Mission and Vision Statements Essay Example for Free

Mission and Vision Statements Essay It often reflects the values and beliefs of top managers in an organization. A mission statement is the broad definition of the organizational mission. It is sometimes referred to as a creed, purpose, or statement of corporate philosophy and values. A good mission statement inspires employees and provides a focus and direction for setting lower level objectives. It should guide employees in making decisions and establish what the organization does. Mission statements are crucial for organizations to prosper and grow. While studies suggest that they have a positive impact on profitability and can increase shareholder equity, they also support that almost 40 percent of employees do not know or understand their companys mission. Not only large corporations benefit from creating mission statements but small businesses as Photo by: sellingpix http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 1 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM well. Entrepreneurial businesses are driven by vision and high aspirations. Developing a mission statement will help the small business realize their vision. Its primary purpose is to guide the entrepreneur and assist in refining the planning process. By developing a strategic plan that incorporates the mission statement, entrepreneurs are more likely to be successful and stay focused on what is important. The mission statement encourages managers and small business owners alike to consider the nature and scope of the business. Business Week attributes 30 percent higher return on several key financial measure for companies with well-crafted mission statements. COMMON ELEMENTS While mission statements vary from organization to organization and represent the distinctness of each one, they all share similar components. Most statements include descriptions of the organizations target market, the geographic domain, their concern for survival, growth and profitability, the company philosophy, and the organizations desired public image. For example: Our mission is to become the favorite family dining restaurant in every neighborhood in which we operate. This will be accomplished by serving a variety of delicious tasting and generously portioned foods at moderate prices. Our restaurants will be clean, fun, and casual. Our guests will be served by friendly, knowledgeable people that are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. This mission statement describes the target market, which are families and the geographic domain of neighborhoods. It clearly states how it expects to be profitable by offering excellent customer service by friendly, knowledgeable people. When defining the mission statement it is important to take into account external influences such as the competition, labor conditions, economic conditions, and possible government regulation. It is important to remember however, that mission statements that try to be everything to everybody end up being nothing to anybody. http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 2 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM Companies should have mission statements that clearly define expected shareholder returns and they should regularly measure performance in terms of those expected returns. If the major reason for a businesss existence is to make a profit then it stands to reason that expectations of profit should be included in the organizations mission. This means that management should reach a consensus about which aspects of the companys profit performance should be measured. These might include margin growth, product quality, market share changes, competitive cost position, and capital structure efficiency. A mission statement sets the boundaries for how resources should be allocated and what strategic and operational goals should be set. The mission statement should acknowledge the companys strengths and then inform employees where to direct their efforts in order to take advantage of those strengths. Before writing a mission statement organizations should take a look at how they are different from the competition, whether it is in technology, image and name brand, or employees. It can often be thought of as a recipe for success because it not only defines the organizations accomplishments but it also provides employees with directions to help them develop plans and look for opportunities for improvement. The organization defines what is acceptable behavior through the mission statement. Values and beliefs are the core of a strong mission statement. For example: Quality and values will secure our success. We will live by our values, have fun, and take pride in what we do. Our values are to maintain a work environment where people enjoy coming to work, to serve our guests and exceed their expectations, and to be profitable and result oriented. This mission statement is simple and straightforward. It does not, however, specify the products or target market. The mission statement also provides meaning to the organization by stating not only what goals the company wants to achieve but also why it wants to achieve these goals. It is not effective unless it is challenging and forces workers to establish goals and means to measure the achievement of those goals. A mission statement should inspire employees and get them involved in the organization. It has been called the glue that holds the organization together through shared values and standards of behavior. A mission statement should be relevant to the history, culture, and values of the company. Many statements refer to the social responsibility of the organization. For example, a company can show their concern for the community in the following: http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 3 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM To be involved as good corporate citizens wherever we are around the world. We will treat customers and distributors with honesty, courtesy, and respect. We will respect and preserve the environment. Through all of this we will prove to be the worldwide leader in industry trade. One important issue in organizations today is the concern with diversity. While it is not a traditional point included in mission statements, more and more companies are including it because of the globalization of the economy and the increased diversity of the workforce. Before writing a mission statement, leaders in the organization must have an idea of what is in store for the future. This vision is the foundation for the mission statement. The vision provides a strategic direction, which is the springboard for the mission and its related goals. A vision statement differs from a mission statement. Vision statements are a view of what an organization is striving to become. For example: To bring back to neighborhoods all over America the importance of family unity. We will view ourselves as a family so these attributes will be carried over into our service. They guide an organization into the future while mission statements are a reflection of the present. Because vision statements are a glimpse into the future, they are often not realized for several years. Organizations go through many changes and can face times of confusion and uncertainty. Changes are not always expected or easy, so a well thought out vision statement will help everyone stay focused and meet the organizations goals. Some examples of well-known companies mission statements: Wal-Mart: To give ordinary folk the chance to buy the same thing as rich people. 3M: To solve unsolved problems innovatively. Walt Disney: To make people happy. Historically, these may have seemed arrogant. But consider the outcome of the following mission statements from each companys early days: Ford Motor Company: Ford will democratize the automobile. Sony: Become the company most know for changing the world-wide poor-quality image of Japanese products. Wal-Mart: Become a $125 billion company by the year 2000. http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 4 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM WRITING A MISSION STATEMENT When creating a mission statement there are a few simple guidelines that can be followed. It is important to remember the basics so the mission statement stays simple and straight to the point. Some researchers agree that it should be kept to between 30 and 60 words, while others believe it does not necessarily have to be that brief. Some organizations have mission statements that are only one sentence, while others are a paragraph. An example of a mission statement that is limited to one sentence is Our business is selling houses and our mission is total customer satisfaction. At a minimum, each mission statement should answer the following three questions: (1) What are the opportunities or needs the organization addresses? (2) What does the organization do to address those needs? and (3) What principles and values guide the organization? In other words, defining the organizations purpose, business and values. Avoiding jargon and buzzwords will keep the mission statement clear and easy to understand. It should be universal and simple to comprehend for all employees in the organization. It should be unique and identify the organization. A mission statement is often what sets one company apart from the competition. It should outline the organizations competitive advantages and differentiate it from everyone else. Specific products/services offered as well as markets or customers should be included. Also a general business definition, behavioral standards, and desired competitive position can be added to a strong mission statement. EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT It is often helpful to allow company-wide input when creating a mission statement. This bottom up approach results in greater commitment to the organization and a better understanding of the organization. Employees from throughout the organization can help identify the core values of the company. In order to encourage employee participation, many companies have created competitions inviting employees to submit suggestions. Cash prizes are sometimes provided as an incentive for creative and inspirational statements. Some companies find it useful to invite customers to assist in writing a mission statement because they can provide an honest perspective. Another option is to review mission statements from other companies. This can help provide ideas as the writing process begins. It is important to keep in mind that there will be a draft process involved in creating the mission statement. Employees can often provide invaluable insight on how to improve on each draft. In the end, the mission statement should reflect the personality of the organization. Thus, each company should be creative and unique in developing its own statement. Creating a mission http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 5 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PMÂ  committee that consists of members of management, frontline employees, and customers is another way to begin writing a mission statement. The major benefit of this strategy is the inclusion of all areas of the organization to ensure that everyone is represented. Another benefit is that employees will be more willing to work toward accomplishing the mission if they know they had a voice in i ts creation. A top down approach can be effective in smaller organizations or even sole proprietorships. There is less time involved in creating a mission statement when it comes from the top. Also, many times frontline employees and lower level managers lack the insight necessary to see the big picture. They may not be able to conceptualize the entire organization and therefore miss important aspects of the business. Participation may not always be a good option for small businesses. In small businesses that are started by entrepreneurs the mission statement is generally a vision of an individual and therefore may not be negotiable. When the mission statement comes from upper management, employees are more assured of the organizations commitment to the statement. A word of caution should be noted when deciding whether to adopt a top down approach or a bottom up approach. If the mission statement is to be created with a wide variety of input from both employees and customers then it will take longer than a top down approach. There must be a sharing of views and ideas with compromises made. A consensus should be developed without the problems associated with groupthink. There is always the possibility that too much compromise will distort the mission statement and the end result is something different from the original intent. The top down approach is not always effective because it rarely consults employees when making important decisions. Therefore, although it is the fastest route to take it isnt always the most effective. While the mission statement should be able to change with the times it is also understood to have a certain degree of permanence. As new businesses begin to grow and hire more employees the mission statement should provide a strong sense of stability and a clear definition of the culture. A mission statement is worthless unless it has the support of the employees in the organization. It will only be successful if each employee commits to its success and internalizes it. Once the statement is completed it is extremely important that the organization not put it on the shelf to collect dust. It should be shared with the entire company. The introduction of the mission statement should come directly from top management in order to set the example. Organizations should be creative in making employees aware of the mission statement. Placing it strategically in locations where employees gather will increase awareness and remind them of the goals of the http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 6 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM organization. Videos outlining the details of the new mission statement are often useful; however, it is critical that employees have the opportunity to discuss the statement with members of management. Setting up meetings with members of management and frontline employees can often help uncover areas where the company does not meet the standards set by the mission statement. Communicating the mission statement to customers will make them feel valued and important. It can be sent to customers in a mass mailing or posted on signs in areas those customers frequent. It sets forth the goals of the organization so customers know what to expect when doing business with the company. SWOT ANALYSIS SWOT is an acronym for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool that helps an organization match its internal strengths and weaknesses with external opportunities and threats. SWOT analysis is important and useful in creating and executing the organizations mission statement. Often the best strategies for accomplishing the organizations mission are revealed through the SWOT analysis. The best strategies are those that take advantage of strengths and opportunities, offset threats, and improve weaknesses. Organizations should first begin by reviewing internal strengths and weaknesses. When analyzing an organizations strengths it is important to identify distinctive competencies or strengths possessed by only a few competing firms. These distinctive competencies often become the competitive advantages that are included in the mission statement. Distinctive competencies can be found in financial resources, quality products and services, proprietary technology, or cost advantages. Organizational weaknesses are skills and capabilities that prevent an organization from implementing strategies that achieve its mission. They can be problems with facilities, lack of a clear strategic direction, internal operating problems, too narrow a product line, weak market image, or the inability to finance changes. The next step is to identify external opportunities and threats. Organizational opportunities are circumstances in an organizations environment that if capitalized on will result in above normal increases in economic performance. Examples of opportunities are related to the possibility of adding a new product line, increasing market growth, or diversifying into related products. Threats are viewed as circumstances that give rise to normal or below normal economic performance. They can be found in the ease of entry of competitors, increased sales of substituted products, demographic changes, slowed market growth, or increased competition. EVALUATION http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-State ments. html Page 7 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM Evaluation of the mission statement is necessary to ensure the organization is meeting its goals. If needed, new goals may have to be created in order to accommodate changes in the organization. It may be time to reevaluate what the organization is doing or where it is headed. This is a good time to think about entering into new areas or to begin doing things differently by rewriting part or all of the mission and vision statements. In evaluating an organizations performance, management must look at several different aspects of the organization. First, managers need to determine if the organizations plans are clearly linked to its mission statement and related goals. Plans should be developed for both the short run and long run. Secondly, assigning jobs that are directly related to the achievement of organizational goals will help ensure they are attained. The goals should be communicated clearly so employees understand what tasks need to be carried out and what the rewards will be. Finally, when evaluating individual performance, the information gathered should be recent and compared to established standards. Mission statements are often difficult to evaluate because they are written in a somewhat abstract form. They are, many times, not directly measurable and vaguely worded. Figure 1 presents an example of how mission statements can be measured from the top of the organization to the bottom. Strategic goals are directly tied to the organizations mission statement and apply to the organization as a whole. Tactical goals are departmental goals that support the strategic goals. Finally, operational goals are written at the individual level. Each one of these makes it possible to measure the organizations mission statements. An organizations likelihood of accomplishing its mission is increased as it creates strong and measurable goals at each level. It is not necessary that the mission statement be measured in quantifiable terms. It may also be measured qualitatively. For example, We will answer all of our customers questions and if we dont know the answer, we will find out. While this is not a quantitative statement it can be measured by monitoring customer service calls and setting operational goals for employees that revolve around follow up and thoroughness. Mission and vision statements give organizations a focus and a strategy for the future. According to Bart and Tabone, they have become the cornerstones of organizations. They contribute to organizations success and can lead to increases in productivity and performance. They do not have to be reserved for the entire organization—each department or division can benefit from developing a mission statement, as long as they are not in contradiction to the companys overall mission. Preferably, an individual departments mission links it to the fulfillment of the overall http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Mar-No/Mission-and-Vision-Statements. html Page 8 of 12 Mission and Vision Statements strategy, organization, examples, advantages, definition, company, disadvantages, business 5/19/13 2:42 PM company mission. Mission statements for functional Figure 1 departments provide the same benefits as they do for the entire organization. In conclusion, mission statements provide a sense of direction and purpose. In times of change and growth they can be an anchor and a guide in decision making. The benefits far outweigh the disadvantages and challenges when looking at the potential for increases in profitability and returns. Defining an organization by what it produces and who it satisfies are major steps towards creating a sound and stable mission statement. Setting a company apart from the competition is probably one of the biggest advantages. SEE ALSO: Strategic Planning Failure ; Strategic Planning Tools ; Strategy Formulation ; Strategy Implementation ; SWOT Analysis Amy McMillan Revised by Deborah Hausler FURTHER READING: Bart, C. K. , and J. C. Tabone.

Impact of the Homelessness Act 2002

Impact of the Homelessness Act 2002 Assessing the new homelessness strategies introduced by the Homelessness Act 2002; are the housing needs of the young homeless in the UK closer to being adequately addressed? Abstract: The proposed research will examine the impacts of the Homelessness Act 2002 on homelessness policy and practice throughout the United Kingdom, with specific focus towards the housing needs of those homeless persons aged 16-25. The research will examine the national context within which the Act was framed, highlighting the key motivations for reforming homelessness legislation and examining responses to the proposed changes. The research will then examine the principal provisions of the 2002 Act, and by drawing on the results of contemporary surveys, such as those conducted by MORI polls, and also recent research into youth homelessness, such as those commissioned and produced by NGO’s specialising in issues of homelessness e.g. Crisis, Shelter, the proposed research project will then explore the impact of the 2002 Act on local government youth homelessness policies and practices and on the extent to which youth homelessness is still regarded as a problem. The proposed research will draw on the conclusions made and suggest additional measures that are required in order for the problems in meeting the needs of the young homeless in the UK to be tackled effectively in the future, including changes to the ways by which the performance of youth homelessness initiatives are indicated, monitored and evaluated. Opening Section: The reason that I have chosen the evaluation of the Homelessness Act 2002 as the subject of my proposed research is two-fold:    1] There is a general lack of academic review/discourse regarding the contents of the Homelessness Act 2002, 2] The importance of such a review has recently been highlighted by a government select committee in their report on Homelessness [A recently published government select committee report recommended that the Government conduct â€Å"a review of the workings of the 2002 Act to identify the weak spots.† The reasons that I have chosen to focus and limit this evaluation to the housing needs of the 16-25 year old homeless is for the following reasons: 1] This age range forms 25% of the total number of ‘rough sleepers’ in the UK, and as such must be a major target of any initiatives designed to tackle the UK’s homelessness problems, including those contained within the Homelessness Act 2002. A focus on this youth section of the UK’s homeless population, and an investigation into how it has been affected by such initiatives will therefore prove an excellent way of evaluating one of the key tasks of the Homelessness Act 2002. 2] Until recently, the extent of homelessness among 16 to 25 year olds, in England particularly, has been unknown. Research conducted by York University and commissioned by the charity Centrepoint, published in 2004, was the first to actually publish a figure: The research showed that within this age band, up to 52,000 were without housing in England in 2003, 6,700 of these ‘sleeping rough’. These shocking figures brought the housing need of the young homeless to the attention of the media. Whilst the actual figures are themselves merely educated estimates, this increased public attention towards the 16-25 homeless population of the UK is a major reason for my choice to focus my proposed research project to this area. 3] Research which suggests that homelessness amongst 16-25 year olds has been on the increase over the last ten years highlights the importance of this key target area, and warrants an evaluation into whether the 2002 Act is proving any more successful than its predecessor in trying to meet the housing needs of the young homeless in the UK. Recent academic research in the area of youth homelessness includes a study by Smith and Simister of methods of estimating youth homelessness, research by Crisis and the New Policy Institute into the numbers of non-statutory homeless in the UK, an analysis by Douglas and Gilroy looking at young women and homelessness and an analysis of what risks are most associated with youth homelessness conducted by Bruegel and Smith. There is however, as stated above, no current research published which attempts an evaluation of the success of the Homelessness Act 2002 in tackling the housing problems of homeless people aged 16-25 such as the one which I am suggesting in this research proposal. Critical Research Questions Below I will set out the main critical research questions which shall form the focus of my proposed study. I shall also identify several subsidiary questions and issues which shall support the main body of my research. Main pervasive questions to be addressed throughout my proposed dissertation: To what extent does current research suggest that the Homelessness Act 2002 has improved the situation of the UK’s young [16-25] homeless and the problems of their housing needs? In light of the current research, what reforms might be necessary, if any, either to the content or to the underlying rationale of the Act, in order to ensure that the Homelessness Act 2002 helps provide for the needs of the young homeless in the UK in the future? Subsidiary/supporting questions to be addressed throughout the proposed dissertation: To what extent does the statutory definition of ‘homelessness’ as established by the Housing (Homeless Persons) Act 1977 and the 1996 Housing Act and developed by the Homelessness Act 2002, adequately describe all the urgent housing circumstances of young 16-25 year olds in the UK? To what extent do the lack of Monitoring provisions contained within the Homelessness Act 2002 result in the Act being applied by Local Authorities inconsistently, carelessly and in ways which do not achieve the fundamental objectives of the Act in relation to the housing needs of young homeless people aged 16-25? Are the performance indicators employed by the government to assess the success of Local Authority initiatives suitable methods by which to judge whether the provisions of the Homelessness Act 2002 are being successfully implemented? Is the category of ‘priority need’ contained within the Homelessness Act 2002 broad enough to ensure that the needs of all the young homeless are capable of being satisfied? To what extent does the Homelessness Act 2002 recognise that young people have diverse housing needs and ensure that Local Authorities avoid the ‘one size fits all’ approach which in the past has acted to decrease the supply and range of appropriate accommodation? Does the Homelessness Act 2002 give Local Authorities too much freedom with regard to homelessness strategy development and management, resulting in regional discrepancies in performance and application throughout the UK? Does the ‘Supporting People’ system, as introduced in April 2003, successfully complement the main objectives of the Homelessness Act 2002 in regards to meeting the housing needs of homeless people aged 16-25 in the UK? Research Methodology: The primary research methodology employed by this proposed research is a critical analysis of the Homelessness Act 2002, of primary research data [taken from surveys conducted by previous researchers], of secondary literature regarding the rationale of the Act, of secondary literature regarding alternative interpretations of the primary research data and of secondary literature regarding evaluations of local government youth-homelessness policy and practice. Wherever possible, analyses of the primary data will attempt to reach quantitative conclusions, although in light of the unreliable quantified data available in this regard, these conclusions will only be used to support the more generalised qualitative conclusions which will be offered from the respective analyses of the Homelessness Act 2002 and of the secondary literature. It would not be appropriate in the context of my research proposal to attempt to offer anything other than general qualitative conclusions, as my proposed research does not purport to offer any insight into the relationship between specific independent variables; there are so many factors which come into play to influence whether a statute or a resulting policy are successful in meeting the housing needs of the young homeless, that a direct correlation would never be possible. Equipped with the time and the resources, it would be highly desirable to conduct interviews with various relevant parties, such as chairmen of NGO’s and actual young homeless people throughout the UK to attempt to gauge what their perceptions are of the changes introduced by the Homelessness Act 2002, but within the context of this study, such interviews would act merely as a luxury which would add another dimension to the proposed research. Such interviews are neither essential nor practical and for these reasons I have chosen to reject conducting any of my own primary collection of data within this proposed research project. Annotated Bibliography: 1] House of Commons ODPM: â€Å"Housing, Planning, Local Government and the Regions Committee on Homelessness Third Report of Session 2004–05† This Report is relevant to my proposed research in that it helps to justify that there is a need for analysis of the Homelessness Act 2002 in order to identify the weaknesses therein: â€Å"[we recommend] a review of the workings of the 2002 Act to identify the weak spots [of this legislation].† 2] CRISIS Report: Statistics on Homelessness. (SEU, July 1998) http://www.crisis.org.uk/pdf/HomelessStat.pdf This resource is relevant to my research proposal in that it provides a reliable statistic as to the percentage of young [16-25] homeless people who make up the total number of ‘rough sleepers’ in the UK, which serves as a further illustration of the importance of conducting research focussed at this age range. 3] ‘52,000 youths have nowhere to live, study finds’ John Carvel, social affairs editor. Monday October 11, 2004. Guardian Newspaper. This newspaper article demonstrates how the issue of youth homelessness has received recent media attention, and as such further supports my contention that the topic of this research proposal is one of public interest. 4]http://www.centrepoint.org.uk/spexselfmanagevariables/clientpdfs/4/york%20research%20final.pdf This resource contains information about the York University study conducted in 2004, which was the first to attempt an accurate estimate of the number of homeless youths aged 16-25 who were without housing in 2003. This source also asserts and referenced sources which strongly suggest that the number of young homeless aged 16-25 in Scotland has increased significantly over the last decade. In both of the above respects it is useful and relevant to this research proposal. 5] Smith and Simister: â€Å"Methods of estimating youth homelessness†Ã‚   2001, DETR, UK. This source is of relevance in that it provides an example of recent similar research, which again serves to illustrate that other academics are taking seriously the issues of youth homelessness and are of the opinion that such research is necessary and of public interest. 6] Crisis and the New Policy Institute â€Å"The numbers of non-statutory homeless in the UK†Ã‚   2004 Like the previous resource, this source is of relevance in that it provides an example of recent similar research, which again serves to illustrate that other academics are taking seriously the issues of youth homelessness and are of the opinion that such research is necessary and of public interest. 7] Douglas A. and Gilroy R. (1994) Young women and homelessness The subject of the above study is more specific than the subject of this research proposal, and the content of the study was designed to address issues of homelessness which are unique to the physiology and behaviour of young homeless females e.g. the relationship between pregnancy and the number of incidences in which that pregnant homeless girl is reaccepted and supported by her family after they have discovered the pregnancy. It is only relevant as an example of similar research to illustrate that other academics are taking seriously the issues of youth homelessness and are of the opinion that such research is necessary and of public interest. 8] Bruegel I and Smith J (1999) Taking Risks. An Analysis of the Risks of Homelessness forYoung People in London. Peabody Trust/ Safe in the City. www.safeinthecity.org.uk The above resource is a comprehensive analysis into the risks of homelessness for young people in London. The conclusions however are not limited to London, but must occur in all cities across the UK to a greater or lesser degree. The conclusions of this study are highly worrying, and serve as a strong example of the importance and immediate need to sort out the housing needs of the young homeless in the UK. In this way, this resource is highly relevant to my research proposal. Conclusions: The target reader of my proposed research is anyone concerned with the future of homelessness in the UK in regard to the housing needs of those homeless persons aged 16-25. More specifically, a legislator might be interested in reading my proposed research as it would be one of the first studies actually conducted into the effectiveness of the Homelessness Act 2002 in combating the housing problems of the young homeless [aged 16-25] and it also will provide some suggestions for reform which a legislator could take on board when planning for new homelessness legislation.

Business Environment At Mahindra And Mahindra Commerce Essay

Business Environment At Mahindra And Mahindra Commerce Essay The company was established in 1945 with the assembly line of Willy s jeep in India and now it is a 7.1 billion Indian and multinational company all across the globe. The main motive of the company is to become the global leader in the field they enter. They have more than 100000 employers employed in their company all across the globe and enjoy leadership in the utility vehicles, tractors and in the Information technology sector and also now they have entered the 2 wheeler segment in India they trying to become the global leaders in that also as the existing big 2 wheeler market players. It also has its presence in financial sector, tourism sectors, infrastructure sector, logistic and trade sector. Mahindra is the only Indian company with full range f tractors all across the globe and market leader in its CVs, MUVs, SUVs and SEDAN. Mahindra company recently took a major stake of the REVA the electric car to enter the electric car market segment is now known as Mahindra Reva in the segment and all over. Mahindra also entered the information and technology segment by taking a hostile takeover of SATYAM TECH CO LTD. In India to get a global market leadership in the information technology sector and show some skills in the sector. Also it took over the KINETIC INDIA PRIVATE LTD. Company the one of the best in the 2 wheeler segments as to enter the 2 wheeler markets and now the company is known as Mahindra 2 wheelers so as to become the global leader in the country and all across. The company is one amongst the A+ rated companies in the GRI list of rating companies in 2008-09. (http://www.mahindra.com/OurGroup/Overview.html) COOPERATE GOVERNANCE:- à  The cooperate governance code means to achieve best out of everything and to give best of the benefit to the stake holders and to the context to achieve the best performance environment in the market and in the cooperate world. According to Mahindra and Mahindra governance is not just system, metrics, processes .according to the company it is inheriting itself with beliefs, its culture, values, and motives and its ethics leading to transparency and accountability which is good governance according to the company. When there was hit of recession in the country there was a flood of legal notifications firing of people and a new set of rules and regulations were made but there was no change in the Mahindra and Mahindra company because they follow a good cooperate governance and also a good set of legislation reforms which make the company different from the other companies. The company follows a code of conduct which are made by director of the company and by the senior management and employees and those are:- 1. Director shall not take for themselves personally any business opportunities that belong to the Company or are discovered through the use of corporate property, information or position. 2. Director shall not corporate property, information or position for personal gain. 3. Director shall represent the interests of the shareholders of the Company 4. Director shall exhibit high standards of integrity, commitment and independence of thought and judgement 5. Director shall dedicate adequate time, energy and attention to ensure the diligent performance of his/her duties including making all reasonable efforts to attend Board or Committee Meeting 6. Director shall comply with every provision of this Code. (http://www.mahindra.com/OurGroup/CODEOFCONDUCTFORDIRECTORS.pdf) Cooperate governance code for management and employees:- Management will ensure that the company is running under sound economic environment principles and is working properly with a balanced allocation of resources to support the companies responsibilities to each stake holder of the company. System and policies should be transparent and should be known to everyone and shall be known to everyone. The management would take out only those business processes or approve only those business processes that are strong and robust so as they are judicious and worthful. The management committee is committed to seeking long term profits with no compromises. The decision towards employees should be transparent and should not be done due to its caste, creed, gender, religion or handicap of the employee. Every employee would be given the task which is best suited to it and is favoured to it and is capable of doing it. The employees can give new ideas and they are welcome and rewarded for their new ideas in the company. Employees will be provided safe and healthy environment and with full time devotion towards them. (http://www.mahindra.com/OurGroup/CODEFORSENIORMGMTCL49.pdf) Long term Sustainability of Mahindra and Mahindra:- à   Environmental changes and societal changes in the economy and in the market Mahindra and Mahindra Company have eagerly entered into new risk markets like the information sector and in the 2 wheeler market for more avenues and revenues from the market and benefiting the company. The Mahindra and Mahindra Companys sustainability is strategically is integrating in the business ventures and making intrinsic decision making processes. In the last three years the sustainability of the company has traversed from intentions to commitments and from commitments to road ramps that is fulfilment of commitments and then presenting in front of the consumers to fulfil their expectations. The company after integrating and controlling the environmental factors and social factors of business and management is able to establish a connection between financial and strategic and sustainability directions of the business. (http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra%20CSR%202009-10/sustainabilityHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/sustainabilitycontext.aspHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/sustainabilitycontext.aspus/sustainabilitycontext.asp) The sustainability structure is divided into 3 tier system:- One tier:- à  It comprises of senior members of committee that is the senior board of directors which handle the management of the company and also take care of the stake holders report and the company stake. It is also called as cooperate sustainability council . Middle tier :- à  It is the back bone of the company as it handles all the sustainability initiatives like:- 1. To ensure the approved strategies are in action 2. To purpose strategies, action plans, scoping of the report to the sustainability council. 3. To develop plans to all the sector of the groups. 4. Ensuring share of knowledge and capacity team building among each sectors and monitoring and collecting data from each sector. Also known as the cooperate sustainability cell 3. Third tier:- à  The sector consists of a team of 8 to 10 members which collect all the data and analyze the data and monitoring the data. They are responsible for:- 1. Coordination between the sustainability council 2. Differntiating the information with respect to the data collection of the core team collection. 3. Ensuring all the complied data with respect to the sustainability initiatives including the G.R.I UNIT. This tier is also known as sustainability champions (http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra%20CSR%202009-10/sustainabilityHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/sustainabilitystructure.aspHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/sustainabilitystructure.aspus/sustainabilitystructure.asp) There are certain factors which are affecting the company and its business in the market. Those factors are:- Political factors à  The political factors which are affecting the company is that participation of the employees of the company in political parties that is the company does not allow itself in the involvement of any political party but it allows its employees to participate which is a wrong process it affects the image of the company as the employer is representing the company when he or she is participating in the political violence or non violence activities this would affect the company s reputation and also the affairs in the market. Few factors related to the industry are:- 100%fdi policy Change in taxation policy Subsidy from loans of government. Regaining dynamism a key goal of eleventh five year plan. (http://www.slideshare.net/sitansusekharsahu/strategic-analysis-of-mahindra) 2.Economical factors:- à  Economic factors means utilisation of the resources in the fullest so as there is no wastage of resources while producing the product but there were various causes affecting the economical conditions of the company ,increasing cost of raw material is the biggest threat for the company and also the regulatory norms imposed to safe guard the environment ,fuel efficiency less use of more smoking vehicles ,volatility in financial market, escalation of raw material market, effect of the supply chain in the market are few causes affecting the economic stability of the company. Social factors:- à  Socially the company works for different group to promote its brand and to create a good image in the market so as people see the company in good reason; the company goes hand in hand to fulfil its social responsibility for the economy and also the everyday business responsibility The company gives 1% of the after tax profit to the CSR (cooperate social responsibility) group which is the group created by the Mahindra and Mahindra company to help the people around them and to boost up the economy and give other people a new chance. The initiative of the group created is to help the disadvantaged section of the society and the company, like people who are uneducated help them to educate and people who are good in something improve their skills and help them to boost up in the world they are in and gain confidence in themselves. They created another group called ECOPS that is a group of employers social responsibility group in which the employee is benefitted in it that is the employer kids and family are made to get educated and given work to do and their children are send to schools where they study and are made to things they like to do .The CSR group also helps the people to give them financial support and also give the shelter who dont have shelter and also the group keeps in touch with the nongovernmental organisation to help people, they come up organisations to save girl child and mid day meals in school and to their employees to keep them happy ,helping flooded areas in India and also helping the crippled people and cochlear people so to promote the brand of the company and help the country socially and economically . (http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra%20CSR%202009-10/sustainabilityHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/socialresponsibility.aspHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/socialresponsibility.aspus/socialresponsibility.asp) 4. Technological factor:- à  New technology can create new products and new innovations in the market and also it helps in reducing the cost of the product and also it helps in getting a new product launched in the market to become the leader in the market, Sometimes the new technologies in the industry leads to reduce in the life cycle of the product . The factors affecting the production due to new technology are:- new innovation in the technology or continuous innovation n the technology renewable energy development (http://www.slideshare.net/sitansusekharsahu/strategic-analysis-of-mahindra) 5. Environmental factors:- à  The environmental factors of the company matter the company a lot as the company depends on the environment of the company and also the environment outside the company as the company uses the go green policy that is less use of carbon producing products so as it does not disturb the social and economic environment of the country and the place they are working in .the products produced in the company are made n such a way that the environment is also safe and less of carbon monoxide is produced from the commodities they are producing for the consumer and the product does not harm the consumer .the company s initiative is on green building and alternative fuel front. They are focussing on green building and fuel efficient products for the consumers and energy efficient products. (http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra%20CSR%202009-10/sustainabilityHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/environmentresp.aspHYPERLINK http://www.mahindra.com/sustainability/Mahindra CSR 2009-10/sustainabilityus/environmentresp.aspus/environmentresp.asp) 6. Legal factors:- à  As the company is globally situated and work in different countries so legal changes happening in the world or in the other parts and also in the country can affect the company a lot. There are certain legal changes which have happened in recent years in the economy globally and have affected various firms globally. the legal systems can affect the cost of the product and also the production of the product produced by the company .the legal system can also affect the demand of the product produced by the company. To avoid various problems the company has accepted various factors to go through legal systems like:- collaboration with government in various shapes of policy agricultural policy bank system policy (http://www.slideshare.net/sitansusekharsahu/strategic-analysis-of-mahindra)

Hamlet the Play and the Movie Essay -- Shakespeare Hamlet Compare Cont

Hamlet the Play and the Movie Hamlet by William Shakespeare is a story about a king that was murdered by his brother and the prince has been asked by his father?s ghost to avenge his murder. The original story line has been altered a few times since it has been written. The original Hamlet the play and the altered Hamlet the movie are shown differently in many different ways. Hamlet the movie with Mel Gibson shows different things than the play, but there are three major differences between the two. The three major differences are in the way both of the productions start out, differences in the scene that the players put on a play, and differences in the way the productions end. The first difference is in the way the play and the movie begins. The play starts out with guards standing guard at the castle with Horatio, Hamlet?s friend. The guards and Horatio are waiting for the ghost of Old Hamlet to arrive so they can find out why he is there. The ghost does arrive twice but does not speak. The scene ends with the guards and Horatio discussing that they should get Hamlet to try to speak to the ghost. Hamlet the movie starts out differently. It starts out with the funeral for King Hamlet with Gertrude standing beside the coffin. Hamlet sprinkles dust over his father?s dead body. The coffin is then covered and Claudius, Old Hamlet?s brother, places his sword over the coffin and Gertrude cries. The second difference is the way the scene is with the player?s putting o...

Americas Fear of Evolution :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

America's Fear of Evolution In August of 1999, the teaching of evolution in schools was banned by the state of Kansas. In Texas, educators have debated over which textbooks to use in grade school science solely by the language of evolution each text contains. In Georgia, educators talk about replacing the word "evolution" with the phrase "biological changes over time." (1) Apparently, our apprehensions about teaching the theory of evolution are popping up all over the news. In hearing these debates, one usually thinks that it is only religious groups or fanatics trying to preserve their stories by eradicating the teaching of evolution. However, I think that culturally we have trouble accepting the theory of evolution because of other stories we tell ourselves. While religion does play a large role in our stories of creation, we have many ethics and ideals outside of faith that contrast with the theory of evolution. We may have trouble facing the facts of evolution because of what it says about the human race. A ccepting the theory of evolution places us on the same level as all other species in terms of how we came into existence and how that existence will end. It means letting go of many misconceptions we hold about ourselves. For example, that humans are somehow superior or meant to wield control over the earth. It affirms that we have not been here for nearly as long as our world, and will be long gone before the world ends. Evolution, it seems to me, touches more closely on our fears about death and our place in the grand scheme of things than it does on our faith. The reason evolution comes into such great conflict with religion is because questions such as, "Where will we go after our lives here end?" are so important to us. Consequently, the fear surrounding the theory of evolution belongs not only to the religious and the fanatical, but also to anyone who has ever asked him or herself such questions. America was founded on the concepts of idealism and opportunism; we all are broug ht up to take advantage of our opportunities and succeed to the best of our abilities. The nature of evolution is to go against these ideals. Evolution occurs randomly, meaning the human race did not "earn" its place as sovereign of the earth. As Americans, we see ourselves working toward a society that is closer and closer to perfection.

Karen van der Zee’s book “A Secret Sorrow” Essay

The last two chapters of Karen van der Zees book, A Secret Sorrow, are very eventful. Chapter Eleven begins with Faye, one of the main characters, horrified by the question her boyfriend has just asked her. Kai, Faye?s boyfriend, has found a slip of paper that has slipped out of Faye?s wallet the previous Saturday morning. The slip of paper is from Doctor Martin recommending her to a psychiatrist by the name of Doctor Jaworski. Earlier in the book, Faye had a car accident that left her infertile, this is why she has seen the Doctor Martin. Her boyfriend Kai has no idea she is infertile. Faye doesnt want to tell him because she knows he looks forward to having children and she thinks he might not want her anymore. He is asking her about the referral slip given to here by Doctor Martin to see a psychiatrist. She is so terrified when he asks her about the slip that she collapses and bursts into tears. She finally tells him about her infertility. She is so overwhelmed by telling him she runs out and takes his car to her brother house. Karen van der Zees excerpt has many important aspects which keeps the reader involved in the story. One important aspect of the first few lines of the story is how the reader discovers the seriousness of the conflict. The narrator explains that Faye could feel the blood drain from her face and how the room tilted and swirled which signifies the seriousness of the dialogue. This leads the reader to realize that Faye is in an extremely emotional state of mind and that the conflict between the couple is very serious. Panic in the introduction seems to be the element that grabs the reader?s attention until they become involved in the story. Another important aspect of the story is the way the narrator explains the physical contact between Faye and Kai. The narrator is very important because it brings out the romance in the story and gives the reader the loving feeling. The narrator draws a mental picture for the reader by explaining Kai holding Faye with his hands that are warm and strong on her back and tears silently running down Fayes cheeks. This gives the reader that sort of romantic feeling which is appealing. The most important aspect of the story is the end. It is typical for most  romantic stories to have one of the main characters find the other and confess their love. This romantic story has a different approach. Kai walks to Fayes brother house and sits down beside her on the bed and tells her that she is his ?first and only choice?. He tells her that he loves her no matter what and they can always adopt children. Chapter Twelve, the final chapter, comes to a close with Kai and Faye sitting on the front porch of their home watching there adopted children. As they watch them Kai kisses Faye and says, Theyre true originals, like their mother. I wouldnt want it any other way.? In conclusion, the exerpt from the book A Secret Sorrow by Karen van der contains all of the fine elements of popular literature. Many people have trouble reading stories that are written in dialogue but this story can be easily read.

Management Structure of Boeing Essay

Considering how the Boeing Company has a strong presence worldwide and has employees and partnerships located in 70 countries, it has implemented a management structure to achieve maximum efficiency of the multi-billion dollar business. This structure is called a matrix structure, where this essentially allocates a Senior Vice President to each of the many department heads who oversee all movements the company makes as well as managing every employee within that division. These departments range from areas such as: Engineering & Technology to Law Department to Human Resources as well as Business Development and are all managed by the CEO, W. James McNerney. All of these divisions of Boeing run independently of one another, however they do collaborate together to ensure the company continues to be the achieve the most efficient and stable environment that it can. The matrix management structure is also advantageous to the Boeing Company since they are continuously filling out long-term contracts for various airlines around the globe and is in need of several functional organized departments. Since these departments collaborate together, various tasks of the project given are delegated between the necessary departments who then come together after completion of these given tasks and put together the prototype. Employees and resources are also allocated temporarily to other divisions of Boeing for various projects depending on the magnitude and the time given for project completion. However, there are some disadvantages to the matrix structure. There is a tendency to ‘lean’ towards one side of the matrix or the other, this can lead to problems such as project delays and extension requests by employees which inevitably cost the company time and money as seen by the delay of the 787 Dreamliner construction.