Different Styles of Recent British Prime Ministers Essay

Different Styles of Recent British Prime Ministers - Essay Example Amongst the most renowned prime ministers in Britain are such as Winston Churchill; who led Britain during the second world war, Margaret Thatcher who is commonly referred to as the iron lady, John Major and Lloyd George (Bennister, 2012). This discussion looks into the similarities and differences in leadership approaches of latest British prime ministers. These are john Major, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown and the incumbent David Cameron. Major John rose to the position of prime minister after serving for 11 years in parliament; Blair became the prime minister after serving for fourteen years. Gordon Brown waited for twenty five years before becoming prime minister, and the current Prime Minister Cameron took nine years before becoming prime minister. Prime ministers govern depending on their styles of management. Major John was accommodative and tolerant, allowing a greater variety of opinion. He stressed on consensus and collegiality, giving the department as much autonomy as possible . He rarely interfered with the decision making of departments during tenure (Bennister, 2012). Tony Blair is known for his authoritative style having developed a standing for enforcing strong discipline both in his party and cabinet. Blair assigned discretion to strong ministers prepared to follow the government without question. His autocratic style attracted criticism of assuming presidential powers. Cameron leadership is characterized by several policies, the Majority of which are propelled by the need to trim down the government expenditure. Having secured office in 2010, Cameron came in office at a time when Britain was grappling with economic downtowns. The following valuables will be the basis of evaluation leadership styles and aptitude. These are proficiency and communication skills, political skills, emotional intelligence, organizational capacity and policy vision. Proficiency and communication skills Tony Blair has an outstanding proficiency in public communication, usu ally described as an exciting politician, who is able to interact well with the media. His strong control over the government’s message was highly successful in imposing unity and projecting an image of competence. How Blair managed communications during the 1999 Kosovo war, was an illustration of this skill. On the other hand, Major John and Gordon Brown are not proficient and good communicators (Bennister, 2012). Cameron is also known for his communication skills, which is enhanced by background in television. Organizational capacity Cameron noticeable organization skills are his self confidence and inner motivation. He strives to excel and accomplish objectives. He sets intricate goals and works on how the objectives will be accomplished. His strong communication skills enable him to respond positively to setbacks whenever they occur. He is able to remain calm under strenuous circumstances. Cameron organizational capacity has been put under criticism as a result of his jud gments with regards to key government appointments. Major John had a strong organizational capacity due to his democratic leadership. His reign had few ad hoc cabinet meetings and fewer ad hoc committees to compete for a central position in policy making. Tony Blair and Gordon Brown had less organizational capacities, and usually struggled to find arrangements that suited them.

Evaluating Vision And Mission Statements At Harley-Davidson Essay

Evaluating Vision And Mission Statements At Harley-Davidson - Essay Example As the discussion stresses  the statement falls short of describing the geographical territory of operations but mentions that the organization offers its products/services in selected market segments. The third characteristic of unique benefits/features/advantages offered is also present as the mission statement declares that Harley-Davidson fulfills dreams through the experience of motorcycling.  From this paper it is clear that the mission statement mentions ‘an expanding line of motorcycles and branded products’ alluding to the characteristics of technology used in production/distribution and fundamental concern for survival through growth and profitability.   It is however important to mention that there is no specific information on the technology used by the organization. Likewise, the growth and profitability plans have not been explicitly stated. The mission statement of Harley-Davidson does not specify the values and beliefs and therefore does not bring o ut the managerial philosophy of the organization. The characteristics of public image sought and self concept are also conspicuous by their absence in Harley-Davidson’s mission statement.  Harley-Davidson’s vision statement is lengthy and difficult to remember by heart so it does not possess the first characteristics of being brief. The achievement of the aspirations can be verified by checking the annual reports, sustainability reports, website and press releases of the organization.   

Engineering business functions Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Engineering business functions - Assignment Example For instance, the purchases Department are directly linked to the plant processing company. It is the purchases department that works towards ensuring that the raw materials are available for processing in the plant. The purchased parts of the automobiles are processed to form the end products that are sold. Again, where there is a delay in the purchases, the output will reduce. At the same time, when there is a problem with the finance department, there will be reduced efficiency in the purchasing department that will eventually be reflected in the output in the organization. However, efficiency in the finance department will also lead to efficiency in other operations given other factors are always kept constant. Additionally, the production process relies heavily on other important factors. For instance, for effective production, the mechanical processes involved must all be efficient. The required expertise must always be availed to monitor the whole task otherwise that will occu r some errors. Moreover, if the sales department does not effectively execute their duties, then there will be overstocking that will otherwise result in losses in the organization and reduce the rate of production. The necessity of developing standards is essential. The success of any business lies in achieving the standard that can suit both the customer’s specifications and that of the company. However, determining these specific standards remains the main problem that any firm can ever meet.

Article Review on Technology in Education Assignment

Article Review on Technology in Education - Assignment Example Videoconferencing at present is a medium for learning partnerships both in the local scene and in the international setup. Reynard (2012) cited â€Å"the inclusion of video increases the sense of presence,† and considers this as a means of collaboration. This educational tool has evolved in the recent years to include media tools, such as chat, as well as interactive whiteboards, which increase the exchange of ideas and resources alike, taking learning and the accumulation of knowledge to new heights (Reynard, 2012). This promotes access to what is otherwise accessible – locations which are commonly not that open to the public and expert educators who are too geographically distant; in reference to inaccessible locations, virtual tours are utilized (Reynard, 2012). Another advantage of this modern day educational tool is that it can make available the unavailable, such as classes not normally offered in the school, or those beyond the normal hours of school, which would be highly advantageous for those who are not able to avail of normal class hours (Reynard, 2012). Another important benefit of videoconferencing is that it helps students go the extra mile – tutoring and enrichment activities online, in real time, and without geographical constraints (Reynard, 2012). ... Furthermore, technology like videoconferencing may bridge the gap between different cultures as it provides worldwide reach to all students; this would yield better-informed students and well versed in aspects in which traditional students are not due to limited access to resources. There would be constant updates of any advancement or modification in education across the globe, as this education tool goes beyond geographical boundaries. In the future, students would be more interested and involved to learn as videoconferencing offers them interactive learning. It would give new meaning to the term – experience – since this teaching strategy would make the learners feel as if they are in that particular scenario, hence, making them believe like it was their own personal experience. There would probably be an increase in the number of students, as those who do not have the luxury of time could avail of such dynamic and effective education made very convenient to them sin ce it is not bound by normal school hours. Personal Opinion: How Technology will Shape Education in the Future Technology is evolving, as it is used in the field of education, so will the latter evolve, as well. Education will be better, as technology will constantly upgrade, so will the skills of the students. Thus, to keep up with complex learning needs brought about by modernized educational tools utilized by students, educators will adapt to such modernity. They will be well equipped with modern strategies to address learning needs. In the process, education will reach new heights. The standard of education would be further uplifted, producing more competitive

Newspapers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Newspapers - Essay Example nic tragedy way back in 1912 and have shown how each of the three dailies The New York Times, Las Vegas Optic and Santa Fe New Mexican reported it in their 1912 third week of April publication. It was at midnight of the 14th of April 1912 that Titanic hit an iceberg and the rest was one of the worst and most tragic episodes recorded in history. The Titanic was considered to be the most ‘gigantic’ (The New York Times, p.1) luxury cruise-liners of the century that could never drown. But as fate would have it, Titanic went down taking along with it more than 1500 passengers including hundreds of women and children. It became the major news of the 1912s and dominated page 1 of almost all the dailies for weeks. Each of the newspaper houses hounded for more detailed news not only for making business but for delivering as much information as possible to the aggrieved families of the victims who were trying hard to know and connect to their relatives who were on board. The publication of The New York Times that came out on the 16th of April 1912 has provided a detailed account of the incident. The Headline ‘The Lost Titanic Being Towed out of Belfast Harbour’ with a picture of the luxury liner evokes a sense of irrevocable loss. The best part of The New York Times is that it adopts a style that suits the common man’s taste. The news is presented in conversational English that people can connect with. By focusing on every detail from the desperate attempts of the Captain, Captain Smith, to the helplessness of family and friends in trying to get in touch with their loved ones, it makes the tragedy all the more palpable to its readers. Every column informs about one or the other aspect of the accident that might help in understanding the death toll, the exact location and the condition of those who have been saved. It provides a list of those feared to be dead on the basis of the number of cabins and the passengers fitted in them. This bit of statistical data

Introduction to Communication in Health Essay Example for Free

Introduction to Communication in Health Essay Outcome 1: Understand why communication is important in the work setting? †¢ People communicate to give and receive information i.e. Child A has eaten a piece of toast during snack time, as child A doesnt usually do this we informed the parents of the childs progress at the end of our preschool session. †¢ People also communicate to give and receive instructions e.g. Child A has a lactose intolerance and therefore can only have Soya milk at snack times ,It is therefore vital that all staff follow these instructions. †¢ People also communicate to express any needs that they have in our preschool setting we have all weather outdoor play time so it is essential that all children have a suitable outdoor coat hat, gloves and Wellington boots. 2. Explain how effective communication affects all aspects of own work? See more: how to start an essay †¢ Being able to communicate with all individuals within our preschool setting helps to build a good foundation and understanding between us. Giving information in a clear manner that is understood by the recipient to ensure that the information is received in the right way, also taking the time to listen to other peoples points of view and concerns, And ensuring that we meet any needs or concerns that these partys may have. †¢ For children this means always talking to them at there level giving good eye contact and re-assuring facial expressions and body language. Giving them enough time to listen and process things that you say or ask of them and giving adequate time for a response, whenever appropriate using  positive tones to your voice. †¢ For parents using all available communication methods, from face to face communication, to telephone conversations or writing in the childs home school book. Using first names where ever possible and listening to and respecting the views of the parent/carer. Always re-assuring a parent that our first priority will always be there child. †¢ For our colleagues always have conversations in appropriate places, Give eye contact and correct body language also listen and be respectful of other peoples point of views and opinions. †¢ In our preschool setting we have many bilingual children and as English isnt there first language we use many different techniques to ensure they can understand what we are saying or asking them to do. During our snack time we count in all the childrens first languages, Chinese and Malayalam and use both pictures and hand signs to help the Children understand. Child A was doing an animal puzzle and showed me a pig piece I said Thats a pig and made the noise oink, oink whilst making a snout with My hand at my nose. 3. Explain why it is important to observe an individuals reaction When communicating with them? †¢ It is important to watch how people react to see how they are feeling and whether they understand the conversation or instructions you are giving to them. You can see if a person is comfortable by there body language, facial, Expressions and tone of there voice. We must use these skills to read both adults and children alike. Also taking in to account that different expressions can have different meanings in other cultures.

Choosing Between Debt And Equity Finance Essay

Choosing Between Debt And Equity Finance Essay In financial decisions, the choice between debt and equity financing is one of the most difficult ones. Both types of financing have its advantages and disadvantages. Debt financing is based on borrowing finance, and incurs debts that should be repaid in a certain time. The obligations of the company include repaying the loan and paying interest on the loan until its repaid. Debt financing does not impact the ownership of the business, but might cause high debt servicing costs. On the other hand, equity financing represents the exchange of finance to a part of business ownership; this is commonly done by issuing stocks. Equity financing allows to receive investments without additional payments and does not cause financial concern of investors, like debt financing does. However, since the ownership is shared, the owners have to dilute their decisive power (Grossman Livingstone, 2009), and might even lose control of the company. For the companies, the choice of debt or equity financing is based on many factors, such as size of the company, state and dynamics of the industry, perspectives of the company, debt-to-equity ratio, debt servicing costs etc. The purpose of this essay is to consider the decision of American Superconductor Corporation to shift to equity financing from debt financing, made in 2003. AMSC case American Superconductor Corporation is a company providing wind turbine design, electrical control systems, power systems and superconductive wires (Madura, 2008). It operates mostly in Europe, North America and Pacific Asia. Before 2003, the companys investment policy was based on debt financing; however, in 2003, the decision to forgo a secured debt financing and to adopt an equity financing strategy under current market conditions (Esposito, 2003) was made. The company experienced recession in 2003; in October 2002, its stock prices have fallen to the record level of $2.25, and in 2003, they constituted about $3.36, which was very low compared even to 2002 level of $12.26 (AMSC Stock, 2010). The company needed financing, and their choice was to issue a public equity offering instead of debt financing. This decision was explained as strategic solution based on the consequences of 2003 blackouts, and CEO of American Superconductor, Greg Yurek, forecasted an increased need for their power grids and public attention to better voltage support with dynamic reactive power compensation (Esposito, 2003). The results of first six months of fiscal 2004 year seemed to prove the efficient of the decision to pursue equity financing, since no long-term debt was reported, and $17.4 million revenue in the first two quarters of the year. The company also focused on wind turbines, which were gaining popularity. Wind power in 2007, for example, became the first $30B clean energy industry (Madura, 2008). Current financial position of AMSC shows that its total revenue and gross profit values have significantly increased during the last years (2008-2010 financial information available); the companys gross margin is 39.14% compared to 32.19% in the diversified electronics industry in general (AMSC Stock, 2010). The operating margin is also higher: 14.70% compared to 5.71% industrys operating margin, the EPS is also higher (0.64) than 0.08 average (AMSC Stock, 2010). Although the financial position of AMSC is weaker than that of main competitor, ABB. Ltd., the company managed to override another major competitor, SatCon Technology Corporation. The industry provides a significant development potential, and the stocks of the company were not priced less than $10 since 2007 (AMSC Stock, 2010). Analysis of financial decision The combination of debt and equity financing impacts the companys cost of capital. Debt financing is safer for investors, while equity financing is more risky for investors, but at the same time safer for the company (Grossman Livingstone, 2009). Since debt financing creates contractual obligations, the companies should carefully consider their ability to repay the debts. Debt servicing incurs higher costs than equity financing, and if the company experiences fast growth, it might suffer from high debt servicing expenses. It has also been shown that companies with consistent profit operating in low-risk and slowly growing industries more often opt for debt financing, while companies operating in risky and rapidly changing industries as well as in volatile ones, should choose equity financing since these companies have more opportunities for investments, and would not suffer from underinvestment (Grossman Livingstone, 2009). By 2003, AMSC experienced financial problems and its stocks have dropped in price, but the conditions of the environment indicated the quick growth of interest to AMSC production. It could be forecasted that in some time the company would need significant investments and 2003-2004 was the right time to expand. If AMSC continued debt financing, its growth would be hindered by debt servicing costs and worse stock dynamics. Thus, the decision of AMSC to replace debt financing with equity financing was very appropriate in this situation. Conclusion In order to perform the choice of business financing (debt versus equity), it is necessary to consider the perspectives of the company as well as the nature and dynamics of the industry. In 2003, AMSC was experiencing financial difficulties and its stocks have significantly fallen. However, there were many opportunities for development, and the 2003 blackouts increased the interest to AMSC production. Therefore, the company had strong potential for growth, and needed strong financing source without excess cost increase. Thus, American Superconductor Corporation performed a right decision to stop debt financing, and to issue a public equity offering. The correctness of the decision can be also traced looking at further financial development of the company: AMSC is stably growing, creates new products and shows good progress compared to its competitors.