Persuasive Essay On A Caged Bird - 1404 Words

Taking a Gamble â€Å"Everybody wants to be a diamond, but very few are willing to get cut.† -Eric Thomas. Why is it that nobody wants to take a risk? Why is it that we seem to fear the future? Perhaps we don’t take risks because we fear failure. Maybe we don’t take risks we’ve seen the outcome of other’s risks. But even if we don’t take a risk, should we be putting ourselves in a cage? Some birds don’t have wings, and some are afraid to fly, but that’s no excuse to stay in the cage. â€Å"Caged Bird† by Maya Angelou perfectly displays the horrifying reality of what we are doing to ourselves as we are taken through the harrowing journey of society’s choices through the eyes of a caged bird. Through â€Å"Mother to Son† by Langston Hughes we can see life†¦show more content†¦Once the caged bird finally got their freedom, they found themselves gazing upon a boulevard of broken dreams. If only the bird had escaped earlier, those dreams could have been fulfilled. Is this bird truly free? Should a free bird be burdened with a graveyard of unfulfilled dreams? Either way, it is clear that Maya’s message is to escape the cage now. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Now. Once that cage is escaped, help others escape it, like the woman in â€Å"Mother to Son† managed to. Hughes’ â€Å"Mother to Son† displays the story of a kind woman who takes it upon herself to encourage her son to change his life in a positive way by escaping the cage. â€Å"Well son, I’ll tell you: Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.†, the mom claims (lines 1 2). This seems to be her way of telling her son that she too went through the tough times of being a caged bird. â€Å"But all the time I’se been a-climbin’ on.†, she stresses (lines 8 9). She is hoping that her son can also climb on the same way that she did. My last citation truly takes the cake, however. It is clearly evident that this mother is very concerned when she tells her son this, which comes from the heart, â€Å"So boy, don’t you turn back. Don’t you sit down on the steps ‘Cause you finds it kinder hard.† (lines 14-16). The mother is, without a doubt, encouraging her son to persist and move forward. She wants him to break free of the cage, but regardless, she is mainly concerned that he moves forward andShow MoreRelated Reflective Essay: The Writing Process520 Words   |  3 Pages I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Throughout the semester I have had to write a number of essays using a variety of techniques. Before college, I would write assuming that the only reader, or audience, would be my teacher. Composition helped me realize the many steps that are involved in the writing process from free writing to making a final copy. In order to create a good paper you need organize your ideas. Also, I realize what needs to be in a essay and what doesn’tRead MoreThe World Could A Person Figure Out Why An Author1213 Words   |  5 Pagespersuade the reader. Take a look at the information in the chart below to learn more about these three categories. Purpose Typical Genres Sample of Text Inform – to teach the readers something they may not already know encyclopedias reference texts essays or articles instructions or directions biographies The rotation of the Earth is gradually slowing. The result is a lengthening of days. In about 140 million years, our day will reach 25 hours long. Entertain – to provide the reader with amusementRead MoreDisney Plays a Role in Shaping Girls Self-Esteem1832 Words   |  7 Pageswith a flawless and virtuous female protagonist, who encounters obstacles that are vital to overcome in order to live happily in the end. Thus the Disney Corporation plays an important role in shaping the self-esteem of young girls, by playing a persuasive role as producers of culture in the, â€Å"construction of knowledge†¦with a limited worldview, skewed and dominated by corporate interests† (Garofalo). By doing so, Disney and other media sources alike, create a challenge for society to compete withRead MoreDescriptive Analysis6093 Words   |  25 PagesDescriptive Analyses of the Essays and Short Stories Narration and Description THE STRATEGIES Although the narrative and descriptive essays are often given as separate assignments in composition courses, they are combined in this first section so that teachers can present expressive writing and still reserve time for the many forms of informative and argumentative writing. This choice is tricky because it confirms the folk wisdom about expressive writing and rhetorical difficulty. According toRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 Pagesprobable good consequences of each action and the probable bad consequences while weighing the positive and negative impact of each consequence. It’s a kind of cost-benefit analysis. Exercises 1. Columbus Day is an American holiday. Write a short essay that weighs the pros and cons and then comes to a decision about whether there should be more or less public celebration (by Americans and their institutions) on Columbus Day, October 12. Here is some relevant background information to reduce your

On March Twenty-Second, The California State University

On March twenty-second, the California State University system’s Board of Trustees voted yes to a tuition increase (Xia). Up until the morning before this decision arose, several California State University students were advocating for free tuition, or at least to stop this tuition increase, from Cal State Fullerton having postcards that can be signed to be sent to the Board of Trustees to students protesting in front of the Chancellor’s office in Long Beach, students in this system statewide argued for free tuition (Xia). Although this battle was a lost for us, the students, this is certainly not the last you will hear from the us. Arguably, there are several factors as to why this idea of free state college tuition rose to popularity,†¦show more content†¦Only four students went straight to the workforce, when a century ago, this was not the case. With students now consistently going straight to college after high school, state universities should be free to state residents since we have public high schools. In Kalamazoo, Michigan, students who attend high school in Kalamazoo starting in ninth grade, can have from sixty-five to one hundred percent of their tuition covered (Teicher). This is known as â€Å"The Promise.† The Promise guarantees any student from Kalamazoo a scholarship that pays either a majority or all of their tuition (Teicher). This scholarship can be used for any state school, fifteen private schools, and other state schools around the United States that are less than the highest tuition in Michigan (Teicher). Since The Promise’s first wave of scholarships, there has been definite improvements in college attendance. For black students, there has been a three percent rise in college attendance and overall forty-eight percent of scholarship recipients graduate college (Teicher). While this has shown an impact, there certainly are other factors that lead to the fifty-two percent that do not graduate, such as not being taught time management, academic skills, or how to take advantage of their sources (Teicher). Despite this fallback, â€Å"The Promise† has definitely started an era of higher college graduation rates and those who lack financial support a method ofShow MoreRelatedThe Study of Affirmative Action Essay1400 Words   |  6 PagesSupreme Court Cases Regarding Affirmative Action The history of majority rights in the United States goes all the way back to the creation of the United States constitution. Although barely acknowledged at the time, it has become the contemporary issue of the United States starting with the Civil War. 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He was also an influential figure who sculpted Martin Luther King Jr, who previously had bodyguards for his family and also carried a personal hand gun, to aRead MorePersuasive Essay On Legalizing Marijuana1746 Words   |  7 PagesUnited States. More than half of the country, sixty-four percent, according to a recent Gallup survey, believes that all states should legalize marijuana, especially medical marijuana. Unfortunately, any changes in the laws regarding the sale, use, and decriminalization of marijuana have been very slow and differ from state to state. Currently, only twenty-nine states and Washington, D.C. have some laws on the books legalizing medical marijuana, and only eight states, including California, MassachusettsRead MoreFinancial Expectations Essay1426 Words   |  6 PagesFinancial Considerations Costs When we started calculating the cost of college we split it up in two ways. 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Dont Judge A Book By Its CoverA Twelfth Night Co Essay Example For Students

Dont Judge A Book By Its Cover:A Twelfth Night Co Essay mparrison Of Feste And Sir AndrewDont Judge A Book By Its CoverLooks can be deceiving, and in the case of Sir Andrew and Feste the fool, thestatement certainly applies. Looking at the personalities of these two charactersthroughout Twelfth Night, no one will see that each character is the exact opposite of eachother. Their comparison is their contrast. The first, Sir Andrew, is of foolish wit, wholooks that part he is supposed to play on the outside. He looks sophisticated and veryintelligent. Yet when actually speaking with this character, the opposite applies and hereally is just a fool. And Feste, the other character, looks the part of a fool and is used formere entertainment. Yet on the inside, he exhibits the mind of an intelligent person, maybeeven a scholar. These two characters compare in their extreme differences. A fool must look the part as well as play the part. But does Feste do this? He doesthis quite well actually. But then how can one call him witty and intelligent? It is basicallybecause he only plays the part of a fool. The key word is plays. He is not really a fool. He states I wear not motley in my brain.(pp.28). This quote reinforces that he onlywears the clothes of a fool on the outside, but his over brimming amount of intelligenceshows he is a real person, with thoughts, ideas and comments to be made. Only being afool may restrict him from doing such. Throughout the play, Feste acts as witty as amischief-maker. He does get to use his wit, just not in an ideal fashion. Unlike Sir Andrew,he does not brag about qualities he does not posses. Feste has many talents that do not gounnoticed. He may be considered the most intelligent person in the whole cast ofcharacters. Sir Andrew Aguecheek is a lover of life and a pure fool. He looks the part of anoble man, and tries to play the part as well. Even his title, Sir, refers to a knight. Butwhat is he really like? Hes as tall a man as anys in Illyria (pp.14), according to SirToby Belch. Toby is very mistaken though, since Andrew is no more than a foolish drunk. The only thing that separates his personality from Sir Tobys is that he is a natural fool. Ina scene, Feste first says, Beshrew me, knights in admirable fooling:, and Andrew replies,Ay, he does well enough if he be disposed, and so do I, too. He does it with better grace,but I do it more natural. (pp.58). Andrew himself is stating that he is a fool by nature. Clearly he looks the part of a refined gentleman. He says he speaks another language butwhen spoken to in that language, he doesnt understand it. And this shows to be moreproof that Andrew is a fool hidden behind a mask of a noble person. A fine comparison was made between these two crucial characters. A fool who issmart, and a nobleman who is a fool. Shakespeare really is brilliant, since he though upsuch an elaborate story that says looks can be deceiving. And that statement sticks outplain as day. The next clown on the street that you see could be the smartest person toever walk the Earth, and the same goes with the next smart looking teacher you see. Onthe other hand he/she could be a genuine idiot. So as a final proposition, Shakespeare asksus to not judge a person by their outer wear and their fake public behavior. The onlycontradiction with this statement is that since Shakespeare lived in the 1600s, he wasbrought up to do just the opposite. Sad, but true. .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f , .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .postImageUrl , .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f , .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:hover , .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:visited , .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:active { border:0!important; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:active , .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u7e0b2eb4ee929159fb4adf1ba8e9951f:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Rap Music EssayEnglish

The Use of Software Development Tools Always Increases Productivity

Introduction In the present competitive business world, it has become necessary for organizations to position themselves strategically so as to remain relevant to the needs of consumers and also to be better placed to fight the ever increasing competition form rivals in the same field. As a result, most business organizations are forced to turn to the use of software development tools that would help them to increase productivity.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Use of Software Development Tools Always Increases Productivity specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The biggest question, however, is whether or not the level of output will go up when an organization employs the use of software development tools. It is never easy to answer this question given that the future of most software projects is never certain. According to James, great developments in hardware as well as the increased use of computer sy stems in various sectors of the economy has led to the popularity of software development tools (James 4). It is therefore very common to come across organizations all over the world making every effort to move towards the use of software systems. Impact of Software Development tools on Productivity According to Smit and Salvendy, the use of software development tools has both positive as well negative effects on the general quality of production. With the application of the right tools, staff in the organization may be presented with challenges such as opportunities to learn new things. They may also get chances to change careers so as to fit into the new structure of the organization. All these may build an inspired workforce team and eventually, the productivity level of the organization could increase. The organization on the other hand also gets prepared to deal with fierce rivalry from the competitors (Smit Salvendy 12). Smit and Salvendy further argue that better use of deve lopment tools will have the effect of improving the way things are done at the work place, raise the level of output and foster creativity among employees. They also pointed out that the use of applications such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and available Product Data Management tools will certainly lead to increased productivity and a high level of effectiveness (12).Advertising Looking for research paper on computer science? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For individuals in an organization, software development applications are tools that will kill monotony by reducing the amount of routine tasks that have to be done from time to time, help in accomplishing set work goals and boost the level of production (Smit Salvendy 13). The use of software development tools may also break down the effect of hierarchies in the organization and the result could be increased participation by employees in organizational ma tters. The workforce will also feel more empowered and most will be more willing to act proactively (Smit Salvendy 13). Given that the use of software development tools demands effective communication, the management in the organization will be compelled to ensure communication flows effectively. Poor communication could send out wrong communication and the organization may be made to pay a very high price for any form of carelessness (Smit Salvendy 13). On the other hand, the extended use of the computer; sitting behind a desk to beat deadlines may produce some undesirable outcomes. Employees may get stressed or even get sick and in the end, they may fail to come to work due to illness. When this, happens, the level of production will no doubt go down and this could put the organization in some difficult situation (Smit Salvendy 13). In his book, Hurley argues that the contribution of technological development tools in as far as increasing the level of output in an organization is concerned can not be easily measured (Hurley 291). Hurley identified a number of things that complicate the whole process of measuring the effect of technology to production. First, there is the lack of proper measurement of inputs and outputs that are meant to go into and come out of an information system. There are also delays that are experienced as users get to understand how well to use the new technology and this could be very frustrating for both users and customers. Another concern has to do with how profits resulting for the use of software development tools are distributed. Finally, there is a problem when it comes to managing software systems within an industrial setup (Hurley 292). In general terms, according to Hurley, the measurement of the impact of software development tools in productivity is a big problem that is also somehow linked to the methods that are used to measure productivity data that may be collected from time to time for the purposes of analysis (292 ).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The Use of Software Development Tools Always Increases Productivity specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In arguments articulated by Hurley, the use of software development tools in production is without question, bound to increase the amount of output. Software development tools also make it possible to produce the same or even greater output using only a small staff (Hurley 292). James, in his research explains that the principal reason for turning to software development tools is so as to allow organizations to reap the full benefits of using these technological tools to improve performance (James 4). Apparently, according to James, software development tools will help to boost efficiency, reduce the entire operational cost and greatly increase the profit level of the organization (James 4). However, James also adds that the benefits will only become a reality if the or ganization takes time to develop a good if not the best software development tool for its operations (4). Poorly developed tools will only lead to poor performance that could plunge the organization in very difficult situations. It is therefore very important to note that it is not just the use of software development tools that will lead to increased productivity; rather, it is the proper application of good software tools that will yield great advantages for the organization and boost the level of productivity as desired (James 4). Using good software, the organization should be able to improve efficiency, reduce production time, add on to the level of production and ensure that resources are well utilized. Another advantage is that business operations are made simple and easy to manage (James 4). Rook (205) argues that even though the use of computers is all the time expanding, the use of low standard custom built software tools has not helped much to increase the level of produc tivity. Low quality software tools only make things worse. Rook further notes that this problem could be dealt with by having organizations turn to the use of standard instead of custom developed software tools that to a very large extent are regarded as being quite unpredictable and hence not something to fully depend on (Rook 205).Advertising Looking for research paper on computer science? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Considering that the costs that are associated with the acquisition of software development tools are quite high, organizations get really motivated to do all they can to ensure that they are able to make good use of the acquired software tools for the purpose of improving efficiency as well as the level of productivity. Rook also defines software productivity as the quantity of output from the developed software divided by the cost of developing the particular software. Rook goes on to explain that for success to be realized, the objectives of the software tool must be clearly stated and well understood by all who are meant to interact with it (Rook 205). According to Holmes, the use of software development tools is becoming more and more central to the operations of almost all organizations world wide (Holmes 69). It is therefore very important for an organization to ensure that guidelines are followed to the letter when it comes to the acquisition and implementation of software d evelopment tools. When implementation is not properly done, time and resources are wasted and many people tend to get really frustrated (Holmes 69). Unsuccessfully implemented software tools are the result for poor performance and in the end this only leads to reduced productivity accompanied by increased costs of production. According to Willcocks, Petherbridge and Olson, information systems implementations are often regarded by many as being quite expensive for nothing. To this group of people, information system tools are simply cash sinks that consume huge sums of money without really producing any tangible results. Still others see software development tools as black holes and also as a necessary evil that we have to accommodate in various operations (Willcocks, Petherbridge Olson 1). Willcocks, Petherbridge and Olson (2) argued that according to information analyzed for over 300 organizations, there is good proof to show that by using information technology tools at the work place, it is very possible to ensure that customers were well taken care of and happy, hierarchies within organizations were eliminated leading to a flat structure where all workers could interact in a more free atmosphere, workers at the middle and lower level in the organization received the expected support and that productivity was eventually improved (Willcocks, Petherbridge Olson 2). Willcocks, Petherbridge and Olson further stated that even when the use of software development tools leads to increased performance, they do not do so in isolation. Software development tools will perform but in the midst of many other factors (3). In Loehle’s study, he argues that if an organization has to implement the use of software development tools, it is important to ensure that users are not forced into using the software tool. He considers true restructuring to be well undertaken by capitalizing on the strengths of the software development tool (Loehle 125). Any amount of compuls ion or intimidation to get people to use the system will only end up creating resentment among the users and with a negative attitude towards using the software development tool, nothing much can will be accomplished. Another factor that leads to undesirable results when it comes to making use of software development tools has to do with the level of complexity of the software tool (Loehle 125). Complicated software development tools may end up being quite unpopular with users and its success may greatly be hindered. It is important to ensure that the software development tool presented to the users will generate interest. Conclusion From the arguments presented in this paper, it is quite clear that the use of software development tools has a great influence on the level of productivity. It can lead in either positive or negative output, organizations that intend to use these tools must ensure that the correct software is sourced, properly implemented and correctly used in carrying out the business of the organization. Failure to adhere to set procedures will simply bring unfavorable outcomes in the end. It is also important to be aware of the fact that, it is never easy to measure the extent to which the use of software development will result in increased output. This is often because the success of information systems is influenced by many other factors that may not be quite obvious. Unless one is very keen, it may be such a daunting task to try and establish the benefits that accrue from making use of a chosen software development tool. Finally, even though software development tools will increase productivity, it is important to note that for this to be realized, one must understand and avoid as much as possible, the actions that may cause the failure of the tools. Among others tasks, implementers must make sure that users are fully involved in the processes of getting the software into operation. They must also be well trained to use the software tool co nsidering that without proper training, the software may be under utilized or misused creating poor result. Works Cited Holmes, Andrew. Failsafe IS Project Delivery. Hampshire: Gower Publishing Limited. 2001. Print. Hurley, William D. Software Engineering and Knowledge Engineering: Trends for the Next Decade. City: World Scientific. 1995. Print. James, K. L. Software Engineering. New Delhi: PHI Learning Private Ltd. 2009. Print. Loehle, Craig. Thinking Strategically: Power Tools for Personal and Professional Advancement. Cambridge, United Kingdom: Cambridge University Press. 1996. Print Rook, Paul. Software Reliability Handbook. New York: Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc. 1990 Print. Smit, Michael J. Salvendy, Gavriel. Systems, social and internationalization design aspects of human†¦, Volume 2. New Orleans: Routledge. 2001. Print. Willcocks, Leslie., Petherbridge, Peter and Olson, Nancy A. Making IT Count: Strategy, Delivery, Infrastructure. Jordan Hill, Oxford: Butterwor th-Heinemann. 2002. Print. This research paper on The Use of Software Development Tools Always Increases Productivity was written and submitted by user Brayan Conley to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Passenger Satisfaction Survey free essay sample

Knowledge centre was setup at IRITM in 2008. IRITM has a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIM Lucknow, for writing Research Papers, Case Studies and assimilating research findings into comprehensive periodic reports to be used for improving training inputs. This is the 4th publication of the Centre. The earlier 3 publications :1. Ideas on PPP, Dr. Kalpana Dube, Sr. Prof. (Fin. PPP), IRITM Ashish Shukla 2. A Handbook on Project Finance PPP Terminology, Dr. Kalpana Dube, Sr. Prof. (Fin. PPP), IRITM Ankit Tandon 3. Studying the Efficacy of an Airport Modernization Concession Agreement, Dr. Kalpana Dube, Sr. Prof. (Fin. PPP), IRITM The above publications have been well received not only by the Railways but even outside in the Government, Private Sector and Educational Institutions. Indian Railways is the life line of the nation. It has been instrumental in bringing about a social, cultural and economic revolution in our society and has been a strong uniting and integrating force. We will write a custom essay sample on Passenger Satisfaction Survey or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Despite being a monopoly in passenger services which are highly subsidized, can it afford to have a dissatisfied customer? To keep the nation moving and the customers happy, our net social service obligations in 2010-11 constituted 17. 57% of total expenditure. Analysis of profitability of Coaching Services showed a loss of 21,324 crores to which net suburban losses in Chennai, Kolkatta and Mumbai contributed Rs. 2364 crores. Other factors have also accelerated the situation which include low second class ordinary fares non suburban commuters and concession in fare extended to various categories. No other transport sector today is offering rates which could compete with the Railways. Despite so much of effort if we are still unable to keep our Customer satisfied there certainly seems to be some communication gap between us and the Customer. In order to asses that gap IRITM conducted a â€Å"Passenger Satisfaction Survey† on the Northern, North Central and North Eastern Railway, the result of which are summarized in the publication. We hope the results would allow us the Railway personnel to introspect about our â€Å"Customer Demand† and initiate us to give a better service and be more vocal in showing our concern for keeping our Customer Happy. Ashima Singh Director IRITM Lucknow July 2012 FOREWORD Passenger Amenities and provision of certain essential as well as desirable features on Railway stations as well as on-board train services continually engage the attention of policy makers in the Railway Board as well as the Field Officers in the Zones and Divisions. The ground level scenario at major stations in the country differs in terms of scope as well as its perceived usefulness by the Railway Passengers. The present survey was designed to get a comprehensive feedback on 37 different service parameters related to passenger conveniences and station facilities. While the objective assessment fields were readily responded to by most passengers the open ended questions did not elicit detailed replies and were perfunctory. The perception gap between Passenger responses and Railway Officers’ responses also highlighted some interesting differences. Illumination at Stations, Signage and Clarity of Train Announcements and Booking Counter experience have got very favorable responses. The deficiency areas which were most reported on were cleanliness on platforms and train toilets, late running of trains as well as unauthorized people in compartments. What must be emphasized here is that none of these areas actually require capital expenditure or investments or repeated policy directives. They just require vigilantism, active supervision and better coordination among the service providers within the various departments. A standard protocol of maintenance, cleanliness and supervision functions needs to be worked upon just like the various service related parameters put in operation at the newly developed and modernized airports. (Please refer Annexure). This is a standard checklist of service parameters insisted upon by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL). A similar drill would go a long way in ensuring better services on our premium stations especially A1, and A categories. The booklet has been designed in such a manner that passenger responses can be very easily understood through use of colorful graphics and simple data presentation, however the larger question which needs to be addressed is that can we provide station and on board housekeeping services which are game changers and path breaking at the same time? Which reflect a paradigm shift in the way Passenger Services are traditionally being offered by Indian Railways. Perhaps the new Station Development Corporation announced recently may introduce sweeping changes to radically alter the present system of addressing Passenger Amenities and general conveniences to be made available to the public. The Station Development Corporation has been conceived with the primary objective of augmenting and improving passenger related amenities at stations. All the issues highlighted in the current survey would perhaps get addressed if fast tracking the activities of the Station Development agency can show visible early results. The areas of action being well designed concourses, high end waiting spaces, easy access with disabled friendly options for station premises, congestion free platforms, modern catering facilities etc. The Report has been made more useful by adding edited versions of the comprehensive, pan-India Passenger Service Surveys and Station Cleanliness Surveys conducted by the CAG (Railways) in the last few years. In addition, some additional literature and visuals of world class stations have been added to give a feel of what the future may look like in the days to come for Passenger Amenities and Services in Modernized Railway Stations. The Report has also been substantiated with identifying certain important performance benchmarks, using examples from the Aviation Sector. Performance benchmarking and improving customer perception are important milestones in improving station premises and passenger services beyond the conventional targets to the next level. A level which is path breaking and futuristic in its vision and implementation. If the checklist of the 37 parameters used in this study as well as the findings contained in the Audit Reports are read and comprehended by the Railway officers responsible for these functions, the purpose of the survey would be fulfilled. However, it may be useful to reiterate that station maintenance procedures must follow the KISNE principle i. e. Keep It Smart Neat and Efficient. Also while we cannot promise the moon to our customers we must ensure that what we do promise we deliver at all times with 100% efficiency and Zero Failures. These are achievable because we have a long experience of managing stations and procedures are well laid out. What is perhaps needed is a well established drill of adhering to a standard protocol of Station and Train Maintenance Practices and not allow the drill to falter even for a day. A well thought strategy, precision in execution and applying Six Sigma principles for not deviating from the Standard Maintenance and Supervision Protocol would go a long way establishing a New Order which is easy to replicate and easy to follow. Dr. Kalpana Dube Senior Professor IRITM Lucknow July 2012 The more you engage with customers the clearer things become and the easier it is to determine what you should be doing. Objectives of the Passenger Survey Criteria and Methodology Sample Size/Target Respondents Passenger Survey Findings Response by Railway Officers Suggestions for Proactive Action Comparison of General Public Railway Officers’ Response Perception Gap – Between the General Public as Rail Users and Railway Officers as Rail Users Graphical Representation of the Findings Strategy For Promoting Indian Railways Image And Train Travel Experience Some Suggestions Benchmarking Performance Assessment Measures Sub Report One: Sample Service Quality Specifications For Delhi International Airport Ltd. DIAL) Conceptual Background for Railway Stations as Profit Investment Centers Sub Report Two: CAG Recommendations on Passenger Services in Indian Railways 2008-09 Sub Report Three: CAG Recommendations on Cleanliness and Sanitation on Indian Railways 2007-08 Annexure 1: Citizen Charter on Passenger Services of Indian Railways Annexure 2: Questionnaire Used for the Passenger Satisfact ion Survey for IR Performance Service Standards Page No Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Objectives of the Passenger Survey †¢ †¢ To review the facilities provided to the passengers right from ticket booking to the on-board travel experience in the trains To asses if facilities provided in trains were adequate and effectively maintained or not, from the point of Passenger Satisfaction in Station Maintenance Practices. To know the priority areas so that these can be strengthened to optimize passenger satisfaction. To asses the overall travel experience of the passengers in the Indian Railways and their perception of the organization. †¢ †¢ Criteria and Methodology An open ended questionnaire with about 37 parameters was prepared and survey was conducted with the help of three field executives provided by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow. The survey was conducted over a period of ten days through direct contact and filling up of the questionnaire by on-board passengers of all the Travel Classes (AC, 2nd Sleeper). The routes identified for the survey were mainly on the Northern part of the country Lucknow New Delhi Lucknow, Lucknow Gorakhpur Lucknow, Lucknow Varanasi Lucknow, Lucknow Allahabad Lucknow, Lucknow Kanpur Lucknow, Lucknow Moradabad Lucknow, Lucknow Firozpur Lucknow. All the Stations surveyed belonged to A-1 and A category. 1 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Sample Size/Target Respondents The sample size of the survey was around 700 passengers which included 100 Railway Officers as well. The general passengers age profile was from 15 years to 65 years with maximum response coming in from the young adults/youth i. e. 26-35 years of age. About 28% were female respondents and balance were males. Quality in a service or product is not what you put into it. It is what the client or customer gets out of it. Peter F. Drucker 2 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Passenger Survey Findings Top Efficiencies 1. Illumination Signages 2. Availability of Porters (Coolies) at the Station 2. Booking Clerk Competency Behaviour 3. Clarity of Announcement at Stations Top Deficiencies 1. Cleanliness of Toilets 2. Unauthorized Vendors Passengers 2. Cleanliness of Platforms 3. Late Running of Trains Top Three Concerns/Priority Areas 1. Punctuality 2. Quality of services 3. Safety Satisfactory Services (Rated as Good) 1. Ambience of Waiting Rooms/Rest Rooms 2. Seating, Water, Trolley facilities at the Platform 3. Pricing of Food 4. Linen/Bedroll Cleanliness 5. Fans and Lights in the Trains 3 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Other Findings of the Survey †¢ More than 60% of the people have used IT Enabled services such as Internet Ticketing, Enquiry Kiosks, Touch Screens, etc. 64% of the passengers surveyed confirmed that they have seen service improvements in the Railways in the last five years. 31 % of the passengers surveyed are satisfied with the Railway Amenities/ facilities. 35 % of the passengers surveyed think that Railways are giving Value for Money for the services provided. 47 % of the passengers surveyed rated Overall Services provided by the Railways as Good †¢ †¢ †¢ Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning. Bill Gates 4 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Response by Railway Officers Top Efficiencies 1. Booking Clerk Competency Behaviour 2. Quality Quantity of Food made available 3. Clarity of Announcement at Stations Top Deficiencies 1. Coach/Toilets occupied by Unauthorized Passenger Vendors 2. Handli ng of Theft Cases 3. Cleanliness of Toilets/Coaches Top three Concerns/Priority Areas 1. Quality of Service 2. Punctuality 3. Cleanliness Satisfactory Services (Rated as Good) 1. Water in the Coaches 2. Seating, Water, Trolley facilities at the Platform 3. Cleanliness of Platform 4. Ambience of Waiting Rooms/Rest Rooms 5. Illumination Signages 5 Passenger Satisfaction Survey Report and Benchmarking of Performance Standards Other Findings of the Survey †¢ More than 70% of the Railway Officers have used IT Enabled services such as internet ticketing, enquiry kiosks, touch screens, etc. 94% of the Railway Officers surveyed confirmed that they have seen service improvements in the Railways in the last five years. 7 % of the Railway Officers surveyed are satisfied with the Railway Amenities/ Facilities. 86 % of the Railway Officers surveyed think that Railways giving Value for Money for the services provided. 85 % of the Railway Officers surveyed rated Overall Services provided by the Railways as Good. †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ 6 This handbook on Passenger Satisfaction Survey and Benchmarking of Performance Stan dards has been compiled using the results obtained in a 15 day extensive Passenger Survey launched by IRITM PPP Knowledge Centre in association with IIM Lucknow. The survey was in the northern part of the country covering A-1 and A category stations. 700 responses were obtained on 37 different passenger service parameters under nine categories ranging from Point of Sale to On-board Facilities to IT based Passenger Transactions. These have been compiled in easy to read, colourful graphics in this Report. The Report has been made more useful by adding edited versions of the comprehensive, pan-India Passenger Service Surveys and Station Cleanliness Surveys conducted by the CAG (Railways) in the last few years. In addition, some additional literature and visuals of world class stations have been added to give a feel of what the future may look like in the days to come for Passenger Amenities and Services in Modernized Railway Stations. This handbook would be of use not only to IRTS Probationers but also to all frontline Managers and Staff in Indian Railways responsible for Station Maintenance, Sanitation and Passenger Amenities. The handbook can also be accessed on the IRITM website www. iritm. indianrailways. gov. in.

The Daily Mail Essays

The Daily Mail Essays The Daily Mail Essay The Daily Mail Essay The Evening Standard is published by Associated Newspapers Ltd which is the management company for five major newspapers; Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday, Evening Standard, London Metro, Ireland on Sunday as well as the advertising publication, The Loot. The Evening Standard is the only evening newspaper in London, published daily, and is generally perceived as being the first paper to break important news thus setting the agenda for the next days news. It is a tabloid newspaper with certain assertions to being an intelligent tabloid. Associated newspapers are known to be a company right of the middle, with its politics most characterised by The Daily Mail. It publishes four editions throughout the day (between 8.00am and 4.00pm) and has a daily circulation in excess of 424,000 and an estimated readership of 1 million. The paper also comes with a supplement four times a week and Metro Life on a Thursday which contains all the information concerning what is happening in London for the forthcoming week in relation to cinema, clubbing and the arts. The general readership is made up of commuters as the paper has its own newsstands set up around the capital as well as sellers at traffic lights and around train and underground stations. The content is generally specific to its audience as it regularly reports on London issues and prides itself on this and utilises it as a selling point. This article concerns the proposed smoking-bans in Londons public places after its introduction in New York and San Francisco and its active encouragement in California. The headline is surprisingly understated and appears almost conversational as if an invitation to debate as opposed to a strict call to support or opposition. The article promotes a survey, the biggest ever about the contentious issue and provides information about how to access the survey on the internet, in itself an indication of the audience (i.e. that they have access to the internet through work or home which suggests a middle class market). The piece quotes research gathered by the anti-smoking pressure group, Smoke-Free London but provides no research from any pro-smoking groups. This research showed that a significant majority of people supported their cause (between 70-75%) which is of no surprise as they would not have published results that did not support their claims. The results from the survey the article is promoting will be passed to London Mayor, Ken Livingstone in January. We are subsequently told that the Mayor does not have the authority to introduce a smoking ban but is committed to working with partners to cut smoking in public places. Upon close analysis of the article the implication is that the proposed smoking ban will most likely not be exclusive but each sector, such as club industry, pub industry, shopping centres, will be informed of the results and asked to make a decision based upon the findings of their market. The likelihood of an all-out ban seems low but there may be levels of restriction imposed. The chairman of the London Health Commission, Len Duvall is also consulted who we must assume would also be in favour of the ban although his comments seem quite objective;Â  Smoking is something that affects all Londoners whether they smoke or not. We want to give them the chance to have their say on whether smoking should or should not be allowed in a range of public settings. It is interesting that the article refers to the introduction of smoking bans in California and New York but makes no further reference to this. The writer neglects to comment on the implications that it has had on businesses there. Upon my own private research, I found that a number of businesses have lost significant trade and some have ceased trading altogether due to the new law. No doubt, the statistics do not enforce the beliefs of the writer and are thus omitted. There are no expert consultations regarding a stance against the ban and the article descends into the style of a pub debate as arguments are already raging in Londons bars. We are presented with the opinion of two customers at Clapham Commons SW4 bar which has already introduced segregated smoking areas. Both customers appear to be middle class (a nursery nurse and a property developer from Borough and Kensington, respectively) and thus have more meaningful opinions within media ideology although the property developer, a smoker and against the ban, appears much more articulate than his opponent;Â  To say that a person cannot smoke in a public place is, in my opinion, an infringement of that individuals civil liberties. The positioning of his quotation is significant as it appears at the very end of the article to conclude it. It is the only opinion featured that actively opposes the ban and to leave it to the end could suggest a certain dead donkey attitude from the journalist towards it but personally I find that it emphasises his position and slightly trivialises the content of the article previous. The reader leaves the article with this impression and opinion engrained upon them.

Reflective Communication Audit Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Reflective Communication Audit - Essay Example It determines what is working well, what is not, and what might work better if adjustments are made†. An organization communicates with its stakeholders and public in variety of situations. The strategy of the company in respect of all manners of communication, oral, written or actions needs to be designed to convey its philosophy and values to the stakeholders and public. The purpose of this study is to reflect upon and analyse the communication practices, processes and issues that are evident in TESCO, which is the third largest retail chain in the worth with its head quarters in the UK. Organisational background Started as grocery retail in the UK, TESCO has transformed into a multinational company over the period of time, with retailing in clothing, furniture, electronic goods and many other goods including petrol which are regularly bought by households or businesses. It has also entered into financial services, software and telecom. The company is listed in LSE and includ ed in FTSE 100 Index. Therefore, communication in such a geographically and functionally diversified company needs to be structured to achieve the objectives or goals with limited misunderstanding and conflicts. The slogan â€Å"The Tesco Way† seeks to portray the manner in which the company wants the public to remember its philosophy and values, and in a sense, it is a message to the public. The company’s innovations like installation of camera and self-service tills in the stores could be considered as reactions in tune with the technological developments. Also, these changes communicate a message to the customers about TESCO’s desire to improve the level of service. The Balanced-scorecard system implemented in TESCO unites the group’s resources at all levels. Communication audit would be useful and effective in monitoring of the operations including risk management on a balanced basis in relation to various divisions and the stakeholders could be augme nted. According to the TESCO’s website, the  Ã¢â‚¬ËœVision’  is for Tesco to be: Most highly valued by the customers we serve, the communities in which we operate, our loyal and committed staff and our shareholders A growth company A modern and innovative company Winning locally, applying our skills globally This vision statement and one of its stated strategies ‘to put our responsibilities to the communities we serve at the heart of what we do’ seeks to communicate its commitment to its stakeholders which includes community as well. The intense competition in the retail sector in the UK and globally necessitates advanced planning and formulation of effective strategies in achieving its corporate objectives. The expansion of the business into new products and services calls for coordination of its various activities at all levels. It also underlines the need for an integrated communication policy for a sustained development in the long run. Communicati on in an organization has several dimensions and is complicated unless it is coordinated with high standards of efficiency and audited on a regular basis. Communication audit The standard of living of the people has been increasing over the period of time which results into changes in tastes and fashions and shorter product life cycle. This is an important factor especially in retail business of TESCO and Communication audit would be useful in evaluating the communication strategies adopted by the company to make