DBQ: Reign of Terror Essay

â€Å"The execution of Louis XVI marked the beginning of the 18 month period of the French Revolution that has come to be called ‘The Reign of Terror’†(49). It was led by no other than Robespierre, in an attempt to start a new government, which proceeded to execute large numbers of people. The 18 months was a blood pouring event during the French Revolution. These events were unnecessary and the whole Reign of Terror was unjustified because it was a sin to kill, they went against what other through and what was right, and they went beyond what was necessary. Not only was the Reign of Terror a big part of the French Revolution but it was a very unjustified event, creating sins among the people. They treated the dead as heads and bodies of simple animals rather than thinking of them as once humans. â€Å"Carried it mockingly, upside down on a cart, offering it to passers-by to spit on†(59). The people then went against the churches abolishing holidays which were important to many people and their beliefs. They also killed thousands, â€Å"many of these people were guillotined†(63). They would cut the heads of criminals and even innocent without trial. The guillotine began very popular through these months, becoming the number one way of killing. â€Å"The guillotine became one of the most powerful symbols of the French Revolution†¦ It had a sharp, angled blade, which dropped quickly on a guided track†(65). These months were very gruesome for the people of france and many families, to where no one felt safe. These murders were sins, killed without reason or trial making the Reign of Terror unjustified. They were also unjustified because they were out of control and gave no trial to those who were sent to death. â€Å"The tribunal followed a formalized legal procedure, but gradually broke down â€Å"(63). They soon after gave in and stopped following their word, stopping all the trials. â€Å"The tribunal were out of control and kill thousands of innocents and accused men and women†(63). These deaths soon became a public view to anyone to witness, a view no one could forget, yet something to celebrate. â€Å"The public guillotines were memorable events†¦ laughing and chatting familiarly as if they were at a festival†(65) The people screamed of joy once the Kings blood poured from his headless body for they had finally killed him off. Louis XVI  was killed for the unjustified killing of many without a fair or given trial. The unjustification also included the Reign of Terror causing an unnecessary amount of deaths and beyond what was called for. People dropping without trial, without justification why at some points. â€Å"historians estimate that between 20000 and 40000 people were killed by the guillotine during the Reign of Terror†(65). The Committee soon hired many to spy making the areas hard to be trusted, they were always searching for if they were being watched. â€Å"a careless word of criticism spoken against the government could put on in prison or worse†(63). This made no one safe from imprisonment or death, this was unnecessary, against what we now have the right to speech. This was beyond what was needed or called for these people were killed over an unjustified event, just if they were in the wrong place at the wrong time. This shows how the Reign of Terror was unjustified and brutally unfair to the people of the times. Thousands killed without trial but guillotine decapitating them. â€Å"In mid- 1794 the Reign of Terror came to a rather abrupt end. Robespierre himself was executed and a more conservative government was put in place†(49). These times ruined families and homes across france, killing innocent men without trying them on trial in front of a fair jury. These 18 months became the bloodiest months of the French Revolution creating a huge impact on our history and government now showing how unjustified it was. The Reign of Terror was a against sin, unnecessary, and went beyond limits.

Metho Drinker

We have chosen this poem to analyse today as we thought that it would be one that you could all relate to. Not necessarily to the homeless man, but to the topic of addiction. Nearly every one here would have known someone who has suffered from an addiction, and knows the effect that it has on not only the addict, but their families. It also highlights the ignorance in today’s society, as many are unaware of their sad existence. Main Idea The poem Metho Drinker by Judith Wright tells the story of a homeless man and his addiction to Methylated Spirits, an addiction which is slowly killing him. Living in winter’s harsh conditions â€Å"under the death of winters leaves he lies† he hides away from society. He is alone and ‘cries to nothing and the terrible night’ as he has nothing and there is no one around him. So he turns to the one thing in his life that keeps him warm, methylated spirits. Personification The poem continuously uses personification, as a way of interpreting the man’s relationship with the bottle. The bottle is personified as ‘his girl’, his only companion. His woman of fire who creeps to his heart and sets a candle there†, this shows his love and affection for this ‘woman’. In the next two lines his addiction to Metho becomes evident, as Wright introduces the metaphor of â€Å"melting away his flesh†¦ to eat the nerve that tethers him in time† as the addiction is slowly killing him. the Metho burns him as he drinks it â€Å"to eat the nerve that tethers him in time†. He dr inks it to take his pain away. The candle burning keeps him warm inside and provides him with warmth that he can not find on the streets. Similes Light is compared to ‘knives; whose thrust I cannot turn’ which suggests the pain that light brings to the drinker. Time, to the man, is a never ending trouble. By drinking the Methylated spirits he feels like he is escaping time and escaping from the troubles in his life. â€Å"He is uneasy under her kiss/and winces from that acid of her desire†. This shows how the metho is killing him but the desire and need for ‘her’ or ‘it’ is too strong to stop and his addiction has taken over. Symbolism Symbolism is used in the poem as the woman and his apparent love and desire for her symbolises the bottle of Methylated Spirits and his addiction. Voice The voice of the poem is written in third person. This technique is used in a way to show an outsider’s perception of the homeless man. Structure The structure is a technique that has been used in this poem. The first stanza in the poem sets the scene for the reader, and helps to give the basic story of the man. It shows how the drinker ‘cries to nothing and the terrible night’ and shows his hate for time, light and society’s cruelty. Whereas in the second stanza introduces the drinker and his relationship with the bottle. Figurative language Figurative language is used in the poem when describing the effect that the Metho has on the drinker. It ‘melts away the flesh that hides the bone to eat the nerve that tethers him’, this is a non literal phrase, but again shows the feeling that the Metho creates in him, further causing his addiction.

An Employee Or Independent Contractor

2. If we assume Simone is an employee, is PR PRO in breach of a common law duty in relation to not giving Simone any days off work or holidays? 3. If we assume Simone is an employee, does she have an entitlement to notice, at common law or pursuant to legislation, if PR PRO decides to replace her? Common law introduced number of tests to identify the status of individual in organization: First test applicable by the Court’s are â€Å"Control Test†. This test is determined by Court in case law Zuljs v Wirth Bros Pty Ltd[1]. In this case, Court held whether employer has right to exercise control over employee is considered as important element as compared to actual control exercised by employer. This element is the strong evidence of employer and employee relationship. It must be noted that control test and integration test are not the strong evidence on which Court takes their decision. In other words they are not considered stand alone test by Courts. There is one more test that is multiple indicia test, and this test was established in Steven’s v Brodribb Sawmilling Co Pty Ltd[2]. In this case, the main issue is whether Gray and Steven’s are employees or independent contractors. Court applied multiple indicia test for determining the employment status of Gray and Steven’s and stated that Steven’s was an independent contractor. However, Court also stated further developments regarding this test are completely based on the interpretation of future judges[3]. Later this test is confirmed in case Hollis v Vabu Pty Limited[4]. In this case Court held that bicycle couriers are not working as independent contractor but they are considered as employee of Vabu Pty Ltd. Therefore, Vabu Pty Ltd is vicariously liable for the act of its employee who never identified on personal basis by individuals because he wears uniform of Vabu[5]. High Court of Australia stated that now a day control cannot be considered as only factor to determine the status of individual in the company. Multiple indicia test includes: Employee relationship is stated if worker integrated into the business of employer such as wearing uniforms, signage on vehicles, etc. Employee relationship is stated if worker is entitled to entitlement and allowances such as Leave, superannuation, workers compensation. A worker is considered as independent contractor if he arranges the taxation matter at his own. A worker is considered as independent contractor if that person is tradesperson or professionals and conducting their own business. A worker is considered as independent contractor if he was engaged to perform some particular task, and worker is considered as employee if he was employed for some definite period. If remuneration is provided in wages then person is considered as employee, and if remuneration is in the form of lump sum, price per volume or as per results then worker is considered as independent contractor. If worker sets his own place and hours of work then he is considered as independent contractor. If worker have ability to delegate his work then he is considered as independent contractor. If employer has control over the conduct of worker then he is considered as employee of the company, and if employer has control over the reporting then worker considered as independent contractor[6][7]. In the present case, Simone working in PR PRO, and she entered into an agreement with PR PRO at the end of 2012, to operate from 1 January 2013 until 31 December 2016. This agreement stated that Simone was not an employee of the company but she is abiding by all the rules of the company. Simone wears the shirt which had logo of PR PRO and she received agreed percentage of sales she made but she also receive small amount of base payment on a monthly basis. She paid income tax directly to the taxation department. Working hours of Simone are not set and she uses her own car for meeting the clients but she gets no allowance for that. She gets training from specialized agency and PR Pro pays for it. It is necessary for Simone to keep her phone all the time so she can answer her clients, and she receives extra payment where work took weekend and public holiday hours. Simone never gets any entitlement related to personal leave or holiday leave and company has never offered her any paid holidays. In this case all multiple indicia test is applied which discover following factors: After considering all the above factors it is clear that she work as an independent contractor in PR PRO. Annual leave is also known as holiday pay in Australia which means employee must be paid while having time off from work. Annual leaves entitlement introduced by National Employment Standards (NES). Any time of award or agreement cannot provide annual leaves less than those stated by NES but they have right to give more annual leaves. Annual leaves become part of NES standards 1 January 2010 and standards of NES apply to all employees covered by the national workplace relations system. All employees except casual employees have right to get paid annual leaves[8]. An English case law Morley v Heritage plc [1993] IRLR 400. In this case, there is general rule which stated that every employee was entitled to annual leave for the period of four months per year. Full time and part time employees of the company have right to get 4 weeks of annual leave, and these leaves are based on their ordinary hours of work. Employer cannot breach standard of NES and in case of breach of NES standards court imposed penalty of $10,800 for an individual and $54,000 for a company[9]. Annual leaves accumulate from the day of joining of employee, even though probation period of employee is not over. Accumulation of annual leave is done when employee is on: Accumulation of annual leave is not done when employee is on: In the present case, on 1/12/2016 Simone had a stroke because of which she lost her capability to work in the foreseeable future, and doctor stated that reason of stroke was high stress level, and her obesity. The reason behind this is that she had no holidays or weekends free from work for a long time. Simone has right to get 4 week annual leave as an employee of the company and company breach their duty under common law by not providing annual leave to Simone. Therefore, PR PRO breach their and court can impose penalty of $54,000 for breach of NES standards. In this case, PR PRO breaches their duty under common law by breaching the standards of NES for annual leave. Employee has right to receive notice from employer, and employer cannot terminate the employment unless he gives written notice to the employee. It is necessary that employer must issue notice to the employee personally, send the notice at last updated address, and sending notice to employee by pre paid post[11].   Minimum time period for serving notice to the employee: An employer’s cannot terminate their employees unless they give minimum period of notice or make complete payment of employees they have worked. Total employment period of employee Employment period of employee is not more than 1 year Employment period of employee is more than 1 year but less than 3 years Employment period of employee is more than 3 year but less than 5 years Employment period of employee is more than 5 year Every employee of the company is entitled to receive minimum period of notice or payment under FW act, and the period of notice is depend on the length of service of employee. It is the duty of employer to ensure that whether employee is entitled for higher period of notice[13]. This can be understand with the case law that is Lavarack v Woods of Colchester [1967] 1 QB 278 ('Lavarack'). In this case, Court sets out the general principle that in case of termination, employee has right to claim for what he is legally entitled. In the present case, PR PRO decided to replace Simone because of her disability to work in near future. In this case, Simone is working in the company from last 4 years and as per the requirement of FW Act PR PRO is under obligation to serve minimum notice period to Simone. As per the requirement to serve minimum notice period the length of service of employee is considered. Simone is working from last four years in the company and she is entitled to receive notice for the minimum period of three weeks. PR PRO is under obligation serve 3 weeks’ notice period to Simone under FW Act. Zuljs v Wirth Bros Pty Ltd (1955) 83 CLR 561. Stevens v Brodribb Sawmilling Company Pty Ltd (1986) 160 CLR 16. Hollis v Vabu Pty Ltd [2001] HCA 44 207 CLR 21; 75 ALJR 1356; 181 ALR 263 High Court of Australia, â€Å"Hollis v Vabu Pty Ltd [2001] HCA 44†Ã‚   9 August 2001, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://eresources.hcourt.gov.au/downloadPdf/2001/HCA/44. ATO, â€Å"Employee/contractor decision tool†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.ato.gov.au/calculators-and-tools/employee-or-contractor/. Law Teacher, â€Å"An Employee Or Independent Contractor†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.lawteacher.net/free-law-essays/employment-law/an-employee-or-independent-contractor-employment-law-essay.php#ftn7. FWO, â€Å"Annual leave†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/leave/annual-leave. FWO, â€Å"Annual leave†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/annual-leave. Australian Union, â€Å"Types of leave and public holiday entitlements factsheet†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.australianunions.org.au/types_of_leave_factsheet. Pattie Walsh, â€Å"Termination of Employment in Australia: Best Practice Guide†, 20 August 2013, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.mondaq.com/australia/x/257796/employee+rights+labour+relations/Termination+of+Employment+in+Australia+Best+Practice+Guide. FWO, â€Å"Notice of termination & redundancy pay†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/notice-of-termination-and-redundancy-pay. FWO, â€Å"Dismissal - how much notice†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/ending-employment/notice-and-final-pay/dismissal-how-much-notice. Zuljs v Wirth Bros Pty Ltd (1955) 83 CLR 561. Stevens v Brodribb Sawmilling Company Pty Ltd(1986) 160 CLR 16. Brenda Marshall, â€Å"Working it out- Employee or independent contractor†, 12, no. 5 (2006). https://epublications.bond.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1102&context=nle. (Accessed on 27 th January 2017). Hollis v Vabu Pty Ltd [2001] HCA 44 207 CLR 21; 75 ALJR 1356; 181 ALR 263. High Court of Australia, â€Å"Hollis v Vabu Pty Ltd [2001] HCA 44†Ã‚   9 August 2001, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://eresources.hcourt.gov.au/downloadPdf/2001/HCA/44. ATO, â€Å"Employee/contractor decision tool†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.ato.gov.au/calculators-and-tools/employee-or-contractor/. Law Teacher, â€Å"An Employee Or Independent Contractor†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.lawteacher.net/free-law-essays/employment-law/an-employee-or-independent-contractor-employment-law-essay.php#ftn7. FWO, â€Å"Annual leave†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/leave/annual-leave. FWO, â€Å"Annual leave†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/annual-leave. Australian Union, â€Å"Types of leave and public holiday entitlements factsheet†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.australianunions.org.au/types_of_leave_factsheet. Pattie Walsh, â€Å"Termination of Employment in Australia: Best Practice Guide†, 20 August 2013, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.mondaq.com/australia/x/257796/employee+rights+labour+relations/Termination+of+Employment+in+Australia+Best+Practice+Guide. FWO, â€Å"Notice of termination & redundancy pay†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/how-we-will-help/templates-and-guides/fact-sheets/minimum-workplace-entitlements/notice-of-termination-and-redundancy-pay. FWO, â€Å"Dismissal - how much notice†, accessed on 27 th January 2017, https://www.fairwork.gov.au/ending-employment/notice-and-final-pay/dismissal-how-much-notice. End your doubt 'should I pay someone to do my dissertation by availing dissertation writing services from

Examine the view of British Class and society that Lindsay Anderson Essay

Examine the view of British Class and society that Lindsay Anderson provides in the films If....(1968), O, Lucky Man (1973) and Britannia Hospital (1982) - Essay Example He later wrote for Sight and Sound, a journal for the British Film Institute and the New Statesman, a left wing weekly. He lashed at contemporary critics and their objectivity pursuit in one article for Sights and Sounds. Anderson went on to develop a philosophy concerning cinema, which was christened the Free Cinema movement in the latter part of the 1950s. This philosophy held that cinema in Britain needed to break off from the class-bound attitudes it projected and that the national screens needed to be adorned with stories of non-metropolitan Britain. This paper seeks to examine three of Anderson’s films: â€Å"If...†, â€Å"O, Lucky Man†, and â€Å"Britannia hospital† and the view of British class and society that they provided. The use of the word new wave to describe cultural phenomena is a vital metaphor that when extended and scrutinised further allows one to picture the deep up currents and swellings that formed the wave (Allon, 2007 p7). These films challenged the old norms and were driven by an amalgam of social-democratic and liberal sentiments, which can ironically be viewed as a portion of the success of the economic boom in Britain that allowed the era’s youth to dream, in relatively secure economic mind-frames, about futures other than those that had been held as the norm. Perhaps a perfect example is If†¦, which came at the tail-end of the New Wave’s phase of social realism and had a nature that was ambiguous in both its recognition of a rapidly changing and expanding British future and its style, both in technique and theme. After his vital role in the Free Cinema movement development, he was involved integrally in the social realist filmmaking of the British New Wave (Anderson et al, 2007 p45). His movie This Sporting Life, based on flashbacks, was viewed as having too much intensity and purely naturalistic. In 1968, Anderson made

GERMANY EXERCISE Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

GERMANY EXERCISE - Term Paper Example subsequent victory at Sedan on 2 September last year is a true case study that our survival depends on our ability to unite as German speaking people and proclaim German unity. The history of the national movement in the German speaking lands dates back to the periods of Napoleonic wars when romantic nationalism and pan Germanism began to rise. For example, the advocacy of building a German nation as a political force was particularly started as a response to the constant invasion of German territories by the French under Napoleon. However, many of the past attempts to create a federation among German states based on common nationhood have always faced numerous difficulties some of which include hostilities and tension between Prussia and the other German speaking lands as well as the Catholic-Protestant divide just to name a few. The original philosophy of the German nationalist movements has always been premised on the principles of collective self determination of the German speaking people, and the need for territorial unification to achieve these ends. According to early German philosophers such as Johann Gottfried Herder, who first developed the concept of German nationalism particularly argued that ethno-linguistic nations are the only legitimate nations. Throughout the history, the definition of being German has always presented numerous difficulties. This is particularly owing to the linguistic diversity in the German speaking lands with the main German dialects currently being Bavarian, Swabian, Cologne and Saxon. In this regard, despite our common history as German speaking peoples, the us of terms like â€Å"Sprachnation†-people united by a common language, or â€Å"Kulturnation†-a people united by a singular culture can not properly define what a German is. In my humble opinion, I would define German a unique people with a rich tied history dating back to the Middle Ages. From Prussia to Baden to Wà ¼rttemberg and to Bavaria, We the Deutsche are one

Florida Merid Award Program evaluation Term Paper

Florida Merid Award Program evaluation - Term Paper Example Eligibility and requirements of renewal are also very clear. It enhances and promotes improved performance in colleges. The program pressurizes teachers to achieve highly so as they can continuously get their awards (Buddin et al, 2007). The program also motivates teachers. Research indicates that an increase of one percent of salary may increase the performance of a teacher by about two percent. However, providing bonuses for good performance is more effective as compared to automatic pay rise since it can elevate the performance of a teacher to as much as nineteen percent. Merit award program attracts qualified applicants or candidates to the profession of teaching, since incomes vary largely and have a basis on the strength of local teachers unions and local tax revenue. The results received are positive. The program enhances high productivity or increased work quality as result of teachers working harder than expected. If teachers work consistently in strives to acquire merit pay increases, then the cumulative impact for the schools would be healthier than before (PEPC Report, 1999). School boards and superintendents are engaged in debates about the program. Instructional personnel who are part of teaching fraternity but not really teachers, or a group of teachers who tirelessly provide necessary instructions for students are also co-operated in the program. The program provides pay for teams or groups of teachers. The state now awards teachers’ salary on the basis of district’s average instead of individual teacher salary. It puts consideration on a variety of teacher performance measures. A combination of benefits gained by the student and the evaluations of the principal are used to assess the performance of the teacher. It increased the size of the award for teachers with less experience and low income. This was to motivate them to work harder than before. The district experiences a lot of flexibility to identify the section of teachers wh o should be awarded. The program offers enough time for the districts’ analysis of achievement data. For instance, teacher performance awards in the academic 2007-2008 were given as from 1st of July, 2008. This gave the districts enough time to analyze the students the achievement data for students, make a list of teachers to be awarded and distribute the awards. Weaknesses of the program The prospects for the Florida merit award program are not promising regardless of the anticipation through theoretical and empirical reasons that the program would generate positive results students which are to be used to measure teacher performance. Since the implementation of education reforms is done in a political setting, the potential of teacher merit award is not a reality. Whatever gains that may be generated from this program; those gains might not be realized due to the same implementation challenge that results in many other reforms. That is, when a reform in education possesses the theoretical potential for achievement, for that very reason, it will be alleged to be threatening to the established interests. The outcome is the very interests will give their resources, time and energy to diluting or blocking the reform, instead of enhancing its implementation on an extensive and exact basis. If the educational reform fails to deal with the

Interest of Tree Growth along the Tagliamen River Statistics Project

Interest of Tree Growth along the Tagliamen River - Statistics Project Example Site A was the furthest upstream site, with the other sites following in an alphabetical order to the seventh, site G. Measurements were taken in two sessions; the first in 2005 and the second in 2010. 140 measurements were taken in each of the two sessions. The average tree height was 304.75 cm (std. dev. = 28.67), with the tallest being 407cm and the shortest 247 cm. The average trunk diameter for the 180 trees was 2.12 (std. dev. = 0.55), with the thickest being 5.0 cm and the thinnest 1.1 cm. The average number of annual growth rings was 8.38 (std. dev. = 3.38); the maximum is 20 and the minimum 3. Based on the ‘river data’, measurements of the various components of the river’s waters were done between the 65th and 90th years. The 90th year had the most measurements, with 19 (6.8%) occurring in that year. The 71st year had the least number of measurements (1, 0.4) recorded. Through the years, June and November recorded the lowest number of measurements taken ( 20, comprising 7.2% for each) while July and December recorded the highest number (26, comprising 9.3% for each). Most measurements were taken on the 1st day of any month (96, translating to 34.4%) while none were taken on the 21st and 25th days. The average depth of the water in the river was 0.389m (std. dev. = 0.147), with the deepest measurement taken at 0.782m and the shallowest 0.036m. The average discharge rate was 10.663m3/s (std. dev. = 4.203), with the highest rate reported at 22.653m3/s and the lowest at 3.751 m3/s. The research sought to investigate the research question: is there the significant positive correlation between the depth of water in the river and the rate of discharge reported? Correlation analysis was undertaken. The test hypothesis is: The Pearson correlation coefficient was statistically significant (Ï  = 0.764, p < 0.001). The null hypothesis was rejected at the 5% level of significance.  

Annotated Bibliography for Organizational Analysis Essay

Annotated Bibliography for Organizational Analysis - Essay Example The Political Frame recognizes the power play within and between institutions. The Symbolic Frame believes that schools produce symbols to create commitment and meaning. This article is important, because it describes different forms of leadership. However, it does not consider that some school leaders may be integrating these different frameworks. This source is important to my field of study, because it will help me analyze and prescribe the best frameworks for different goals and conditions in the Training and Doctrine Command. Managementhelp.org. (no date). What is an open system? Retrieved from http://managementhelp.org/misc/orgs-open-systems.pdf This article describes the main elements and concepts of an open system. An open system is a system that interacts with its external environment through feedback processes. Some of the important components of an open system are inputs, processes, outputs, goals, assessment, and learning. This article is a good source of the basics of an open system, but further research on its real-life applications is needed to understand its strengths and limitations further. This source is important to my field of study, because I want to know how the Training and Doctrine Command works as an open system and what can be done to exploit the advantages of this system. I also want to learn the issues with an open system, especially in how the external environment affects the internal system. Nadler, D.A., & Nadler, M.B. (2000). The Congruence framework - a roadmap for understanding organizational performance. Mercer Management Journal, (13), 4-10. Retrieved from http://www.oliverwyman.com/deu-insights/MMJ13-OrganizationalTrans.pdf Nadler and Nadler (2000) argued that the congruence framework analyzes the roots of organizational performance. They described that it is not a prescriptive model, but an analytical framework that helps leaders understand the interaction between social and technical factors that affect the performance of each organization, so that people can design and execute their own solutions to their organization’s distinctive performance problems. The strengths of the article are its explanation of the components of the congruence model and its application of the model on the Harley-Davidson’s case. Its weakness is that it was not tested empirically using other companies and industries. This source is important to my field of study, because it will help me analyze the best way to implement large-scales changes to the Training and Doctrine Command. McLeod, S. (2007, June 25). Bolman & Deal frameworks. Big think.com. Retrieved from http://bigthink.com/ideas/bolman-deal-frameworks McLeod explains the Bolman & Deal frameworks. These frames are different on their main beliefs about schools as organizations, and the means in achieving their goals. The strength of this article is that it underlines that it is possible to use all frames in understanding and resolving school problems and in implementing organizational changes. It is not an academic source, however, and it will help to do more research on these frameworks and how they are actually used or changed during design and implementation changes. This source is important to my field of study, because I am interested in knowing different ways of analyzing issues in the Training and Doctrine Command and in determining the best leadership approaches. Bolman & Deal fr

Transition temperatures in toughness Research Paper

Transition temperatures in toughness - Research Paper Example This method uses the fault size, as well as features, constituent geometry, loading state of affairs and the substance property known as fracture toughness to calculate the capacity of a constituent containing a fault to oppose fracture (Metallurgical Society of AIME, 2005). Samples having typical proportions but dissimilar complete size bring into being dissimilar standards for KI. This comes about because the pressure states adjoining to the fault changes with the sample thickness (B) in anticipation of the breadth surpassing some critical measurement. Once the breadth surpasses the critical measurement, the value of KI turns out to be comparatively unvarying and KIC , is a accurate material asset which is known as the plane-strain rupture toughness. The affiliation amid stress strength, KI, and rupture toughness, KIC, is comparable to the correlation amid pressure and tensile pressure. The stress strength, KI, embodies the height of â€Å"pressure† at the top of the crack, as well as the rupture roughness, KIC, is the utmost value of pressure strength that a substance under precise conditions that is plane-strain, that a substance can bear up without rupture. As the stress strength factor gets to the KIC value, unsteady fracture takes place. As with a substance’s other motorized properties, KIC is usually reported within reference books, as well as other sources (American Society for Testing and Materials, 2006).    When a substance with a fracture is loaded in pressure, the materials build up plastic tensions as the capitulate stress is surpassed in the area near the fracture tip. Substance within the fracture tip pressure field, located close to an open surface, can distort tangentially that is in the z-path of the representation since there cannot exist any stresses standard to the open surface. The condition of stress is inclined to biaxial, as well as the substance rupture in a distinctive ductile way, with a 45o cut off lip being create d at each open surface. This situation is known as â€Å"plane-stress" furthermore it takes place in comparatively lean bodies where the pressure through the breadth cannot differ significantly because of the thin segment (Metallurgical Society of AIME, 2005). On the other hand, substance away from the open surfaces of a comparatively thick constituent is not liberated to distort tangentially because the adjoining material inhibits it. The stress situation under these circumstances is inclined to triaxial furthermore, there is zero tension at a 90-degree angle to both the tension axis and the bearing of crack transmission when a substance is loaded in pressure. This form is known as â€Å"plane-strain† and is instituted within thick plates. Underneath plane-strain circumstances, substances behave fundamentally, elastic pending the rupture stress arriving at and then swift fracture takes place. Given that slight or no plastic warping is noted, this form rupture is referred to as fragile breakage (Smith, Temenoff & Gall, 2009) . When carrying out a fracture hardiness test, the most widespread test sample designs are the single periphery notch bend (SENB), as well as the compact stress (CT)

The Pledge of Allegiance should be said in public schools Research Paper

The Pledge of Allegiance should be said in public schools - Research Paper Example The pledge is a promise that Americans make to their country. ‘Allegiance’ means that one is loyal to the country. The flag is the symbol of America. ‘Republic’ means a democratic space where people are guaranteed the rights to take part in electioneering politics and voting processes. ‘One nation’ stands for a unified America. â€Å"Under God† symbolizes the people’s reverence of God as the source of blessing upon America. ‘Indivisible’ means that the states of America should not divide for any reason. ‘Liberty’ means that the people have freedom to pursue their interests without inhibition while ‘justice for all’ means that everyone in America would be treated fairly according to the law and the founding values of the country. Having been created in 1892, The Pledge of Allegiance should be said in public schools. It is a historical reminder of what America is about. The magazine, ‘The Youth’s Companion’ on September 8, 1892 published the words of the Allegiance Pledge. It intended to have students recite it at school during the commemoration of Columbus Day in 1892. On October 12, 1892, an approximated 12 million children in America recited the word of the Pledge of Allegiance, marking the beginning of what would become a school tradition in America (Streufert, para 1). ... Streufert (para 3) further added that only a half of the states currently have laws that encourage the recitation of the pledge by children in classrooms. This shows of how the great significance of the Pledge of Allegiance has waned in the country. The Pledge of Allegiance has been met with several challenges in the recent times because of the addition of the phrase ‘under God’ to it. According to Conton (para 1-2), the phrase ‘under God’ has brought several lawsuits that challenge the pledge as violating equal rights of the multicultural diversity in America. Kevin Conton is the national editor for CNN in Massachusetts. The latest lawsuits that challenge the pledge on grounds of religious discrimination have always failed one after the other. The basis of their failures in courts across the U.S. is because the Pledge of Allegiance does not have a compulsory clause that forces one to recite it if they feel that it violates their equal rights (Conton para 6) . Despite the ongoing legal battles of the constitutionality of the phrase ‘under God’ in the Pledge of Allegiance, Americans should understand one fact that the pledge does not criminalize those who feel violated from reciting it. There are several inevitable values that American citizens should remind themselves of through recitation of the pledge in public schools. It does not mean that everyone in public schools should be forced to recite it. However, American children who feel obliged to reconnect with American values and history through recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance should be given an opportunity to do so because they have the liberty to enjoy that freedom. The differences in opinions of those who support the Pledge of Allegiance and those oppose it could just be a healthy part of

Alchemy, Compare Paracelsus Essay Example for Free

Alchemy, Compare Paracelsus Essay Neither Francis Bacon nor Paracelsus claims to be a professional alchemist, however, they both portray a strong defence as to why it is imperative to divulge the mysteries of nature. Both readings assert alchemy as a way of discovering the true forms of things. Paracelsus uses alchemy as a reference point of the past in defence for his use of medicine, whereas Bacon asserts through inductive reasoning that this ‘art of logic’ is how ‘we conquer nature’ (Bacon 1620). What they both get right is their concept of alchemy as an art, and how it is seen as ‘the art of discovery’ (Dawkins 1999). f the divine power. Bacon has two readings that both discuss the matter of alchemy, however, in diverse ways. Firstly, let us acknowledge his insisting on inductive reasoning. Essentially, Bacon presumes through inductive reasoning several interpretations of nature; he chooses this argumentative approach because of his inferences of the unobserved patterns of the future from particulars observed in the past. He suggests an entirely new system of logic, which is based on induction, rather than on syllogism. In fact, Bacon rejects proof by syllogism as it ‘operates in confusion and lets nature slip out of our hands’ (Bacon 1620). Through alchemy, we can conquer nature; overcome the ‘difficult and dark things’ (Bacon 1620). What’s more is the role he suggests of observational experiment as prerequisites for the construction of scientific theory (Bacon 1620). Paracelsus, on the other hand, convinces us that alchemy is ‘nothing, but the art, which can separate the useful from the useless, and transmute it into its final substance and its ultimate essence’ (Paracelsus 1951). He deduces that, without alchemy, there would not be medicine. So we can conclude that when he defends alchemy, he defends medicine, rather than the revelation of the mysteries of nature. In his guide, Bacon discusses how we can teach our minds to be receptive to truth and how our minds can invoke illusions, perceptual illusions – idols of the tribe (Mulder 2000)that are inherent in the nature of the intellect itself. Our senses are how we inspect and analyse the nature of this real world (Bacon 1620), and it is within our subconsciousness that we devise things in certain ways. Our senses affect the way in which we perceive shapes, colours and metals. Whereas Paracelsus talks about physical changes, like from lead to gold. Did he then consider himself to be a ‘natural magician’, who explored the secrets of nature(Gal 2013)? Moreover, he notes the mysteries of nature and how alchemy attempts to reveal and ‘brings to light’ (Paracelsus 1951) what is hidden. There is physical transmutation, an experience, which leads to the unveiling of truth and disproves mystery. What we also should take into consideration is the role of God and how His influence has affected their respective analysis In Bacon’s The Making of Gold, he addresses the negative view on alchemy due to incorrect implementation. He notes that if done in a proper manner with axioms, then it would work and people would be more accepting of it. Similarly, Paracelsus believes his medicine is the only way to recognize and overcome diseases. ‘Physicians who say that the prescriptions (he) writes are poison’ (Paracelsus 1951), are lacking in understanding of natural forces. The mysterium of nature created by God is implemented through alchemy. As a consequence, are alchemists seen to be meddling with God’s creation? If they are, it is supposedly both futile and heretical, and we’ll say: dangerous. Indeed God tasks man with completing his natural creation, for ‘man is nature’s agent and interpreter’(Bacon 1620), however, can we say the transmutation of base metals to gold is a way for mankind to alter the ways of God’s creation, perhaps even replace God’s intentions? For example, the ‘spirit of metal be quickened, and the tangible parts opened’(Bacon 1627) leads to the revelation of gold, hence the alchemist reveals great virtues that ‘lie hidden in nature’(Paracelsus 1951). Here, Bacon presents us with two types of worlds in his Guide to the Interpretation of Nature; nature, free and unconstrained, and nature, confined and harassed when forced from its own condition by art and human agency (Bacon 1627). Essentially, Bacon argues that nature is more likely to reveal its full potential through the ‘harassment of art’, rather than in ‘her own proper freedom’(Bacon 1627). Although Paracelsus asserts that alchemy is indispensable, Bacon accepts the understanding of nature that upheld the theoretical principles of alchemy (Linden 1974). He embraced a similarity of sorts, but one divested in the tremendously complicated system of analogies (those referencing God, included) adopted by Paracelsus and the magicians.

Characteristics Of Major Agro Ecological Zones Environmental Sciences Essay

Characteristics Of Major Agro Ecological Zones Environmental Sciences Essay Africa is a very large continent with extremely wide range of soils (Bationo et al., 2006). The soils range from shallow with meager life-sustaining capacities to deeply weathered profiles that recycle and support large biomass. In many parts of Africa, inappropriate land use, poor management and lack of inputs have led to soil erosion, salinization and loss of vegetation resulting in a decline of agricultural productivity (Bationo et al., 2006). In Africa and particularly Southern Africa, the most limiting factor to agricultural productivity is soil fertility (Ramaru et al., 2000). Soil fertility is defined as a condition of the soil that enables it to provide nutrients in adequate amounts and in proper balance for the growth of specified plants when other growth factors, such as light, water, temperature, and physical, chemical and biological conditions of soil, are favorable (van der Watt and van Rooyen, 1995). Large areas of sub-Saharan African (SSA) soils, in particular, are affected by various types of degradation, including fertility decline (FAO, 2001). Soil fertility decline is a deterioration of chemical, physical and biological soil properties. The main contributing processes, besides soil erosion, are: decline in organic matter and soil biological activity; degradation of soil structure and loss of other soil physical qualities; reduction in availability of major nutrients (N, P, K) and micro-nutrients; and increase in toxicity, due to acidification or pollution (FAO, 2001). Soils in most of SSA have inherently low fertility and do not receive adequate nutrient replenishment (FAO, 2001). The SSA has the lowest mineral fertilizer consumption, about 10 kg nutrients (N, P2O5, K2O)/ha per year, compared to the world average of 90 kg, 60 kg in the Near East and 130 kg/ha per year in Asia (Stoorvogel and Smaling, 1990). Agricultural growth in sub-Saharan African countries slightly increa sed over the past three decades, although not in line with the high population growth rate (FAO, 2001). Food production per capita in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has declined since the 1970s, in contrast with the increase in Asia and South America (Figure 1.1). Soil productivity in SSA is also constrained by aridity (low rainfall) and acidity (FAO, 2001) (Table 1.1). South Africa has to face high population growth, poverty, accelerated soil degradation and increasing pressure on land (FAO, 1999b) (Table 1.1). Depletion of soil fertility, along with the related problems of weeds, pests, and diseases, is a major biophysical cause of low per capita food production in Africa. This is the result of the breakdown of traditional practices and the low priority given by governments to the rural sector (Sanchez, 1997). The 1996 World Food Summit highlighted sub-Saharan Africa as the remaining region in the world with decreasing food production per capita (Figure 1.1). The worst levels of poverty and malnutrition in the world exist in this region (Sanchez et al., 1997). A team of scientists has identified declining soil fertility as the fundamental agronomic cause for declining food productivity in Africa. A Soil Fertility Initiative for Africa has been created by a group of international organizations including the World Bank, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Center for Research on Agroforestry (ICRAF), International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), International Fertiliz er Association (IFA), and International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). Table 1.1: Characteristics of major agro-ecological zones in Africa (FAO, 1986) Figure 1.1: Regional trends in food production per capita (FAO, Statistical Analysis Service, 2000) As the main source of economic activity in SSA is agricultural production, declining soil productivity means not only that less food can be grown but also that production of cash crops for export is endangered (FAO, 1999a). It is therefore essential that production and soils be managed in a sustainable way, so that the present generation is fed and soil conditions are improved to support future generations. The Republic of South Africa covers an area of 121, 9 million ha and has a total population of about 46,6 million people (NDA, 2007). Approximately 83 % of agricultural land in South Africa is used for grazing, while 17 % is cultivated for cash crops. Forestry comprises less than 2 % of the land and approximately 12 % is reserved for conservation purposes (NDA, 2007, Land Type Survey Staff, 1972-2002 Land Type Survey Staff, 1972-2006). Land used for agriculture comprises 81% of the countrys total area, while natural areas account for about 9% (Abstract, 2005). High-potential arable land comprises only 22 % of the total arable land and only about 13 % of South Africas surface area can be used for crop production (NDA, 2007). Slightly more than 1,3 million ha of land is under irrigation. Rainfall is distributed unevenly across the country, with humid, subtropical conditions occurring in the east and dry, desert conditions in the west (NDA, 2007). The most important factor that limits agricultural production is the non-availability of water. Almost 50 % of South Africas water is used for agricultural purposes. Areas of moderate to high arable potential occur mainly in the eastern part of the country, in Mpumalanga and Gauteng provinces (Figure 1.2). Scattered patches also occur in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo provinces. Low to marginal potential areas occur in the eastern half of the country and in parts of the Western Cape. Map in Figure 1 shows large areas in the drier parts of South Africa (e.g. south-western Free State; western parts of the Eastern Cape and the North West Province) that are being cultivated, but which are not classified as having any potential for arable agriculture. Repeated crop failure and subsequent abandonment of these less than marginal lands can have important consequences for soil erosion and land degradation in general (Hoffman, M.T. A. Ashwell, 2001). Figure 1.2: The distribution of arable potential land in South Africa (ARC ISCW, 2002). Soil fertility challenges coupled with shortages of rainfall could result in a compounded problem of food shortage and famine. For soil fertility to be sustained, extracted soil nutrients must equal replenished soil nutrients, but in large areas of Africa and other parts of the world, more soil nutrients are extracted than replenished (Ndala and Mabuza, 2006). There is therefore global concern of fertility management especially with the recent increases in food prices. Soil fertility and its management thus have continued to play an important role in farm productivity. Farmers, their advisors, and any growers need to be knowledgeable of the soil properties which have an influence on soil fertility, some of which include soil texture, structure, organic matter, cation exchange capacity, base saturation, bulk density and pH. These properties also have an influence in determining land capability for agriculture as they are also key indicators for soil quality. Although significant progress has been made in research in developing methodologies and technologies for combating soil fertility depletion, the low adoption rate is a reason for the large difference between farmers yields and potential yields (Bationo et al., 2006). This study thus aims to determine the influence of soil physico-chemistry and clay fraction mineralogy on the fertility status of selected potential uncultivated arable soils of University of Limpopo Experimental farm (Syferkuil) in Limpopo Province. This will encourage expansion of arable agriculture in the area to improve the livelihoods in terms of alleviating food insecurity and poverty. PROBLEM STATEMENT When assessing land for agricultural capabilities, attributes such as slope, stoniness and thickness of the soil stratum are taken into consideration. Soil physico-chemical and soil clay mineralogical properties are often overlooked. Ekosse et al. (2011) showed that these soil physico-chemical and clay mineralogical properties and their compositions play a significant role in suitability of land for arable agriculture. Information on the mineralogy and nutrient status of uncultivated soils in Limpopo Province is lacking, especially of soils found in the communal areas where smallholder agriculture is practiced. Such information is crucial for any strategy that seeks to increase and improve the productivity of cropped or potential arable agricultural land. One important prerequisite of food security is access to land, as more people need to produce their food supplies and make a living from the land. Traditional land management systems are dependent on the availability of sufficient land to allow long fallow periods to maintain soil fertility. When there is no more access to new land, the fallow land has to be used and soil fertility falls. More intensive use of the land also implies that it becomes more prone to soil erosion. To maintain and raise its productivity, new sustainable management measures have to be introduced. As the main source of economic activity in Limpopo Province besides mining is the agricultural production, declining soil productivity not only means less crops is grown but also that, production of cash crops and income are endangered. Vast majority of South Africans, particularly Limpopo residents, buy their staple food from commercial suppliers, rather than growing them themselves (Statistics South Africa, 2009). Rising food prices, particularly of maize and wheat which are the staple diet of the poor in South Africa, pose serious problems for the urban and rural poor as most are net buyers rather than growers of their staple food. Recent information from the Food and Agricultural Organisation (2009) and Heady Fan (2008) suggest that food prices will increase steadily over the next decade even if there are some fluctuations and the occasional drop in prices (Evans, 2009). This therefore poses the need for more expansion of arable land for agriculture so as to improve livelihoods of the poor households. Population pressure and urban expansion seem to be causing the loss of high potential agricultural lands. Hence food demand is rising which leads to food insecurity, thus extension of arable agricultural lands would highly be required. In a recent study, Van Averbeke and Khosa (2007) reported that while income is the most important determinant of household food security in some areas around Limpopo Province, food obtained from various types of dry-land agriculture contributed significantly to household nutrition. They argue that without farming the food security of these households would be reduced, especially for the ultra-poor. The land is used beyond its capability, the type of usage would not be sustainable and the land degradation would result. Equally important is the fact that if land is used below its true capability then the full economic potential of the use of the land would not be realized. Although little production increase has taken place at the Experimental farm (Syferkuil farm), which has been obtained by cultivation of poor and marginal lands, the productivity of most existing lands has been ignored. With population continuing to increase in the area and the country as a whole, the need to take note of the fallow or abundant lands on the farm has become more important. Improving soil fertility could trigger rural and national economic development, achieve long-term food security and improve farmers standards of living, while mitigating environmental and rural migration. Thus, rectifying land degradation and enhancing productivity through appropriate soil management and conservation can play a major role in achieving farm household food security and agricultural development in the area. This research will therefore contribute to the existing database on the physico-chemistry and mineralogy of agricultural soils of Limpopo Province, particularly those at Syferkuil farm. It will also assist farmers and individuals around the area with information and awareness on the fertility status and capability of the soils in their community, so they can initiate agricultural activities on those lands which are left fallow or abundant. 1.3. AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study is to determine the soil physico-chemistry, clay mineralogy and fertility status of selected uncultivated arable soils within the University Of Limpopo Experimental Farm Of Capricorn District in Limpopo Province, with the view of identifying additional potential arable lands for agriculture in the region. 1.4. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY To determine physico-chemical properties of selected uncultivated and cultivated soils on the farm and their influence on soil fertility. To determine the clay mineralogical composition of the selected uncultivated and cultivated soils on the farm and their influence on soil fertility. To determine the chemistry of the selected uncultivated and cultivated soils on the farm and their influence on soil fertility. To determine the fertility index of the selected uncultivated and cultivated soils on farm and their influence on soil fertility. To uncover and understand the role of soil physico-chemical and clay mineralogical properties influencing the fertility of the selected soils on the farm. RESEARCH QUESTIONS These questions will assist in attaining the objectives of the study: What are the physico-chemical properties of the selected soils? What is the clay mineralogical composition of the selected soils? What is the chemical composition of the selected soils? What is the fertility index of the selected soils? Do the soil physico-chemical and clay mineralogical properties affect the fertility status of the selected soils on the farm for sustainable agriculture? HYPOTHESES This research will be guided by the following hypotheses: Most potential uncultivated arable lands on the farm could be used to expand and improve agricultural yields. Soil physico-chemical and clay mineralogical properties with their influence on soil fertility are key indicators for sustainable agriculture. 1.7. RATIONALE OF THE STUDY South Africa has a wide range of soils of different physico-chemical and clay mineralogical composition. Limpopo Province alone has a diversity of soils and climatic conditions permitting a variety of different forms of agriculture, (White Paper on Agriculture, 1995). In support of food security and self preservation, it is now strategically important for any area to have available information on the relative suitabilities of their soils for agriculture, so that preference may be given for the land more suitable for agriculture. In this process, it is important to know the relative quality of the land so that its use can be regulated in accordance with the suitability of the particular soils. Local farmers have always relied on the agricultural research output and extension from Syferkuil experimental farm since their climate, and the soils they farm on developed from the same parent material as the ones at Syferkuil. The surrounding farm community and authorities of the area, will therefore benefit from this study by obtaining information on the physico-chemistry and clay mineralogy of their soils as well as the soils relative suitability for agriculture. Economically, capability classification of the soils in Mankweng area can assist in encouraging the authorities toward initiation of the various farming systems on the identified potential arable lands. In this way individual soils could be best utilized for the types of agricultural production for which they are best and most economically suited. 1.8. STUDY AREA The location, topography, climate, vegetation, soils, geology and hydrology of the area are briefly described below in the subsequent subsections. 1.8.1. Location of the study area Limpopo is South Africas northernmost province, lying within the great curve of the Limpopo River. The province borders the countries of Botswana to the west, Zimbabwe to the north and Mozambique and Swaziland to the east as shown in Figure 1.3 (DBSA, 1998). Limpopo Province is divided into five Municipal districts (Figure 1.3): Capricorn, Mopani, Sekhukhune, Vhembe and Waterberg , which are further divided into 24 local Municipalities (Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003). The Province occupies a total surface area of 125  755 km2, about 10.3% of South Africas land area (Limpopo Province Natural Resource Map, 2003).The population is about 5 355  172 which is 11.3% of South African population (Statistics SA, 2003). Syferkuil is the experimental farm of the University of Limpopo (23o49 S; 29o41 E) situated in the Mankweng area, in Capricorn district municipality, South Africa. The farm is 1 650 ha in size (Moshia et al., 2008). Syferkuil experimental farm, for almost 39 years now (Moshia et al., 2008) has served as the main centre of University of Limpopos horticultural, agronomic, and animal production researches, on which both undergraduate and graduate student researches along with hands-on trainings are conducted. The farm is bordered by five populated rural farming communities which are Mamotintane, Ga-Makanye, Ga-Thoka, Solomondale and Mankweng. On this farm, about 25 ha are currently allocated for rain fed crops, 80 ha for irrigated crops, and 40 ha are used for rotation of winter and summer crops. The 80 ha irrigated crops are served by an automated linear move irrigation system (Moshia, 2008). Figure 1.3: Locality Map of the study area Figure 1.4: A scale aerial photograph map (scaled 1: 10 000) of University of Limpopo (Syferkuil)s experimental farm (Moshia et al., 2008) 1.8.2. Land-Use of the study area Limpopo Province constitute a total of 12.3 million hectares land, out of which about 9.24 million ha. is utilized as farmland (LDA, 2002). This 9.24 million hectares of farmland nearly 0.93 million ha. of it is utilized as arable land, 6.68 million ha. as natural grazing, 1.7 million ha. For nature conservation, 0.1 million ha for forestry and for other purposes. Seventy six percent of the arable Land is allocated to dry land (0.7 million ha) cultivation and only 0.223 million ha for irrigation systems. 1.8.3. Geology of the study area The geology of Limpopo is complex and diverse; it varies from Palaeo-Archaean mafic, ultramafic and felsic extrusives to Mesozoic sedimentary rocks and flood basalts (RSA Geological Map series, 1984). The rock formations in the Province can be considered in four main divisions based on time and general homogeneity namely: the Archaean, generally known as the Basal or Fundamental Complex; the Pre-Cambrian, or Algonkian Systems; the Palaeozoic, pre-Karoo Formations; the Mesozoic and the Karoo System. The topography of the region varies from relatively flat areas to mountainous terrain (Barker et al., 2006). Limpopo is rich in minerals with economic value (White Paper on Agriculture, 1995). Predominant minerals in the eastern part of Limpopo include platinum and its group metals, chrome, copper, phosphate and andalusite. The Western side is characterised by platinum, granite, and coal minerals, while diamonds, coal, magnesite, and traces of granite dominate the Northern part of the Province. Mineral resources that are currently being mined in the province are Andalusite, Antinomy, calcite, chrome, clay, coal, copper, diamonds, emeralds, feldspar, fluorspar, gold, granite, limestone, magnesite, manganese, ornamental stone-Slate, phosphate, platinum, salt, sand stone, silica and zinc (Dramstad et al., 1996). 1.8.4. Climate of the study area Limpopo falls in the summer rainfall region with the western part of the Province being semi-arid, and the eastern part largely sub-tropical, (Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003). The western and far northern parts of the Province experience frequent droughts. Winter throughout Limpopo is mild and mostly frost-free. The average annual temperatures for the southern to central plateau areas of the province is generally below 20oC; in the Lowveld and northern parts average annual temperatures are above 20oC. The province receives summer rainfall between October and March peaking in January. The mean annual precipitation ranges between 380mm in the North and just over 700mm in parts of the Waterberg (Koch, 2005). The climate of the study site is classified as semi-arid with the annual precipitation of roughly  ±495 mm per annum. The mean annual temperature of 25 ±1oC (max) and 10 ±1oC (min) was common during the years of study. Annually, the farm averages 170 frost-free days extending from late October to mid April. Figure 1.5: Monthly average rainfall as recorded in the Limpopo Province (LDA, 2002) Rainfall data (figure 1.5) indicating that most rainfall occurs between November and March, ranging between 80 mm and 130mm. It should, however, be noted that these figures indicate an average rainfall and lower rainfall can be expected in most districts. 1.8.5. Soils of the study area There are wide varieties of soils that occur in the Province, tending to be sandy in the west, but with more clay content toward the east, (Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003). The soils are differentiated based on depth, the nature of diagnostic horizons and parent materials, (FAO, 1999). Those soils are mainly developed on basalt, sandstone and biotite gneiss and are generally of low inherent soil fertility (FAO, 1999). Limpopo Province has diverse soils, however, five major soil associations have been identified, (FAO, 1999): of which Dystrophic, red and yellow, well drained clayed soils are highly leached, clay-like, acidic soils found in the high rainfall areas of Drakensberg and Soutpansberg range. They are rocky, found on steep slopes and are of low fertility. As such, they generally have limited value as arable land but are suitable for afforestation. Red, yellow and grey soils in caternary association are sandy and loamy soils in the 300-600 mm rainfall belt in the western and northwestern part of the Province. They are suitable for arable farming, but generally occur in the low rainfall areas west and north of Thabazimbi, Vaalwater, Lephalale and Polokwane. Black and red clay soils have with varying amounts of rock and lithosol, found in a narrow strip parallel to the eastern border, the Springbok Flats (Settlers and Roedtan) and the southwestern boundary near Dwaalpooort and Derdepoort. Alt hough highly erodible, they are utilized extensively for dryland crops such as cotton and winter cereals. Duplex and paraduplex soils are characterized by topsoil that is distinct from sub-soil with regard to texture, structure and consistency. Major occurrences are in Sekhukhune, south to southwest of Lephalale in Waterberg district, between Louis Trichardt and Tshipise, and sections of Vhembe District near the eastern border. They are generally not utilized as arable land due to high erodibility. Poorly developed soils on rock consist of topsoil overlying rock or weathered rock. They are found to the east of the Drakensberg, including a large section of Mopani District, and east and west of Musina. They tend to be rocky, with shallow soils and therefore generally unsuitable for arable farming. Black and red, fertile clay soils occur on the Springbok Flats, with reddish brown sandy loam to the Northern and Western part of the province, (FAO, 1999). The mountains have deeper, highly leached red soils in wetter areas, with more exposed rock where it is also drier. Reddish brown, gravelly soils, which have a low fertility, predominate on the Lowveld, the best agricultural soils being alluvial soils adjacent to the rivers. The Province has a few high potential areas for dryland crop production and many opportunities for extensive ranching and irrigated fruit and crop production, (Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003). 1.8.6. Vegetation of the study area The geographical location, rainfall patterns and varied physical and climatic conditions have given rise to diverse vegetation across the province. The vegetation found in the province have been classified into inland tropical forest; tropical bush and savannah; pure grassveld; and false grassveld types (Development Bank of South Africa, 1998). The inland tropical forests include the northeastern mountain sourveld and Lowveld sour Bushveld types. Tropical bush and savannah comprise the Lowveld, arid Lowveld, Springbok flats turf thornveld, other turf thornveld, arid sweet bushveld, mopani veld, mixed bushveld, sourish mixed bushveld and sour Bushveld types (Limpopo Province Natural Resource Maps, 2003). Pure grassveld types include the northeastern sandy Highveld types. The false grassveld types include the Polokwane plateau false grassveld. 1.8.7. Topography of the study area Limpopo Province has diverse topographic features. In the east is the flat to gently undulating Lowveld plain, at an altitude of 300 to 600 m, bounded in the west by the Northern Drakensberg escarpment and Soutpansberg, with steep slopes and peaks up to the 2000m (LDA, 2002). The almost level Springbok flats in the South lie at an altitude of 900 m, while the Waterberg and Blouberg to the North, with undulating to very steep terrain, reach 2 000 m. The North- Western zone is a flat to undulating plain, which slopes down to the north and west at 800 to 1 000 m. 1.8.8. Hydrology/Water Resources of the study area The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (DWAF) classifies South Africa as a water-stressed country, prone to erratic and unpredictable extremes such as floods and droughts that reduce land to a dry and arid wasteland (Water Research Commission, 2002). Water resources in South Africa are limited making them critically important for the sustainable economic and social development of the country (Dennis and Nell, 2002). This is one of the reasons why it is important to protect the scarce water resources of the country. Rivers are the main source of water for the country. In the Limpopo Province, there are Four Management Areas namely: Limpopo; Luvubu Letaba; Krokodil Wee Merico and Olifants (NDA, 2000). Applied research on irrigation and fertilizer methods are practiced on the research plots on the farm. There are two 10-ha plots fitted with separate irrigation systems used by researchers and students for research on field crops. 1.8.9. Agricultural activities of the study area The agricultural sector in the province is divided into three broad sub-sectors namely commercial farms, emerging commercial farms and subsistence farms, (Development Bank of South Africa, 1998). The commercial farms fall in the larger farm size category, emerging commercial farms in the medium size and subsistence farms in the smallest size (LDA, 2002). The emerging and subsistence farms are collectively called small-scale farms which are mostly located in the former homelands. The varied climates of Limpopo Province allows it to produce a wide variety of agricultural produce ranging from tropical fruits such as banana, mangoes to cereals such as maize, wheat and vegetables such as tomatoes, onion and potatoes (NDA, 2001). Limpopo Province has large area of land suitable for dry-land production (LDA, 2002). Maize is the staple food of majority of people in Limpopo Province and is largely grown by the different categories of farmers both for household, industrial and animal consumption. On the basis of area and volume of production, it remains the most important cereal grain produced in the Province despite the dry and drought prone agro-ecology of much of the region (LDA, 2002). Climatic variation could lead to variations in maize yields. As a staple food in the Province, maize has a large and stable market and is the most important agricultural product in South Africa (NDA, 2001). 1.9. Summary of chapter The chapter has clearly provided the background of the study outlining the general concept of clay mineral and their influence on soil fertility for crop production. It has also outlined the aims, objectives, research questions, problem statement, rationale and hypothesis of the research project. The map of the study site illustrating the location of the site in Capricorn district municipality and the suitability map of the study site has been provided. The geology, mineralogy, climate, soils and agricultural activities of the study site have also been outlined. The soil physico-chemical and clay mineralogical properties are reviewed in the subsequent chapter.

Strategic Management Evaluation

Strategic Management Evaluation Strategic Management Evaluation Draper IT Strategic Evaluation ModuleBusiness Innovation Management 1.Introduction In today’s marketplace, businesses are constantly under to maintain profitability and competitiveness and their success or failure can depend on the quality of the strategic thinking and strategic management undertaken by the business (Campbell et al 2002). Thus in order to participate any level of strategic thinking or strategic management and undertake a strategic evaluation it is essential to understand exactly what a strategy is. Mintzburg (1987 cited by Campbell et al 2002) suggests the ‘five Ps of strategy; A plan; A ploy; A pattern of behaviour; A position in respect to others A perspective. Adding that it is not possible to see any of these P’s in isolation. However, this is a very simplified view of strategy and perhaps a much better definition from a business perspective is given by Johnson and Scholes (1999); â€Å"the direction and scope of an organisation over the long term: which achieves advantage for the organisation through its configuration of resources within a changing environment to meet the needs of markets and to fulfil stakeholder expectations.† Thus in essence a strategy is deciding what way is best and what tactics will be employed to achieve the business goals. Naoum (2001) suggests that developing a business strategy can take seven stages; Stage 1. Strategic Analysis Stage 2. Strategy Formulation Stage 3. Evaluation Of Alternative Strategies Stage 4. Strategic Choice Stage 5. Action Plan Stage 6. Strategy Implementation Stage 7. Strategic Control And Feedback The aim of this assignment is to undertake the processes required for some of the stages for the Draper Engineering case study, notably stages 1 to 4. This will be undertaken through the completion of the tasks shown in Figure 1. A copy of the complete case study can be found in Appendix One. Figure 1 Assignment Tasks 2.Task One – Strategic Analysis Strategic analysis is define by Morris (2001, p25) as â€Å"the collection and analysis of information relevant to the long term prospects of an organisation, comprising of both external and internal analysis† which is shown diagrammatically in Figure 2 Implementation Analysis Choice External Internal Figure 2 External Internal Strategic Analysis. Morris(2001) External analysis looks outside the organisation at the competitive environment to determine future implications, whilst internal analysis looks inside the business to identify strengths and weaknesses that will affect its ability to compete in the long-term (Morris, 2001). One tool used in strategic analysis is SWOT or TOWS analysis, an acronym for Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities and Threats. It is a very powerful tool for understanding and decision-making for all sorts of business situation in order to focus on the things you do well, whilst reducing weaknesses to make the best possible advantage of opportunities available (De La Salle University, 2002). Further summary information on SWOT analysis can be found in Appendix Two A SWOT analysis was undertaken for Draper Engineering and the results are presented in Figure 3. Figure 3 SWOT Analysis For Draper Engineering Ltd 2.1Five Issues For Improvement By Draper Engineering Ltd. A Warehouse Management System (WMS) fully integrates warehouse management operations with the rest of the business, such as sales, purchase and accounts and subject to the installation the warehouse operations can be world class. However, this technology is not cheap and suitability can be dependant upon the type of solution sought, such as to build or buy (Frazelle, 2002) Draper should not consider implementing a WMS with no guarantees of the final contract as this would mean that although they would experience the benefits of the system, they would also have to shoulder the full burden of the costs with possibly no contract from either of these companies. In order to improve this situation and produce the best business solution for Draper Engineering they need to have a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with each of the companies. An SLA is â€Å"an explicit statement of the expectations and obligations that exist in a business relationship between two organisations: the service provider and the customer† Verman (1999, p1). Were Draper to agree an SLA with the other parties this could ensure that not only would they be guaranteed the contract, but that they would also have a written document of the expectations of each of the parties involved in advance of implementing the WMS. Should these expectations be unrealistic, Draper could withdraw from the negotiations and reconsider their position with respect to the WMS without having incurred any expenses. The key issue identified here, is the ageing workforce of Draper, which can be explained by the work by Warr (2000 cited by Furnham, 2005) where he poses and answers five questions on the ageing workforce and job performance. Figure 4 illustrates his findings; Figure 4 Warrs Five Questions on Job Performance and the Ageing Workforce. Warr (2000 cited by Furnham, 2005, p764-765) The implications of Warr’s (2000 cited by Furnham, 2005) findings on Draper are profound, as many of the personnel issues experienced by Draper are explained in his work. The fact that the workforce is loyal is only to be expected and other benefits careful, reliable, knowledgeable and socially skilled, but unfortunately they are less willing to change, which may be why many of the new initiatives have failed. Also, the high turnover rate in e-commerce could be linked to younger staff (though the case study does not specify this. However, to improve the personnel structure at Draper, they have a number of options available to them; Change management. It is not enough to simple understand how change is going to be administered but it is imperative that staff understand why change is happening so that they can engage with the solution and the change. As part of the change management employers need to provide support and training to encourage staff buy-in and deal with any resistance upfront (Hiatt and Creasey, 2003. Prosci, 2006) Andragogical Training directed at older learners. Warr (2000 cited by Furnham, 2005, p764-765) states that â€Å"older people are slower and have more difficulty remembering, however, training can be adapted to an older person’s limitations and expertise†. One such method is referred to as andragogy, how adults learn. If Draper developed a training scheme that implemented an andragogical approach to training that targeted the older members of staff, they could experience very positive results from their staff, in the form of learning and motivation. Incentives for younger staff to reduce absenteeism and retain staff. Although Drapers need to look after their loyal team of workers it is essential that they can actively encourage younger members to the team and reduce the turnover in this area. One such method is to introduce incentives into new contracts which actively encourages longevity of service, such incentives could include; Annual incrementing pay scales Flexi-time Annual leave rewards for zero absenteeism Team building exercises Gift vouchers Purchase schemes for personal IT equipment at corporate reductions The fact that Draper Engineering have a large product development team is a strength of the business, however, spending the majority of their time improving existing products and solving customer complaints is a fundamental weakness; Draper’s need to be looking to the future and their long term goals, which should involve new product development. To overcome this problem and move the business forward, a small working group should be set up within the department, consisting of the most motivated and technically up-to-date members of staff to brainstorm and generate project ideas that can be developed into new products. This has an added benefit of staff participation and ownership which encourages the desire to succeed as the products are their own ideas. Generally speaking the term outsourcing means to transfer previously internal products or services to an outsider provider (Roeben, 2004), which is as it suggests is where a third party carries out functions which was previous undertaken within the business. However, in the case of Draper Engineering, a medium sized IT business, it appears that they have outsourced their core competency, which is the means by which they should be able to separate themselves from their competition. The decision to outsource the IT division is a fundamental error to the business and weakens their internal and external strength, that they are particularly vulnerable from competition from Hardy’s to whom they originally outsourced. To overcome this problem and improve the company position radical action is required such as; Diversify into new areas. Insourcing Collaboration with Hardy’s for key contracts. If Drapers’ is to survive in the long term they need to resolve this fundamental issue and redefine their core competencies in order to compete effectively in the market place. In addition to outsourcing a core competency, the IT division, being a fundamental error, it is also had a negative effect on Draper’s reputation. Simply by virtue of the fact that Draper’s originally undertook this work, previous customers are making their complaints to Drapers, which indicates that customers or potential customers still make the association and are dissatisfied with the service. It is essential that Drapers rectify this problem otherwise they are likely to experience a backlash in other areas of their business. To improve the situation Drapers have two options; Act as consultants for Hardys on Draper products Instead of letting the reputation of Draper’s be damaged by Hardy’s lacklustre performance, Drapers could offer to act as consultants on the major products and services they previously provided. The benefit of this action to Drapers could be twofold, the reputation of their business would be saved and would also generate revenue for the value of the consultation work. Re-Establish IT Division If Hardy’s were unwilling to agree to a consultant agreement, it would be possible for Drapers to re-establish the IT division once again and encourage previous customers (existing Hardy’s customers) back to them through promises of commitment to service and new product development. 2.2Other Tools For Strategic Analysis. In recent years business practices have evolved in terms of thought, practice and analysis tools. Consequently there are a large set of analytical tools which provide insight, identifying capabilities and strategic options (Khosrowpour, 1998). A SWOT analysis of Draper Engineering Ltd has already been undertaken; however this does not scratch the surface of the analysis tools available. Other suitable tools for analysing Draper Engineering would be; PEST or PESTEL Analysis PEST is an acronym for Political, Environmental, Social and Technological factors whilst PESTEL is extended to include Economic and Legal factors. PEST analysis is a commonly used tool for analysing the external environmental influences on a business, Figure 5 illustrates the PEST grid and the areas that should be considered (Gregory, 2000) Figure 5 PEST Analysis Matrix. Gregory, 2000 The benefit of undertaking a PEST analysis for Draper Engineering is that it would be undertaken in addition to the SWOT analysis and give a good understanding of the global and external environment; however it is essential that Draper follow the PEST analysis with how to respond to these issues and not simply see these points in isolation. Together PEST and SWOT analysis are able to look at the global picture and then the specific detail of the business Porter’s Five Forces Another tool for analysing the external environment of a business is Porter’s Five-Force Model, it is however one of the most influential models for assessing the nature of competition. As the name suggests opportunities and threats are assessed by analysing five forces; Figure 6 illustrates the model. Porter (1980, cited by Campbell et al, 2002) suggests that the five competitive forces shown in Figure 6 determine the nature of competition within an industry. Thorough understanding of each force enables the production of a competitive strategy that embraces the forces, rather than working against them and enable the business to position themselves to take advantage of opportunities whilst minimising threats (Campbell et al, 2002) Draper Engineering would need to undertake this form of analysis in addition to SWOT and PEST to gain the most detailed picture for an effective strategy. The benefit of Porters Five Force Model is they would be able to identify who they are competing against in the marketplace, it currently appears that they are suffering threats from their customers who are refusing price increases and wanting price reductions; and Hardy’s whom Draper outsourced their IT division to are a threat either from the provision of substitute products or directly competing as a new entrant in the same field. Whilst some of these issues were covered in the SWOT analysis, Porter’s five forces views the business solely from the competition perspective that it offers a very focussed approach. Intensity of rivalry in the industry Threat of substitute products Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat from new entrants Figure 6 Porters Five-Forces Model. Porter (1980, cited by Campbell et al, 2002) 3.Task Two – Strategic Choice Macmillan and Tampoe (2001 p132) state â€Å"choice is at the centre of strategy formulation, if there are no choices to be made there can be little value in thinking about strategy at all.† Adding that there are limitations to the range of choices such as small businesses are limited by their resources and large companies are unable to change quickly or are restricted by decisions made in their past. However, in good management the â€Å"strategic choices have to be challenging enough to keep ahead of competition but also have to be achievable† Macmillan and Tampoe (2001 p133) Akin to strategic analysis, strategic choice has a large number of tools available to help focus thinking and produce solid strategic decisions. Two such tools available to Draper Engineering Ltd are; Ansoff Matrix Porter’s Generic Strategy 3.1Ansoff Matrix Igor Ansoff was the first to suggest the diagram shown in Figure 7, for structuring choices of which products or services to offer in which markets. Present Market Need New Market Development Diversification (related or unrelated) ‘Do Nothing’ Withdraw Consolidate Market penetration Product Development PresentProduct New New Market Geography Present Figure 7 Ansoff Matrix. Ansoff (1987 cited by Macmillan and Tampoe, 2001 p137) The axes of the diagram are; Macmillan and Tampoe (2001, p135-137) Product – including services and any form of offering Market Need – any group of potential customers whether defined by their needs, inclinations or income bracket Market Geography – geographical location For the present market geography the model defines four cells, with the top left representing the present status of the business. Movement within or away from this cell represents the possible future choices about products and markets. Macmillan and Tampoe (2001, p135-137). Figure 8 summarises the strategy for each quadrant. Market Penetration Product Development Market penetration is the name given to a growth strategy where the business focuses on selling existing products into existing markets. Market penetration seeks to achieve four main objectives: Maintain or increase the market share of current products. Secure dominance of growth markets Restructure a mature market by driving out competitors. Increase usage by existing customers A market penetration marketing strategy is very much about â€Å"business as usual†. The business is focusing on markets and products it knows well. It is likely to have good information on competitors and on customer needs. It is unlikely, therefore, that this strategy will require much investment in new market research. Product development is the name given to a growth strategy where a business aims to introduce new products into existing markets. This strategy may require the development of new competencies and requires the business to develop modified products which can appeal to existing markets. Market Development Diversification Market development is the name given to a growth strategy where the business seeks to sell its existing products into new markets. There are many possible ways of approaching this strategy, including: New geographical markets; for example exporting the product to a new country New product dimensions or packaging: for example New distribution channels Different pricing policies to attract different customers or create new market segments Diversification is the name given to the growth strategy where a business markets new products in new markets. This is an inherently more risk strategy because the business is moving into markets in which it has little or no experience. For a business to adopt a diversification strategy, therefore, it must have a clear idea about what it expects to gain from the strategy and an honest assessment of the risks Figure 8 Summary of The Ansoff Matrix. Tutor2u Limited (2006) Thomas and Egan (1998) identify that the Ansoff matrix is suitable for both situation analysis, ‘Where are we now?’ and directional policy modelling, ‘where do we want to be?’, adding that it excels at profiling product/market alternatives whilst identifying the risks of different strategic options. Curtis (2006) however suggests that to use the model effectively needs the ‘X’ factor, imagination, without which it is difficult to identify what new products your existing customers may want. This tool would be particularly useful at Draper Engineering as it would identify exactly what their current market position is in terms of products and customers. It appears from the case study that whilst they currently have four major European car manufacturers and two American truck manufacturers as customers, there is no clear description of the products and services that they provide. Ansoff’s matrix would focus their attentions to what it is they produce and where they would like to go in the future, as it seems to date that although they are willing to try new strategies there is little coherence in their intensions or achievements. Additionally, whilst Draper have started developing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems and their associated software there is little suggestion of imagination in their approach, SAP and Oracle were marketing their ERP systems in the late 90’s early 00’s and are now the principle vendors, that if Draper are to enter the market now almost 6 years later they are entering as underdogs. Such analysis using Ansoff would identify a need for greater imagination in identifying the next big trend, one in which Draper could be involved in from the outset rather than midway through the product lifecycle. 3.2Porter’s Generic Strategy. Porter (1979 cited by Gilligan and Wilson, 2003, p2) states that â€Å"a firm’s relative position within its industry determines whether a firms profitability is above or below the industry average, the fundamental basis of above average performance in the long run is sustainable competitive advantage†. Competitive advantage can be of two basic types: low cost or differentiation, which combines with the scope of activities to produce three generic strategies for achieving above average performance (University of Cambridge, 2006), illustrated in Figure 9; Cost leadership Differentiation Focus Cost focus Differentiation focus Competitive Advantage Lower Cost Differentiation Competitive Scope Broad Target 1. Cost Leadership 2 Differentiation Narrow Target 3a. Cost Focus 3b.Differential Focus Figure 9 Porters Generic Strategy. University of Cambridge (2006) 1. Cost Leadership 2 Differentiation In cost leadership, a firm sets out to become the low cost producer in its industry. The sources of cost advantage are varied and depend on the structure of the industry. They may include the pursuit of economies of scale, proprietary technology, preferential access to raw materials and other factors. A low cost producer must find and exploit all sources of cost advantage. if a firm can achieve and sustain overall cost leadership, then it will be an above average performer in its industry, provided it can command prices at or near the industry average In a differentiation strategy a firm seeks to be unique in its industry along some dimensions that are widely valued by buyers. It selects one or more attributes that many buyers in an industry perceive as important, and uniquely positions itself to meet those needs. It is rewarded for its uniqueness with a premium price. 3a. Cost Focus 3b.Differential Focus The generic strategy of focus rests on the choice of a narrow competitive scope within an industry. The focuser selects a segment or group of segments in the industry and tailors its strategy to serving them to the exclusion of others. In cost focus a firm seeks a cost advantage in its target segment Differentiation focus a firm seeks differentiation in its target segment Figure 10 Summary of Porters Generic Strategy. University of Cambridge (2006) Following a cost leadership, differentiation or focus approach has advantages to the business; however it is the strategic choice to decide which option to follow. The University of Salford (2006) identify some anticipated benefits of each of the strategic options (Figure 11); Cost Leadership Earn high profits because its costs are lower than competitors charging a similar price Charge a lower price than competitors so increasing sales and market share Enter new markets charging a lower price than competitors Differentiation Sell their products at a premium price Create a barrier to the entry of new competitors Earn above average profits by reducing elasticity of demand for the product. Focus Does not require so many resources as a broad strategy Allows specialisation Lowers the cost of entering new markets for small firms. Figure 11 Benefits Of The Strategic Options Identified In Porter’s Generic Strategy. University of Salford (2006) However, when Porter developed the strategy he argued that an organisation that did not choose between a cost leadership or differentiation would be ‘stuck in the middle’ and consequently he believed they would not achieve competitive advantage. Subsequently one of the criticisms of the model is that it is possible to have a hybrid strategy that combines low cost with differentiation. A further criticism is that low cost itself does not sell products, customers have other reasoning such as quality that affects their decision. That said in the case of Draper and many other businesses Porter’s generic strategy is a very useful tool for understanding how to achieve competitive advantage. 4.Task Three – Strategy Selection As Macmillan and Tampoe (2001, p132) state â€Å"choice is at the centre of strategy formulation†, but selecting an appropriate strategy and direction from all the available strategic choice tools can be a difficult decision. To overcome this problem and ensure that each option is fairly and equally assessed a further evaluation tool or framework may be used, examples include RACES (Haberberg and Rieple, 2001 cited by Evans et al, 2003), SCARE and CARES standing for Resources, Acceptable, Consistent, Effective and Sustainable. However a more popular framework is the SFA framework (Evans et al, 2003; Little, 2006) Suitability – does the proposal fit with the organisations strategic plan or organisational values? It is essential to identify if a particular option would make full use of an organisations strengths, whilst avoiding its weaknesses or any external factors such as changes in legislation or government policy (Butler, 2001) Feasibility – can it be carried out and will the desired results be available in the timescale? In many cases the feasibility of any option is limted by the firm’s capacity and resources (Butler, 2001) Acceptability – whilst being more subjective, relating to organisational values, this is key to whether the strategy will cause any major crises with stakeholders. Some stakeholders may find one option appealing whilst it is decried by another, this is particularly the case in partnerships and small firms where one wants to grow the business whilst the other wants to consolidate the business (Butler, 2001). To which a fourth criterion has been added; Achieving competitive advantage – this can be low cost or differentiation, as explained in Section 3.2. In order to implement this framework, it is essential to set an initial basis for comparison; for Draper like any business this could be a baseline scenario of do nothing, absolute or relative positioning or finally comparison with industry norms. Once this initial phase of preliminary analysis is complete, it is necessary to develop scenario’s within which to analyse various strategies, which are compared with the initial baseline scenario. The final stage of preliminary analysis is to narrow the range of options to a limited number of strategies in order to undertake a more detailed analysis, this can be achieved through ranking and decision trees. It only on completion of the preliminary analysis, that it is possible to undertake an in-depth assessment using the SFA framework. Based on the choice of strategies in Section 3, Ansoff Matrix and Porter’s Generic Strategy; Draper would need to collate data on their position within the industry, though they would need to decide on the basis for comparison for scenario examination. Finally, whilst there appears to