Analysis And Recommendations On Impact Accounting Essay

With the alterations of Bursa Malaysia Listing Requirement and Malayan Corporate Code Governance from the past few old ages up to twelvemonth 2012, it is going indispensable for the populace listed company to measure the alteration in order to follow with the jurisprudence and ordinance and besides to guarantee sound administration in the organisation. Furthermore, there are non merely alterations in BMSLR and MCCG but the general legal, regulative and administration model besides have undergone major and minor alterations in past old ages. Therefore, the intent of this study is to urge and educate all officers of the company harmonizing to the alterations in functions and responsibilities of executive direction and besides the actions program should be implement by president of the board and other officer in order to guarantee the encourage internal stakeholder engagement and guarantee sound administration of the company. 2.0 Content2.1 Changes in the functions and responsibilities of executive directionIn old clip, the duty of the managers and executives are merely to do certain that the company is following with the Torahs and ordinance of the state and besides to accomplish their mark which maximize the company net income and besides the stockholder wealth. However, in today society, there is non plenty for managers that merely concentrate on net income of the company and stockholder wealth but besides require concentrating more on administration. In today organisation, a company board of managers is charged with the duty of keeping good corporate administration. The following are the functions and duties of the executive direction alterations in today ‘s organisations, including: Formalize ethical criterion in the workplace- In chief 1 recommendation 1.3 of MCCG 2012 had recommended that the board should formalise ethical criterion through a codification of behavior and guarantee all members of the company will follow with it. Therefore, the responsibility of the Board is to develop a corporate civilization of moralss, brewing throughout the company. The board needs to implement an appropriate internal system to back up, promote and guarantee its conformities by design its ain codification and system based on the values it prizes as appropriate concern behaviour. The codification of behavior should includes the appropriate channels of communicating, contributing to expose employees, clients, providers or other stakeholders concerned about possible or suspected misdemeanors of the codification behaviour, or any non-compliance with the jurisprudence and ordinances of the company. For illustration, the Board may set up a communicating nexus or steer employees ho w to pass on straight with the Board and chances for whistle blowing. The board besides should reexamine the codification of behavior sporadically and the abstract of the codification of behavior should be set out on the corporate functionary web site. Therefore, as compared to old MCCG regulative model, MCCG 2012 had required the board of the company concern non merely on jurisprudence and ordinance but besides ethical criterion of the company. Oversight scheme to cover with sustainable development- In recommendation 1.4 of MCCG 2012 besides recommended that the board should guarantee that the company scheme to advance sustainable development. The scheme of the company should be pay attending on three facets of concern which include environmental, societal and administration which underpin sustainability of the company. Therefore, equilibrating ESG facets with the involvement of assorted stakeholders in the company will be the indispensable responsibility for the manager to heightening investor perceptual experience and public trust. In order to carry through the three facet of the concern, company should formalise the policies on sustainability and stakeholder direction. The strategic of the company must convey benefit to the environment and society such as manager can implement travel green undertaking. For illustration, company can be after to bring forth eco friendly merchandise such as intercrossed autos which can assi st to cut down air pollution and convey a batch of benefit to the consumers and besides increase the net income of the company. Other than this, the board besides should guarantee the company discloses these policies and their execution in the one-year study and besides the corporate functionary web site which can assist to heighten answerability. Harmonizing to chief 7 recommendation 7.1 of MCCG 2012 recommended that the board should guarantee the company has appropriate corporate revelation policies. The board should set up an internal corporate revelation policies and processs which are practical and include feedback from direction. The board should guarantee these policies and processs are following with the revelation demands as set out in the Bursa Malaysia listing demands. In explicating these policies and processs, the board should follow the best patterns and processs. Other than this, the boards of managers besides have the duty to move as the defender of equity, transpare nce and answerability in all of the company ‘s policies, execution and commercial minutess, and safeguard the involvements of investors and the broader involvements of stakeholders. In order to carry through this duty, the manager board should stay active, informed and in charge of the supervising of the company. Overall, the MCCG 2012 had recommended the board should be concern environment, societal, administration and besides Torahs and ordinance but non as the former manager of its chief duties focus on maximising stockholder wealth Review and public its board charter- By mentioning to principal 1 recommendation 1.7 of MCCG 2012 had recommended that the board should formalize, reexamine on a regular basis and do its board charter transparent to the populace. Board Charter contains the strategic purpose of the Board of Directors, and an overview of the Board of Directors functions and duties. The board charter represents a beginning mention and primary initiation literature, supply penetrations to future members of the Board and senior direction. It will besides help the Board to measure their ain public presentation include its single managers public presentation. In set uping a board charter, it ‘s important for the board to sketch the key values, rules, and ethos of the company as the preparation of policies and schemes development of the company are based on these considerations. The board should clearly distinguish the duties and powers between the board and direction, the different type of commissions set up by the board, and different between the president and the CEO in the board charter Other than that, the board besides should include the procedures and processs for convening board meetings inside the board charter and the board charter besides should be review regulative by the board and the board charter should print on the company functionary web site. Committees of the board besides play an of import function in the administration procedure and each commission of the board should hold a written charter, which has been approved by the board and disclosed in the one-year study. Therefore, we can see that in MCCG 2012 had recommended that a company should do it board charter transparent to the populace which the old MCCG do non set concern on that.2.2 Reason for board to reexamine their maps and placeReinforce independence- Harmonizing to recommendation 3.1 of MCCG 2012 recommended that the board should set about an appraisal or rating of its independent managers yearly. In dependent managers can assist to cut down hazards originating from struggle of involvement or undue influence from interested parties by brings independent and nonsubjective judgement to the board. Exercise and nonsubjective judgement of the being independent managers on the board by itself can be compromised by, amongst others, acquaintance or close relationship with other members of the Board. Therefore, it is important for the board to carry on an one-year appraisal of the independency of its independent managers. When carry oning independency, the board should concentrate beyond the independent manager ‘s household relationships, background and economic to see whether the independent manager is able to go on supply independent and nonsubjective judgement deliberations. Criteria to measure independency should be establishes by the nominating Committee. The board of managers should use these standards at the clip of admittance, yearly and development of any new involvements or relationships. The board of managers should disclosed that the company has carried out the rating on assignment or reappointment of independent managers in the one-year study and any notice convening a general meeting. Other than relationships, background and economic, the rating standards for independency of managers should besides include term of office. By mentioning to the chief 3 recommendation 3.2 of MCCG2012 had recommended that the term of office of the independent managers should be no more than a cumulative period of nine old ages. Upon completion of the nine old ages, an independent manager may redesign as a non- independent manager and continue to function on the board. Independence may impair by long term of office. Therefore, the maximal term of office of an independent manager is 9 old ages. The nine old ages periods can be either uninterrupted service for 9 old ages or accumulated nine old ages of service with intervals. However, after the 9 old ages period, the i ndependent manager may still go on to function for the board as non- independent manager. However, in chief 3 recommendation 3.3 of MCCG 2012 had stated that an independent manager can stay as an independent manager after functioning a cumulative term of nine old ages may subject to the appraisal of the nominating commission. Other than this, individual who appointed as independent managers must run into the definition of an independent manager to 1.01 and pattern are set out in Note 13 of the Listing demands. Ensure balance of the board- One of the grounds that the board or president should reexamine their map or place is to guarantee that balance of power and authorization. Harmonizing to chief 3 recommendation 3.4 of MCCG 2012 which had recommended that the places of president and CEO should non be held by a same individual but different persons and the president must be a non-executive member of the board. The ground is because of uniting these places concentrate excessively much power in a individual individual. Furthermore, the board shall consist a bulk of independent managers if the president is non an independent manager in order to guarantee the balance of power and authorization on the board. Separation of the place of Chairman and CEO, can assist to advance answerability and to advance the division of duties between them, can besides assist to keep a balance of power and authorization, so that no one individual has unfettered powers of determination. Dynamic and complex concern environment- Harmonizing to chief 4 of MCCG 2012 recommended managers should give sufficient clip to carry through their duties, and on a regular basis update their cognition and better their skills.. In chief 4 recommendation 4.2 of MCCG 2012 stated that the board should guarantee its members have entree to allow go oning instruction coders. In a dynamic and complex concern environment, it is necessary that managers devote sufficient clip to update their cognition and better their accomplishments through appropriate go oning instruction coders and life-long acquisition which will assist to enable managers to prolong their active engagement in board deliberations. Therefore, the manager able to bring forth a quality scheme and do more dependable determinations, and be able to confront different challenges from a altering environment. . Furthermore, the listing demands states that companies must continuously measure and find the preparation needs that are r elevant to their managers. One of the specifying features of professional managers is wisdom and honestness. An single manager ‘s committedness to sustainable development will advance rational honestness which is a of import portion of good administration and is by extension a portion of each manager ‘s fiducial duty. Sustainable development will fit Directors with the best serve the involvements of the company.Actions plan to guarantee internal stakeholder thrust and sound administration.There are few actions that the board and executive can take to guarantee sound administration. One of the actions is development of codification of moral principle of the company. The company can formalise ethical criterion through a codification of behavior and guarantee all members of the company will follow with it.Development of codification of behavior and moralss within organisationMeasure 1: Involve senior directionA strong leading is a of import factor in making an ethical civil ization in the organisation. Chairman and top executive direction should show leading with regard to values and moralss in the development of an organisational codification of behavior. Engagement of the top executive can assist raise the profile of the codification of behavior within the organisation, and the board and other officer should guarantee that it is aligned with the organisation ‘s vision and strategic results, and ease the blessing procedure.Measure 2: Establish a diversified, multi-disciplinary consulting groupIn order to increase the effectivity of the organisation codification of behavior, it needs to be relevant to all employees who are capable to it. Therefore, they are stand foring cardinal stakeholders and with cognitive and cultural diverseness which signifier by the multidisciplinary squad and diverse squad. However, if board and executive direction are non able to organize a multidisciplinary squad, the assorted maps within the organisation and particula r involvement groups should at least consult in order to understand their demands. Since the believing around values, ethical hazards and expected behaviours will hold been inclusive of the organisation ‘s work force diverseness, so this will assist to ease the confirmation procedure with employees.Measure 3: Put the Aims for your Organizational CodeThe aims of the codification of behavior demand to be set start from the beginning, as the aims of the codification will act upon the picks made with regard to the content highlighted in the codification. The executive direction of the company should put the aims of the codification at the beginning of clip and explicating to employees what the organisation intends to accomplish with its codification. The effectivity of the codification can be reviewed to mensurate whether the aim are being achieved through linked the aims to expected results.Measure 4: Customized Code of Conduct for the demands and values aˆâ€ ¹aˆâ€ ¹of the organisationTo find the organisation ‘s nucleus valuesThe first measure in the constitution of the organisation ‘s Code of Conduct is the board and executive squad demand to find the outlooks of the organisation, for illustration, the intent, powers, duties, responsibilities and duties. Once aspirations have been defined, the top direction should get down audiences with employees on their core organisational values. The nucleus values specify what the organisation represent and the rules by which it will accomplish its ends.Identifying Hazards: Measuring the potency for behaviors inconsistent with the valuesIn custom-making the codification to the organisation ‘s demands, it is of import to concentrate on the hazard countries where behavior may be inconsistent with organisational value because it will increase the relevancy and effectivity of the codification. Examination of countries of hazard for struggles of involvement should include in the hazard appra isal reappraisal. Effective hazard appraisals should done in audience with senior direction, and are validated by center directorsMeasure 5: The confirmation organisation codification ( bill of exchange ) behaviour with the bargaining agents and employees.An effectual organisational codification of behavior is required to consultation with bargaining agents and employees. Therefore, one time the bill of exchange codification of behavior and moralss has been completed, it is necessary to verify its contents with these stakeholders through audience. This will guarantee that the values aˆâ€ ¹aˆâ€ ¹and outlooks of behaviour related to employees and the environments of their workplace. This is an first-class chance for executive direction and their employees prosecute in the duologue about values aˆâ€ ¹aˆâ€ ¹and moralss and organisational committedness to keep an ethical civilization in the workplace. Consultations between executive direction and employees may besides place some of the countries where increased preparation, consciousness or farther treatments will be needed during the development stage of the organisational codification and moralss.Measure 6: Execution and Monitoring organisation codification of behavior and moralssDevelopment of codification of behavior and moralss of an organizationally is an of import first measure in reenforcing and making an ethical civilization, other of import cardinal factors are communicating, acquisition, leadings, public presentation direction, and training. The boards of the company demand to carefully see how to carry on the codification, in order to maximise its effectivity. Furthermore, board should go oning monitoring and rating of the codification which can assist organisations to find whether the codification is to accomplish its expected consequences.Execution of corporate societal duty policyIn today organisation, it is important for the company to implement plan of corporate societal duty. A corporate societal duty can assist the company to derive competitory advantages compare to the other company which had non implement the CSR plan. Basically, Corporate societal duty is means that a corporate enterprise to measure and take duty for the company ‘s effects on the environment and impact on societal public assistance and besides provide just intervention of all stakeholders such as employees, consumers, provider. The followers will be the stairss for the company to implement a corporate societal duty policy: Measure 1: Explore commercial chances and analysis of the concern environmentInternal CSR working groupActively affect your employees in the design and execution of CSR policies. This will forestall deficient support for the CSR policy from the administration in the hereafter. Ensure that the relevant sections are represented in the working group, i.e. the direction, buying, production, HR, selling and communications. Make the treatment of CSR an built-in portion of squad meetings and be originative. CSR demands an advanced expression at the company.In order to find the concern instance of corporate societal duty for the company, it is of import for the board to first cognize what is the outlook of stakeholders from company in the field of CSR.. Therefore, the president and executive direction should later associate the outlook of the stakeholder to the company nucleus activities and interpret into concern chances every bit many as possible. However, the board of company should non t o make this alone but put together an internal working group to travel through together and supported on the policy program. An illustration of the internal working group will be the employees of the company who executing the twenty-four hours to twenty-four hours operation work of the company. The board can pass on with employees about CSR attempts. The board should take an involvement non merely in what their employees say, but besides in what they really know. In order to guarantee internal stakeholder thrust, the board besides can ask for employee sentiment or believing about where the company directs its CSR attempts or promote employees direct engagement in those attempts. Beside this, the board besides should necessitate the stakeholders regular communicating about CSR end and acknowledge the parts of the employees, as they have invested the most energy, clip and committedness towards accomplishing those ends. Measure 2: Evaluation on the company After the completion of measure 1, the executive direction should hold an thought of the precedence corporate societal duty offers to the company and how to react to stakeholder outlooks on the corporate societal duty of the company. The following measure for the board is to size up company within the context of corporate societal duty. By making this, it can assist to give the board an thought of what company CSR policy program should be aimed. Measure 3: Put the ends of CSR policy In measure 3, the executive direction can choose the hazard, betterment points and concern oppurtunity that need to concentrate, so later formulate selected betterment point, rish and concern oppurtunity. After that, the board and executive direction should find which are short term ends and long term ends. After that, the direction besides can find whether extra informations and research are neccessary for the CSR aims and see whether to. fall in a sector-specific CSR ( audit ) programme which can assist to give the company CSR policy more impact. Measure 4: CSR policy program After the company determined which CSR ends have precedence, so the executive manangement can get down conform the aims and actitivies of corporate societal duty aims and activities into the current procedure and system. The executive manangement required to apportion the duty and responsibility to the staff for achieve the end. After allocated responsibility for the staff, policy program is now ready and company can take action. Futhermore, direction of the company demand to put out CSR policy program on the company offficial web site and to reexamine and update it on a regular basis. Last, executive direction should do certain the employees are understand their function in implementing corporate societal duty.DecisionAs a decision, it is of import for all board members to reconsider their function and responsibility in today organisation in order to follow with the jurisprudence and ordinance such as the Bursa Malaysia Listing Requirement and other administration model. Futhermore, its is important for the president of the board and other officer of the company to implement some action program such as development of codification of behavior and moralss of the company, and execution of corporate societal duty policy of the company in order to guarantee sound administration while facilitate the company to stay its competitory advantages.

Persian Letters

In this paper I will use the Persian Letters to illustrate a European’s view of both European and Asian government and religion. Montesquieu criticizes European their sense of liberty and worth. He then advocates European’s strength of the government and monarch ship. His views about Asian government and religion differ in that he thinks and believes that the Asian government is one that he can easily conform to less strict government laws place onto the people. His representation of Asians reflects that he feels out of place and humanized when comparing the different aspects about his own society. As successful as Europe’s government has been, Montesquieu finds great flaws in it. In the various letters he gives multiple accounts examining how their government is too cookie-cutter in structure. He speaks on how there is a belief of holding onto traditional values. â€Å" In Paris, liberty and equality prevail: neither birth, nor virtue, nor even success in war, however outstanding, can save a man from being lost in a crowd. Social jealously is unknown† (Letter 42). Here you see how Montesquieu backs his claim on how Europe’s system attempts to hold everyone to certain level of power. Religion in Europe isn’t perfect either; Montesquieu depicts the religious heads as manipulators of the people just as bad if not worse than the government. Montesquieu speaks on how no two powers are equal; that there has to be one who is always stronger. With Europe church set up of having the pope at the head of the church elaborates on this distortion of powers. â€Å" There is another magician, stronger than he†¦he will make the king believe that three are only one. † (Letter 24), We are able to see how even though the King of France is the most powerful in Europe he too is manipulate that what is believed to be the pure and righteous. Through his criticisms, Montesquieu still finds certain aspects of Europe’s Government to be strong and stable. In any order there is always fault. Nothing nor anyone is perfect. Analyzing the king himself provide a proper image of someone being proclaimed powerful but at that very same time weak. â€Å" He had an innumerable number of invisible enemies in his kingdom, surrounding him. They say that he has searched for them more than thirty years†¦ he has been unable to find a single one†¦ they say he will have the vexation of dying without being able to find them. (Letter 24) Here Montesquieu displays the false image portrayed thee king and at the same time acknowledges his effort to continue to maintain his reign without stepping out of line. Obedience seems to be the strongest assist of both Europe’s government and religion. The strictness of the country is seen very harsh when one step out of line even though the cruelty of the punishment does not measure up to way in which punishment is carried out in some parts of Asia. Looking at a comparison of the cultures, we saw how a small crime in Europeans eyes was nearly meaningless when looking at how Asians would interpret the punishment. One can take from this that Montesquieu seemly against this order if the state, can still resects and acknowledges how well they keep balance amongst their subjects. Based off how the letters were written one can thing that Montesquieu greatly favored the Asian was. If by looking deeper into the context of the letters Montesquieu had some critic their government system as well. Montesquieu seemed to adore the social aspects of the Asian culture more than that of the Europeans. He elaborated how great leaders earned their power and respect was given out when needed. Another issue present is the critiques that women are not value at all and men hold the power. Another opposition made against the lifestyle against of the Asians is their lack of government. There is a system in place that but he disagrees with their sense of ruling under fear and the imbalances in the people of society Montesquieu’s views on Asian government and society reflect in my opinion provides the needed base that allows the reader to gain a better understanding of European customs than if we solely viewed how he felt towards Europe. The comparison between the two provides us with both the positives and negatives of which society is run in Europe. Through this reflection I feel Montesquieu attempted to show the readers that Those brought up in European states were taught how to live and were a great asset to Asian culture were learning to follow their natural instinct.

Eusebius Pamphili Essay

Eusebius Pamphili, also called Eusebius of Caesarea, is one of the key figures ever documented in the field of church history writing/narration. He took into account essential happenings about a specific event and made accounts for people of great importance in the christian realm. Eusebius was exposed to events and he himself was an eyewitness of some martyrdom in several occasions like what happened in the persecution of Christianity in the time of the many Roman emperors. He was famous for his two historical works: â€Å"Chronicle† and â€Å"Church History†. He also wrote several books which served as references by many people like the â€Å"Apology for Origen†, â€Å"Praeparatio de Evangelica† (Preparation for the Gospel), â€Å"Demostratio Evangelica† (Proof of the Gospel), and other scholarly works that possesses historical values in itself. He appended supplements on the work, â€Å"On the Theology of the Church† to preserve the Nicene doctrine of the Logos against Athanasius principles. But perhaps another historical mark for Eusebius was his detailed accounts in the lives of the martyrs of the Palestine, Origen, and others. He also claimed that he witnessed persecutions in Egypt and Tyre. Furthermore, his prominent works in heresy hunting was also successful, an attribute only a few individual have during his time. His works, being focused in several Christian doctrines and teachings, is what makes it valuable for Christians today. This does not necessarily mean all his teachings were of absolute truth, but the fact that his works can be studied either to resolve or abhor the philosophy which depends on the bias and principle of the reader. Claiming that he had opportunities to witness such brutality made to the early Christians, it is therefore valuable to read his accounts for the readers to assess his claims as well as to consider his claims or despise the same. 1 The focal point of his work is to narrate in a very explicit way possible what transpired during that specific event based on Eusebius accounts and other writings. Taking into account what happened during the persecution experienced by Christians during that period by the authorities is also one of the main points of his writing. The so-called â€Å"Martyrs of Christ† were also mentioned in the book including the method of execution applied unto them. Having burned live, fed into wild beasts, and other mutilation process were clearly stated in the book. Moreover, he made a careful manifestation on the essential parts of the book by giving commentaries which had disputable issues involved. He also expressed contrasts in the claims of Eusebius by including accounts from other manuscripts as well, and stating its case in contrary to Eusebius claims. One clear example would be on the issue of the questionable escape by Eusebius from the persecution while the rest of his company suffered. Eusebius claimed that he escaped through the help of his friends from the authority. However, he was accused by others that he denied the faith, the main reason why he escaped from the prison. Another excerpt from the book would be the concern on his teachings regarding the basic Christian doctrine as again being challenged by other Christians. The contents of the book tackle on numerous historical accounts which are very important in studying the church history. Eusebius accounts, as well as others’ writings must be acknowledged by those who ventures into the history of the early Christians. Describing explicitly the tortures experienced by early Christians, the author carried out the gravity of the said affliction. These reasons, the author believed were some of the factors why the book had to be furnished. Critical commentaries were in scripted by the writer of the book. He clearly included both sides of the issues whenever there are conflicting sides arguing for a specific event stated. Credibility of the author depends on where he got the details included in his writing, as well as on how he presented those data he gathered. Since these issues were clearly evident in the writing of this manuscript, one can say that the author’s credibility should not be in question. There are other writers who did a great job expounding the history of the church. They also claimed reliable sources as to where they acquired the details of their writings. They presented their commentaries with objectivity, making them a likely author. These descriptions cited were also integrated in the works of the author mentioned in this entire assessment. Readers of this generation would be having a clear insight on the topics included in the manuscript made by the author. They can either approve or detest some of the details written but this writing would surely provide them a good reference in studying church history. They can also witness the author’s independent view on certain issues in the history of the church. Aside from all of these, this book should also be treated as a supplement on the topic of persecutions of the early Christians and the other details in a particular regime of past Roman emperors. The substance of a manuscript depends on several factors which includes its intrinsic importance and on how appropriate the book is in its field. This work made a great contribution in narrating events which focused on the writings of Eusebius. Stating all the ideas and principles incorporated in this writing, there is no way that this manuscript be given less importance, particularly in the grounds of studying the history of Christianity. From narrating the life of Eusebius, his circumstances, his accounts on the persecution of Christians and other relevant accounts made this book commendable.

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Small assignment - Essay Example At the end of the ongoing renovation and expansion process, which will be over within a week, I assure you we will have better services. We have tried our level best not to cause many inconveniences to you and decided that we can finish the installation of new equipment within 24 hours. I hope all the valued customers of ONELAB will understand the necessity of this closure and expect and request your cooperation. If you have any queries, please feel free to contact us either by mail or through phone As part of our expansion and renovation plans, we are all set to install some of the most modern equipment which is needed to increase our service capabilities. These machineries are quite new in the market and we believe that you need some training on this equipment before the reopening of the lab after the 24-hour closure, which will begin from tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. onwards. The training session on this equipment will be conducted tomorrow in order to avoid any time delay to the customers and I ask all our employees to report for training tomorrow at 6 a.m. even though the lab will remain closed for customers. As part of our expansion and renovation processes, we are all set to install some of the most modern equipment which is needed to increase our service capabilities. As a result we are forced to implement a 24-hour close down of our lab from 6 am tomorrow (10/9/09) to 6 am the day after tomorrow (11/9/09) and no deliveries or receipts will be executed during this period. I expect a big increase in the volume of our business after the renovation and expansion process which will definitely be beneficial to you as well. I request your cooperation and valued services in the future also. As part of our expansion and renovation plans, we are all set to install some of the most modern equipments which needed to increase our service

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Supply Chain Management COURSWORK - Coursework Example More so ethics in organization can relate to managerial decisions which entail, organizational factors like code of ethics, compliance and the culture of the organization and individual ethics. Ethical decision making process in the supply chain targets implementation, planning and controlling the effective and efficient reverse and forward flow of services and good and also their storage (Weele &Van, 10). It also targets the effective information between the origin and consumption point with the aim of meeting the requirement of the customers. The ethical decisions in the supply chain encompasses the management and planning of the activities involved in procurement, resourcing, conversion and the other activities related to the management logistics. It also entails collaboration and coordination with the partners in the channels which include customers, service providers, suppliers and intermediaries. It encompasses integration of the demand and supply management across and within the organization. The primary function of the supply chain management is to link the various business functions in Coca Cola Company and other processes in the business. Ethical decision making in the organization’s supply chain keeps on changing. The change arises due to cross-functional integration in the organization (Weele &Van, 16). The integration focuses on relationship management emphasis and aligning of the objectives. Ethical behavior has a lot of benefits such as effective recruitment and motivation, higher revenue, new source of finance and increased recognition and awareness. Coca Cola Company may risk being affected with many accusations if the chain of supply is involved in bad practices. Some examples of foul unethical practices in supply include corruption, bribery and child labor which can impact negatively on the general achievement of the company.

Cybersecurity Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Cybersecurity - Coursework Example g to the increasing significance of technology in the daily lives of mankind, many people share their personal information on the internet which can at times prove dangerous due to web hackers who can misuse the data due to immoral practices. Anonymity helps to maintain the secrecy of individual’s identity. This also helps to protect specific actions performed by the individuals. For instance, anonymity helps protecting funds and monetary transfers made by individual over internet. It has often been observed that people feel uncomfortable to share banking or personal information on the internet as it might hamper their personal interests. Anonymity is often regarded as the option which can be useful in such situations as it creates a sense of security and helps to protect privacy by a large extent. There are many negative effects of anonymity on individuals as well. To be illustrated anonymity also helps people who have malicious intentions to hamper the interests of other users and escape without being identified. It also creates misrepresentation about the user’s profile on internet. In the recent phenomenon, the most apparent negative effect of anonymity can be identified as cyber crime. Hence, as it can be observed from the above discussion, to a certain extent, the negative impacts of anonymity tend to be stronger and more effectual than its benefits, which in turn outweigh its advantages. Question: 2 Are non-literate internet users at a higher risk for experiencing identity theft? Explain specifically how end-user tracking and recording technologies may either increase or reduce cyber security risks for non-literate users when using the internet, or when shopping at a brick and mortar establishment The non-literate internet users have a high risk because of the increasing cyber crime, as they tend to share personal information without having proper knowledge of the website. At times, the information of those non-literate users is hacked by the cyber

Street art and subculture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Street art and subculture - Essay Example Street art subcultures symbolize some amazingly imaginative and improvisational practices in every day’s life. According to (Toby et al 4), street artists represent a challenge for visibility, its regulation in public places, and policies that bounder the art and artist’s legitimacy. However, the street artists continue fighting for their right while developing with a resistance. Nevertheless, their art represents some hybrid artwork with generative logic of mix making it one-step ahead of the cultural police hailing from any jurisdiction. Earlier in the days, street art seemed like a ghost trying to project its repressed dreams and fantasies on the street walls. According to Snyder (36), most cities illegalized the practice arguing that it defaced private property. However, many of the artists could argue that the art gave a better image or beautified the cityscape. This scenario raises the question whether this makes graffiti or street art an illegal movement. It also raises the question on whether graffiti only becomes art if placed in galleries. Graffiti has been around for many years, and evidence lies in the Roman architecture. The original objective of the street work and graffiti was to inform the public about political and social problems arising within the region. This method made it a silent but highly effective means of protest against the increasing problems in the society. The street art may seem utopian, aggressive, or juvenile, but most artists started it with a lot of empathy for the city.

'Critically examine the relationship between war and underdevelopment' Essay

'Critically examine the relationship between war and underdevelopment' - Essay Example Before analyzing the impact of war on development, the present paper will first provide a precise discussion of factors that cause war. Structural and determinist explanations of the causes of war or violence suggest that circumstances compel people to involve in war. There can be several economic factors relating to grievances, inequality or scarcity; social issues relating to some kind of ethnic, religious or gender differences; or political factors like incompatible claims to power, resources etc. Some other explanations look at the agency problems and claim that war results from the choices that people’s agency choose and their fight is quite rational. If the previous two approaches of explaining the causes of war are combined, then it can be said that people’s choice of getting into violence or war is shaped by the prevailing circumstances, which may be based on some conflicting interests or differing rationalities among groups. There is no doubt that war has numerous negative impacts on social, political and economic life of people. Many people are of the opinion that war negatively affects development of a country or region. Huge costs are involved in war. There are a lot of studies which have described several negative effects of war. Among various types of costs, the economic costs are the most important ones that directly affect the developmental process of a country or region. According to Dreze and Gazdar (Dreze and Gazdar, 1991, p. 930), the economic and welfare consequences that resulted from UN-Iraq Gulf war was more severe than the suffering that resulted directly from the war. There exists a distinction between direct and indirect costs of war on human welfare. Direct costs imply the destruction that the war causes to the civilization, while indirect costs are those that are realized in the later periods. During war several economic strategies are undertaken which produces huge impact, mostly in a negative way on the development. For

Critical thinking process Essay Example for Free

Critical thinking process Essay Critical thinking often involves the creation of alternative plans, solutions, approaches, etc. , then comparing original with the alternatives. Creative thinking requires some critical evaluation during and after the creative phase. Critical thinking depends upon that little known and seldom discussed characteristic of the human nervous system—self-reflexiveness. Usually it also depends upon that remarkable human creation and tool—self reflexive language. Humans not only know about their environment, they know that they know; they can think about how they think, evaluate their evaluations. Languages, too, have this self-reflexive characteristic. They enable us to talk about talk, to make statements about statements, to write books about writing books. The self-reflexiveness of language and the human nervous system provide us with an open minded system: we can make statements about statements, indefinitely; we can react to our reactions to our reactions indefinitely. At no point can we say, â€Å"That’s the last word on the subject† or, â€Å"No further reaction is possible† (since, in doing so, we have said more, reacted further). However, believing that we have said the last word may cut of the self-reflexive process. This open ended, self reflexive system makes it possible for us to conduct scientific research, write poetry, plan enterprises, spin out complex tales of fiction—or spread rumours, spin webs of delusion and talk ourselves into insanity or war. Which we will do depends in part upon our motivation, but also upon our understanding of the thinking process and some aspects of the working of the nervous system. General semantics provides a meta-linguistic or ‘second order’ approach to critical thinking. It enables us to use self-reflexiveness systematically to monitor on-going evaluations. The principles and devices it provides call attention to either-or and ‘allness’ statements, to inferences treated as facts, to overgeneralizations, to statements unrestricted in time, to overly-simple statements of causality, etc. The tools work, whatever the order of abstraction, whatever the source of the statement (Johnson, 1991). How language empowers or limits the expression of our thoughts. Along with most of his contemporaries, Blair defines language in terms of a relationship between signs and thoughts: â€Å"Language signifies the expression of our ideas by certain articulate sounds, which are used as the signs of those ideas† (cited 1:98). Elaborating on this interdependence, he asserts that â€Å"when we are employed in the study of composition, we are cultivating reason itself. True rhetoric and sound logic are very nearly allied. The study of arranging and expressing our thoughts with propriety, teaches to think, as well as to speak, accurately so close is the connection between thought and the words in which they are clothed† (Ulman, 1994). Language can empowers and limit the expression of our thoughts. Talking about something that reinforces it, therefore say what you want to be true. Language has power, and by knowing this, you can select words that allow others to hear and understand you. Certain words provide a way of maintaining the focus of what you want. They can assist you to be in the state of mind that you desire. Looking for positive language patterns, gives your brain the opportunity to find alternative ways expressing your experiences to yourself and others. These tools get you off automatic pilot and in control. Having choice means you can regulate how an experience will affect you. You can choose to use your old patterns of expression which produces certain results, or use empowering language to give you different results. Now it can be you who decides. Labels limit is another concept that we’re dealing with here. When we label something or someone, we put a meaning on it that can limit our awareness, experience, and understanding. Labels are a form of beliefs, and like all beliefs, they filter our perceptions. Our beliefs only allow us to be conscious of things that are in agreement with them, and we unconsciously filter everything else. It can be tremendous evidence of the opposite to penetrate the belief filters. But with negative labels, the effects can be very destructive (Kaufman, 1998). The role of critical thinking in persuasion. What is the value of critical thinking? When someone else writes or speaks a peace of reasoning, they are trying to persuade us of something. Persuasion is an attempt to get us to believe something. People want us to believe things so that we will act in certain ways. Action requires some effort. There are choices involved. We could be doing something else. Because of this, it is very useful to be able to evaluate reasoning, for some pieces of reasoning should be accepted while others should not be accepted. If persuasion occurs in advertising, we could be doing many other things with our money. Take buying a car, for example. A lot of money can be involved, so what kind of car to buy can be a pretty big decision. Whether to marry a certain person or which of a couple of job offers to take are still bigger decisions. Almost every reader will eventually get some serious illness. There may be several different treatments available. One’s comfort, health, even ones life may depend on the decision as to which treatment to undertake. To make these decisions well, we will need to gather our own reasons to support various alternative conclusions. At that time, we could make an irrational decision, or a sheep like decision to follow some other person’s advice. The values of critical thinking, specifically how to recognize and evaluate reasoning, are the following: †¢ It help us arrive at true conclusions and therefore †¢ it increases our knowledge. †¢ It should help us make better decisions. †¢ It should help us persuade others and †¢ explain truth to them. †¢ Contribute to a happier life (Cogan, 1998). References Johnson, K. G. (1991). Thinking creatically: a systematic, interdisciplinary approach to creative-critical thinking. Englewood: Institute of General Semantics. Kaufman, R. A. (1998). Anatomy of Success. New York: Ronald A Kaufman. Robert Cogan. (1998). Critical thinking: step by step. Boston: University Press of America. Ulman, H. L. (1994). Things, thoughts, words, and actions: the problem of language in late eighteenth-century British rhetorical theory. New York: SIU Press.

Analysis of Indias Automotive Industry

Analysis of Indias Automotive Industry INDIAN AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY The automotive industry is one of the largest industries worldwide and in India as well. The automotive sector is a vital sector for any developed economy. It drives upstream industries like steel, iron, aluminum, rubber, plastics, glass and electronics, and downstream industries like advertising and marketing, transport and insurance. The automotive industry can be divided into five sectors:- Passenger Cars. Multi- Utility Vehicles (MUVs). Two- and Three- Vehicles. Commercial Vehicles Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) / Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (MHCVs). Tractors. We will be looking at the Passenger car industry in India. Despite a head start, the passenger car industry in India has not quite matched up to the performance of its counterparts in other parts of the world. The primary reason has been the all-pervasive regulatory atmosphere prevailing till the opening up of the industry in the mid-1990s. The various layers of legislative Acts sheltered the industry from external competition for a long time. Moreover, the industry was considered low-priority as cars were thought of as unaffordable luxury. HISTORY OF INDIAN AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY Initially, in the post-liberalization period, the automotive sector, especially the passenger car segment, saw a boom, derived primarily from economic vibrancy, changes in Government policies, increase in purchasing power, improvement in life styles, and availability of car finance. The passenger car industry was finally deregulated in 1993. However, the automobile industry, which contributed substantially to the industrial growth in FY1996 failed to maintain the same momentum between FY1997 and FY1999. The overall slowdown in the economy and the resultant slowdown in industrial production, political uncertainty and inadequate infrastructure development were some of the factors responsible for the slowdown experienced. In FY2000, the sector experienced a turnaround and witnessed the launch of many new models. Two things that stunted growth of this industry in the past have been low demand and lack of vision on the part of the original equipment manufacturers (QEMs). However, the demand picked up after the liberalization of the regulatory environment, and global QEMs- who enjoy scale economies both in terms of manufacturing and research and development (RD) entered the Indian market. This has resulted in a big shift in the way business is conducted by suppliers, assemblers and marketers. PASSENGER CAR INDUSTRY IN INDIA: HIGHLIGHTS Passenger car sales are expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% over the period FY2004-2007. The six broad segments in the car market today are- Mini, Compact, Midrange, Executive, Premium and Luxury. In the medium term, growth in the Indian passenger car industry is expected to be led largely by the Compact and Mid-range Segments. The critical success factor has changed from price to price value. In terms of engine capacity, the Indian passenger car market is moving towards cars of highest capacity. With the launch of new models from FY2000 onwards, the market for MUVs has been redefined in India, especially at the upper end. Currently, the higher-end MUVs, commonly known as Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), occupy a niche in the urban market. With the success of SUVs, the line of distinction between passenger cars and MUVs in the Indian market is getting increasingly blurred. Domestic car manufacturers are now venturing into areas such as car financing, leasing, and fleet management, and used-car reconditioning /sales, to complement their mainstay-business of selling new cars. During April August 2006, the passenger car sales in India at 332159 units, marked a growth of 5.3%over the previous year. The growth in the domestic sales of passenger cars was led by strong growth in volumes reported by compact and mid size segments. While the share of mini and executive segments declined in the period under study, the share of other segments increased. For instance, the share of compact segment in the domestic car sales increased from 59.7% in April August 2005 to 64.9% in April August 2006, mid size segment from 20.5% to 22%, and the share of Premium segment was stagnant at 0.7% in the same period. New variants launches, easy availability of finance at relatively lower interest rate and price discounts offered by the players have played an important role in driving the sales growth in the domestic passenger car industry. KEY DEMAND DRIVERS Traditionally, disposable income was perceived as the key factor driving passenger car demand. But over time, other factors that are known to have an impact on demand have emerged. These include the need for greater mobility, non- availability of public transport services, availability of cheap finance, development of the used-car market, introduction of new technologically superior models, increasing levels of urbanization and changing consumer profiles. The credit for growing the Indian Compact Segment, and in fact, the Indian Passenger car industry goes partly to the Korean manufacturers (HMIL and the erstwhile Daewoo) and the Indian player Tata Motors. The HMIL Santro was launched in September1998 and created a sensation on account of its aggressive pricing at Rs.2, 99,000. The Santro became successful as HMIL had got the price -value equation just right. While Daewoos Matiz picked up only seven months after its launch, the Santro was selling more than 3000units a month only 2 months after its launch. HMIL had infact, planned its entry into the Indian market with the 1495cc Accent but later opted in favour of the smaller car. At the time the Santro was launched, both the options available in the segment- Fiat Uno and the Zen-had been around in the Indian Market for quite some time and lacked novelty. Santro was not only cheaper but also incorporated a multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) system that offered superior fuel economy to Zens carburetor system. The Matiz was launched in November 1998. Its 800cc engine immediately encouraged comparisons with Maruti 800. The initial launch price of Matiz at Rs. 3, 55,000 was significantly higher than the Santros Rs, 2, 99,000. Given that the Matiz was smaller than the Zen and the Santro, the initial impact was not so strong. In May 1999, Daewoo launched stripped-down variants. The launch of the cheaper versions saw the sales of Matiz reaching almost 2000 units in May 1999 and recording an average monthly sale of 3123units in FY2000. However, the financial crisis faced by the parent, Daewoo Motor Corporation affected the performance of the Indian subsidiary (that was reporting net loss and had significant borrowings). Subsequently, the Indian subsidiary halted production. MUL now has 4 cars in the Compact Segment: the Swift, the Zen, the Alto and the Wagon R. In terms of market share, Zen steadily lost share in FY2000 to its competitors. Despite this, there is no denying that the Zen is one of the bigger success stories in the Indian car market. With 3 models, MUL is the market leader in the Compact segment. The Alto arrived in India when there was little room for man oeuvre in a crowded compact segment. It was launched in 2 versions, the LX and the VX. The base version is priced competitively with the deluxe version of the Maruti800, while the higher-end version competes with the based versions of the Zen and the Wagon R. The 1061cc Wagon R is available in four manual transmission variants (LX, LXi, VX and VXi) and one automatic transmission variant (AX). Since its introduction in February 2000, Wagon R has been selling in the 1500-3000units per month range as against 5000-8000units per month range for the Santro. The presence of the already well-established Matiz and the Santro meant that the novelty factor did not work too well for Wagon R. However 2005 has been a revolutionary year for Maruti since its new Launch Swift has been a huge success in the market and the most demanded car as well. The other cars in the compact segment to have made an immediate dent in the market with their launch are the Palio of Fiat India and the improved version Indica V2 of Tata Motors. Indica was the third largest selling car in FY2002 in this segment, after Santro and Zen. On the other hand, Palio was launched at the time when the passenger car industry was witnessing a slump but the model cut across the barriers and was able to create a market for itself. However, the success of this model was short-lived and the sales declined thereafter. Nevertheless, launches of new variants (such as the diesel version) helped sales recover marginally. The size of the compact segment has increased as a result of the high growth rate attained by the models in this segment. The changing price-value equation, coupled with the declining interest rates and easy availability of finance, has prompted consumers to move towards the compact car segment from the mini segment. The high rate of growth achieved by the compact segment has attracted the attention of other players also; including GM. GM has entered the compact segment with the launch of its Opel Corsa Sail in May2003. FUTURE OF CAR MARKET IN INDIA The Indian automotive market offers tremendous opportunities due to a strong GDP growth, increased urbanisation, an expanding middle class, an upward migration of disposable incomes and availability of easy financing options. The Indian automotive industry is dominated by two-wheelers, while cars account for about 10.7 percent of the total industry. The potential for growth is enormous. The Indian Governments Automotive Mission Plan 2006-2016 states that the Indian passenger car market is expected to reach 3 million by 2015, making India as one of the top 10 car markets in the world. India is also expected to remain as the second-largest two-wheeler manufacturer, the largest tractor and three-wheeler manufacturer and the fourth-largest truck manufacturer in the world by 20151. The main considerations driving customer preference are mainly reliability and economy. GOVERNMENT COMMITMENT AND SUPPORT STILL LIKELY IN THE FUTURE Post-liberalization, the government has made specific attempts to reduce barriers and controls, such as allowing 100 percent foreign direct investment in the automotive sector and reducing customs tariffs on automotive components. The government has also set an ambitious target of increasing the revenue turnover derived from the automotive sector from about 5 to 10 percent of the GDP by 2016. The emphasis in the future is expected to be on exports of small cars, multi-utility vehicles, two-wheelers and components. With regard to emission norms for passenger cars, the government has proposed the implementation of Euro-IV emission norms from 2010 onwards, which is likely to lead to an increase in car prices. According to Avik Chattopadhyay Deputy General Manager, Marketing, of Maruti the Indian government is expected to continue the process of reforms even in the future. The Indian passenger car industry is dominated by the small car segment, and more specifically the compact car segment, both in terms of growth rates as well as contribution to total passenger car sales. Due to the fact that India is a low-income market, the dominance of small cars is expected to continue even in the future. Tata Motors, a leading Indian OEM, has plans of launching a small car at USD 2,326 in 20083. This is expected to convert a lot of two-wheeler prospects into passenger car customers. This is also expected to lead to other OEMs launching similar products/reducing prices and the creation of a new segment (below even the mini-car segment). Rural customers are also expected to be likely target segments for this car. The four-wheeler market (including commercial vehicles) is dominated by Asian OEMs, with American OEMs occupying only about three percent of the market. Hence, resurgence from the American OEMs seems likely in the future. Recently, the American OEMs have a lso announced their plans for capacity expansions however, the main difficulty is their lack of expertise for making fuel-efficient, small cars. General Motors (GM), in order to circumvent this, has recently announced the launch of a Daewoo small car (known as the Spark) in India in 2007. The used-car market is also expected to grow in the future, especially considering the fact that the ratio of used-car sales to new-car sales is about 1:1 in India this is less than the global ratio of 2:1. The major OEMs, including Maruti, Hyundai, GM, etc., have already decided to enter this market as used car dealers. Increased market share for fuels other than petrol is expected in the passenger car segment, especially considering the rising prices for petrol. Diesel is expected to capture about 35 percent of the market share in 2010, the current share being 30 percent. Maruti and Hyundai, two major gasoline players, have announced their plans to enter the diesel market as well. LPG as a fuel is also gaining popularity as it is cheaper than petrol and requires less maintenance and conversion costs as compared to CNG. Research work on bio diesel as a fuel for the future is also underway. The Indian manufacturing may go through periods of overcapacity as the vehicle capacity estimations are about three million passenger cars in the next five years. A recent trend observed is the sharing of manufacturing facilities for example, a deal between Maruti and Nissan, wherein the former is expected to produce cars on its assembly lines labeling them as Nissan. The use of Aluminum in automotives is expected to increase especially since this helps in boosting fuel economy, performance and safety, while reducing emissions. The use of electronics in manufacturing is also expected to increase. INDIA: THE SOON TO BE SMALL-CAR HUB Small cars constitute about 78 percent of the domestic demand, making India the third-largest producer of small cars after Japan and Brazil. Therefore, the government has decided to launch a programme to make India a small car hub in the future a recent reduction in excise duties from 24 percent to 16 percent exclusively for small cars being an initiative in this direction. The major players not present in this segment have also drawn up plans for entering this segment in the near future. Players with expertise in small car, such as Maruti and Hyundai, have formulated plans for ramping up production capacities. It is likely that with the small car volume increase (both due to domestic volumes and exports) in the next decade, domestic players, such as Tata Motors, would become strong global players. COMMERCIAL VEHICLES TO CONTINUE STRONG GROWTH This segment has shown strong growth over the last 5 years (at CAGR of over 20 percent), and the growth is likely to continue in the future as well as this is mainly dependent on economic progress and road-network availability, both of which are growing at a fast pace in the country. According to the National Highway authority estimations, the growth of highways is expected to proceed at a CAGR of about 6 percent during 2006-2015, in contrast to a growth of about 1.2 percent during 1951-1995. The future is also expected to witness more product sophistication with increasing power to weight solutions especially for the truck segment. Multinationals have already made an entry in the segment with MAN, Daimler Chrysler and Volvo already present in the market. INDIA FIRMS VENTURING ABROAD Manufacturing occupies about 60 percent of the total direct overseas investments by Indian companies in various sectors. The Indian automotive companies, including both Indian OEMs and well as component manufacturers, have been investing mainly in the domains of forging and casting, particularly in European countries. So far, the industry has witnessed 16 acquisitions (five in 2005). The collapsing auto ancillary industry in these regions makes the deal extremely affordable for Indian companies, providing them market access and brand enhancement opportunities in a new region. Indian companies are also investing in emerging Asian economies such as China to establish a new sourcing base in the region. Global automotive players: sourcing parts outsourcing RD base to India The auto component exports sector is expected to show a strong growth with an estimated CAGR of 34 percent by 2014. All the leading OEMs in the world are already sourcing components from India, mainly in steering systems, casting products and electrical, such as motors and wiring, harnesses. The Indian automobile industry has four major segments commercial vehicles (CVs), passenger vehicles, three wheelers, and two wheelers. The market share for each of these segments of the Indian automobile industry, for the year 2003-04. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) , the Indian passenger vehicle market has three categories passenger cars, multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), and utility vehicles (UVs). The passenger car market is further divided into various segments based on the length of the car (Refer to Exhibit II for a detailed description of the lengthwise classification of passenger cars. The Indian automobile industry was a highly protected slow-growth industry with very few players till the opening up of the Indian economy in 1991. Low manufacturing costs, availability of skilled labor, an organized component industry, and the capability to supply in large volumes attracted global auto majors to set up their operations in India after the ope ning up of the sector. For example, Fiat and DaimlerChrysler started outsourcing their component requirements to India. 100 percent Indian subsidiaries of global players, like Delphi Automotive Systems and Visteon, exported components to other parts of the world. Macroeconomic factors like government regulations, low interest rates, and availability of retail finance played an important role in the rapid development of the automobile industry in India during the late nineties (Refer to Exhibit III for an understanding of the impact of the Union Budget on the Indian automobile industry over the years).. The leading Indian manufacturers are aggressively aspiring to become Tier-I suppliers the OEM: aftermarket ratio in exports has changed from 35:65 in the last decade to 75:25 at present. According to a Government of India estimate, there are 400 large firms in the organized sector and about 10,000 firms in the unorganized sector. The entry of more foreign companies in the sector is expected to lead to greater regulation, pruning of the spurious market and the unorganized players ceasing to be stand-alone companies, and entering into either contract manufacturing or becoming ancillary units. India is also showing an increasing prowess in automo tive design and development. Global MNCs, such as GM, Ford, Delphi, Visteon, etc., have already set up their RD centers in India. The main advantage of these centers is the low development costs it takes 1/5th of the costs to develop or engineer products in India as compared to global rates. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES The present study of the marketing strategy of the Maruti Suzuki (Pvt.) Limited revolves around the following broad objectives: To study the evolution and growth of the Maruti Suzuki (Pvt.) Limited in the context of the automobile revolution in India; To study the growth strategy of the Maruti Suzuki (Pvt.) Limited and the marketing methods followed by it in this regard. To study the small car revolution in India and the contribution of the Maruti Suzuki (Pvt.) Limited to it. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY RESEARCH DESIGN DATA SOURCES. Determining the sample size and the period of the required research. Designing the research tools. Defining the objectives of the research work. PRIMARY DATA Questionnaire. Survey. Personal Interview Discussion SECONDAY DATA Newspapers Journals Magazines QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN Questions chosen are open ended as well as close ended; and objectives behind choosing such question is availability of data SAMPLE DESIGN Sample unit: DD Motors Wazirpur, Mayapuri, Okhla, Competent Motors Moti Nagar Extent: 8 Weeks Sample Size: 59 MARUTI SUZUKI Very often, there is an analogy drawn between the state of the great Indian roads and the pace of economic development in the country. Needless to say, its not a very pleasing comparison. So the average Indian customer who rides the roads of India is naturally extremely cautious when it comes to investing in a vehicle. Only those rough and tough enough to survive the potholes and nightmarish surfaces can pass muster. In such a scenario, a foreign company launching a car in the Indian market was bound to be looked upon with skepticism and suspicion, more so, if it had South Korean origins. South Korean companies were perceived not to be quality oriented. The failure of Korean companies like Lucky Gold star (later to be re-launched as LG, which is another marketing success) and the bad word of mouth for Daewoo led to this perception. MARKET PRESENCE In the late 1990s, car manufacturers like Ford, General Motors, and Fiat were faring miserably in the Indian market. Maruti had a market share of a whopping 79 per cent in the passenger car segment. Daewoo and Telco were creating hype over the impending launches of their cars Matiz and Indica, respectively. In such a scenario, the top management of Hyundai Motor India Ltd, which has South Korean origins, had a tough decision to make. It was a big gamble to go ahead with the launch of the small car -Santro. The Hyundai management stuck to a simple strategy launch a quality product in the most promising segment. With the latest technology and price it aggressively. In the pre-launch period in late 1997, the company commissioned market research project to understand the, Indian consumer psyche and specify a benchmark for the pricing policy. The results of this survey and the actions taken thereafter had a bearing upon the success of the product later on. The Indian consumers showed an immense dislike to the shape of Santro. One consumer even likened it to a funeral hearse. A second important result was that Hyundai is an unknown brand with almost zero brand equity amongst Indian consumers. The company immediately undertook the initiative of reshaping and customizing the car for the Indian customer. The tall rear end was reduced and made more aesthetically appealing. The Santro was all set for the Indian launch. MARUTI-MARKETING GENIUS Here came the most important aspect of the launch the marketing strategy. This was a factor that could make or mar the success of the Santro. Hyundai tied up with the advertising agency Saatchi and Saatchi, who hit upon a novel strategy. Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan was roped in to be the brand ambassador. A three-pronged strategy was designed to attract the consumer: Educate Indian Consumers about Hyundai Create hype and expectations about the Santro Explain the virtues of the Santro The TV Press Campaign broke in June 1998. The initial TV spots and the press campaign showed Shah Rukh Khan being approached by a Hyundai official to advertise the Santro. Shah Rukh was not convinced about Hyundai and he was shown to ask all questions a normal Indian consumer is expected to ask. What is Hyundai? Why should I advertise for the Santro? Will it match customer service expectations? What about dealer networks? How can an international car meet the requirements of Indian roads? As the campaign went through all of these questions, the Hyundai official answered Shah Rukh Khan. By the time the car was actually launched, Shah Rukh Khan proclaims, he is convinced. He declares that he is now ready to advertise the Santro since he is certain that the Santro is the car for India. This high profile campaign backed by some very innovative media buying, which went for maximum coverage with the minimum budget, broke all grounds in terms of creating consumer expectations and hype in t he market. Along with the Advertising Campaign, the Sales Team worked burning midnight oil in creating the dealer network across the length and breadth of the country. The wide dealer network would prove to be invaluable in ensuring that the Santro would be available to anyone who wants to buy it. An important pre-requisite for the dealer network was a fully functional workshop area with imported international standard equipment and engineers trained in Hyundais parent training centre in South Korea and localized training provided in the Chennai Plant. RANGE OF PRODUCT SERVICES The race for Indias small-car market has begun. But only those among the big four who get all their strategies right will win this unforgiving contest. The prize: not just the largest automobile segment, but also survival in this market. Theyre lined up for the last lap. With Market India becoming a minefield for the worlds largest auto-makers, the Formula I have become brighter than the red lights that have stopped them in their tracks so faronly the small car will enable endurance. Bumper-to-bumper, therefore, the combatants are accelerating towards the small-car segment. Amounting to 60 per cent of the Rs 14,500-crore automobiles market, and hitherto monopolized by the Rs 8,454-crore Maruti Udyog with its Maruti 800 and Zen, its the final frontier between survival and extinction. So far, accustomed as they are to the priorities of the customer in the developed markets, the global auto-makers have taken many wrong turns in India. Only now, after many knocks, crashes, and repair job s, are they back on track, heading towards their destination. But neither the road nor the end-point of their journey is wide enough for all of them. At a projected 6-lakh unit by 2000, demand for cars is still 25 per cent less than the number of F-150 pick-up trucks sold by the $153.62-billion Ford Motor Co. in 1997. But the importance of India on the world auto map is strategic. With an estimated total capacity of 58 million units a year, the global auto industry is racing far a head of the demand of 45 million units. Markets in North America, Europe, and Japanwhich account for 74 per cent of the demandhave become saturated. Global car-manufacturers will need to plant their feet in a low-cost, young, stable market to sell their products to create a global supply-base for cars and components. The first wave of manufacturers simply failed to make a splash in India. They were revving up for a growth that never happened. Their entry reasoning: since India had been a small-car market for years, it was only a matter of time before it enlarged to ac commodate bigger, luxury cars. That the logic was flawed has now become evident. India is still a small-car market for anyone who wants both revenues and profits. Not surprisingly, Ford (which launched the 1,300-cc petrol and the 1,800-cc diesel Escort in 1996), the $178.17-billion General Motors (which entered with the 1,600-cc Opel Astra in 1996), and the $72-billion Daewoo Groups Rs 963.37-crore Daewoo Motors (which launched the 1,498-cc Cello in 1995) are limping at the starting-block. None of the 3 has managed to chalk up sales of more than 18,000 units a year. Even Maruti Udyoga joint venture between the $12.12-billion Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan and the Government of Indiahas been unable to grow the luxury segment. At 18,000 units in 1997-98, its 1,300-cc Esteem luxury cars sales fell by 28 per cent. Explains B.V.R. Subbu, 43, Director (Sales Marketing), Hyundai Motor India: Traditional mid-car buyers are turning to small cars; they are waiting for new technologies. Within 8 months of the 1,468-cc Citys launch in January, 1998, the $48.87-billion Honda Motor has sold 4,180 cars in the Indian market, which is more than the combine d sales (3,317 units) of the Astra and the Escort. But despite Hondas initial success, the luxury-car segment has platitude, and there seems to be room for just one player. In the past 3 years, the segment has shrunk in value, dashing car-makers hopes of rebuilding their futures in India. Naturally, the only safe haven that remains is the small-car segment, which is 2.45 lakh units in size. And the only segment expected to grow at 15 per cent a year for the next 5 years. The new millennium cannot but belong to the small car. However, economics of upstream manufacture will only ensure survival. Sophisticated downstream skills are essential to make inroads into the tough Maruti Udyog territory. COMPANY POLICIES BUILDING STRATIGES But strategies, like cars, must feed on volumes. And how much is the sub-compact segment likely to yield in 1998-99? Maruti Udyog expects the sales of the Zen to cross the 1-lakh-unit mark. Assuming that at least a third of the small-car owning populationthis includes customers who have been using the Maruti 800, say, for at least 3 yearsgraduates to a sub-compact, which means a market for at least another 1 lakh car. Even if the 2-lakh mark is not breached in the next 5 months, 1999-2000 will be the Year of the Upgrade, the economy permitting. This is why the second wave is focused on the small segmentfrom the mini to the sub-compact to the small car. On that relatively stable bandwagon is perched the goliath, Maruti Udyog, 2 newcomersthe $28-billion Hyundai Motor of South Korea and the Rs 7,450.34-crore Telcoand one revitalized company, Daewoo Motors. By drawing on their intrinsic strengths, each is evolving a unique strategy to overtake competition. BT test-drives the strategic re sponses of the second wave and assesses their chances of survival. In less than two decades, India has ascended the ladder of global competitiveness and improved its business environment for investors through a consistent focus on economic reforms. Even more creditable is the fact that this growth comes on the back of an ever-strengthening social infrastructure supported by vibrant democracy. India today is the hotbed of entrepreneurial activity. Wealth creators and world-beaters are visible in sectors after sector. Indias economy has more than doubled in real terms since reform began in 1991. Consumer demand, increasing three to five times faster than the economy, reflects the aspirations of a vibrant, growing and young middle class; India is home to 20 per cent of the worlds population under the age of 24. With more than 200 television channels offering a window to the world, Indians are perhaps the most rapidly evolving consumers across the globe. Successful economic reforms, favorable media disposition and an overall positive economic scenario h ave placed a spotlight on the country. Indian companies are making overseas acquisitions, capital markets are booming, FIIs are pumping money in, FOREX reserves are a record high and the political economy has gained credibility in the global investor community and world media. Innovative products, innovative processes, innovative manufacturing methods are enticing foreign investors and multinationals to India. What is `India for the world? It is a millennia-old civilization. It is also the worlds premier IT services provider. The worlds back office a global R D hub. Emerging small-car hub. Repository, arguably, of the worlds largest number of engineers, doctors, accountants, and so on. To bring it all down to a single idea India is ready with vario

Cultural Differences in Midwifery Care

Cultural Differences in Midwifery Care Introduction The provision of holistic midwifery care is a fundamental role of the midwife (NMC, 2004). However, holistic care must encompass a wide range of practices, including care for the psychosocial and spiritual needs of the women and families within their caseload. One concept which arises within the general healthcare debate and within professional midwifery practice is the notion of cultural competence. This essay focuses on a critique of one article from the midwifery literature which addresses of the needs of one distinct religio-cultural group. Leishman (2004) demonstrates the complex nature of the provision of healthcare in a multi-cultural society. Inequalities exist in the provision of care to diverse ethnic and cultural groups (Salt, 1997). The article being critiqued addresses two issues – the provision of care to parents who have been bereaved, and specifically, the preferences, beliefs, behaviours and needs of one group of clients, those of the Muslim faith. It is publi shed in a midwifery journal and specifically deals with aspects of care which would come under the remit of the midwife within the UK, as specified by the NMC (2004). Discussion The title of the article is clear and simple, and defines the client group as religiously distinct (which also implies cultural distinction) and in a particular state of need due to bereavement. That the client group is defined as Islamic, however, does not take into account the different cultural and racial associations of those who practise Islam. A broad spectrum of cultures and races are associated with the Islamic, faith, suggesting that Islamic people are not a homogenous group. Conversely, it has also been argued that it is important to distinguish between culture (which has racial and religious overtones) and religion as a separate form of difference or identification (Eade, 1997). The failure of research on ethnic and racial or cultural lines to distinguish between religion and culture is notable (Eade, 1997), and it may be the intention of the authors of the critique article to ensure that the distinction is both clear and unequivocal. It may also be another example of the prioritisation of Islam over other social identities which is found so often in the literature (Eade, 1997). The authors further identify the group under consideration as those originating from migrants from the Indian Sub-Continent in the 1950s (Arshad et al, 2004). This group is limited to Asians (2nd and 3rd generation) originating directly or indirectly from this area (Arshad et al, 2004). Such a distinction may be important. Marks and Worboys (1997) discuss the fact that multiple meanings can be attached to the terminology surrounding discussions of culture and ethnicity, terms such as ‘migrant’ and also ‘minority.’ In order to attain cultural competence in the provision of healthcare, it is important to understand the distinctions between those terms utilised within the debate (Srivastava, 2007). Race is usually associated with biological, genetic and physical distinguishing characteristics (Srivastava, 2007). Ethnicity is associated with commonalities of birth, descent, kinship and cultural traditions (Srivastava, 2007). However, culture is harder to define, and includes racial, social, linguistic and other common patterns or characteristics within groups (Srivastava, 2007). This level of ambiguity within the debate does not help illuminate the current situation. By so clearly defining the focus of the client group in this article, the authors are claiming association with religious meaning (Islam) and racial and ethnic groupings (Asian, Indian Sub-Continent). They also support their focus with figures from the locality in question, thus establishing this group further as being of one predominant ethnic group, that of people of Pakistani origin (Arshad et al, 2004). This author can only question whether this adds to the understanding of the reader or further confuses the issue. The group are clearly defined, but what distinguishes them from other Muslims, or even from other ethnic groups from Asia, is not defined at all. Given the continued lack of understanding or awareness of cultural difference in the NHS in the UK (Le Var, 1998), further elucidating details might have been useful here. However, Cortis (2004) found that deficits exist in Registered Nurses knowledge about Pakistani patients in the United Kingdom, which might suggest that a greater understanding of this particularly group is necessary for all healthcare professionals. The Healthcare Commission (2006) found in their investigation of 10 maternal deaths in one hospital trust that women from minority ethnic groups are at higher risk of a pregnancy-related death. In this report, 9 out of the 10 women who died in the time period 2002 to 2005 were from minority ethnic groups, and seven out of these were from Asia (Healthcare Commission, 2006). This would suggest that the maternity care provided to women from these ethnic groups needs to be explored, evaluated and improved. This perhaps relates to the continued drive towards cultural competence in the healthcare services (Srivastava, 2007). It also suggests that there is a need for more specific information and evidence regarding distinct sub-groups within the ethnic mix of clients of the NHS. This article provides information, but its status as a form of evidence could be somewhat questionable. This is a descriptive article containing practical details for the maternity care professional to be able to provide culturally or religiously competent care for Muslims who experience the loss or death of a baby or fetus. Callister (2005) describes descriptive literature in this field as literature which identifies cultural practices to increase understanding of how nurses can more effectively provide culturally competent care for specific racial/ethnic and/or cultural groups of women and children. Establishing the client group’s distinctions early on, however, does not achieve much more than also establishing the authority of the authors in the writing of such an article, as it contains some references, but not as many as would be expected in a research-based article. There is no critical review of the literature, and very little critique or discussion, but rather a presentation of the (assumedly) accepted facts that relate to care for the family and dead infant. As such, th is is useful and informative, but the critical reader cannot but be aware of the lack of reliable evidence. The authority of the authors must be trusted here. Cortis (2003) suggests that culture furnishes the beliefs and values that give individuals a sense of identity, self-worth and belonging, as well as providing rules and guidelines or standards for behaviour. If we believe that culture is something commonly understood by those who share it (Srivastava, 2007), then it could be that a common understanding of Pakistani emigrant Muslim culture exists between the authors of the article, to such an extent that they fail to illuminate certain perhaps important details that would inform the general reader. This is a significant issue in the light of the continued debate about the nature and importance of culture in how people engage with healthcare services and each other. Recent views on culture, although not discarding the importance of a persons cultural inheritance of ideas, values, behaviour and practices, also acknowledge that culture can be affected dynamically by social transformation, social conflicts, power relationships and migrati on (Cortis, 2003). Yet there is no notion of that here, perhaps because the authors are dealing with the strictures of faith rather than culture. There is some statistical evidence of the rates of pregnancy loss infant death in the locality in question, but again, this is poorly related to the rest of the article and seems perhaps a token gesture towards relevance and importance of the information. Also, these statistics refer to White British, Pakistani and Other (Ashard et al, 2004), without making any further distinctions. Without such distinctions, the reader can only understand part of the picture. The ‘Other’ group might also contain people of the Muslim faith, as might the White British group. Again, the authors could have included more critical discussion here of ethnic mix. Some readers might consider that, having identified the group in question, the authors have gone far enough in setting the context of the paper. However, this author also feels that there is a degree of ambiguity in the presentation of this article. By distinguishing the client group to such a degree, it could be assumed that the customs, rites and beliefs referred to in the article are peculiar to this particular ethnic group who subscribe to the Muslim faith. However, it could also be that readers would assume that because the terms used in the article are more general, referring to Muslims as a religious group rather than making ethnic distinctions, these are guidelines to be applied to all Muslims. This ambiguity does not assist the reader in understanding how best to apply this information. Similarly, there is no real acknowledgement of the issue and dangers of stereotyping. Stereotyping has been described as a limiting and intellectually crude way of seeming to understand individuals (Schott and Henley, 1996). There is a tendency for people to stereotype those in groups that they do not belong to or know little about (Schott and Henley, 1996). Again, a critical reader could infer from this article that the authors have stereotyped the client group in question as being similar to all other Muslims. However, the article does raise some other issues which may not be explicit, including the importance and behaviours of family and friends in Islam during such a challenging time (Arshad et al, 2004). There is a clear undertone here that all Muslims behave in this manner because of their common faith. The article is referenced correctly but not very well referenced. Conversely, Leishman (2004) carries out a literature review which highlights some of the more topical issues surrounding the notion of culture and the needs of distinct diverse groups within the healthcare system. One issue that Lieshman (2004) raises is the fact that there is a need not only for health professionals to be aware of other cultures and belief systems, but also to be aware of their own. Addressing this issue, of understanding one’s own reaction to the beliefs and practices of others, might be raised in this article when discussing the practices and behaviours that are associated with Muslim clients following the death of a baby. This would be a useful and relevant practice point for midwives and other healthcare professionals to consider. Another point raised by Lieshman’s (2004) literature review is the need to take into account the past and experiences of ethnic groups, particularly those who, for example, have entered this country as asylum seekers. Similar issues have been raised by other literature (Maternity Alliance, 2004). The group in the critique article are not asylum seekers, but their parents, grandparents, family and friends may be, and the experiences and shared realities may affect their relationship with healthcare services and professionals. Such a potential is highlighted by a report by the Maternity Alliance (Maternity Alliance, 2004). Discounting this issue leaves out the level of detail midwives may require to fully understand and respond to the needs of diverse ‘minority’ groups, perhaps even promoting stereotyping rather than combating it. Thus it can be seen that another author, utilising a more critical and academic approach to the topic, can provide more of a discursive u nderstanding of relevant issues. Similarly, Callister (2005) reviews the literature on cultural competence in the care of women and children, and draws conclusions about the nature of that literature. Through this detailed examination the author is able to define and suggest potential outcomes for clinical care, for education of the professionals who deliver that care and for nursing research to properly explore the most important issues (Callister, 2005). Again, this article misses important opportunities to link the issues of concern to the current literature and to opportunities to develop better practice through educational development and research. For example, Callister (2005) suggests that studies are needed exploring organisational and work environment issues to better promote cultural competence. Simply being conversant with the basics of Islamic beliefs and practices surrounding death is not enough to promote true sensitivity and individualised care. Cultural sensitivity has been described as the attitudes, values, beliefs and personal insight of healthcare providers (Doorenbos et al, 2005). Such sensitivity involves acknowledgement of personal heritage and beliefs, openness to otherness, and respect for the complex ways in which cultural issues influence every aspect of healthcare (Doorenbos et al, 2005). However, the Arshad et al, (2004) article does not deal with the challenges of promoting cultural sensitivity, not does it distinguish between the different kinds of knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to provide care for this client group in these circumstances. A thorough, critical literature review, especially perhaps of any research or case studies that might illuminate the issues, would have considerably enhanced the paper. Doorenbos et al (2005) highlight and discuss existing models of cultural competence within healthcare, and evaluate one of the models used to assess one cultural competence assessment instrument. Application of such models to the situations described by Arshad et al (2004) might also have enhanced the quality of their argument and elevated their paper into the realms of evidence for practice rather than information for practice. Doorenbos et al (2005) describe cultural competence of healthcare providers as being central to the healthcare system’s ability to provide access to and provision of high-quality healthcare services, and link it to the drive to reduce health disparities. Srivastava (2007) links cultural competence to respect, knowledge and skills, and the ability to use them effectively in cross-cultural care situations. Some discussion of cultural competence in the Arshad et al (2004) article might also have perhaps allowed a more critical awareness of the subject. The conclusions the authors draw are that individuals have unique responses to grief and loss, regardless of religious background or belief systems (Arshad et al, 2004). This is no innovative or surprising finding, but the fact that they make no other conclusions is surprising. They also conclude that the resulting distress is often overwhelming (Arshad et al, 2004), another generalisation which is not new and does not really add anything to the debate. These conclusions do not really relate to the rest of the article, which is chiefly concerned with describing the beliefs and practices of Muslim people around the death of a child (Arshad et al, 2004). They also highlight that health professionals may not feel properly equipped or be well enough informed to support families of different faiths at such a time (Arshad et al, 2004). This is a fact well established by a range of other literature within healthcare and within midwifery (Srivastava, 2007; Marks and Worboys, 1997; Schott and Henley, 1996). The recommendations which are given are similarly brief and somewhat vague. Arshad et al (2004) suggest that an insight into religious beliefs and practices can only be beneficial when delivering care in the field of loss and bereavement. This is a rather sweeping statement, because while they do take into account the need to avoid generalisation, they have in fact generalised throughout the article and failed to provide any critical evaluation or insight into, for example, the differences in culture, race, background and practices that may exist between people who nevertheless subscribe to Islam. However, this may be this author’s own ethnocentrism surfacing – it could be that the expression of Islamic faith is universal and changes little between ethnic, racial or cultural groups. This article might be simply stemming from such a simple fact. The Maternity Alliance (2004) found that serious inequalities still exist in the provision of maternity care to women from minority ethnic groups, especially women who were asylum seekers. There is a need for more investigation of the reasons why staff are still improperly equipped to provide the highest standard of individualised care free of bias, prejudice or stereotyping. There is also a need to investigate the reasons for continued inequalities in access to and experience of healthcare, and any possible links between the two. There are a number of implications for midwifery practice, though these are not as explicitly stated within the article as they could be. The main and most useful implication is the need to provide correct and sensitive care for Muslim clients when they experience pregnancy loss or the death of an infant. This article is ideal to use to inform midwives of this. Other implications for midwifery practice are inherent in the article, and include, for example, implications for the practicalities of care provision in often busy maternity units within the NHS. The placing of the body so that it is facing Mecca, for example, is an important consideration for midwives who are usually the professionals who prepare the body of an infant or fetus following death. Another consideration is the fact that the whole of the body including the placenta and umbilical cord, should be buried (Arshad et al, 2004). It would be easy for a midwife to cause significant distress to a family by following usual hospital protocol for disposal of placenta, membranes and cord. There may also be issues of health and safety to be considered in the storage and transport of these tissues. If a midwife was aware of these particular religious practices, she might be able to discuss them with the client at an appropriate time and ensure that all their needs are met. Cortis (2003) suggests that nurses should appreciate how the domains of culture need to be used for data collection to identify specific cultural needs. It is through this process that important domains health beliefs, communication, spirituality, death and dying distinguish the needs of patients (Cortis, 2003). Cultural assessment also offers midwives and other healthcare professionals the opportunity for identifying potential differences between theirs and their patients’ value systems (Cortis, 2003). Chenowethm et al (2006) describes the common clash between healthcare professional’s perceptions of the professional responsibility to deliver care in a particular way, and the patient’s view of how they wish to be cared for. Such clashes are somewhat inevitable, but if anything can help t o overcome them or minimise them, it can only be of benefit to the midwifery profession. Chenowethm et al (2006) suggest one way to ensure cultural sensitivity is to access community resources appropriate to the cultural or ethnic group under consideration. This issue, however is not explicitly addressed in the Arshad et al (2004) article. More general issues for midwifery are those which apply to the broader, clinical governance spectrum of the maternity services as part of the healthcare services. The Department of Health (2007) in its operating framework for 2007-08 lay out core principles for the provision of care in the NHS. These include individualised care, partnership working, respecting dignity, reducing inequality and providing access to all based on need (DOH, 2007). Such a vision is nothing new, but does once again remind midwives of the need to provide both culturally sensitive and appropriate services. The information in this article may contribute to the development of such services, but it is the opinion of this author that it is still inadequate in addressing the complexity of the issues. However, Arshad et al (2007) do not address a range of other issues which can be found in the literature. For example, Park et al (2007) state that recruitment and retention efforts for non-white midwives, regular edu cation for cultural competence of midwives, and provision of culturally and linguistically appropriate care for women from ethnic minorities should be considered in future provision of maternity services. Neile (1995) also pinpoints education as important in supporting midwives gain a realistic insight into how the needs of the multiracial community may be met. There appears to be a need for a comprehensive programme of multicultural education for all midwifery professionals (Neile, 1996), a view which is echoed by Campinha-Bacote (2006) and Brathwaite and Majumdar (2006). If the Arshad et al (2004) article more directly targeted itself at professional education, it might have greater impact on the improvement of services. The Arshad et al (2004) article was published in the British Journal of Midwifery, which claims to be the leading clinical journal for midwives (BJM, 2007). This is well known as the pre-eminent peer-reviewed Journal for midwives in the United Kingdom, and the editorial board contains a range of the most senior and well respected midwives and midwifery academics in the country (BJM, 2007). The article is available by subscription online and in print, and is available in most Universities and Trust libraries. Contents, discussions and abstracts can also be found online, making this very accessible. This would give the article a degree of weight and authority, and as the BJM has such a large distribution – national and international – this adds further authority to the article. The writers themselves appear well qualified to write an article on this topic, in that it is written by two Muslim chaplains (one of whom is an Imam) and one bereavement support midwife. Thus the reader would be more inclined to accept and use their assertions in practice. This may explain why such a respected, peer-reviewed journal has accepted an article which is not related to research or a literature review. The authors do not appear to have published in other peer-reviewed journals but have contributed to the development of Trust policies and publications locally (Bradford NHS Trust, 2007). The rationale for the article seems sound. Arshad et al (2004) suggest that supporting parents who are bereaved following pregnancy loss can be complicated by a lack of knowledge and understanding of specific spiritual needs, leaving professionals feeling helpless and families feeling dissatisfied. The purpose, therefore, of their article is to provide information to address this issue (Arshad et al, 2004). This proposal seems reasonable and even necessary, given the need for improved understanding, knowledge, awareness and attitudes highlighted by the literature (Srivastava, 2007; Marks and Worboys, 1997; Schott and Henley, 1996). Cortis (2004) highlights the fact that there is a continued need for research into multi-cultural aspects of care. Through one research study, Cortis (2004) also identifies the danger of ethnocentrism in the health services, suggesting that it may contribute to racism, as ethnocentric practice fails to recognize significant cultural differences and their importance for the people concerned. If this is true, then such an article, informative and descriptive in nature, may contribute to the quality of care by informing those with ethnocentric tendencies of important details relating to this client group. However, in the provision of individualised care, this article may not supply the level of critical detail that the truly client-centred midwife would need to fully enhance their practice in this area. They also claim that the rituals and beliefs of Islam in these circumstances are complex and may appear strange to the uninitiated (Arshad et al, 2004). Conclusion As has been demonstrated, this article provides a descriptive, factual picture of the beliefs, practices and behaviours that Muslims experiencing pregnancy loss or infant death might display. It is of some use to midwives in an informative manner, but also does not seem to address the complex and challenging nature of the provision of care to a range of clients whose only common factor may be their Islamic faith. It does not address the issue of evidence-based care, and fails to engage in any real critique of the evidence base, literature or debate which does exist around this topic. It also fails to highlight some key terms of the current debate, including notions of cultural competence and cultural sensitivity, to any great degree. There are a range of issues which could have been highlighted such as education, communication and immigration. However, any truly client-centred midwife can only conclude that the information itself is vital to the provision of midwifery care to such cl ients and it also serves to highlight the notion of the great differences that exist in responses to and behaviours around pregnancy bereavement within different racial, ethnic and religious groups in society. Any such article has a place in the drive to improve care standards and quality, and should be incorporated into client-centred care. References Arshad, M., Horsfall, A., Yasin, R. () ‘Pregnancy loss- the Islamic perspective.’ British Journal of Midwifery 12 (8) 481-484. Bradford NHS Trust (2007) www.meded.bradfordhospitals.nhs.uk/DesktopModules/ViewDocument.aspx? Brathwaite, A.C. Majumdar, B. (2006) ‘Evaluation of a cultural competence educational programme.’ Journal of Advanced Nursing 53 (4) 470–479. British Journal of Midwifery (2007) http://www.britishjournalofmidwifery.com/ Accessed 6-5-07 Callister, L.C. () ‘What has the literature taught us about culturally competent care of women and children?’. Maternal Child Nursing 30 (6) 380-388. Campinha-Bacote, J. (2006) ‘Cultural competence in nursing curricula: how are we doing 20 years later?’ Journal of Nursing Education. 45(7) 243-4. Chenowethm, L., Jeony, H., Goff, M. Burke, C. (2006) ‘Cultural competency and nursing care: an Australian perspective. International Nursing Review 53 24-40. Cortis, J.D. (2004) ‘Meeting the needs of minority ethnic patients.’ Journal of Advanced Nursing . 48(1) 51-58. Cortis, J.D. (2003) ‘Managing societys difference and diversity’ Nursing Standard 18(14-15-16) 33-39. Dennis, S. (2004) ‘Transcultural nursing resources’ Nursing Standard 19(6) 25 Department of Health (2007) The NHS in England: the operating framework for 2007-08’ http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Consultations/Liveconsultations/DH_064732 Dimond, B. (2002) ‘Race relations and the law.’ British Journal of Midwifery 10 (9) 580-583. Doorenbos, A.Z., Schim, S.M., Benkert, R. and Borse, N.N. (2005) ‘Psychometric Evaluation of the Cultural Competence Assessment Instrument Among Healthcare Providers.’ Nursing Research 54 (5) 324-331 Eade, J. (1997) ‘The power of the experts: the plurality of beliefs and practices concerning health and illness among Bangladeshis in contemporary Tower Hamlets, London.’ In: Marks, L. Worboys, M. (1997) Migrants, Minorities and Health: historical and contemporary studies London: Routledge. 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