Winesburg Ohio an Example of the Topic Literature Essays by

Winesburg Ohio Sherwood Anderson originally planned to title his book The book of the grotesque however his publisher had a suggested to change the title to Winesburg, Ohio. Anderson agreed. The theme of the grotesque is the focus Andersons writing. Need essay sample on "Winesburg Ohio" topic? We will write a custom essay sample specifically for you Proceed The tone set fourth in the prologue was established by the writer was in order to lead the reader to the type of mood he wanted to adopt. His characters Elizabeth Willard, Alice Hindman, and Elmer Cowley are flawed, ineffectual, and incomplete. The theory of his characters being ruined came from their collection of truth was an interesting philosophy about which he made no pretenses. Sherwood Anderson calls these characters The grotesque. These grotesque characteconform, and rebel against the writers definition in different ways, their elements of realism is present in the book Winesburg, Ohio. Elizabeth Willard is George Willards mother, the hero of the book. The only character who is woven throughout most of the stories in the book. Elizabeth Willard owns the new Willard House however she is drab and worn out. An illness takes the life out of her, though she had been passionate in her youth still retaining life inside. She and George has a deep bond, which they rarely express. She nearly kills her husband Tom Willard for urging George to be ambitious and hopes that George will be able to express meaning both his parents. Elizabeth has a brief affair with Doctor Reefy. Both are similar souls who could meet and find a release for their emotions and dreams. Alice Hindman had an affair, as a girl with Ned Carrie who promised to marry her. He leaves town never to return but Alice was unable to give her body to anyone else and so lived in waiting and loneliness for years. She made herself to isolated she would talk herself. She worked at the Dry Goods store to keep busy and at twenty-five, she joined social and religious organizations. She was restless for companion ship, at twenty-seven and ran outside naked. She finally accepted she was going to be alone forever in the end. Elmer Cowley is the son of Ebenezer Cowley, Elmer helps his father run thier store Cowley & Sons, is frustrated however that he and his family act so queer. Elmer wishes he were normal like George Willard and the rest of town but he tries to tell George and fails. Elmer decides to leave Winesburg town for a city where he can distinguish himself from other people. He tries to talk to George before he leaves and he still cannot express himself so he finally punches George instead. He is proud that he showed George that he is not a queer. Sherwood Anderson believed one should keep the worlds of realism and fantasy separate. The writer did not believe that an author could not write about both or the collision of these worlds however he feared that authors would stay on the subject of realism and fantasy and thus forget about the importance of dreams, idealism, surrealism, and fantasy. Many have understood Sherwood Anderson as a naturalistic writer. A writer who was the earliest post World War I Evant Garde writers of its kind on account of his exploration of the grotesque and the failings of the modern man in modern society. In Winesburg Ohio, almost every story his protagonist becomes engrossed in a moment in his own story. The moment is very significant and pivotal in the characters life and appears as if it will spur him on to a life changing action. However it never does. Reference Site: Winesburg, Ohio (The book of the Grotesque) By Sherwood Anderson

8 Inspirational Sports Movie Quotes for Your Professional Life

8 Inspirational Sports Movie Quotes for Your Professional Life Everyone loves a good sports movie, right? Especially the ones that make you sniffle, while you pretend to be clearing dust out of your eye. (Darn it, Bad News Bears, why did no one believe in you?) And while they’re totally inspirational if you have athletic dreams of greatness, they also have plenty of great inspiration for all of us about how to persevere on our chosen paths. â€Å"A team isn’t a bunch of kids out to win. A team is something you belong to, something you feel, something you have to earn.† –The Mighty Ducksâ€Å"Having dreams is what makes life tolerable.† –Rudy  Ã¢â‚¬Å"You didn’t come into this life just to sit around on a dugout bench, did ya? Now get your ass out there and do the best you can.†- The Bad News Bears [via Tumblr]  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Going in one more round when you don’t think you can- that’s what makes all the difference in your life.†- Rocky IVâ€Å"Well, I just think this horse h as a lot of heart. He may have been down, but he wasn’t out. He may have lost a few, but he didn’t let it get to him†¦Oh, and by the way, he doesn’t know he’s little. He thinks he’s the biggest horse out there.†- Seabiscuitâ€Å"The hard is what makes it great.†- A League of Their OwnSo take your new motivation, go out there, and win one for the Gipper! Er, rather, win one for you.

Coffee Shop Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Coffee Shop - Assignment Example These include principles of impartiality when serving customers of all calibres; fairness in dealing transactions; avoidance of impartiality in all the undertakings; and serving the customers openly. To ensure best practice in handling customers, I came up with various values from which the future staff will be expected to draw at all times. The overall business will believe in offering quality services in an environment of sensitivity while at the same time treating our future customers as equals no matter the differences in any aspect of life. We will be driven by sensitivity for the needs of the customers hence allow a great space for flexibility meaning that we will display courtesy, impartiality, timeliness and promptness in our customer service. The Hawaiian coffee shop will be a corporate entity that will utilize a chain of eateries selling ready to eat foods. The eateries will range from medium sized hotels to fast foods mini-outlets that will be based in the towns of the United States. The stores will adopt a very rich variety of cuisines in preparing their meals hence cater for varied groups of customers. They will offer fast foods and eat-in services depending on the choice of the customers. They will also offer free deliveries of some certain categories of foods to their customers based in or around the city centres near where the stores will be based. The shop will be owned by a group of directors who will also happen to be its founding fathers. The management of the shop will be made of a group of qualified personnel who will work at the various smaller stores to ensure the smooth running of the day to day activities especially the customer care support. The supportive departments will include sales and marketing charged with the role of widening and maintaining the customer base; the customer care department dealing with the concerns of the customers; the clerical department dealing with data management and administration of the chain stores and the culinary department to deal with the preparation, cooking and serving of the foods. The shop will employ approximately 1200 customer service highly trained staff from all its outlets (Mabey and Iles 1995p56). Customer care In order to get a large market for their products, I will come up with a strong sales team to take products as close as possible to the target market. The sales department will be charged with the role of advising the overall management on the best venue to erect more eateries. For the moment, I have suggested areas with very large concentrations of people e.g. near bus terminuses, near institutions of learning, at the railway stations, near open and closed market places, at the centre of the city centres and towns in order to reach a very wide section of customers (Morgan 2001pp61-67). The chain of coffee shops will be designed to thrive on their ability to develop products that stand out from the others in the market because of their creativity. As a way of setting ourselves apart with creations of attractive foods, the culinary

Individual article analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Individual article analysis - Essay Example How a person sees oneself along these lines helps marketers to speculate the kind of products that may appeal to the person. However, the way a person perceives oneself is often far from reality(Gration, Raciti and Arcodia 650). This paper reviews the article by the title above. Brands confer value to consumers in multiple ways(Khare and Handa 63). One way is by enhancing the personality of their user. Besides functional attributes, the non-functional features of the product may determine the consumers decision to buy or not to buy. The article under review reports the findings of the research that explored the degree to which self-concept and brand personality interact to influence how a consumer evaluates brands and arrives at purchase decisions. The research involved a number of secondary school students whose individual self-concept was measured using a scale developed by Malhotra in 1981. The respondents were then made to evaluate one out of three imaginary brands of mobile phones, rate the brand on the basis of the general quality then indicate whether or not they would buy the phone. Having set the stage, the authors proceed to define key concepts in their paper. These are self-concept, personality and Indian youth. They contend that self-concept studies have understood the concept as being multi-dimensional(Khare and Handa 64). The concept enables the consumer to evaluate oneself under different circumstances. Most self-concept studies, they report, have focused on explaining why a consumer buys one brand of a product and not the other. It is crucial that marketers comprehend and appreciate the impact of self-concept, both individual and social, on purchase decisions. Self-concept studies have been based on the hypothesis that the way a consumer sees oneself influences the types of brands they buy. Brand personality entails giving brands human characteristics. For example, a car manufacturer

Professional Responisbility Ethics Research Paper

Professional Responisbility Ethics - Research Paper Example And the Attorney, after reading the draft prepared by the Legal Assistant, decides whether the firm would handle the case, and then the attorney decides the settlement range, strategies, and ultimately finalizes the settlement. The information regarding case strategies are conveyed to the client by the Legal assistant. In addition, the legal assistant interviews witnesses, and negotiate settlement number with the insurance company. According to Canon 3 EC 3-2 of the ABA Model Code of Professional Responsibility, the sensitive variations in the considerations that bear on legal determinations often make it difficult even for a lawyer to exercise appropriate professional judgment, and it is therefore essential that the personal nature of the relationship of client and lawyer be preserved. As a result, the American Bar points out that a competent professional judgment requires trained familiarity with law and legal processes, and an analytical approach to legal problems. Admittedly, Att orney can claim that the Legal Assistant was a law student and had considerable amount of experience in handling such cases. However, the American Bar Association reminds that a non-lawyer, despite some experience, is not governed by the same rules in matters of integrity or legal competence as an attorney is. That means, despite the great degree of skills and experience of the Legal Assistant, the legal assistant cannot be entrusted such tasks which are to be done by the Attorney. However, there are disputes regarding as to what constitutes the practice of law. It is, in fact, difficult to explain in concrete terms what constitutes legal practice. However, the mere fact is that people go to a lawyer when they are in need of a professional legal judgment (EC 3-5). If this is the case, it becomes evident that Attorney has blatantly violated the ethical codes as Attorney does not directly interact with the clients. The initial interview is solely handled by Legal Assistant without any supervision of Attorney. Thereafter, it is the Legal Assistant who makes a draft of the complaint for the Attorney to read. Purely based on this report, Attorney decides if she would take up the case. That means, the clients are denied their right to listen to the legal opinion of a lawyer regarding the matter. It is pointed out in EC 3-4 that lay people who seek legal services are not in a position to judge if they will receive proper professional attention. Also, legal matters are very serious matters that involve confidences, reputation, property, freedom, or even life of the client. So, when a person approaches Attorney with such serious legal matters which are highly confidential and demanding, it is highly improper to permit a non-lawyer to handle the issue even without supervision. In addition is the fact that such non-lawyer assistants, despite experience and skills, are not subjected to the regulations of the legal profession. Admittedly, EC 3-6 provides an even clearer vi ew of the situation. According to the guideline, if a lawyer wants to delegate a task to a clerk, secretary, or any other lay person, the lawyer must ensure direct relationship with his client. Now, going back to the case study, it becomes evident that Attorney does not keep any relationship with his clients at all. The attorney does not allow direct interaction or consultation, and lets the Legal Assistant conduct the initial intervie

Management of Contractual Risks

Management of Contractual Risks 1 Introduction Managing risk should be a fundamental part of bidding for Building or Highways work. Risk is described by Atkinson (2001) as the probability of an occurrence of a hazard and the magnitude of the consequences. Consequently risk may also be considered as the possibility of an experience happening and the resultant effect of the experience if it ere to take place. As defined by RICS (2010) risk management is a means of processes where risks are recognised, examined and then of course controlled. It is a constant cycle that begins at the pretender stage; this means that risks of events are put into a bid from the start and also at the end of construction. During the different phases of a project, many new even previously un-thought of risks materialise throughout. Recognising them quickly allows faster mitigation; in order to reduce impact risk has on the project. This study has examined the inaccuracy of pretender process of managing risk with the use of both pretender and contract registers. There were also opportunities, they were recognised. The subject area of risk was selected following discussions with managers and work colleagues, during my 2010 placement year with Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM). This topic was considered as an ideal subject area for a research project because SRM were improving the system they currently incorporate. So the plan of the study was to advise any conclusions made on the research, so as to further enhance the pretender practice within SRM. My colleagues gave me some risk data sheets for a few projects. The emphasis being on highway construction, as this information was available from my placement and SRM. 1.2 Rationale The subject of what to research developed from consultations with colleagues and the line manager at SRM. My colleagues were interested in the managing of risk and were working to improve SRMs pretender risk process to ensure it replicated the contract phase a bit more. This therefore illustrated a requirement in the business and indeed construction for research in to this topic area. The main reason for eventually electing the subject area of risk was the open access of information provided by SRM and the contact with knowledgeable personnel in my placement. This gave a better understanding of the procedures, allowing greater understanding in subject area of risk. In addition access was gained during placement to potential data in the form of contract and pretender risk registers from various Highway works undertaken by SRM. The aim of the research as came about by undertaking literary research, up to that point none of the data was collected, or plan formulated of how to use the data. The aim was to understand how pretender recognition of risks may be inaccurate. After that considering how it could be improved and whether it was possible to do so. Subsequently, recording any conclusions of pretender process in order to develop and better it. 1.3 Hypothesis, Aims and main Objectives 1.3.1 Aims Were to see if management of the contractual risks identifies significant additional risks that the pretender risk process failed to recognise and thus determine how inaccurate the pretender risk process is. 1.3.2 Objectives Find the processes presently employed to deal with risk, in both contractual and pretender phases and in recognising and measuring them. Investigate if important additional contractual risks recognised were within the pretender phase register. Compare SRMs risk management processes with other contractors and analyse to find the best solution. If possible, note any resulting conclusions and input results within the pretender register then produce a new and accurate one. 1.3.3 Hypothesis The management of contractual risks in Highway construction successfully identifies additional risks, consequently pretender appraisal has become inaccurate. 1.4 Overview of work done / Methodology 1.4.1 SRM schemes/jobs The SRM jobs used on the research comprised of, M1 J25-28, and A19 upgrade (both Highways Agency jobs) and M74 Glasgow council, all Highway projects. A19 was Term Maintenance Contract (TMC) whereas M1 J25-28 and M74 upgrade were (MAC) contracts. When examining the A19 upgrade the contractual records were acquired but the pretender risk records were not. However the contractual records were compared to a risk bid from a different project. Not ideal but the only solution at the time. The majority of the items were related, so comparable/related items were drawn from the pretender items, then included in the A19 contract register. An evaluation was done involving the contract and pretender risks. To do this the max, min, probable costs in addition to the likelihood of a risk event were incorporated from contract and pretender appraisals. A total assessment of the risks was calculated via averaging the max, min as well as probable costs which are multiplied against the likelihood of the risk event. All risks types were identified, in order to distinguish trends in risks recognised at the pretender and found in contract phase or were not found at all. The A19 contract risk register was distinctive to M1 J25-28 and M74 upgrade registers as it didnt contain costs. Every risk was divided by its probability and impact, whether that was high, medium or low appraisal. The pretender register, risk items were fitted against the occurring contractual register items. To see if every item in the registers were done, costs and probabilities were assigned to the A19 contractual risk method of appraisal. In getting a total assessment, both probability and risk price were multiplied. These costs were then evaluated against the overall pretender costs. 1.4.2 Highway contractor Interviews Interviews via telephone were conducted with a few companies to really see what processes are used at post contract and pretender. Also to find out how precise these methods are. Companies interviewed were: Morgan EST. Vinci Balfour Beatty May Guerney 1.4.3 Literature Review In order to understand the risk management procedures in construction and more specifically in Highways work a literary review was embarked on. This meant the research would gain an appreciation of the perception of risk by construction, prior to any literary review, my personal experience had only come from SRMs perspective and the processes they use. In order to gain real understanding and to funnel clearly on what my hypothesis stated, it was decided to split the literature review into two sections. One section, comprising of processes used by industry, taken from an assortment of books. The second section being that of SRMs highways process and accompanying documents. This makes it possible for an assessment to be conducted between SRM and the other contractors, like how different stages of a contract work in Highway works. 1.5 Overview of conclusions Both the information gained and analysis undertaken, imply the data could sustain the theory and main aims. Due to a large risk amount being found in contractual phase that was not previously seen at pretender. Even though assessments for any one risk were fairly inexact, overall assessment of pretender and contractual seemed strong. Showing pretender registers was inaccurate and needed to be better if assessments and risk management has to become more reliable. 1.6 Report Guide 1 Introduction An opening on the managing of risk in the dissertation while validating the basis in selecting the subject area. The introduction states the aims, objectives and hypothesis that the researched was established upon, as well as outlining the work done and an overview of the Conclusions. 2 Methodology Explains the methods used to investigate my hypothesis, from Literature review, approaches used in analysis and review of information and any outcomes. This expresses the reasons for utilising the techniques chosen also any research restrictions. Its meant to be a methodical, simple approach to how things were done. 3 Literature Review This chapter contains my understanding and Knowledge of the subject area. Done by means of, studying the risk process used in management through books, journals and the internet. Allowing a greater comprehension of risk in Highways work, and how its viewed and used. 4 Results and Analysis Confirms the outcome in the investigation and subsequent breakdown of SRMs jobs as well as the Highway contractors interviews. It outlines the judgments made concerning the pretender and contractual assessments. The Hypothesis was then tested against the information found, to see if its statement is true or false. 6 Conclusions- This analyses all the results in relation to the hypothesis and if theres is any basis that it will hold up. Detailing limitations affecting the research, while also imparting proposals for both industry and any future dissertations. 2 Methodology 2.1 Introduction Methodologies are vital to the accomplishments of research and must be dealt with care in order for the most appropriate research methods to be chosen (Fellows and Liu, 2008). The methodology outcome depended on the subject area, research aims and amount of literature review obtained. For data collection and analysis, the methods employed ought to be realising the aims and objectives so as to continually test the hypothesis and validate the research. The information that was obtainable and available played a huge role, as work on the dissertation could not be done if the information wasnt relevant. The information therefore can be decided by the hypothesis, as if the information was not on hand then one cant trial the hypothesis. Due to these factors, risk management was identified as an appropriate topic from the beginning, but it wasnt until the research was started that defining the hypothesis was possible, yet having an impression of the aims and objectives that were to be accomplished. From the off, the aim was to gauge how precise pretender risk management was, even if unsure of the data and information existing prior to consulting SRM team. Ultimately this section highlights the research methods utilised in the research, and the close association that has been made when doing so between the methods and Aim, hypothesis and objectives. 2.2 Aim Employed to help concentrate the methodology in choosing the right methods, also to clarify to the person who reads the dissertation what precisely was being investigated. So this shall be done by recalling the Aim set out: To see whether the post contract risk process identifies key additional risks that the pretender risk process failed to recognise and thus determine how inaccurate pretender risk process is. 2.3 Quantitative and Qualitative methods In Data collection there are two key styles; quantitative and qualitative forms of research. Quantitative method, being a grouping of information done using figures, which is then evaluated by arithmetical trials to trial an assumption or theory (Creswell, 1994). While the Qualitative method was quite different, instead using connotations, previous incidents and words (Naoum, 2007). Quantitative Methods can be less difficult in examining; it creates measurable outcomes that create analytical arithmetical results. They tend to be better for others to read and understand. While, qualitative information from research has a tendency to be complicated as it often requires researcher input and manipulation to ensure its appropriate for investigative procedures (Fellows and Liu, 2008). The methods adopted depend upon data obtainable as well as the research itself. By executing good research, its generally required and essential to use both quantitative and qualitative. Therefore a mixture o f the two was brought to play, for a more correct and more reliable conclusion; more is detailed further in this section. 2.4 Literature Review As mentioned previously literary appraisal was undertaken; providing a core subject knowledge in risk management of Highway construction. The idea in doing this was grasping how risk was analysed in Highway construction sector, and the procedures used in controlling it. Next research was done to discover how risk was managed, by using literature in form of books and journals. Then see SRMs risk management process from their risk management documentation. Dividing the literature review in two sections meant that one of the objectives could be fulfilled by comparing SRMs risk management approach with other construction companies. By doing the literary appraisal it imparted a better comprehension of the chosen topic of risk, and illustrated the problems and successes in risk management. While also showing the diverse and numerous ways in managing risk, and how the approach identified and selected can depend on many issues like project type, contract used or even size of companies and jobs themselves. The list literature sources below were used in delivering the dissertation:   Textbooks -were very useful in gaining the relevant knowledge of risk management, and procedures used. Books located in the library were discovered using the computer search engines. using. Chapters needed or thought appropriate were studied, and compared against searches that had been made on the internet. A check system, which assessed the validity of both sources of information against each other. With much of the research it became apparent that information in books available werent current especially in the older series of books. Despite this it wasnt a predicament for Risk management as texts of up to ten years old were and are significant and applicable now, with some techniques having improved. The books allowed for great comparison for up to date information on the internet. Journals were again located on the Loughborough University library database, which with the relevant buzz words located material of use. Finding journals proved difficult in comparison to textbook numbers, yet the sources were helpful.   Internet supplied a platform for research of literature. Being easy to use and handy, collating information could be done at speed and with relative ease. It allowed greater understanding of what type of book would be needed from the library. Information from the internet was important but it had its limits and it was vital to know that it can be inaccurate and cause misguidance, research can be more guaranteed with text and journals. This way of thinking about limitations in using the internet was in mind when searching websites on risk in the construction. Finding various helpful websites any information was compared other websites in order to increase reliability, but most importantly against book and journals. As with all research appropriate sources of reliability were identified and used like the RICS website. Two editorials from RICS site provided constructive, and were used in the literature review. In finding books the internet was most useful as many articles on websit es highlighted book of particular relevance and use.   SRMs Risk Management Procedures document SRMs risk management procedure document was used as section two of the literature review. Reading through the document and important information was used in the literature review, particularly, on the processes used by SRM in risk management. A comparison was made between SRMs procedures and with those found in the first half of the literature review. 2.5 Data Collection When actually collecting the data for the research the collection was again split into two parts. The initial data collection was from SRM projects, other data collection was associated to other contractors. The intention was to compare the risk procedures, and attempt at analysing which was the superior one. The next section shows how all the data collection was collected and prepared. 2.5.1 SRM Projects The information on the SRM jobs were formed while in placement during 2010, while working on the M1, involved in subcontractor packages and various Quantity surveying related work. Prior to any data collection, discussions with colleagues and senior managers took place in order to help formulate and aid the research as what would be required in terms of data. At this stage no hypothesis had been decided, the idea was to assess the accuracy of risks in the pretender assessments. Therefore colleagues stated and recommended the use of valid information in the form pretender and contractual risk registers could be provided. The contracts that would be made available were the M1 J25-28 scheme, A19 upgrade and M74 Glasgow project. Three similar Motorway/road maintenance projects that differ from each other contractually. A19 upgrade was a TMC to maintain, operate a network of strategic roads in the North East. M1 J25-28 and M74 are both MAC contracts for similar maintenance one in the midlands and the latter in Glasgow. A19 upgrade and M1 J25-28 are HA run, while M74 was for the Glasgow city council. The HA run their contracts by splitting their contracts into 13 sections in the UK, and in these projects cases offer for the extension and maintenance of the roads within these sections. The reason that A19 upgrade was a TMC but M1 J25-28 and M74, MAC based contracts were that previous to the MAC HA projects were also run with the TMC contract, but now all is done under MAC style. The contracts run for 5 years with optional extensions. Different sections of maintenance start and end at different areas on the motorway in question over a 5 year cycle, meaning that when MAC contracts were first used, some sections werent using them and using TMC etc A19 upgrade was a TMC completed in 2009, whereas M1 J25-28 scheme was a modern MAC contract just saw completion in late 2010. The difference in MACs and TMC are TMC two separate companies, one as managing agent the other as main contractor. MAC consists of the 1 contractor, running both as an agent to the client and as main contractor on site. Using the three contracts as the basis for the research the risk manager on the placement at SRM provided a pretender register for the M1 J25-28 risk management and A19 contractual phase, both of which he had involvement on. Trying to get pretender ones for M74 was problematic but couldnt find any. In order to have a full complete analysis, it was decided that for M74 to use another MAC pretender risk register. Pretty much similar to M74 except the location geographically. For sure this would create limitations but it could possible in using another risk register as SRM do when starting on a new comparable bids. So similarities would be high and that as long as it was noted in the dissertation as to its use and reasons why. Due to the generic nature of the risks they were deemed suitable as with what SRM do in practice. While on placement working on the M1 J25-28 contract meant developing contacts with colleagues who work day in day out on the subject are. Therefore requesting registers on M1 job was easier than the other jobs. The A19 contractual register came to me inn the same way. Getting the M74 contractual register, as the risk team on my placement had contact details for which to enquire with and the registers were duly emailed. 2.5.2 Rival Highway Contractors Obtaining information via rivals in the sector of road maintenance was much more difficult than from SRM sources, as they were very protective of information they gave out. The SRM jobs were Highways related, so the focus was getting some from Highway firms. By doing additional data collection it allowed for an honest comparison between SRM and other contractors. The methods were expected to have been alike if not the same, involving different construction projects; the data was likely to be different. The plan was to send questionnaires to the chosen contractors, but after unsuccessful returns it became apparent that another route would be needed, so interviews via telephone were deemed suitable. It seemed with written survey, contractors were inclined to take no notice of it or put a more generic thoughtless answer, While via a telephone interview response to the questions asked would be immediate and better, with no real confusion of what the question was asking as myself in person could explain. The Highway contractors contacted were: Morgan est. Vinci Balfour Beatty May Guerney A semi-structured set of questions was planned in order to gain the information required but also allowed telephone participant to elaborate and discuss the subject in a friendly professional manner. Contractors in Highways works were contacted, the dissertation of Risk Management was explained with the aims and objectives that needed to be achieved and asked the below queries: Does your company possess a methodology for the management of pretender risks? How does your company detect risks in the pretender phase? How does your company calculate final risk totals? Does your company undertake risk management after the contractual phase? ould I obtain a pretender and or contractual risk register to use in my research (for the Highways project you are on)? Each Contractor interviewed was told research being undertaking intended in contrasting data in pretender phase against the contractual as well as any assessments made. The questions were supposed to see what processes companies used in managing risks. Overall the different companies were helpful in answering these questions. The Fifth and final question was done to get registers like that gained from SRM. It was the only difficult part as many refused to hand registers over from live projects due to the sensitivity of their data and company policies. However some registers were received but didnt really contain the crucial information required just a formatted company risk register. Throughout the interviews, notes were made on the first four questions and the results put into a table at the time of the interview showing the company and their response to each question. Thus, making analysis easier when looking at the responses later in the dissertation. 2.6 Analysis of data Prior to analysis, the research had assessed how SRM price risks. It was crucial in knowing this before as it established the type of analysis would that be approved, and is detailed below. Upon formulating the risks that have been identified each risk will be categorised with maximum, most likely, minimum values and probability. The data was put through a programme @ RISK formulates hundreds of simulations, creating a graph showing the data. The 75th percentile is put in the final pretender as the final risk total. SRM do this for all of their projects. For this dissertation we were concerned in the risks recognised and individual costing risks as shown in paragraph above with min, max and probable etc. The focal point being what was keyed in to @ RISK as opposed to what it produces. For the Data analysis the SRM contracts have been split into their individual projects and the Other Highway contractors. The reason for splitting the SRMs projects was that the analysis varied in parts by way it had been collected as mentioned earlier (some with full risk registers some in part). 2.6.1 M1 J25-28s scheme and M74 Glasgow Analysis for M1 and M74 projects were pretty much the same. The M1 contract and pretender risk register could be matched up to the pretender and contractual registers for the M74 contract risks, due to them being MACs. In evaluating the accurateness of the risk registers and appraisals made, comparable risks to contractual register were then removed from the pretender. When comparing values in matching risks, it was vital to have a total value for both pretender and contractual registers. The best and most impartial methods for pretender register were to average the minimum, maximum, probable figures then multiplying by likelihood of the event. These were a range of potential expenses which could be incurred by the risk, and any total cost was decided to be an average of these, as all projects had them. As its unknown as to its actually occurrence the average should be multiplied by the probability, which gives a total potential cost to the risk. While the contract risk registers should be considered by severity and possibility by scale of 1-5, and then an assessment of the risk was undertaken, figuring out the most likely value as well as minimum and maximum. Mitigation measures are identified for each risk, and then assessment was done again as before the mitigation. The M74 didnt have min prices in its contractual register, therefore all risks were assumed to be zero. Without any minimum values any overall assessments of the risk would not have been made. The reason for not using the likely value instead was so the data would use a range of values. It was decided greater accuracy would be found in setting the minimum as zero and range of values than the most likely. By setting all its risks as zero means they are an unimportant minimum value or a risk/event that doesnt happen. The M1 contract register had all the necessary values so no intervention was needed. Both contract risk registers failed to show any probability, just a likelihood scale from 1-5. Therefore it was assumed, giving the scale a percentage instead, 10%, 20%, 30%, 50%, 70% and 90%. Then the total appraisals of the contractual registers were done through an identical method. Where similar contractual risks could be distributable to a few pretender risks in a register or vice versa, the total appraisal amounts were split by the quantity of risk items, in preventing them being counted twice. This was tabulated under the headings; the contract risks, pretender risks, information put into the registers, and total assessment. The contract risks were then categorised: Unrecognised however is protected (No value). Unrecognised but not protected ought to have been recognised. Unrecognised unable to recognise. Recognised while also protected. Identified yet unprotected. Each risk was grouped by colour to state which category from above it fell in. 2.6.2 A19 upgrade The breakdown of the A19 job was began in a similar way to the M1 J25-28 and M74 contracts. The measurement total cost for pretender register was done the same as in the other projects by averaging and the different range of values and dividing by probability of them occurring. When totalling the contract risks differences became apparent as the register calculated risks another way, as there were no costs. So Instead they were measured under the probability and impact style grid, using severity status as guides, whether that be low, medium or high. So in order to measure the total value of risks would mean assigning each risk a value and probability based on the risk severity system used, then times the two numbers to get the total assessment for that given risk This therefore required the assignment of cost and probabilities to be accurate. So by using the Risk severity matrix as used by SRM, a cost could be associated to a certain risk level. With use of the grid SRM review probability/likelihood with a scale from 1-5 and assign costs in numerical order of the probability scale for impact: Below  £1,000 Between  £1,000  £10,000 Between  £10,000  £100,000 Between  £100,000  £1,000,000 Above  £1,000,000 The figures above seemed a very useful guide and perfect to use, create a good range that could be easily used in analysis. The likelihoods for the risks events were given percentages instead of low, medium, high, so as to fit in to correspond and be like the information found in M1 and M74 projects, so: Low being 10%, Medium at 50% High 90%. These numbers were chosen as the provided not too certain outcomes for low and high at 10 and 90 percent, while the medium suited to being the mid point between the two figures. So in getting the total risk value, costs times probability. Then the rest of the analysis followed the same steps taken by M1 and M74 data analysis. 2.6.3 Analysis summary The tables of data for all three projects showing the comparisons made are in the appendices. These tables were only a start in analysing data as they on their own only show limited information that cannot fully test the hypothesis. So Risk recognition was key objective and so a list was formulated of any risks recognised, not recognised and not assessed, were omitted. From this list, risks could be categorised and therefore see which type of items could or could not be seen in pretender by the bid team. Now having had risks recognised and risks unrecognised as threats in pretender meant potentially testing a hypothesis as to whether pretender stage is inaccurate. From this new data 2 graphs were made highlighting and representing more clearly the type of items in registers that was recognised in pretender and those that werent. A review table was then drawn to finally account for the contract risks and categorised as below: Unrecognised however is protected (No value). Unrecognised but not protected ought to have been recognised. Unrecognised unable to recognise. Recognised while also protected. Identified yet unprotected. This table only really accounted for risks in pretender register which corresponded with contract risk, but not the other way round. So it didnt account for all risks found in pretender bid or how many werent in the contract register. So a total evaluation of risks featured in the pretender bid but not in the contract register, so as to fully see the accuracy or inaccuracy of it. As a result a Pretender table of risks recognised at contractual phase was made and the total appraisals done at both pretender bid and contractual phase were compared and contrasted. Last part glimpsed through inaccuracies of pretender register. Done by removing risks identified in pretender and contractual documents, the disparities then tabulated. The variations were categorised, and detailed in a Histogram. 2.6.4 Rival Highway Contractors The ways in which the other Highway teams identified assessed risks at pretender stage, were investigated. This was done by referring back to the table formulated at the time of the interviews. Proceeding with recognition and classification methods, digging out the methods used, what company used what method type. The same was done for the appraisals of risk, so formed 2 pie charts showing the recognition and appraisal of the rival companies risk management processes. It illustrates the most popular methods used by the Highway Contractors interviewed. These methods were compared against the methods SRM use. Many of the companies did turn down the opportunity in handing over information, citied by them as the company policies not to do so and the information is delicate. However some registers were received but didnt really contain the crucial information required just a formatted company risk. Also it proved difficult to obtain pretender and contractual registers, instead receiving o ne without having the other to compare against. Need to fill in contractors interviewed etc!!!!! It was very helpful to look at the various formats of different registers that companys used, and the informatio

Family or Finance :: essays research papers

Family or Finance, Which Should Come First?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When looking at custody cases in America today, one must wonder what the courts find more important when deciding the fate of these children, family or finance? The issue has been raised that the majority of the time, the mother gets custody of the children. Should this be so? Should we at this time, a time where we are trying to break through the molds of the mother being the only caregiver, automatically assume that the mother should gain custody of the children? Or, should we begin to look at the merits of allowing fathers to gain custody of the children? When looking at these cases, cases where both the mother and father desire custody of the children, how do you decide who should win? Should money be the primary factor? Should family be the primary factor? Or should the kids’ desires be the primary factor?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  All these question have been raised, and the courts answer is very simple. When deciding who should gain custody of the children the primary factor is â€Å"What is in the best interest of the child?† The problem to this answer is that it is too vague and doesn’t effectively answer any of the questions above. So lets look at what the courts feel is in the best interest of the children. Based on statistics from 1994, single mothers made up 6.6% of all families, while single fathers made up only 1.2%. So it would appear that mothers are more likely to end up with the children than fathers. Of course we must take into consideration the fact that not all the fathers want the children, and they go to the mother by default, and then there are the fathers that are in prison. There are also cases of the women not wanting the children as well. But we do not want to focus on these people, we are looking strictly at cases where both parents desire custody of the children. The fact is there are more single mothers than fathers, and when it comes to cases where both parents want the child, the mothers are more likely to win custody than the father. So we must determine why this is. When looking at recent statistics you can see that 52% of single mothers are below the poverty level, where only a little over 20% of single fathers fall below the level. Family or Finance :: essays research papers Family or Finance, Which Should Come First?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When looking at custody cases in America today, one must wonder what the courts find more important when deciding the fate of these children, family or finance? The issue has been raised that the majority of the time, the mother gets custody of the children. Should this be so? Should we at this time, a time where we are trying to break through the molds of the mother being the only caregiver, automatically assume that the mother should gain custody of the children? Or, should we begin to look at the merits of allowing fathers to gain custody of the children? When looking at these cases, cases where both the mother and father desire custody of the children, how do you decide who should win? Should money be the primary factor? Should family be the primary factor? Or should the kids’ desires be the primary factor?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  All these question have been raised, and the courts answer is very simple. When deciding who should gain custody of the children the primary factor is â€Å"What is in the best interest of the child?† The problem to this answer is that it is too vague and doesn’t effectively answer any of the questions above. So lets look at what the courts feel is in the best interest of the children. Based on statistics from 1994, single mothers made up 6.6% of all families, while single fathers made up only 1.2%. So it would appear that mothers are more likely to end up with the children than fathers. Of course we must take into consideration the fact that not all the fathers want the children, and they go to the mother by default, and then there are the fathers that are in prison. There are also cases of the women not wanting the children as well. But we do not want to focus on these people, we are looking strictly at cases where both parents desire custody of the children. The fact is there are more single mothers than fathers, and when it comes to cases where both parents want the child, the mothers are more likely to win custody than the father. So we must determine why this is. When looking at recent statistics you can see that 52% of single mothers are below the poverty level, where only a little over 20% of single fathers fall below the level.