The Speckled Band Essay Thesis Example For Students

The Speckled Band Essay Thesis By: NOODLES The Speckled Band This story is about a women that asks for Shelock Holmes help because she belives that she is going to die like her sister that died two years before. She belives that her sister was either frightened to death or killed by gipsies. Because when this woman Helen found her sister the last words the she sad were: Helen! Oh my God, Helen! It was the band! The speckled band!. All this happend just before Helens sister was suposed to get married. And there mother was also a rich woman but she died long before all this happend and their stepfather got 750 a year from his dead wifes fund. We will write a custom essay on The Speckled Band Thesis specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now But if the sisters would marry he would have to pay them 250 each a year so if the girls would marry he wouldnt get all the money! But now Helen had decided to get married but then a few days later her stepfather decided to mend the wall of Helens room so that she had to move into her sisters room and now she was scared for her live. So Sherlock Holmes went to investigate. Holmes investigated the whole house and he build up a plan to catch the murderer! Holmes had found out that there was an air-vent that was inside the house between the sisters room and the stepfathers. Holmes now was in the room that Helen was suposed to be in and suddenly the light was lit in the stepfathers room, and then Sherlock jumped and hit the bellrobe under the air-vent. Then there was a little whistle and then a scream and Holmes ran to the other room and there was the stepfather dead and with a speckled band on him. It was no band it was a Indian snake that the stepfather used to kill Helens sister and was going to kill Helen with it to but Holmes saved the day once again . Word Count: 323

Grapple Mobile

Grapple Mobile Introduction on Grapple Mobile and its industry The cell phone industry is known as one of the fastest growing industries within the global market. Many changes have been recognized within cell phone industry since early 1990s guaranteeing its global expansion. The industry’s market expansion is attributed to the ever improvement in technology and innovation.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Grapple Mobile specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Current generation desires to live with advancement in technology hence making the cell phone industry to be one of the most important sectors in recent time. Invention of cell phones has led to easy communication and hence success in carriers which requires rapid plans within their processes (International Communications Research, 2007). Mobile applications industry is currently recognized as one of the fastest-growing sectors within the market. According to Forrester Re search, the cumulative global downloads is estimated to grow beyond forty four billion mark within the next couple of years. Various brands within the mobile industry are increasing their demand on tablets and smart phones. This works well for Grapple mobile since their main focus is on businesses rather than consumers. The other focus of Grapple is on functionality and not so much on novelty hence places greater target on brands dealing primarily with consumers (Bhide, 2008). Explanation on the type of service, proprietary technology Grapple Mobile offers and its main competitors. What is the business service area that offers the most growth and profits? Grapple Mobile Company was established in 2010 in London and deals with development of mobile applications for various phones such as iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, Nokia as well as other devices. The company deals with the designing of applications for numerous devices within the mobile industry. Other web technologies used by the f irm include; HTML, CSS and JavaScript and deals with every aspect of application development processes such as testing, approval and submission where the company proves the acceptance of applications by operators as well as manufacturers and other stores within the industry.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Grapple makes numerous branded applications (apps) for various commercial companies such as Xbox; BT and HP. Grapple’s propriety technology is capable of translating simple web languages into various native codes. This has made possible the application of multiple mobile platforms. The company also provides cloud-based distribution system which makes it easier for clients to download links directly from their mobile phones through a single link. The technology simplifies customer’s journey through handset detection database which delivers corre ct version of app directly into handsets (Heatley, 2011). Grapple mobile uses proprietary technology for building cross-platform applications. The company uses development team specialized in building apps for various brands such as iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, Nokia, HP as well as windows phone seven. They offer value for customers in their brands offering entertainment such as Zippo lighter and the Carling iPint. The technology appears technically brilliant and useful based on the core business objectives. The company at the same time charge their clients on the basis of a one-off fee. This kind of pricing has enabled the consumers to get application that works on hundreds of different phone handsets giving clear guidance from the company concerning concepts and download processes. They also provide detailed analytics revealing to the clients the number of times every version has been utilized for the purposes of assisting future marketing activities. The company turned down invol vement of VCs since they perceive them as opportunistic of the whole (Heatley, 2011). Grapple Mobile’s main competitors range from independent mobile application developers to template application platforms. However, the company’s strategy on using full-service agency as well as their platform sets them above their competitors. The level of affordability of the cell phones has made the cell phone industry to expand tremendously. This has created a platform for companies to compete within the confines of advance technology and communication. The mobile industry market seems competitive since the companies involved offer the same products and services despite differences in costs and physical attributes.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Grapple Mobile specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Some of the companies have resorted to lowering the cost of their improved products for the purposes of attracting mor e customers. Improved technological know-how enables continuous manufacture of new products making the market for mobile phone industry to be very competitive (Heatley, 2011). Most of the big mobile phone companies with large economies of scale within the industry provide highly automated services to wide customer base. They also have the advantage of vast financial resources necessary for maintaining communication devices with wide network coverage. This makes them have advantage over the smaller companies such as Grapple Mobile service provider. The smaller providers need to franchise out their offices for the purposes of improving on their visibility hence attracting more consumers. The intense competition within the industry has seen increase in annual revenue from the industry with over 1,200 wireless companies. However, individual companies can also improve their profitability by applying the right marketing strategies for their products and services. Acquiring the right exper tise would help improving the cell phone function capabilities. The level of acquisitions and partnership within the industry has led to improvement of wireless technology as well as the associated services. The growth is associated with improved profit margins for service companies which have earlier been mentioned to be conducting lucrative businesses within the various market segments. Some companies are involved in the creation of models such as Alpha Profit which are necessary within the mobile wireless industry; the industry has received positive growth brought by the introduction of modern phones which uses the third generation wireless networks (Belk, 2006). Analysts define the cell phone industry to be in mature life cycle stage since all customers are potential users of the product. The growth of the industry majorly depends on its ability to attract new customers through value-added services including phone securities. Buyers are normally attracted in two ways within this industry; one way is through service, where cell phones are valued at affordable prices increasing the level of competition amongst companies. Then there is the level of phone innovation which involves addition of more add-on features. The industry contains over fifty companies with the top six controlling 80% of the market (International Communications Research, 2007).Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The technology enhancement within the industry creates similarities in products offered by different companies. There exists variety of products and services making consumers capable of picking their choice of services. Such demands that providers release quality products at reasonable prices. The context of the devices means much to consumers, with such qualities as higher resolution and ability of phone to store more data attracting higher demand. Analysis of the organizational chart and functionalities enforced by Grapple Mobile The company’s organization structure comprises of; the CEO, Head sales, CTO, Platform Engineer, Chief strategy officer, Manager Public Relations, Financial Controller, Manager business Developer, Manager sales, Founder, COO, Chairman and Managing Director. The value of the company has so far been valued based on its intellectual assets. The stakeholders are major contributors who should be included within the process of designing activities within business model (Heatley, 2011). Possible network chart to represent inflows of information as it stands today The chart below shows the different processes which Grapple Mobile should use in building information required for the successful operation of their message services. The various organization units involved and their roles are shown as well as the necessary communication links. The level of project management is manned by two individuals with the support of the company’s administration team. The top management team is endowed with the responsibility of giving the necessary communication to customers and the suppliers of the services. The suppliers include the mobile network operators as well as the first level operation team. The overall managers who include even the CEOs ensure that all the employees within the line of operations receive appropriate information. They are also responsible for financial control and ensuring that the new innovations are implemented. The first level support comprises of five team members with different expertise areas. They are normally endowed with the responsibility of obtaining hardware equipments and the system installation processes. The unit creates IT security user accounts and provides consumers with necessary access to the system services. The second level support supplies the software and at the same time conducts training to the first level support team. In addition they are responsible for system configuration as well as tracking down errors. The server hosting company on the other hand provides equipments required for constructing data centres. The mobile network operator is concerned with delivering appropriate messages to the clients from their operation system and at the same time provides report on delivery of messages. Figure 1 Discussion and analysis of the cases indicated in the above discussion and the media through which the various types of information is distributed The various types of inf ormation are distributed through advanced technology mobile phones which have made possible and accessible the practice of marketing products and service through the internet. The advancements in communication technologies have led to great improvement within the global advertising Industry. The methods applied in outsourcing media buying function to the media agencies has since enabled intensive innovation within the company’s core services (The Guardian. 2011). There has been increase in the use of various communication tools such as mobile phone and personal computer. This has been made possible by the presence of easily accessible Internet advertising which enables mass adoption of Grapple Mobile services within the Global market. For the purposes of maximizing sales, Grapple Mobile Company pays premium for wide exposure through the mass media. The use of mobile phone technology provides common advertising space, but not restricted to the realms of billboards, public tran sportation, movies, schools, clothing, even bathroom stalls carry ads making the industry to constantly explore new advertising ways. The outflow of information processes is influenced by the nature of technology in use and the consumers responses on the products and services within the market. Outflow of information makes it easier for the companies to differentiate and position their products and services. At the same time it is easier to express quality aspect in a manipulative perspective for the purposes of improving on sales. Marketers within the industry consider with great concern responsibilities they owe to the society (The Guardian. 2011). The end result of the information technology presents various challenges to both service providers as well as the consumers in general. The company avoids creating temporal changes which may cause negative results to the society (The Guardian. 2011). In addition the various types of information are distributed through various cell phone technologies and innovations. Unlicensed Mobile Access assists in providing necessary high-speed Wi-Fi which enables good coverage within closets of houses. The service enables users of handsets to download programs of their like at satisfying speed even while travelling. There is also the use of Cell phone tour guides which directs various buyers on appropriate places making the technology preferable to books since it saves on time and money. Combining iTunes into cell phones presents value added upgrade which all together boosts the sales for the phones within the market. The Near Field Communication technology services allows for possible connection through wireless devices enabling transfer of data such as payment information and digital pictures. The services rendered through phones in-built with NFC chips enables use of electronic Identity cards such as debit cards. The technology has since enabled easy transactions to be effected from manufacturers to consumers (The Guardian . 2011). There is the use of SkypeIn which enables those who frequently use internet make free access anywhere in the world. Users are enabled to receive regular phone numbers and also able to receive calls without paying for extra charges. There is the possibility of an individual owning more lines within their home countries hence the technology enhances cheaper ways of connecting to each other within the global base. Inclusion of the VOIP within mobile phones assists in cutting out cell-phone bills mostly in international calls which assumes the same data plan in communication line. The service targets travellers, immigrants as well as students from overseas. The service focuses on providing quality voice and providing value-added services (The Guardian. 2011). Advancements in Information Communications Technology (ICT) provides good platform for internet services which can easily be incorporated within cell phones. Such advancement has made it possible for other related companie s within the industry to execute their services through internet search engines such as Google, Amazon and Yahoo amongst others. Consumers are capable of accessing information just by clicking required items through websites provided in their handsets. Utilization of information outflows has at the same time enabled popular interactive advertising through blog sites. The new trend in communication through improvised networks has given new face to the Information Communication Technology enabling global participation in the mobile phone market. The process at the same time enables easy review and evaluation of the various consumer experiences globally (The Guardian. 2011). Within the current technology, the use of Smart phones has eminently dominated the market and this provides Grapple Mobile with the advantage of reinforcing their services, because of the phone’s unique capabilities. Preferably, being considered and valued amongst many as excellent device for provision of in formation and entertainment to the ever advancing generation. The kind of technology embedded within the phone makes it easier the process of installing various applications provided by Grapple as well as disseminating information to the targeted audiences (The Guardian. 2011). How Grapple Mobile Company conducts boundary spanning activities around the world The recent developments in technology have greatly reshaped the nature of distributed work around the globe especially to companies such as Grapple Mobile. However, research reveals that dispersed works have got various challenges as well as advantages. At times it leads to misattributions and communication breakdowns as well as communication and collaboration. Despite such problems there is significant rise in company’s functions being performed across the world, since the cost of working in some regions seem affordable contributing to increased globalization hence engaging in distributed work. The idea of spanning bound aries within Grapple Mobile has also contributed towards workers learning across their differences making them more creative and innovative. Grapple Mobile Company has moved from hierarchical structure towards network based structure which makes it possible for the company to coordinate well with other mobile phone providers (SMS Gateway, 2010). Figure 2: Boundary spanning knowledge brokering for Grapple Mobile Company The company applies the use of informal brokering to pass knowledge across boundaries by first of all identifying the specific technology needed within specific markets. This is followed by the formation of interpersonal relationships with colleagues since diversity and innovation are critical to the development of Grapple’s services. The formal brokering is also considered in making administrative work possible in different locations in their defined languages (SMS Gateway, 2010). The various modes of dispersion the company uses have helped in creation of se veral boundaries such as distal, temporal and disciplinary. Grapple mobile utilizes increased use interpersonal network necessitated by the use of available technology services. However, the frame of references bridged by broker knowledge tends to differ across locations (Levy, 1999). The company’s ability to improvise the use of Information Communication Technology through phones has enabled new and innovative ways of reaching large numbers of potential clients compared to other companies. The inclusion of creative technologies such as Ad Words makes it possible for companies to operate online businesses with lots of ease. They also utilize the social sites through the cell phones for the same purpose of capturing the market. Indication of the challenges the Grapple Mobile organization faces from the competitive and technology standpoint and the possible organization strategies Grapple Mobile faces the challenge of accommodating the low prices charged by other competitors wi thin the market. There is also possibility of offering low quality services within the industry due to the competition between companies and at the same time dealing with counterfeit products. Lowering costs for services may make Grapple Mobile to lose profits hence reduce their market share. The company faces another challenge on dealing with the right people. The services of the company require regular commercial customers. Grapple Mobile needs to build good reputation by positioning as tasty target for acquisition. Mobile users in the market demands more interactivity necessary for sharing and distribution of content (Lakhani and Pannetta, 2007). There is clear indication within the market showing that mere use of mobile applications may not lead to direct benefits. The process of adopting Internet applications through the mobile demonstrates fewer benefits in line with reduced transaction costs and improved efficiency. Co-ordination of services within the industry proves crucial since the use of the Internet through cell phones does not lead to reduction of information sharing costs, but at the same time the services solve much of users reading and interpretation limitations (Slywotzky, 1995). There is also challenge in strategic utilization of business information which is always of the utmost importance to majority of the client. However, Grapple Mobile Company could maximize the use of information transfers which help in establishing benefits from information technology like shorter lead times and affordable batches. The ability to save on time gives an advantage towards efficiency in information sharing which might be of benefit to the company’s operation costs (Lakhani and Pannetta, 2007). Grapple Mobile could at the same time utilize the concept of integration which enables easier company’s operations within the corporate world. This ensures that the company’s services are provided in full cooperation with other partner mobile ph one providers within the industry. The level of consumer demand could be spanned through the use of virtual enterprises via electronic devices. Such a trend is capable of creating tremendous changes within the company and at the same time granting competitive advantage. The changes within the Company should incorporate both suppliers within the industry and consumers which may as well ultimately result into reductions in cycle time and the overall cost of operations (Lakhani and Pannetta, 2007). At the same time the needs to improve on its boundary spanning techniques which could as well help in the alignment of performance goals across regions through improvement in the level of cooperation. With the improvement in new technologies which enables electronic applications from production level to distribution within the marketplace, Grapple Mobile is able to pre-condition their various management practices. The degree of partnerships between the mobile phone service providers and manu facturers determines the probable outcomes within the supply chain hence enabling the integration of the whole processes ensuring quality supplies to consumers (Slywotzky, 1995). How Grapple Mobile should be organized in order to efficiently manage inflows and outflows of information Due to the rapid growth experienced by Grapple Mobile, the process of building a strong reputation, brand awareness and communicating the right messages presents a vital process in the company’s development. The company should reinforce the nature of their Public Relations and Marketing Management processes by including a range of ad hoc duties which includes improvement in news searches, writing press releases, arranging and organizing events as well as creating company newsletter. There is also the need for Grapple Mobile to indulge in in-depth research concerning mobile related data and at the same time remain relevant to the trends and shifts in the mobile and marketing industries through sal es and business news in the corporate world. Conclusion On most of the occasions Grapple mobile have focused on creativity which provides appropriate responses to consumers’ technological needs. Such include innovating new methods of mobile phone entertainment. The main issue of focus within boundary spanning activities of Grapple Mobile is creativity. Majority of the company’s Information Communication Technology wave centres a round the use of internet and Smart phones utilizing their abilities to combine various applications at one point (Levy, 1999).This works well with two-way rather than one-way traditional mass communication methods. Reference List Belk, J. 2006. Vendor Viewpoint: Why 3G Networks will accelerate the use of  Advanced Camera Phones. Web. Bhide, A. 2008. Innovation in America: A Gathering Storm? The Economist, 11 (22) Heatley, D. 2011. App developer Grapple Mobile. Web. International Communications Research. 2007. Growth of multiple cell phones  Ownership. Web. Lakhani, K. R, Pannetta, J. A. 2007. The Principles of Distributed Innovation.  Innovations: Technology, Governance, Globalization 2, (3), pp 97–112. Levy, P. 1999. Collective Intelligence: Mankinds Emerging World in Cyberspace. NY; Basic Books. Slywotzky, A. J. 1995. Value Migration: How to Think Several Moves Ahead of the  Competition. (1st Ed). Washington; Harvard Business Press. SMS Gateway. 2010. Organization chart during operation. Web. The Guardian. 2011. Changing media summit 2011. Web.

Reaction paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Reaction paper - Essay Example Thereafter, each of them goes their separate ways to attend to their tasks at home or in their offices. Competition causes individuals even in the seminary to think of themselves first in their social and academic endeavors. It takes discipline and effort to think as a team and foster a healthy give and take attitude. Chapter 9 of Bacher and Copper-White book, â€Å"Ministry Teams: Teeming with Talent,† throws some light on how to be involved as a team, specifically in a church scenario. According to Bacher and White a team â€Å"is not a church term...and a community that gathers for worship is not a team either.† A team is composed of a group of people that work together to accomplish goals that cannot be done by a single individual. In a church environment, there are various departments called ministries and each ministry has its own team - teams which can help build up the church and its ministries. In order for the team to be productive and successful, it is essential that each individual realize that to be part of a team, one should know how to develop trust, encourage open communications with one another, and be responsible for one self and the members know how to care for each other. This is because even the absence of one member can have a debilitating effect on the rest of the team. A team has some basic values. Broadly, these values are based on confidence and trust in each other. And based on this confidence and trust, each member of the team performs a distinct function. We may have intellectuals and talented people in our team, but without these values, it is not possible for the team to last. The individuals in the team are interdependent. No individual can be greater than the team. An individual may feel that the team cannot do with him. While this feeling is healthy, it does the individual no good if he is puffed up because of this feeling. Normally, a healthy team always has some replacement facilities. Also quite often, one may think that it

Stakeholders and their role in(selected organisation) Essay

Stakeholders and their role in(selected organisation) - Essay Example Tesco is highly performance driven company and this is reflected in their outstanding financial performance with a reported growth of over 15% growth in its revenue reaching  £ 34 billion in year 2005 and a widely publicised operating profit of  £ 2 billion. Organisations differ in their key aims and this can be noted by contrasting the key aims of Tesco Plc. with another organisation. Hilton Group Plc is a widely diversified UK based multinational. Its operations include Hilton & Scandic Hotels, LivingWell Fitness Centers and the Landbrokes & Vernon betting & gaming operations. In contrast to Tesco Plc., the Hilton Group Plc. is a widely diversified operation with several core operations instead of the single core operation of Tesco, which is retailing. Hilton Group Plc.’s key aims are split across its three core business areas and includes: Comparing the two company’s key aims, it can be seen that depending on different industry conditions as well as company structures and operations, their key objectives will vary. If the industry outlook is bright and offer high potential for growth as in the case of retailing, then the firm may have key aims of aggressive expansion and market share increasing. However if market outlook is dull with sluggish growth conditions as in the current case of hotel and leisure industry, then key aim will be to consolidate and sustain while divesting some of the unprofitable operations. In conducting its operations, companies cater to the needs of many stakeholder groups. An organisation’s Stakeholders are persons, groups or institutions with an interest on the company’s operations and are affected by its operations. These key stakeholders include company, suppliers, competitors, marketing intermediaries and the Publics (Armstrong & Kotler 2000). The company comprises of its shareholders, employees as well as the top management. Objectives of these stakeholders

Source of finance Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Source of finance - Assignment Example t, CLA Charitable Trust, Peter Bilton Charity, Peter Harrison Foundation, Steven Gerrard Foundation, Rank Foundation Small Grants and Trusthouse Charitable Foundation. The major sources of funding for the disability sports in the United Kingdom are Sport England, National Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund. Funding for sports is mainly done through the Sport England. Sport England is an organization that monitors and controls sport activities in the United Kingdom. Most of the sport funds that finance sport activities in the United Kingdom pass through the Sport England. The organization has a number of programs that are applicable to different applicants requiring funding for their sport facilities. First, Sport England has the Inspired Facilities fund of 110 million pounds that offers funding of sport facilities up to 150000 pound grants for development and upgrading of sports facilities. The Inspired Facilities fund mainly aims at improving and refurbishing sport clubs and transforming non-sporting spaces or venues into modern sport facilities. The disability sport project is an eligible project that can be funded by the Inspired Facilities fund from Sport England. Focusing on the disability sport building project that requires 9 million pounds to be completed, the management of the project can apply for the Inspired Facilities grants thus receiving a funding of approximately 1500000 pounds (Sport England website updated 2015). Sport England provides funding for disability sports through the Strategic Facilities Fund program. Sport England has allocated 30 million pounds of its budget to the Strategic Facilities Fund that ensures that local sports projects acquire specific facilities they require in the development and innovation of the sports facilities. The Strategic Facilities Fund offers grants ranging from  £500,000 to  £2,000,000. The Strategic Facilities fund may fund the disability sport facility project  £2,000,000 (Sport England, 2014). Sport

Ultimate leadership styles that the managerial grid deems to be ideal

Ultimate leadership styles that the managerial grid deems to be ideal This is the ultimate leadership styles that the managerial grid deems to be ideal. This leader encourages teamwork while focuses on result and output simultaneously without compromising either. The leader is dominant enough to make the followers feel that they are constructive parts of the company and so make the most out of their capabilities. Research has helped us identify this leadership styles as Charismatic leadership or transformational leadership. Charismatic leadership is defined as a social influence process that involves the formulation and articulation of an evocative vision, provides inspiration to motivate collective action, demonstrates sensitivity to environmental trends, and displays unconventional and personal risk-taking behavior. These behaviors result in leaders being role models for followers who become committed to the leader and the vision, experience task meaningfulness, and make sacrifices for the collective cause (Conger Kanungo, 1998; Shamir et al., 1993) . Shamir, House, Arthurs (1993) self-concept based theory presents two core dimensions of charismatic leadership. These dimensions are inspirational motivation and idealized influence. Inspirational motivation involves communicating high performance expectations through the projection of a powerful, confident and dynamic presence. Such behaviors evoke powerful emotional responses from followers that energize them to exert extra effort.( Sosik Dinger, 2007) Idealized influence involves the display and attribution of role modeling for followers through exemplary personal achievements, character strengths and/or behavior. (Sosik Dinger, 2007) According to Bass Avolio, (1997) both these core behaviors help create a strong emotional bond between the follower and the leader. Inspirational motivation and idealized influence are also considered as charismatic components of transformational leadership. . (Sosik Dinger, 2007) Previous research suggests that transformational leadership co ntributes to the success of an organization by motivating employees to go beyond self interest and be passionate to achieve given targets and goals. Ross Gray (2006) chose transformational leadership when researching on teacher leadership and student achievement because according to them, it is compatible with broadly based trends of teacher empowerment, multiple stakeholder participation in school decisions, and reduced support for top down change theories. In addition, substantial evidence exists that transformational leadership is a stronger predictor of teacher beliefs and practices than transactional leadership (e.g., Koh, Steers, Terborg, 1995). Transformational leadership is said to contribute to collective teacher efficacy (Bandura,(1986). Collective teacher efficacy regards to the perceptions of the teachers in a school that the collective efforts of the teachers will positively contribute to student achievement. (Goddard, Hoy, Hoy, 2000) Produce, Dictatorial or Perish Style This is a very task oriented leader who has high concern for the fulfillment of goals and responsibilities and minimum or low concern for the welfare, comfort or interaction of the employees. His solution to a non productive worker is simply to punish him or replace him. This leader has a dictatorial style and his focus is on planning, coordinating work, scheduling and providing the necessary resources for task accomplishment (e.g., Likert,1967). People who tend to act on extremes of this leadership style tend to become petty tyrants or abusive leaders Hornstein (1996) describes an abusive leader as one whose primary objective is the control of others, and such control is achieved through methods that create fear and intimidation (Hornstein, 1996). Ashforth (1994) describes a petty tyrant as someone who uses their power and authority oppressively, capriciously, and perhaps vindictively Tyrannical leadership falls in the domain of this leadership style. This leadership style hampers motivation, job contentment or welfare of the followers. Tyrannical leaders may behave in accordance with the goals, tasks, missions and strategies of the organization, but they typically obtain results not through, but at the cost of subordinates (Ashforth, 1994; Tepper, 2000). While dictatorial leaders are least concerned about their followers and keep minimum interaction with them, tyrannical leaders act aggressively towards their subordinates and believe that doing so will increase work effort. Most of the literature on tyrannical leadership considers it harmful for organizations especially in the long run. (Bies Tripp, 1998; Tepper, 2000; Lombardo McCall, 1984) Nevertheless Brodsky (1976), argues that tyrannical leaders, despite of harassing followers, may perform well on other work related duties. They may also have strong technical skills that somewhere down the line are contribu ting to the overall success of the organization. Ma et al. (2004) call this, the paradox of managerial tyranny, arguing that tyrannical leadership may lead to extraordinary performance, even when subordinates suffer. So we can argue that the behavior of this leader can be evaluated differently by upper management as compared to the subordinates. Another style that can be discussed here is the instructional leadership style. Research on teacher leadership argues that supervisory leadership is a characteristic of instructional leadership (Hulpia Devos, 2010). Previously it has been discussed that the instructional leader plays a key role in controlling, monitoring and directing in schools (Bamburg Andrews, 1990; Hallinger Murphy, 1985). However, it empirical research shows that autocratic leaders reduce the stability, satisfaction and feelings of motivation within a group of followers. (Van Vugt, Jepson, Hart, De Cremer, 2004). As discussed above, these leaders fall low on the axis of the grid that presents concern for people. So their priority for satisfaction, motivation and comfort of the followers is minimum reducing effectiveness in performance. (Judge et al., 2004). In a study where followers motivation and satisfaction were two dependent variables checked against autocratic leadership, it was found that people do not favor autocratic leaders(Cremer, 2006). According to the study this was so because autocratic leaders donot give sufficient attention to followers and so fail to motivate them to participate, exhibit loyalty, or contribute positively towards the group. The Impoverished or the Indifferent Style. Leaders who fall in this category have low concerns for both people and production. They either adopt a very lazy approach or simply try to avoid getting into any trouble. The main concern of this leader is not to be held responsible for any mistakes and in that course he/she tends to be unproductive, disorganized and they lack effective leadership qualities. Up to date, there has been little effort to research or study this leadership style, instead literature on leadership is concentrated of effective and ideal leadership styles. (Kelloway, Mullen, Francis, 2006). Although destructive leadership is not a synonym for the impoverished leader but it can fall within the domain of this leadership style. Destructive leadership behavior is defined as the systematic and repeated behavior by a leader, supervisor or manager that violates the legitimate interest of the organization by undermining and/or sabotaging the organizations goals, tasks, resources, and effectiveness and/or the motivation, well-being or job satisfaction of his/her subordinates. (Einarsen, Aasland, Skogstad, 2007) According to this definition the leader does not deliberately harm the subordinates or doesnt intend to do so rather he is thoughtless, incompetent as well as ignorant.( Einarsen, et al. 2007). According to the presented definition a leader will be practicing a destructive style if he is violating the legitimate laws of an organization. Any behavior that opposes a legitimate decision, goal or strategy of the firm, is to be regarded as destructive from the moment these decisions, goals or strategies are enforced. . ( Einarsen, et al. 2007) For example, if a school decides to give extra attention to weaker students and instructs all teachers to do so, and some teachers fail to abide by this decision, this behavior can be characterized as destructive teacher leadership. Country Club Style These leaders are extra cautious about the welfare and comfort of the followers. They take care of their followers at the expense of the welfare of the organization often by interacting with them on a personal level, or by giving them favors and rewards that are not part of the organizations judgment. The main goal of task or goal attainment is undermined while violating the legitimate interest of the organization. (Einarsen, et al. 2007) these leaders may be giving more benefits to the subordinates than they are obliged to and this is done at the cost of the company. They may be stealing resources in form of time or finance from the work place. (Altheide et al., 1978; Ditton, 1977). They are of the opinion that if the employees are happy, they tend to be more motivated to work hard and achieve organizational efficiency. The research work of Einarsen, et all.2007, shows that a category of leaders called supportive disloyal leaders is very similar to Blake and Moutons country club style. It is argued in their article that both the styles show overriding concern to establish good relations with the subordinate. These leaders lack strategic competence and so support values and beliefs that are not consistent with those focused by the organization. Irrespective of that, they may be able to maintain a good relationship with the followers. Such leaders easily gain popularity amongst their followers and are often considered them by as good leaders. It is also argued in previous studies that the intention of supportive disloyal leaders is not to harm the organization; they just believe acting in the particular way discussed above will bring benefit to it. (Mars, 1994) Another concept that falls in the same domain is that of Laissez faire leadership. This leader avoids getting into trouble, make any decision or try solving a problem. (Bass Avolio, 1997), Middle of the road or the status-quo style This leadership style lies in the middle of Blake Moutons grid. His focus is equally divided between concern for production and concern for people. It is argued that he tries to keep a balance between the two.(Bartol, Tein, Mathews, 1994. p405) These leaders are regarded to be average or mediocre leaders. They are not pioneers nor are failures. Also, this approach puts considerable emphasis on the leader, his characteristics and attributes. However, not much attention is paid on the attributes of the subordinates, or the circumstances within which the leader and followers are interacting.( Hitt, Black, Porter, 2006. P 418) The above discussion was aimed to present multiple leadership styles considered effective or otherwise so previous research may be highlighted. I find it important to point out here that there is no ideal leadership style, rather the effectiveness of a leadership style is dependent upon the choice of leadership style adopted in a particular situation. According to the contingent approach to leadership, leader effectiveness doesnt only depend on a leader but also on situational characteristics. So a leader will only be effective if he adopts his leadership style according to the situation.(liu, et all, 2003) The contingency approaches to leadership dominated by the path goal theory: House, 1971 all argue that situational characteristics influence the effectiveness of a leader. Also, it is argued culture is an important situational factor that influences leadership style. (Hofstede, 2001) According to Hofstede (2001) leaders in collectivistic cultures aspire more for traditional values and they follow standard methods, and do not support followers initiative. People treat their leaders with respect and are obedient towards them in many collectivistic cultures, where paternalistic leadership is traditionally seen (Dickson, et al., 2003; Dorfman et al., 1997).The directive and supportive leadership styles collectively make up this paternalistic style. So in this leadership style close supervision of employees is combined with high concern for the well being of the follower. Paternalistic Leadership is widespread in non-western cultures (Dickson et al., 2003). Directive leadership in general, is a less common practice and is not much of a consideration when an appropriate leader behavior is considered in individualistic (Western) countries, as it is in the case of collectivist societies (Hofstede, 2001; Dickson et al., 2003). Similarly, supportive leadership is more comm on in collectivistic cultures as compared to individualistic cultures. (Wendt, 2004)

The Profound Ideas of Honore de Balzacs Pere Goriot Essay -- Balzac P

The Profound Ideas of Honore de Balzac's Pere Goriot Honore de Balzac published Pere Goriot in 1834 (1), one of the outstanding novels in his panoramic study of Parisian life, the Human Comedy. Throughout Pere Goriot, Balzac's narrator oscillates between the roles of social historian and moralist. Although the presence of both observer and commentator may initially seem mutually exclusive, it also is a large part of what makes this novel interesting and entertaining. Balzac's readers, as flesh-and-blood humans, do not segregate perception and judgment routinely in their everyday lives. By packaging profound ideas in a way similar to natural human expectation, Balzac's narrator achieves an especially comfortable and effective rapport with readers. One of the central threads of Pere Goriot is the story of Eugene de Rastignac's rise from provincial obscurity to success in Paris. Along the way he learns much about Parisian society and human nature. In the following passage from Pere Goriot, Rastignac pursues success through fashionable dress: Eugene had begun to realize the influence a tailor can exercise over a young man's life. He is either a mortal enemy or a friend, and alas, there is no middle term between the two extremes. Eugene's tailor was one who understood the paternal aspect of his trade and regarded himself as a hyphen between a young man's past and future. The grateful Eugene was eventually to make the man's fortune by one of those remarks at which he was in later years to excel: "I know two pairs of his trousers that have each made matches worth twenty thousand francs a year." Fifteen hundred and fifty francs, and all the clothes he cared to have! At this point the poor southerner felt all doubts van... ...ank and the English mathematician Charles Babbage developed the "analytical engine", precursor to the modern computer. 2 This quote from Henry Reed's 1962 translation, pages 99-100. (Honore de Balzac. Pere Goriot. New York: Penguin Books, 1981) 3 The emphasis is mine. 4 Daedalus was a great inventor in Greek mythology who escaped from prison with his son, Icarus, by flying away on wings of feathers and wax. Not heeding the advice of his practical father, Icarus dared to fly close to the glorious sun. The wax wings melted, and Icarus plunged to his death in the sea below. 5 A corollary is that no one who hasn't been to the "provinces" knows a thing about human life, for a person who lives only in the city will also have a skewed perception. Work Cited Honore de Balzac. Pere Goriot. Translated by Henry Reed. New York: Penguin Books, 1981.