and learning of the said Court are the supplementary source of the European Union law. Apart from the case laws, the globally accepted principles of international laws are also a source from which the European Union law is sourced. Directive 92/85/EC The Directive 92/85/EC was introduced on 19 October 1992with an intention and objective to promote and encourage improvements in the health and safety of pregnant women at workplaces including women who have recently delivered babies and are breastfeeding. The Directive 92/85/EC was an initiative to provide extra liberties and protection to pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding at work in European Union. Thus, the Directive 92/85/EC includes an continues maternity leave for at least 14 weeks (2 weeks of which must be taken before delivery), the right which allows time out for examinations without loss of pay in case the said examination is conducted during work hours and prohibition of dismissal on the grounds of pregnancy (Smith 2013). Thus, in the United Kingdom on 6 April 2001 new laws in relation to pregnant women at work was introduced under the maternity and parental leave (amendment) regulations 2002. The said amendment allowed pregnant women to take 26 weeks leave even when they have not worked with the organization for long. If a pregnant women works continuously for 26 weeks, she can take extra leaves for which she will not be paid. Under the legislation of maternity pay regulations 2006; all pregnant women are entitled to 52 weeks of leaves (Bulmer and Lequesne 2013). Thus, the said section was incorporated in the United Kingdom law as compliance to the European Union Directive 92/85/EC Directive 2000/78/EC The Directive 2000/78/EC was introduced on 27 November 2000 which introduced and established a general framework which promoted equality in employment and occupations. Thus, the Directive 2000/78/EC became a significant part of the European Union labor laws which aimed to prohibit and eliminate discrimination which was based on disability, religion, race, sex, sexual orientation and age at workplace. The said directive introduced a responsibility on every employer in the European Union to ensure they practice anti-discriminatory behavior and conducts at their work place. The result of the said directive lead to introduction of the Equality Act 2010 in the United Kingdom, which mirrored out the said directive of the European Union labor laws. The primary objective of the said act was to codify all the separate statute in relation to anti-discrimination laws and create single legislation for the same (Zoni and Lucchini 2012). The said Act introduced a duty on every employer in United K ingdom to make reasonable adjustments to eliminate discrimination which results in disadvantage or detriment of any disabled employee. The said act created protected characteristic like age, disability, religion, race, sex, sexual orientation, marriage, pregnancy, etc which were the ground based on under which every employee was prevented from suffering disadvantages or detriment. Thus, the labor laws of the European Union were incorporated as national laws in the United Kingdom. Reference List Ashe, J., Campbell, R., Childs, S. and Evans, E., 2010. Stand by your man: Women's political recruitment at the 2010 UK general election.British Politics,5(4), pp.455-480. Banker, R.D., Byzalov, D. and Chen, L.T., 2013. Employment protection legislation, adjustment costs and cross-country differences in cost behavior.Journal of Accounting and Economics,55(1), pp.111-127. Barnard, C., 2013.The substantive law of the EU: the four freedoms. Oxford University Press. Bruner, C.M., 2013.Corporate governance in the common-law world: The political foundations of shareholder power. Cambridge University Press. Bulmer, S. and Lequesne, C., 2013.The member states of the European Union. Oxford University Press. Collins, H., Ewing, K.D. and McColgan, A., 2012.Labour law. Cambridge University Press. Conley, H., 2012. Using equality to challenge austerity: new actors, old problems.Work, Employment Society,26(2), pp.349-359. Dolzer, R. and Schreuer, C., 2012.Principles of international investment law. Oxford University Press. Foster, B. and Norton, P., 2012. Educational equality for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children and young people in the UK.The Equal Rights Review,8, pp.85-112. Gebel, M., 2010. Early career consequences of temporary employment in Germany and the UK.Work, Employment Society,24(4), pp.641-660. Guest, D.E., Isaksson, K. and De Witte, H., 2010.Employment contracts, psychological contracts, and employee well-being: an international study. Oxford University Press.A Kahn, L.M., 2010. Employment protection reforms, employment and the incidence of temporary jobs in Europe: 19962001.Labour Economics,17(1), pp.1-15. Klarsfeld, A., Ng, E. and Tatli, A., 2012. Social regulation and diversity management: A comparative study of France, Canada and the UK.European Journal of Industrial Relations,18(4), pp.309-327. Lockwood, G., Henderson, C. and Thornicroft, G., 2012. The Equality Act 2010 and mental health.The British Journal of Psychiatry,200(3), pp.182-183. Martin, J., 2013.The English Legal System, eBook ePub. Hachette UK. Noon, M., Blyton, P. and Morrell, K., 2013.The realities of work: Experiencing work and employment in contemporary society. Palgrave Macmillan. Porteous, J., 2012. Bullying at work-the legal position.Managerial Law,44(4), pp.77-90. Sang, K. and Powell, A., 2012. Equality, diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance in construction.Human resource management in construction: Critical perspectives, p.163. Smith, K.E., 2013.European Union foreign policy in a changing world. John Wiley Sons. Zoni, S. and Lucchini, R.G., 2012. European approaches to work-related stress: a critical review on risk evaluation.Safety and health at work,3(1), pp.43-49.

NYPonies 10.23.96 Essays - 2nd Millennium, States Of Germany, Time

NYPonies 10.23.96 AP European History-Unit 3 Essay Mr. Cross What was the impact of the Peace of Westphalia on the political and religious issues within the Holy Roman Empire? The two treaties of M?nster and Osnabr?ck, commonly known as the Peace of Westphalia, was the culminating element for the Holy Roman Empire in the Thirty Years' War. It established a final religious settlement and provided for new political boundaries for the German states of central Europe. The impact of the Peace of Westphalia was broad and long-standing, as it dictated the future of Germany and ex-territories of the Holy Roman Empire for some time to come. The Peace of Westphalia put down the Counter Reformation in Germany and instituted the final religious arrangement the German states had been crying for. It renewed the terms of the Peace of Augsburg, namely that each state of the Empire received the liberty to be either Lutheran or Catholic as it chose; no individual freedom of religion was permitted. If a ruler or a free city decided for Lutheranism, then all persons had to be Lutheran. Similarly in Catholic states all had to be Catholic. In addition to re-instituting the Peace of Augsburg in its traditional form, the Peace of Westphalia included Calvinism to Lutheranism and Catholicism as an acceptable faith. On the controversial issue of church territories secularized after 1552 the Protestants won a complete victory. With the advent of the Peace of Westphalia, the squabbling between Protestants and Catholics was finally put an end to. The Holy Roman Empire was officially dissolved with the Peace of Westphalia. This had been advanced with the drawing of internal religious frontiers in the days of Luther, although now it was confirmed. Borderlands of the Empire fell away. The Dutch and Swiss established themselves as independent, as did the United Provinces. The western frontier of the Empire was carved up among France, Sweden and the Dutch. France took control over three Lorraine bishoprics which they had occupied for a century. The Swedes received the bishoprics of Bremen and Verden and the western half of Pomerania, including the city of Stettin. Sweden enlarged its trans-Baltic possessions, and in addition claimed the mouths of the Oder, Elbe, and Weser rivers in Germany. The Dutch obtained only the mouths of the Rhine and the Scheldt. On the interior front of the Empire, both Brandenburg and Bavaria increased their statures. Brandenburg lay claim to eastern Pomerania, the large archbishopric of Magdeburg, and t wo smaller bishoprics. Bavaria received control of the Palatinate and a seat in the electoral college, increasing the Empire's electors to eight. However, these mere territorial changes were not the true victory for France, the Dutch and Sweden, but rather the new constitution written for the remnants of the Holy Roman Empire. The impact of this constitution was heavy and widespread, as it would effectively render Germany politically helpless for several years to come. The constitution liberated the over three hundred German states; each became virtually sovereign. Every individual state received the right to conduct diplomacy and make treaties with foreign powers. However, the constitution further stated that no laws could be made by the Empire, no taxes levied, no soldiers recruited, no war declared or peace terms ratified except with the consent of each of the three hundred some-odd princes, ecclesiastics, and free cities that comprised the imperial states. Since any agreement on such matters on a scale as large and diverse as the imperial states would be impossible, the principle of self-government, the principle that so many princes of the Reichstag asked for, was effectively used by France, Sweden and the Dutch to destroy the Empire as an effective political player. In effect, the requests of the Empire led to its undoing. The impact of the new constitution, more so than the dissolution and territorial changes made in the Empire, would be felt by Germany for years into the future. As most European countries were consolidating under royal absolutism, Germany sank back into chaos not unlike that found during feudal times. The Peace of Westphalia had a huge impact on the remnants of the Holy Roman Empire, and not an entirely positive one. Although the religious difficulties between Catholics and Protestants were eased

Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan The WritePass Journal

Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive Summary Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive SummaryIntroductionBackgroundReview of Problem EvaluationBenefits of IS Strategic PlanConclusionRecommendationsWhy SWOT Analysis?Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis?Recommendations on IT InfrastructureRelated Executive Summary This project is designed to get in detail from survey and past relevant literature the impacts of Information System(IS) adoption in sponsoring company and be able to produce a report that will help in advising the   management and the owner of Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) on the feasibility of the IS in their business and proffer a recommendation on the adoption of the IS strategy. Currently, the sponsoring company has not employed any form of IS strategy in their business activities. They currently depend on the traditional (face-to-face) business means. However, the management have decided to take step forward in expanding their business, on that process this project has been requested by GFH owner and the manager with the aim of getting decision management support. The data gathering of this project will be through survey such as research of relevant academic literatures such as journals and books. Subsequently, the collected data will be analyse and produce a clear and relevant management supporting report which will help to solve the real life problem. Introduction In the history, the relationship between an organizations strategic plan and information systems (IS) was of little importance to the organizations management as information systems were seen as the same with data processing concerning corporate issues and it was systematical placed as a back-room operation for the running of everyday tasks. However, in current times, information systems has become an essential part for the management of organizations, thus there has been an increasing realization for the incorporation of information systems into the strategic planning of organizations. This is because, information systems and information technology (IT) enable organizations flourish – as it helps organizations grow in scope, offer improved services and innovative products. However, the development of a strategic IS plan concentrates on identifying the most appropriate IS for an organization and the implementation plan with its main objective to ensure the alignment of the current business strategy with a new IS strategy (Earl, 2003). Additionally, a strategic IS plan can be interpreted as a formal exercise, where successions of consistent steps are embarked on, which results in the definition of IS requirements as well as the identification of a lasting strategy.   This project will avail Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) the case study of this project, with a framework focused on enhancing GFHs future and at the same time, provide GFH with technological infrastructures that will support the business to cope with business changes. Thus, the next chapter comprises of a review of certain aspects of this project, such as the sponsor’s details, overview of research chapter, the objective, scope and structure of the project. Background The project sponsor is Golden Fleece Hotel; a privately-owned Hotel (Medium Enterprise) that provides full hotel services such as reservation, restaurant and client services. The hotel was founded in the year 1999 in South Yorkshire and provides catering to customers in two basic group- business people and pleasure travelers that wanted a more personal hotel experience. The hotel’s top management team comprises of two (2) persons – the owner and the Manager. The hotel has four (4) main Units: Restaurant/Catering, Housekeeping, Reservation and Client Services.   Despite the size of the hotel, GFH still operates business in a traditional manner with poor information technology (IT) infrastructure for their business processes. The hotel does not have any form of electronic commerce (e-commerce) system like website and online transaction support system. However, they always fill a paper card any time they need to get their customers details as a means of making reservatio n and showing of their business services. In order to fit well in today’s dynamic information era, GFH plans to increase its business operations and services so as to respond to the needs of their customers and the changing situation of their business. Review of Problem Currently, GFH is not conducting business in modern way, they still work manually. This shows that majority of their business with customers are always carried out in person or through paper works. However, GFH have a substantial amount of customers that want to contact or make reservations with them in modern way (via internet), but GFH do not have the technological infrastructure to connect with its clients. They have a number of employees that are lacking significantly in IT and technical skills, for this reason this made GFH ability not to achieve its desired goals and objectives. Finally, GFH has no formal IS strategic plan to define its management activities that will enable the business achieve its business objective. Additionally, the research into the development of IS strategic plan will be evaluated and reviewed to allow the selection of the suitable methodology(s) for the development of the plan for GFH. However, the next chapter covers the evaluation of the project succe ss. Evaluation From the literature, different development methodologies have different foci and structure; hence leading to different planning or development methodologies for SISP. For instance, Porter’s Value Chain Analysis (VCA) and Critical Success Factors (CSF) methods; the VCA focuses on events that concern adding direct value to an organization while CSF ensures the concentration of the vital requirements concerning the IS need of an organization. Both methods have different structure and focus. However, as VCA focuses on adding direct value, it consequently puts IS straight into the domain of adding value to the organization instead of cutting cost. Practically, VCA simply offers organizations a model that covers advanced level information, but on the other hand, fails to tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan. Nonetheless, Porter (2001) argued that in order to ensure success in the application of the plan, organizations need to formulate their business strategy in a way that integrates either cost leadership, market differentiation or focus in an appropriate way to attain a viable long-term competitive lead in their preferred market area. However, Kim and Mauborgne (2005) argued that Porter’s value chain model is not the only alternative for organization, as it concentrates solely on internal processes as an alternative to data, thus it does not properly outline the data structure required by the organization. They argued further that an alternate way to achieve the SISP implementation success with profits and high growth as well as gaining a competitive edge, is for organizations to create a Blue Ocean Strategy that goes beyond Porters model by concurrently pursuing both the low cost and differentiation strategy at once. For instance, DELL Computers had an initial strategy to sell directly to the customers at a lower price, thus making their service distinctive from other competitors. They also provided a toll-free telephone number and special (online) features or enhancement in their services as they allowed direct interaction with their clients which helped them understand their client requirements better. However, Pant and Hsu (1995) advised that it is essential for Porter’s VCA to be implemented in combination with selected methods that will tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan as well as outline the right data structure. Similarly, the CSF is thought to be useful, as it enables the development of IS around the success factor and is a method extensively used (Seddon, et al. 2002), but conversely a comprehensive strategic IS plan cannot be performed with it – as there is no definition for the data architecture (Pant Hsu, 1995). Nonetheless, this is not to say that the CSF method cannot be used for SISP development, because in the case of GFH, it could serve its purpose as CSF analysis is easily performed as well as conducted with little resources. Similarly, the SWOT analysis requires little resources and typically reflects an individuals current position and perspective of the organization involved in the analysis. However, this perspective can be misrepresented to explain an earlier decided course of action instead of being used as a method to uncover new possibilities. Also, the threats from a SWOT analysis could be seen as opportunities, however, it depends on the persons or groups involved in the analysis. However, in the case of GFH, the synergy of strategies will not guarantee success for the organization, but in accordance with Mentzas (1997) viewpoint of SISP development, a multi-phase study of GFH business should be conducted before the implementation of a strategic IS plan – so that the synergy of strategies can enhance the organization. Basically, the multi-phase studies are considerations that concern the environment of an organization as well as the alignment that should accompany the configuration of GFHs environment with the business strategy of GFH. However, the stages of the multi-phase study suggested by Mentzas does not cover difficult organizational phenomena that are swayed by human factors; thus it scarcely covers the human aspects, underlying forces and contextual realities concerning the development of a strategic IS plan (Lindsay, 2003). Nevertheless, this is not to imply that the strategies/models in this literature cannot be used for the development process of a strategic IS plan. They can be used in an organized way that enables each strategy look after the lapses of the other strategies; just as Earl’s advocated the use of multiple methodologies for the development an information systems strategy; and in accordance with the findings from Meckel et al., (2004) survey, Small Medium Enterprises use a combination of methods/methodologies to develop their strategies for the enhancement of their business. Thus, developing an IS strategy for GFH may involve the use of multiple methodologies, with the aim of evolving IS into the products/services of GFH as well as creating new strategic opportunities through the use of IS. However, the level and type of strategy to implement is normally determined by the significance of information systems to the organization, the nature of the organization, and the organizationâ €™s current environment (Robson, 1997). Consequently, the formation of an IS strategy for GFH will involve essential factors for instance organizational structure, culture, the business strategy, technical infrastructure containing the availability of technical skills as well as the perceptions and prospects of employees; thus, highlighting the dynamic nature and requirements of an information systems strategy. However, the formation of an information systems strategy is subjected to continuous modification as the interest and perceptions of the main groups and actors involved in the development process changes (Walsham Waema, 1994). Nonetheless, the methodology(s) that will be used to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH will focus not only on being conceptual or managerial but on the environment and suitability of IS in GFH. Benefits of IS Strategic Plan Brown (2005) suggested that recognizing and understanding the importance of information systems for an organization is essential to ensure that information systems are implemented strategically. However, an important benefit of IS strategic plan for GFH will be novelty, because it will create value for the business. Fundamentally, introducing new technologies in an organization is simply associated with novelty (Power, 2006). Furthermore, Information System strategic plan will assist GFH to develop new standards for their business, increase the throughput of employees, reduce operations costs, and encourage collaboration within and outside the business plus improving customer satisfaction and services (Shore, 2006). Practically, integrating IS into GFH will bring benefits of effectual communication between them and their customers, because it will conquer the concerns of culture, time and distance. Furthermore, with the help of databases, the business associates of GFH will enhanced consistency and support in relation to collaboration. Essentially, the reason why most organizations adopt Information System is to move their business into the international space of competitiveness, since information systems helps and supports such ambitions (Ward Peppard, 2003; Applegate et al., 2008). Though, information systems benefits can be categorized as tactical, strategic and operational where measurements concerning tangible and intangible are classified under operational (Turban et al., 2005). But, the tangible benefits GFH will achieve from implementing IS strategic plan which comprise – the inventory reduction and improvement in productivity. Whereas the intangible benefits include innovative or enhanced processes and standardization in relation to systems integration (Turban et al., 2005). Nevertheless, GFH will also achieve some strategic benefits like there will be increased in growth; market share and leadership will improve competitive advantage. Conclusion The aim of this project was to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH. However, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to critically evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH. Additionally, in relations to the theories and processes of IS strategic plan discussed in the literature review, a good integration was developed to ensure that the literature review theories and processes were implemented in the practical elements of the project, as the processes and methodologies for developing a strategic IS plan was followed. Also, GFH’s business operations were evaluated and its business plan aligned with the recommended IS strategies by means of the CSF analysis. Moreover, the content of the literature review served as a guideline for the development of the entire strategic IS plan. Therefore, this goes to prove that the content in the literature review was comprehensively integrated into the project’s practical elements. Nonetheless, the information systems were basically recommended to completely support the business strategies of GFH, as detailed implementation plan was proposed. Nevertheless, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to significantly evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH and therefore, one can say that the product delivered to GFH satisfied the scope of GFH’s requirements. Recommendations Practically, todays’ operational effectiveness and efficiency in most organizations can be seen as a strategic plan. This means that it’s possible for an organizations strategic plan to arise from anywhere, anybody, or from comprehensive planning as well as from trial and error. However, strategic thinking is the best way of doing things as strategic planning and the synthesis involved are simply contributors of the entire strategic development phenomenon. Nevertheless, from the literature covered, selecting methodology for an organization like GFH is determined through the suitability of the methodology into the organizations situation. Additionally, the literature in this chapter has shown that it will be difficult for one methodology to completely support the full analysis, development and implementation of a strategic IS plan. Therefore, I will apply or use the strategy that allows the use of multiple SISP methodologies. In other words, I will choose a number of methodologies used by SMEs from the findings of Meckel et al., (2004) survey to formulate a strategic IS plan for GFH. Moreover, during the selection of methodology, it is important to think through the amount of resources made accessible for the development phase. Thus, a resource issue for the development phase of is the confinement of time and man power for the SISP development. As a result, the SWOT analysis will be used in the formation of an IS strategy for GFH, as it requires little man power and the time duration required for its development is minimal. In addition, the SWOT analysis is simpler and straightforward when compared with Porter’s Five Forces analysis. In addition, the CSF analysis will also be used for integrating the business-IS strategy and the identification of information systems requirements. This method will be used, as it focuses on the information necessity, which is required by GFH. Why SWOT Analysis? This methodology SWOT analysis was carefully chosen to enable the evaluation of GFH’s strength and weakness as well as their opportunities and threats. Basically, in relations to the strength and weakness, emphasis will be on the internal environment while for the opportunities and threats, emphasis will be on the external environment. However, the primary aim of the SWOT analysis is to attain continuous competitive advantages for GFH through the implementation of strategies that use the internal strengths of GFH, by reacting to the environmental opportunities, and simultaneously reducing the effect of external threat as well as circumventing the internal weakness of the company. Consequently, enabling SWOT analysis to produce a comprehensive plan, as the threats and weaknesses established in the SWOT analysis will be prevented. On the other hand, SWOT analysis can allow an organization to use a lazy course by looking for strengths that fit opportunities and overlook the oppo rtunities that they feel cannot be used to their advantage. However, in order to avoid this lazy approach, the SWOT analysis would be used to identify the best opportunities for GFH and then plans will be in place to stretch GFH to ensure that they meet these opportunities. Nonetheless, the assessment area in relation to SWOT analysis is greater than that of Porters Value Chain Analysis for the reason that SWOT concentrations on both the internal and external environment of an organization, whereas Porters Value Chain concentrates only on the internal environment; thus offering more advantages when compared with Porters Five Forces. Furthermore, the assessment area of SWOT concerning the internal environment of GFH will lead to the identification of certain areas that will lead to exceptional accomplishments as well as critical failure features in GFH. This analysis will aid GFH maximize the strong elements/factors they have and avoid areas of weakness during decision making. Also, the assessment area in relation to the external factor will provide GFH the ability to analyze the external openings and threats concerning their competitors as well as creating a better understanding of customers needs, thus allowing GFH to assert itself properly in the mar ketplace and encourage the exploration of prospective strategic options (Robert, 2004). However, to portray a perfect picture of the SWOT analysis, Robson (1997) developed the SWOT matrix together with four kinds of exposures for risk that are incorporated into the SWOT matrix. The matrix shows the kind of reactions that may well be suitable to cope with every risk. A sample SWOT matrix and likely reactions are presented in Figure 6. Practically, from figure 1, the use of the SWOT matrix makes SWOT analysis easier to decide which task should be prioritized when compared to Porters Value Chain analysis or Five Force. Basically, the SWOT matrix makes it possible to identify possible risks visible in information systems and recognize ways to reaction to the risk. Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis? This methodology, CSF analysis consists of a set of factors that include expertise and responsibilities that are considered as very important factors for the continuous success of an organization. Basically, CSFs are a small number of things that need to work aptly to make certain of an organization’s continued existence and success in the marketplace (Turban, et al., 2005). However, in the case of GFH, CSF analysis will help GFH enhance its business – as it will ensure information systems aid the business strategy of GFH by determining essential information requirement and activities that for the IS plan. According to Peffers and Gengler (2003), the CSF analysis of an organization centers on the fundamental scopes of anticipated performance of the organization. Hence, the CSF analysis will provide GFH with an improved understanding of the required strategic information for the future of the business. Practically, the CSF analysis of GFH will examine the business objectives and ascertain the necessary elements that are needed for every objective. Afterwards, the necessary IS required to help the CSFs sustain GFHs business growth and success is identified. Consequently, by achieving the CSF analysis, GFH will be able to position itself properly in the marketplace (Ward Peppard, 2003). Therefore, it is essential for GFH to constantly monitor all the CSF, to make certain their performance is up to standard. In addition, the CSF analysis will provides real support for the development of a strategic IS plan, as it focuses on key activities for business success as a result preventing any focus on trivial activities. Furthermore, it enables proper allocation of resources to key areas of the business during the development of a strategic IS plan (Avison Fitzgerald, 2003). Recommendations on IT Infrastructure The recommendations and design of the functional structure of the future information technology (IT) department and conceptual technical architecture of the future information technology (IT) department of GFH was proposed to help GFH overcome the difficulties they face. As stated in the case study, the main concern at the moment is incorporating networking functions into the business activities of GFH to lessen their manual processes. Basically, GFH will use the strategy of e-vision opportunities, e-marketing and e-operations. As implementing the e-vision opportunity will entail using innovative business ideas like changing their normal manual processes of manually booking from customers and keeping physical records of customers. They should be able to automate these processes by using a computerized system electronic booking processing system for booking accommodation. This way, GFH will be able to generate a method of understanding the needs of customers and it will also ensure t hat there is a surge in the effectiveness and efficiency of the processes at GFH. Similarly, GFH can also implement the e-marketing strategy by moving most of it business activities to the internet, so that they will be able to maximize customer interaction at GFH. This is achievable, since the automated systems in place. Practically, with the automated system, it will change certain functions at GFH and drive GFH towards web-based creativity; hence the e- marketing opportunity will be applied in the process as it’s connected to customer interaction that centers on the use of web-based creativity to change the strategic technique used to interact with customers. Lastly, the e-operation opportunity should be used to transform GFH strategy for business by using web technology to enhance the operations of GFH. In addition, GFH will be able to develop an electronic database for customer to amass details or information concerning their booking. Thus the recommendation for this aspect of the network an activity of GFH is that a new and dedicated server should be installed to sustain better and faster networking activities. The system should be able to monitor the speed of the network and the network usages as well as the number of users at any particular time. Furthermore, for security purposes, the installation of firewall is a must to ensure that the network packages are filtered. Also, a firewall will stop any outside virus from attacking the new network system. Furthermore, GFH will be saving or cutting operations cost by adopting a printer sharing strategy; where the printers will be programmed to run as network printers, therefore supporting any printing requirement from different departments within GFH. However, the future functional structure for the IT department will be designed to ensure that GFH is able to deliver reliable services on a regular basis to its customers. The new functional structure will allow GFH practice appropriate configuration management in supporting all of its IT applications/services. Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive Summary Evaluating the information system needs and requirement for golden fleece hotel and developing strategic information system plan Executive SummaryIntroductionBackgroundReview of Problem EvaluationBenefits of IS Strategic PlanConclusionRecommendationsWhy SWOT Analysis?Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis?Recommendations on IT InfrastructureReferencesRelated Executive Summary This project is designed to get in detail from survey and past relevant literature the impacts of Information System(IS) adoption in sponsoring company and be able to produce a report that will help in advising the   management and the owner of Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) on the feasibility of the IS in their business and proffer a recommendation on the adoption of the IS strategy. Currently, the sponsoring company has not employed any form of IS strategy in their business activities. They currently depend on the traditional (face-to-face) business means. However, the management have decided to take step forward in expanding their business, on that process this project has been requested by GFH owner and the manager with the aim of getting decision management support. The data gathering of this project will be through survey such as research of relevant academic literatures such as journals and books. Subsequently, the collected data will be analyse and produce a clear and relevant management supporting report which will help to solve the real life problem. Introduction In the history, the relationship between an organizations strategic plan and information systems (IS) was of little importance to the organizations management – as information systems were seen as the same with data processing concerning corporate issues and it was systematical placed as a back-room operation for the running of everyday tasks. However, in current times, information systems has become an essential part for the management of organizations, thus there has been an increasing realization for the incorporation of information systems into the strategic planning of organizations. This is because, information systems and information technology (IT) enable organizations flourish – as it helps organizations grow in scope, offer improved services and innovative products. However, the development of a strategic IS plan concentrates on identifying the most appropriate IS for an organization and the implementation plan – with its main objective to ensure the alignment of the current business strategy with a new IS strategy (Earl, 2003). Additionally, a strategic IS plan can be interpreted as a formal exercise, where successions of consistent steps are embarked on, which results in the definition of IS requirements as well as the identification of a lasting strategy.   This project will avail Golden Fleece Hotel (GFH) – the case study of this project, with a framework focused on enhancing GFHs future and at the same time, provide GFH with technological infrastructures that will support the business to cope with business changes. Thus, the next chapter comprises of a review of certain aspects of this project, such as the sponsor’s details, overview of research chapter, the objective, scope and structure of the project. Background The project sponsor is Golden Fleece Hotel; a privately-owned Hotel (Medium Enterprise) that provides full hotel services such as reservation, restaurant and client services. The hotel was founded in the year 1999 in South Yorkshire and provides catering to customers in two basic group- business people and pleasure travelers that wanted a more personal hotel experience. The hotel’s top management team comprises of two (2) persons – the owner and the Manager. The hotel has four (4) main Units: Restaurant/Catering, Housekeeping, Reservation and Client Services.   Despite the size of the hotel, GFH still operates business in a traditional manner with poor information technology (IT) infrastructure for their business processes. The hotel does not have any form of electronic commerce (e-commerce) system like website and online transaction support system. However, they always fill a paper card any time they need to get their customers details as a means of making reservatio n and showing of their business services. In order to fit well in today’s dynamic information era, GFH plans to increase its business operations and services so as to respond to the needs of their customers and the changing situation of their business. Review of Problem Currently, GFH is not conducting business in modern way, they still work manually. This shows that majority of their business with customers are always carried out in person or through paper works. However, GFH have a substantial amount of customers that want to contact or make reservations with them in modern way (via internet), but GFH do not have the technological infrastructure to connect with its clients. They have a number of employees that are lacking significantly in IT and technical skills, for this reason this made GFH ability not to achieve its desired goals and objectives. Finally, GFH has no formal IS strategic plan to define its management activities that will enable the business achieve its business objective. Additionally, the research into the development of IS strategic plan will be evaluated and reviewed to allow the selection of the suitable methodology(s) for the development of the plan for GFH. However, the next chapter covers the evaluation of the project succe ss. Evaluation From the literature, different development methodologies have different foci and structure; hence leading to different planning or development methodologies for SISP. For instance, Porter’s Value Chain Analysis (VCA) and Critical Success Factors (CSF) methods; the VCA focuses on events that concern adding direct value to an organization while CSF ensures the concentration of the vital requirements concerning the IS need of an organization. Both methods have different structure and focus. However, as VCA focuses on adding direct value, it consequently puts IS straight into the domain of adding value to the organization instead of cutting cost. Practically, VCA simply offers organizations a model that covers advanced level information, but on the other hand, fails to tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan. Nonetheless, Porter (2001) argued that in order to ensure success in the application of the plan, organizations need to formulate their business strategy in a way that integrates either cost leadership, market differentiation or focus in an appropriate way to attain a viable long-term competitive lead in their preferred market area. However, Kim and Mauborgne (2005) argued that Porter’s value chain model is not the only alternative for organization, as it concentrates solely on internal processes as an alternative to data, thus it does not properly outline the data structure required by the organization. They argued further â€⠀œ that an alternate way to achieve the SISP implementation success with profits and high growth as well as gaining a competitive edge, is for organizations to create a Blue Ocean Strategy that goes beyond Porters model – by concurrently pursuing both the low cost and differentiation strategy at once. For instance, DELL Computers had an initial strategy to sell directly to the customers at a lower price, thus making their service distinctive from other competitors. They also provided a toll-free telephone number and special (online) features or enhancement in their services as they allowed direct interaction with their clients which helped them understand their client requirements better. However, Pant and Hsu (1995) advised that it is essential for Porter’s VCA to be implemented in combination with selected methods that will tackle issues concerning the development and application of the plan as well as outline the right data structure. Similarly, the CSF is thought to be useful, as it enables the development of IS around the success factor and is a method extensively used (Seddon, et al. 2002), but conversely a comprehensive strategic IS plan cannot be performed with it – as there is no definition for the data architecture (Pant Hsu, 1995). Nonetheless, this is not to say that the CSF method cannot be used for SISP development, because in the case of GFH, it could serve its purpose as CSF analysis is easily performed as well as conducted with little resources. Similarly, the SWOT analysis requires little resources and typically reflects an individual’s current position and perspective of the organization involved in the analysis. However, this perspective can be misrepresented to explain an earlier decided course of action instead of being used as a method to uncover new possibilities. Also, the threats from a SWOT analysis could be seen as opportunities, however, it depends on the persons or groups involved in the analysis. However, in the case of GFH, the synergy of strategies will not guarantee success for the organization, but in accordance with Mentzas (1997) viewpoint of SISP development, a multi-phase study of GFH business should be conducted before the implementation of a strategic IS plan – so that the synergy of strategies can enhance the organization. Basically, the multi-phase studies are considerations that concern the environment of an organization as well as the alignment that should accompany the configuration of GFHs environment with the business strategy of GFH. However, the stages of the multi-phase study suggested by Mentzas does not cover difficult organizational phenomena that are swayed by human factors; thus it scarcely covers the human aspects, underlying forces and contextual realities concerning the development of a strategic IS plan (Lindsay, 2003). Nevertheless, this is not to imply that the strategies/models in this literature cannot be used for the development process of a strategic IS plan. They can be used in an organized way that enables each strategy look after the lapses of the other strategies; just as Earl’s advocated the use of multiple methodologies for the development an information systems strategy; and in accordance with the findings from Meckel et al., (2004) survey, Small Medium Enterprises use a combination of methods/methodologies to develop their strategies for the enhancement of their business. Thus, developing an IS strategy for GFH may involve the use of multiple methodologies, with the aim of evolving IS into the products/services of GFH as well as creating new strategic opportunities through the use of IS. However, the level and type of strategy to implement is normally determined by the significance of information systems to the organization, the nature of the organization, and the organizationâ €™s current environment (Robson, 1997). Consequently, the formation of an IS strategy for GFH will involve essential factors – for instance organizational structure, culture, the business strategy, technical infrastructure containing the availability of technical skills as well as the perceptions and prospects of employees; thus, highlighting the dynamic nature and requirements of an information systems strategy. However, the formation of an information systems strategy is subjected to continuous modification – as the interest and perceptions of the main groups and actors involved in the development process changes (Walsham Waema, 1994). Nonetheless, the methodology(s) that will be used to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH will focus not only on being conceptual or managerial but on the environment and suitability of IS in GFH. Benefits of IS Strategic Plan Brown (2005) suggested that recognizing and understanding the importance of information systems for an organization is essential to ensure that information systems are implemented strategically. However, an important benefit of IS strategic plan for GFH will be novelty, because it will create value for the business. Fundamentally, introducing new technologies in an organization is simply associated with novelty (Power, 2006). Furthermore, Information System strategic plan will assist GFH to develop new standards for their business, increase the throughput of employees, reduce operations costs, and encourage collaboration within and outside the business plus improving customer satisfaction and services (Shore, 2006). Practically, integrating IS into GFH will bring benefits of effectual communication between them and their customers, because it will conquer the concerns of culture, time and distance. Furthermore, with the help of databases, the business associates of GFH will enhanced consistency and support in relation to collaboration. Essentially, the reason why most organizations adopt Information System is to move their business into the international space of competitiveness, since information systems helps and supports such ambitions (Ward Peppard, 2003; Applegate et al., 2008). Though, information systems benefits can be categorized as tactical, strategic and operational – where measurements concerning tangible and intangible are classified under operational (Turban et al., 2005). But, the tangible benefits GFH will achieve from implementing IS strategic plan which comprise – the inventory reduction and improvement in productivity. Whereas the intangible benefits include innovative or enhanced processes and standardization in relation to systems integration (Turban et al., 2005). Nevertheless, GFH will also achieve some strategic benefits like there will be increased in growth; market share and leadership will improve competitive advantage. Conclusion The aim of this project was to develop a strategic IS plan for GFH. However, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to critically evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH. Additionally, in relations to the theories and processes of IS strategic plan discussed in the literature review, a good integration was developed to ensure that the literature review theories and processes were implemented in the practical elements of the project, as the processes and methodologies for developing a strategic IS plan was followed. Also, GFH’s business operations were evaluated and its business plan aligned with the recommended IS strategies by means of the CSF analysis. Moreover, the content of the literature review served as a guideline for the development of the entire strategic IS plan. Therefore, this goes to prove that the content in the literature review was comprehensively integrated into the project’s practical elements. Nonetheless, the information systems were basically recommended to completely support the business strategies of GFH, as detailed implementation plan was proposed. Nevertheless, the SWOT and CSF analysis was used to significantly evaluate both the internal and external environment of GFH and therefore, one can say that the product delivered to GFH satisfied the scope of GFH’s requirements. Recommendations Practically, todays’ operational effectiveness and efficiency in most organizations can be seen as a strategic plan. This means that it’s possible for an organizations strategic plan to arise from anywhere, anybody, or from comprehensive planning as well as from trial and error. However, strategic thinking is the best way of doing things as strategic planning and the synthesis involved are simply contributors of the entire strategic development phenomenon. Nevertheless, from the literature covered, selecting methodology for an organization like GFH is determined through the suitability of the methodology into the organizations situation. Additionally, the literature in this chapter has shown that it will be difficult for one methodology to completely support the full analysis, development and implementation of a strategic IS plan. Therefore, I will apply or use the strategy that allows the use of multiple SISP methodologies. In other words, I will choose a number of methodologies used by SMEs from the findings of Meckel et al., (2004) survey to formulate a strategic IS plan for GFH. Moreover, during the selection of methodology, it is important to think through the amount of resources made accessible for the development phase. Thus, a resource issue for the development phase of is the confinement of time and man power for the SISP development. As a result, the SWOT analysis will be used in the formation of an IS strategy for GFH, as it requires little man power and the time duration required for its development is minimal. In addition, the SWOT analysis is simpler and straightforward when compared with Porter’s Five Forces analysis. In addition, the CSF analysis will also be used for integrating the business-IS strategy and the identification of information systems requirements. This method will be used, as it focuses on the information necessity, which is required by GFH. Why SWOT Analysis? This methodology – SWOT analysis was carefully chosen to enable the evaluation of GFH’s strength and weakness as well as their opportunities and threats. Basically, in relations to the strength and weakness, emphasis will be on the internal environment while for the opportunities and threats, emphasis will be on the external environment. However, the primary aim of the SWOT analysis is to attain continuous competitive advantages for GFH through the implementation of strategies that use the internal strengths of GFH, by reacting to the environmental opportunities, and simultaneously reducing the effect of external threat as well as circumventing the internal weakness of the company. Consequently, enabling SWOT analysis to produce a comprehensive plan, as the threats and weaknesses established in the SWOT analysis will be prevented. On the other hand, SWOT analysis can allow an organization to use a lazy course by looking for strengths that fit opportunities and overlook the opportunities that they feel cannot be used to their advantage. However, in order to avoid this lazy approach, the SWOT analysis would be used to identify the best opportunities for GFH and then plans will be in place to stretch GFH to ensure that they meet these opportunities. Nonetheless, the assessment area in relation to SWOT analysis is greater than that of Porters Value Chain Analysis – for the reason that SWOT concentrations on both the internal and external environment of an organization, whereas Porters Value Chain concentrates only on the internal environment; thus offering more advantages when compared with Porters Five Forces. Furthermore, the assessment area of SWOT concerning the internal environment of GFH will lead to the identification of certain areas that will lead to exceptional accomplishments as well as critical failure features in GFH. This analysis will aid GFH maximize the strong elements/factors they have and avoid areas of weakness during decision making. Also, the assessment area in relation to the external factor will provide GFH the ability to analyze the external openings and threats concerning their competitors as well as creating a better understanding of customers needs, thus allowing GFH to assert itself properly in the marketplace and encourage the exploration of prospective strategic options (Robert, 2004). However, to portray a perfect picture of the SWOT analysis, Robson (1997) developed the SWOT matrix together with four kinds of exposures for risk that are incorporated into the SWOT matrix. The matrix shows the kind of reactions that may well be suitable to cope with every risk. A sample SWOT matrix and likely reactions are presented in Figure 6. Practically, from figure 1, the use of the SWOT matrix makes SWOT analysis easier to decide which task should be prioritized when compared to Porters Value Chain analysis or Five Force. Basically, the SWOT matrix makes it possible to identify possible risks visible in information systems and recognize ways to reaction to the risk. Why Critical Success Factor (CSF) Analysis? This methodology, CSF analysis – consists of a set of factors that include expertise and responsibilities that are considered as very important factors for the continuous success of an organization. Basically, CSFs are a small number of things that need to work aptly to make certain of an organization’s continued existence and success in the marketplace (Turban, et al., 2005). However, in the case of GFH, CSF analysis will help GFH enhance its business – as it will ensure information systems aid the business strategy of GFH by determining essential information requirement and activities that for the IS plan. According to Peffers and Gengler (2003), the CSF analysis of an organization centers on the fundamental scopes of anticipated performance of the organization. Hence, the CSF analysis will provide GFH with an improved understanding of the required strategic information for the future of the business. Practically, the CSF analysis of GFH will examine the business objectives and ascertain the necessary elements that are needed for every objective. Afterwards, the necessary IS required to help the CSFs sustain GFHs business growth and success is identified. Consequently, by achieving the CSF analysis, GFH will be able to position itself properly in the marketplace (Ward Peppard, 2003). Therefore, it is essential for GFH to constantly monitor all the CSF, to make certain their performance is up to standard. In addition, the CSF analysis will provides real support for the development of a strategic IS plan, as it focuses on key activities for business success – as a result preventing any focus on trivial activities. Furthermore, it enables proper allocation of resources to key areas of the business during the development of a strategic IS plan (Avison Fitzgerald, 2003). Recommendations on IT Infrastructure The recommendations and design of the functional structure of the future information technology (IT) department and conceptual technical architecture of the future information technology (IT) department of GFH was proposed to help GFH overcome the difficulties they face. As stated in the case study, the main concern at the moment is incorporating networking functions into the business activities of GFH to lessen their manual processes. Basically, GFH will use the strategy of e-vision opportunities, e-marketing and e-operations. As implementing the e-vision opportunity will entail using innovative business ideas like changing their normal manual processes of manually booking from customers and keeping physical records of customers. They should be able to automate these processes by using a computerized system – electronic booking processing system for booking accommodation. This way, GFH will be able to generate a method of understanding the needs of customers and it will also ensure that there is a surge in the effectiveness and efficiency of the processes at GFH. Similarly, GFH can also implement the e-marketing strategy by moving most of it business activities to the internet, so that they will be able to maximize customer interaction at GFH. This is achievable, since the automated systems in place. Practically, with the automated system, it will change certain functions at GFH and drive GFH towards web-based creativity; hence the e- marketing opportunity will be applied in the process as it’s connected to customer interaction that centers on the use of web-based creativity to change the strategic technique used to interact with customers. Lastly, the e-operation opportunity should be used to transform GFH strategy for business by using web technology to enhance the operations of GFH. In addition, GFH will be able to develop an electronic database for customer to amass details or information concerning their booking. Thus the recommendation for this aspect of the network an activity of GFH is that a new and dedicated server should be installed to sustain better and faster networking activities. The system should be able to monitor the speed of the network and the network usages as well as the number of users at any particular time. Furthermore, for security purposes, the installation of firewall is a must to ensure that the network packages are filtered. Also, a firewall will stop any outside virus from attacking the new network system. Furthermore, GFH will be saving or cutting operations cost by adopting a printer sharing strategy; where the printers will be programmed to run as network printers, therefore supporting any printing requirement from different departments within GFH. However, the future functional structure for the IT department will be designed to ensure that GFH is able to deliver reliable services on a regular basis to its customers. The new functional structure will allow GFH practice appropriate configuration management in supporting all of its IT applications/services. References