ShantanuT01/DACTYL-Pretraining huggingface dataset:
Introduction Fables and narrations can guide leaders and entrepreneurs to consider new ways to transform their business firms and eventually achieve the outlined goals. The book “That’s Not How We Do It Here! A Story about How Organizations Rise and Fall–and Can Rise Again” offers powerful insights that managers can consider depending on the development stages of their respective companies and the needs of different stakeholders. This discussion focuses on the concept and theme of leadership as Lena applies it in the selected text. The paper also outlines emerging ideas that business firms need to consider if they are to achieve their maximum potential. Content and Theme Development The selected book narrates the story of Nadia, an adventurous meerkat, and part of a mature clan. Unfortunately, this clan has encountered new challenges that appear to threaten the existing procedures and rules. The followers are unable to listen to Nadia (Kotter & Rathgeber, 2016). She decides to examine how other smaller clans are handling their emerging changes and problems. He finds a small group that is loosely organized and capable of achieving its goals. She considers the most appropriate strategy to combine the acquired ideas and develop a well-managed clan that is capable of achieving its goals. This analysis examines some of the issues many organizations face and how they cope or encounter additional problems that can affect performance. The selected theme for this discussion is that of leadership. Lena, the meerkat in charge of the smaller clan, appears to be charismatic and focuses on the best approaches to address emerging challenges. She applies the major attributes of leadership to solve all issues and guide her followers to focus on the targeted aims (Kotter & Rathgeber, 2016). These descriptions resonate with the concepts and problems many companies experience irrespective of their sizes. The emerging idea is that leadership is a powerful strategy for combining various elements and ensuring that desirable outcomes are recorded. This theme, therefore, forms the background of this discussion presented below. Points and Arguments The studied book uses the presented clans to offer powerful comparisons between large and small organizations. Small firms, according to the text, tend to start at the very bottom and implement practical ways to address challenges. They will consider all possible definitions and practices that can support the delivery of positive results. The workers are in a learning experience and focus on some of the best initiatives to adapt and guide all stakeholders to remain energetic. These attributes resonate with those of Lena’s small clan (Kotter & Rathgeber, 2016). However, successful and large companies develop complex structures and policies that are capable of affecting the recorded level of innovation and speed (Kristandy & Aldianto, 201
Knowledge is a vital component of the employees’ performance on the job. Workers should translate the knowledge they learn into their behavior for any traditional training to be helpful. There are three main categories of traditional training methods. These include presentation methods, hands-on training and group building methods. Naturally, any given organization or workplace will benefit from different approaches, as each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Thus, the human resource department selects traditional methods of training depending on how best it meets the critical training needs. Employees are passive recipients of information in presentation training methods. The information comprises of facts, process and problem solving approaches. The main presentation methods include lectures and audio-visual techniques. The trainer uses spoken words to communicate in lecture methods. The learning process is one way in lecture methods. This is from the trainer to the trainees. Lecture methods are less expensive and not time consuming. They are effective when handling a large number of trainees. Lectures can be in the form of student presentations, panels, guest speakers and team teaching. The main forms of audio-visual instructions include videos, slides and overhead. These instructions enhance customer service skills, interviewing skills, communication skills, and illustrate how to follow procedures. Hands on methods encourage the learner to participate in the learning process. The main forms of hands on methods are on the job training, behavior modeling, business games, case studies and simulations. Employees learn by observing their colleagues perform their duties in the on the job training. These includes the self directed learning programs and apprenticeship. Hands on methods are vital in training new employees and teaching experienced employees on new techniques. These methods also assist in carrying out departmental cross-trainings and orienting promoted transferred
In recent decades, organizations all over the world are increasingly adopting information systems not only to create and capture value to earn a profit, but also to sustain their competitive advantage and spur strategic decision making processes in the pursuit of superior performance. While there is clear evidence of a quantifiable correlational association between the adoption of information systems and the achievement of competitive advantage, some organizations have been unable to leverage on these systems due to misalignment of the readiness factors and conditions. This paper evaluates the readiness factors deemed necessary for an organization to use available information systems to achieve and sustain competitive advantage. The most important readiness factor for using information systems to achieve competitiveness, in my view, is training of employees. Indeed, training and education are of critical importance to users for better understanding of the proposed information system, and also to facilitate their acceptance and readiness to use the new systems in the pursuit of competitive advantage. More importantly, training and re-skilling of employees is critical not only in helping the users resolve likely future problems associated with the information systems, but also in continuing improvement of the employees’ knowledge regarding the use of available information systems for competitive advantage. Another important readiness factor entails reviewing the managers’ and employees’ readiness to change; that is, preparing users of the information systems to ensure minimal resistance to change. Many organizations fail to realize the many value offerings associated with information systems due to resistance from employees and managers, who may feel that their jobs or positions in the organization are threatened by the adoption of specific information systems. To realize competitive advantage through the adoption of information systems, senior management must involve all employees in discussing and evaluating the possible benefits arising from the information systems, hence preparing them for change. Moving on, it is evident that the need for the organization to set out a robust strategy for the adoption of information systems is an important factor in obtaining and sustaining competitive advantage. Consequently, the organization should identify the major drivers for the adoption of the information systems to enable the setting up of an appropriate action plan and objectives that are to be achieved through the adoption of the information systems. Such a strategy must then be aligned with the organization’s business strategy to achieve strategic alignment, with the view to impacting the business performance and competitive advantage of the organization. Additionally, the capacity to execute the needed changes is yet another readiness factor that many organizations overlook during the adoption of information systems, leading to failure and non achievement of competitive advantage. Organizations must a
Discussion Customer relationship management (CRM) is a model that sales executives (SEs) use to manage interactions with potential clients who can support a company’s aims. A business-to-business (B2B) framework guides marketers to embrace the power of data analysis to identify the right firms and make them reliable partners. This paper describes how I am planning to use CRM technology as a SE to achieve my marketing goals. Sales Functions and Activities This new job will be an opportunity for me to undertake various sales activities and functions that can deliver positive results. The first one is the preparation of sales calls and identification of potential companies that require various types of office equipment. The second activity is liaising with the inventory departments of the identified companies to inform them about the available items and products from the company. This means that I will be reading, writing, and responding to emails and phone calls frequently. The third role is that of collaborating with my supervisors and different marketing teams in my company. The fourth one is managing all my records and using CRM data analytics to make informed decisions. New Leads The success of any sales strategy depends on the number of potential customers identified and attracted. I will use different sources and social media outlets to learn more about large companies in need of office equipment. This knowledge will then guide me to find their contacts and visit their physical locations. I will liaise with different partners and existing customers to find new ones. I will meet with the leaders of the right departments severally until we strike a deal. I will explain how the company is willing to provide discounts and free deliveries. I will keep records and make the relevant follow-ups until such businesses are converted into prospects. New Sales Opportunities Marketers and competent sales personnel are able to identify customers who can become potential clients. These include companies that appreciate the available items and equipment from my company. Organizational managers who appear interested will be identified as potential buyers. I will apply my competencies to convince them and even liaise with my manager to offer practical discounts to win such clients. Follow-ups will be essential until the deal is closed. Time Management As a SE, it is necessary to acknowledge that there are activities to be undertaken weekly, daily, monthly, and quarterly. In order to manage my time efficiently, I will keep journal entries and timelines that will guide my day-to-day activities. I will match such roles with the sales activities and goals. For example, I will allocate adequate time for making calls and responding to emails every working day. I will plan for looking new clients and manage existing ones. I will also outline various activities to be completed every month or quarterly, including launching campaigns and informing more potential customers about the available office equipment. These actions will eventu
There are very many hotels in the world and a great amount of them are luxury ones. The management of these hotels has an important job of retaining the best possible service and attracting new and previous customers. One of the major and primary problems with a particular hotel is the absence of a computer system and a connection to the internet. A manager would have to arrange purchases and installations. The hardware is a part of what makes technology work and available to the public. As such, the hotel needs to purchase iPads and several personal computers. An access to an online travel agent will allow an easier and quicker arrangement of accommodation and managerial control (Hayes 16). The access to a commonly shared database between all hotels will allow for a unity in the kind of information and implementation used in reservations. The clientele, products and services can all be accessed via online sources and databases within the shortest periods of time (Fallon 23). The vision or mission of any organization is to spread its influence over greatest area in the shortest time, so a lot depends on the functioning of an organization within the internet or the virtual world of information. The more people can gain access to a specific want or need, the better it will be for the company. As such, the online tools and databases have become a key to success of any business (Giovinazzo 5). One of the primary goals is to strengthen the inner structure of the hotel by making sure that all employees have access to a shared hotel network and the internet. As such, supervisors and select employees must be provided with a mobile device, iPad, notebook or some other gadget with access to the network. This would provide for quick access to the bookings, changes in the schedules, customer requests and staff meetings. Each hotel room must be equipped with access to the internet. This could be done with a wire connection jack available in the room or a Wi-Fi modem system, so that people can use their devices. Some rooms could be equipped with personal computers, and have a higher rate which would provide more profits, but also the ability for customers to chose such an option, in case they do not have a mobile device. For a more physical and hand-on managerial inclusion, a guided tour of the premises, as well as the demonstration of the technological advancements would be beneficial (Hayes 17). The next step would be to equip the hotel with stationary computers and databases which would store and organize all related information. Constant communication with other hotels is instrumental in advancing the services provided to a new level. As hotels and employees will be greatly connected, a software program which will adjust people’s schedule depending on the needs of the hotel could be used. For example, the hotel’s database can be connected to personal devices and employees off duty. In case there is a shortage of staff, a person will be contacted and requested to work. This would allow for a more flexible scheduling and
One of the most important tasks undertaken in the business world is that of decision-making. Majority of the decisions made in the modern marketplace are aimed at maximizing profitability within a firm. In order to gain sufficient understanding on the decisions to be undertaken, businesses rely on the information technology; indeed, knowledge management and business intelligence are some of the study areas spawned to aid in business decision-making (Anon, n.d). Prior to designing the marketing plan, sales forecast are normally undertaken in order to determine the potential of the market; hence, numerous kind of information from various sources are used (Longenecker, et al, 2006, p.154). According to Hague (1996), market research is undertaken in various kinds of markets where both the buyer and the seller come together for the sole purpose of exchanging and increasing value. In this case, the buyer benefits by gaining profits while the seller achieves satisfaction (Hague, 1996, p.4). It is suggested by O’Connell (2003) that, despite one having expertise, experience, skills, and smartness, one might be lacking common sense. This is proven by the fact that, despite having smart people around, many dumb activities are normally accounted for, which in the first place ought not to happen, as they require the use of common sense (O’Connell, 2003). Distinctive nature of business intelligence, knowledge management, sales forecasting, market research, and common sense in business The various concepts used in decision-making are mainly distinguished by their definitions, as well as activities and processes associated with each concept. Business intelligence has numerous definitions; for instance, it has been defined as a wide area of technology where data is gathered, stored, accessed, and analyzed for the sole purpose of aiding business users in making better decisions. In addition to this, business intelligence has also been defined as systems that provide a background data that has been directed together with tools of reporting in order to aid in the process of decision-making. According to Williams and Williams (2007), a decision process is a type of business processes. In addition to this, businesses and companies tend to use business intelligence to bring about consistency in decision making, emphasize on incorporation of business information and analytical t
The main thesis of ‘The Puritans and Sex’ by Edmund S. Morgan claims that the Puritans did not consider every possible source of satisfaction as an immoral and sinful deed. The author describes the Puritans not as a powerful religious society who disapproved and outlawed earthly pleasures but as people who actually were aroused by simple desires and fragility; therefore, according to Edmund Morgan, the Puritans understood that the human nature is weak to sins and succumbed to the temptations of the pleasures of the flesh. It was believed that the Puritans considered marriage as an only proper way to have sexual relations. Moreover, people that were accused of adultery were sentenced to death according to the Puritans’ laws; and those who were caught for sexual relationship within marriage were whipped. However, Edmund Morgan advanced doubts about the authenticity of these statements and claimed that sexual relation within the wedlock were widespread and practiced throughout the Puritans’ community. However, the author claims that sexual intercourse is an indispensable element of a healthful and hearty relationship within wedlock. The author supports the thesis of his work with several arguments. First of all, Puritans treated sexual intercourses as any other pleasure: on celebrations where delicious food and drinks were presented, sexual relations were allowed as well, only between two persons who were married. Secondly, surely there were certain laws that forbid adultery; however no more than three victims were sentenced to death. This could indicate that the Puritans had no desire in strictly following the law. Another argument in favor of sexual intercourse within marriage is getting the children of the Puritans to get marries as soon as possible; thus preventing the sin of adultery. And the last but not the least point of the author is an aspiration of the Puritan society to have a healthy, strong and successful marriage. The Puritans “took every means possible to make husbands and wives live together and respect each other: if a husband deserted his wife and remained within a jurisdiction of a Puritan Government, he was promptly sent back to her”. 1 The purpose of the author is to persuade a modern s
Introduction Globalization is an ideology that promises empowerment of people across the world, since humanity has been facing common problems in economic, political, and social spheres. Basic ideology of globalization is to enhance global markets through liberalization of trade and integration of free markets so that services, goods, and capital can move freely across the borders. Due to the problem of economic inequality in the developing and developed countries, liberalization of trade and integration of free markets offer improved economic solutions. It means that globalization enhances devolution of economic resources since free markets attract and allow free movement of services, goods, and capital. Given that economic ideologies of communism restricted and controlled trade, globalization is in tandem with current economic ideology of capitalism, which allows liberalization and integration of world’s markets, thus a gateway to economic freedom. According to Saul, the globalization ideology promises that, economic freedom, not political imperialism, is a determinant of human events and destiny (34). In this view, globalization forces emanate from economic factors that undergo self-regulation without any human interference; thus, no one can claim to be in charge of globalization. However, despite the imposing ideology of globalization to free humanity from economic and political imperialism, it has changed its course from market globalism to imperial globalism. Globalization has changed The basic ideology of globalization is liberalization of trade and integration of free markets to enhance social, economic, and political stability across the world. As aforementioned, globalization aims at creating lucrative and free markets that allow free movement of services, goods, and capital cross all international borders, thus equal distribution of economic resources. Globalization provides a stable economic environment that favours growth of trade and commerce in capitalism economies that have pervaded almost every country across the world. Therefore, to attain globalization objectives of liberalized trade and markets, countries have to let market forces of capitalism to self-regulate. Unfortunately, given that the United States is a super power and wants to maintain superiority and shape the destiny of the world, it has usurped globalization as a means of achieving political and economic dominance. Steger argues that, after September 11, 2001 attacks, the ideology of globalization shifted from market globalism to imperial globalism for the United States merged world’s markets and security to become one thing (34). The United States holds that, liberalized trade and free markets are indispensable to national security for they play a pivotal role in combating terrorism. Given that Middle East countries had resisted globalization and purportedly hosted terrorism networks, the United States decided to use ‘aggressive’ forces to open up the ‘Arab
A writer’s arsenal includes a great number of devices that help him or her to express own ideas. An author develops an intricate storyline and shows a reader what happens with a character under certain conditions – we see which actions a writer considers right, and which ones become an object of his or her reproach. With a couple of bright original metaphors, a writer helps a reader to understand a character’s emotions, to imagine setting with the minor details, and to feel the atmosphere of the moment. In this dimension, the personality of a narrator can be also considered one of the devices that writers use in their works. In her Orlando: A Biography, Virginia Woolf assigns a significant part to the narrator who helps her to deliver her ideas to a reader. Her narrator, a generalized figure that has absorbed features and ideas of many men whom we could meet on the border of the XIXth and the XXth centuries, does not provide a reader with impartial description of a sequence of events, but tells the story from his own point of view. Virginia Woolf has been recognized as a writer who has “called in question” the necessity of presenting a narrator as an objective and impartial deliverer of a story. Such approach, in Woolf’s opinion, creates gaps between an author, a character and a reader. Thus, the story is limited by informing a reader about a sequence of events that happened to characters. In this case, there is no place to evaluations, feeling and emotions, which are nevertheless not less important than events themselves. This idea of Virginia Woolf seems very reasonable: indeed, even in the real life, the events that happen to people mean little without emotions awakened by them. Besides, by its nature, narration itself is rarely objective: we may ask two people to retell the same story, and we will hear two absolutely different versions of the events. In her works, Woolf experimented with the ways a reader sees the story. For example, when reading Jacob’s Room , a reader sees the events by the eyes of the characters (Benneth 91); the same can be said about Mrs. Dalloway . Analogically, the role of the narrator’s personality in Orlando: A Biography can be hardly overrated. Not surprisingly, this approach helped Woolf to make her work incredibly realistic, even despite its plot that contains fantastic elements, while many of her contemporary colleagues who limited their focus to creating intricate detailed plots nevertheless did not reach such effect of realism in their works. Does the narrator seem invisible when we get familiarized with the course of Orlando’s life? We definitely cannot call his presence unno