Performance of Telecom Service Provider

ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 Performance of Grameenphone and Robi in Telecom. Sector of Bangladesh: A Comparative Study S. M. Akterujjaman* Md. Rouf Biswas* Md. Nur-E-Alam Siddique** Abstract The last decade has brought the first wave of the truly mobile generation which is built around mobile phones, short messaging service (SMS), and portable electronic assistants. The mobile communications industry has been one of the most flourishing sectors within the ICT industry and, in general, within the economy.Grameenphone and Robi are the biggest mobile phone operators in our country and their contribution is very great to our economy. The prime objective of the study is to compare the performance between Grameenphone and Robi in the telecommunications sector of Bangladesh. This study is based on the basis of both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected from relative mobile phone companies’ customers from Khulna city. Total 200 customers (100 customers of Grameenphone and 100 customers of Robi) were surveyed through the judgmental sampling method with questionnaire from March to June 2011.The questionnaire consisted of 25 questions. After collection of primary data, hypotheses were formulated and paired samples T-test was used to test the hypotheses with 0. 05 level of statistical significance. The statistical computer package SPSS version 16. 0 was used to analyze the data. The recommendations were provided based on the findings and analysis. Key words: Performance, Telecommunications sector, Grameenphone, Robi, Customer satisfaction, Network, Hypotheses. Introduction The people of Bangladesh are now dreaming of a digital Bangladesh.Faster development of telecommunications network coupled with improved quality of service in line with the national development is a must for the fulfillment of the vision and aspiration of digital Bangladesh and also to take her to a position of honor in the community of nat ions in the 21st century. Mobile phone operators have been playing an important role in this regard (Rahman, 2010). The last decade has brought the first wave of the truly mobile generation which is built around mobile phones, short messaging service (SMS), and portable electronic assistants.But now there is strong evidence to suggest that there is an even bigger wave to come driven by the increasing worldwide technological trend towards mobility and technology integration. This is evident through the plans and strategic directions of many of the major players in this field (Mahmud and Chowdhury, 2010). * ** Senior Lecturers, Department of Business Administration, Northern University Bangladesh Lecturer, Faculty of Business, ASA University Bangladesh 160 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011The telecommunication services in Bangladesh were provided until 1989 by the state-owned monopoly provider Bangladesh Telegraph and Telephone Board (BTTB), telecommunica tions services. In 1989, the Government of Bangladesh opened the telecom sector by awarding licenses to two operators; one to operate fixed telephones in rural areas (Bangladesh Rural Telecom Authority); and the other to operate cellular mobile phone and pager (Bangladesh Telecom LtdBTL) services. In 1992, Pacific Bangladesh Telecom Limited (PBTL) bought the mobile part of the BTL (Khan 2003).The telecommunications market in Bangladesh, particularly the mobile phone sector consists of six mobile phone operators. These are Grameenphone Limited (GP), Orascom Telecom Bangladesh Limited (Banglalink), Robi Axiata Limited, Airtel Bangladesh Limited, Pacific Bangladesh Telecom Limited (Citycell), and Teletalk Bangladesh Limited (http://www. btrc. gov. bd). Since its inception Grameenphone has built the largest cellular network in the country with over 13,000 base stations in more than 7000 locations. Presently, nearly 98 percent of the country's population is within the coverage area of th e Grameenphone network.Grameenphone has always been a pioneer in introducing new products and services in the local market. GP was the first company to introduce GSM technology in Bangladesh when it launched its services in March 1997. Grameenphone was also the first operator to introduce the pre-paid service in September 1999. It established the first 24-hour Call Center, introduced value-added services such as VMS, SMS, fax and data transmission services, international roaming service, WAP, SMS-based pushpull services, EDGE, personal ring back tone and many other products and services.The entire Grameenphone network is also EDGE/GPRS enabled, allowing access to high-speed Internet and data services from anywhere within the coverage area. There are currently nearly 2. 6 million EDGE/GPRS users in the Grameenphone network. Today, Grameenphone is the leading telecommunications service provider in Bangladesh with more than 33 million subscribers as of May 2011 (http://www. grameenphon e. com). The shareholders of Grameenphone contribute their unique, in-depth experience in both telecommunications and development. It is a joint venture enterprise between Telenor (55. %), the largest telecommunications service provider in Norway with mobile phone operations in 12 other countries, and Grameen Telecom Corporation (34. 2% ), a non-profit sister concern of the internationally acclaimed micro-credit pioneer Grameen Bank. The other 10% shares belong to general retail and institutional investors (http://www. grameenphone. com). Robi Axiata Limited is a joint venture company between Axiata Group Berhad, Malaysia and NTT DOCOMO INC, Japan. It was formerly known as Telecom Malaysia International (Bangladesh) which commenced operations in Bangladesh in 1997 with the brand name AKTEL.On 28th March 2010, the service name was rebranded as ‘Robi’ and the company came to be known as Robi Axiata Limited. Robi is truly a people-oriented brand of Bangladesh. Robi, the pe ople's champion, is there for the people of Bangladesh, where they want and the way they want. Having the local tradition at its core, Robi marches ahead with innovation and creativity. To ensure leading-edge technology, Robi draws from the international expertise of Axiata and NTT DOCOMO INC. It supports 2G voice, CAMEL Phase II & III and GPRS/EDGE service with high speed internet connectivity.Its GSM service is based on a robust network architecture and cutting edge technology such as Intelligent Network (IN), which provides peace-of-mind The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi 161 solutions in terms of voice clarity, extensive nationwide network coverage and multiple global partners for international roaming. It has the widest International Roaming coverage in Bangladesh connecting 600 operators across more than 200 countries. Its customer centric solution includes value added services, quality customer care, easy access call centers, digital network security and flexible tariff rates (http://www. obi. com. bd). Robi Axiata Limited is a Joint Venture company between Axiata Group Berhad (70%) and NTT DOCOMO INC. (30%) (http://www. robi. com. bd). Objectives of the Study The prime objective of the study is to compare the performance between Grameenphone and Robi in the telecommunications sector of Bangladesh. The more specific objectives are as follows: 1. To determine the factors that influence consumers to choose a mobile phone operator. 2. To find out different types of facilities that both companies are offering to grasp new customers and to retain the present one. . To know about the specific area where subscribers are satisfied or dissatisfied. 4. To find out the level of customer satisfaction towards the services provided by Grameenphone and Robi. 5. To provide some recommendations to increase the performance of Grameenphone and Robi. Methodology of the Study The methodology adopted for the current study is presented below in a sequential manner: Sour ces of Data: This study is based on both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through personal interview with a structured questionnaire and direct observations.Secondary data were collected from the published official statistics, report documents, laws, ordinance, books, articles, periodicals of different domestic and international agencies, annual reports of concerned cell phone operators, ministry of posts & telecommunications, websites etc. Questionnaire Design: The primary data were collected from relative mobile phone companies’ customers from Khulna city. Total 200 customers (100 customers of Robi and 100 customers of Grameenphone) were surveyed through the convenience sampling method with questionnaire from March to June 2011.The questionnaire consisted of 25 questions. The questionnaire was pre-tested (piloted) on a convenience sample of 30 respondents of both cell phone companies from Khulna city. The aim was to check that the issues were pertinen t and the questions were clear, understandable, and comprehensible. The layout of some questions was modified and further improvements were done as a result of the pilot study. Data Analysis Methods: A five-point Likert type scale statements were used to measure the variables where 1 stands for strongly disagreed and 5 stands for strongly agreed effect on the statements (Luthans, 2002).After collection of primary data, hypotheses were formulated and paired samples t-test was used to test the hypotheses with 0. 05 level of statistical significance. The statistical computer package SPSS version 16. 0 was used to analyze the data. 162 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 Hypotheses Formulation: Research hypothesis is an unproven statement, which helps the researcher to draw the suggestion on his hypothetical assumption whether it is true or false based on some specific statistical test (Alam and Neger, 2009). For the convenience of the study the following hyp otheses are developed which are to be tested.Table 1: Developing Hypotheses for Different Factors Alternative hypothesis Factors Null hypothesis (H0) (Ha) Network Coverage x ncm? 0 x ncm* =0 Effectiveness of Network x enm? 0 x enm=0 Low Call Rate x lcrm=0 x lcrm? 0 Availability of SIM Card x ascm=0 x ascm? 0 Low Price SIM Card x lpscm=0 x lpscm? 0 Solution of the Problems Related to x sprsrm=0 x sprsrm? 0 SIM Replacement Special Offer to the Customers x socm=0 x socm? 0 Free Talk Time & Bonus Facilities x ftbfm=0 x ftbfm? 0 Pulse Facility x pfm=0 x pfm? 0 Availability of Flexi Load/Easy Load x aflelfm=0 x aflelfm? 0 Facility Friends & Family Number Facility x ffnm=0 x ffnm? Internet & GPRS Connection x igcm=0 x igcm? 0 Location of the Service Center x lscm? 0 x lscm=0 Value Added Services Facilities x vasfm? 0 x vasfm=0 *m= Two Mobile Companies (i. e Grameenphone and Robi) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Empirical Findings and Analysis An analysis is generated from th e questionnaire to fulfill the objectives of the study. In order to analyze the collected data a 5-point Likert type scale has been used. 5 stands for highly satisfied customers, 4 stands for only satisfied customers, 3 stands for neutral customers, 2 stands for dissatisfied customers, and 1 stands for highly dissatisfied customers.Several judgments are being made from the responses of customers to validate the objectives of the study. The results are presented below: 1. Network Coverage Network availability is an important factor to the customers. They give more emphasis in this particular point in purchasing the brand. The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi Table 2: Satisfaction Regarding Network Coverage Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 163 Value 5 4 3 2 1Frequency Grameenphone 34 55 11 0 0 100 4. 23 . 63333 14. 97 Robi 15 46 29 8 2 100 3. 64 . 90476 24. 86 From the above table, it is found that 34% respondents of GP are highly satisfied and 55% respondents are satisfied regarding network coverage. On the other hand, 15% respondents of Robi are highly satisfied and 46% respondents are satisfied and 29% respondents showed their neutrality regarding network coverage. Here mean value of GP and Robi respondents regarding network coverage are respectively 4. 23 and 3. 64 and the coefficient of variation are respectively 14. 97 and 24. 6, which indicate that GP is in a very strong position than Robi. 2. Effectiveness of Network When the customers have the information in their hand about the different network facility of the different cell phone operators then they give the priority to buy the connection of that operator which has the best coverage. Customers also give importance on the effectiveness of the network. Table 3 shows that 62% customers are satisfied and 25% customers are highly satisfied about the effectiveness of network of GP. On the other hand, 32% customers were neutral in their opinion towards the effectiveness of network of Robi.Of whom 26% customers were satisfied and 18% customers were highly satisfied. The mean value of customers response towards the effectiveness of network of GP is 4. 12, which lies in satisfied category, while mean value of Robi is 3. 29 which lies in neutral category of customers opinion. Table 3: Effectiveness of Network Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone 25 62 13 0 0 100 4. 2 . 60769 14. 75 Robi 18 26 32 15 9 100 3. 29 1. 19168 36. 22 164 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 The coefficient of variation of GP and Robi are respectively 14. 75 and 36. 22 which indicate that the opinion of the customers of GP is less deviated than Robi. 3. Call Rate From the table 4 it is found that 48% respondents of Robi showed their neutrality and 31% and 18% respondents were respectively satisfied and highly satisfied. On the other hand, 73% GP customers are dissatisfied and 15% are highly satisfied towards the call rate.Table 4: Satisfaction Regarding Call Rate Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 0 18 0 31 12 48 73 3 15 0 100 100 1. 97 3. 64 .52136 . 81054 26. 46 22. 27 Here mean value of GP and Robi respondents are respectively 1. 97 and 3. 64 indicate that Robi is in strong position than GP regarding call rate. The value of CV of Rabi and GP are 22. 27 and 26. 46 accordingly. It is observed that the CV of Robi is lower than GP.That means the customers of Robi perceived low call rate than that of GP. 4. Availability of SIM Card From the table 5 it is found that GP customers enjoy availability of the SIM card. That’s why about 47% respondents of GP are in highly satisfied level and 38% are satisfied regarding availability of SIM card. On the other hand, 28% Robi customers were neutral and 31% were satisfied towards availability of SIM card. Table 5: Availability of SIM Card Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 47 15 38 31 15 28 0 19 0 7 100 100 4. 32 3. 28 . 72307 1. 14662 16. 74 34. 96 The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi 165 Here mean value of GP and Robi respondents regarding availability of the SIM cards are respectively 4. 32 and 3. 28 and the coefficient of variation are respectively 16. 74 and 34. 96, indicate that GP is in a strong position than Robi. 5. Low Price SIM Card Customers al ways expect that when they will feel the necessity for the SIM card of nay mobile phone operators, at that time they will get the SIM card in low price.Table 6 shows that 40% respondents of GP are dissatisfied and 35% respondents are neutral in their opinion regarding low price SIM card. On the other hand, 32% Robi customers were satisfied and 29% were highly satisfied about low price SIM card. The mean value of customers’ response regarding low price SIM card of GP is 2. 57, which lies in neutral category, while mean value of Robi is 3. 79, which falls in satisfied category of customers responses. In this regard, the value of CV of Robi is lower than that of GP. It is found that the opinion of the customers of Robi is less scattered than GP i. Robi offer low price SIM card. Table 6: Low Price SIM Card Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, M arch-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone 5 9 35 40 11 100 2. 57 . 97706 38. 02 Robi 29 32 28 11 0 100 3. 79 . 98775 26. 06 6. Solution of the Problems Related to SIM Replacement Table 7 shows that 54% respondents of GP are satisfied and 21% respondents are neutral in satisfaction regarding solution of the problems related to SIM replacement.About 54. 00% of the respondents of GP are above the satisfied level. On the other hand, 47% Robi customers are satisfied and 24% customers showed their neutrality. 166 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 Table 7: Solution of the Problems Related to SIM Replacement Options Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 16 13 54 47 21 24 9 11 0 5 100 100 3. 77 3. 52 . 82701 1. 01980 21. 94 28. 97 Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011Here mean value of GP and Robi resp ondents about satisfaction regarding solution of the problems related to SIM replacement are respectively 3. 77 and 3. 52 and the CV is 21. 94 and 28. 97 accordingly. It is observed that the CV of GP is less than the CV of Robi. So, the researchers can conclude that the customers GP are more satisfied than that of Robi towards satisfaction regarding solution of the problems related to SIM replacement. 7. Special Offers to the Customers: Customers always expect that their operators will give some special offers to them regularly.The operators who are providing special offers to customers, are getting more customers. Table 7 reveals that about 39% respondents of Robi are satisfied and 26% are neutral. On the other hand, 37% GP customers are showing their neutrality and 32% was dissatisfied regarding special offers to the customers. Table 8: Special Offers to the Customers Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviat ion (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 9 21 12 39 37 26 32 14 10 0 100 100 2. 78 3. 67 1. 7853 . 96457 38. 80 26. 28 Mean value of GP and Robi respondents regarding special offers to the customers are respectively 2. 78 and 3. 67 and the coefficient of variation are respectively 38. 80 and 26. 28. It indicates that Robi is in a better position than GP in providing special offers to the customers. The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi 8. Free Talk Time & Bonus Facilities 167 Free talk time & bonus facilities are very important for the customers to choose a particular mobile phone service provider. So, they always like to use the connection of that operator who will offer them free talk time & bonus facilities.Table 9: Free Talk Time & Bonus Facilities Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV ) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 0 26 0 39 7 25 51 10 42 0 100 100 1. 65 3. 81 . 60927 . 93954 36. 93 24. 66 Table 9 shows that 51% customers are dissatisfied and 42% customers are highly dissatisfied about free talk time & bonus facilities of GP. On the other hand, 39% customers were satisfied in their opinion towards free talk time & bonus facilities of Robi.Of whom 26% customers were highly satisfied and 25% customers were neutral. The mean value of customers’ response towards free talk time & bonus facilities of GP is 1. 65, which lies in dissatisfied category, while mean value of Robi is 3. 81 which lie in satisfied category of customers’ opinion. The value of CV of Robi is lower than GP and it denotes that the customers’ opinion of Robi is less deviated than GP. So, it can be concluded that the customers of Robi are enjoying more free talk time & bonus facilities than GP customers. 9. Pulse Facilitiy The c ustomers who want to talk in a short time desire for pulse facilities.There are some operators in our country who are providing pulse facilities to the customers. Table 10 reveals that about 49% respondents of Robi are dissatisfied and 22% customers are satisfied. On the other hand, 68% GP customers are dissatisfied and 23% were highly dissatisfied regarding pulse facilities to the customers. 168 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 Table 10: Satisfaction Regarding Pulse Facility Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 0 5 0 22 9 17 68 49 23 7 100 100 1. 86 2. 69 . 55085 1. 05117 29. 62 39. 08 Here mean value of GP and Robi respondents regarding pulse facility to the customer are respectively 1. 86 and 2. 69 indicate that Robi is in a strong position than GP. 10. Av ailability of Flexi Load/Easy Load Facilities It is more important to the customer. Every customer wants these facilities in a convenient location. The operator who provides this facilities the customers are more satisfied on that operator than that of others.Table 11: Availability of Flexi Load/Easy Load Facilities Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 63 12 32 20 5 32 0 29 0 7 100 100 4. 58 3. 01 . 58913 1. 12362 12. 86 37. 33 Table 12 shows that 63% customers are highly satisfied and 32% customers are satisfied regarding availability of flexi load facility of GP.On the other hand, 32% customers were neutral in their opinion towards Easy Load facility of Robi of whom 29% customers were dissatisfied and 20% customers were satisfied. The mean value of customers response towards availabilit y of flexi load/easy load facilities of GP is 4. 58, which lies in highly satisfied category, while mean value of Robi is 3. 01 which lies in neutral category of customers opinion. The coefficient of variation of GP and Robi are respectively 12. 86 and 37. 33 which indicate that the opinion of the customers of GP is less deviated than that of Robi.The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi 11. Friends and Family Number Facilities 169 Every customer has some special number which is very much essential to him. He or she needs to talk with these numbers frequently. So he or she expects a lower tariff for these numbers. Cell phone operators provide some facilities for these FnF number. The operator who provides lower tariff and gives opportunity to more FnF number the customers are more satisfied with that operator. Table 13 reveals that about 53% respondents of Robi are highly satisfied and 28% customers are satisfied.On the other hand, 49% GP customers are highly satisfied and 33% were satisfied regarding friends and family number facilities to the customers. Table 12: Friends and Family Number Facilities Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone 49 33 14 4 0 100 4. 27 . 85108 19. 93 Robi 53 28 12 7 0 100 4. 27 . 93046 21. 79 Here mean value of GP and Robi to the customer satisfaction regarding friends and family number facilities are respectively 4. 7 and 4. 27 and the coefficient of variation are 19. 93 and 21. 79 indicate that both the operators are near about equal position. 12. Internet and GPRS Connection Internet and GPRS connection are very important for the young cell phone users. They want to get these facilities within low cost. Table 13: Internet and GPRS Connection Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Stan dard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone Robi 11 8 28 25 35 31 16 22 10 14 100 100 3. 15 2. 91 1. 2254 1. 16424 35. 64 40. 01 170 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 From the above table, it is found that 35% respondents of GP are neutral and 28% respondents are satisfied regarding Internet and GPRS connection. On the other hand, 31% respondents of Robi showed their neutrality and 25% respondents are satisfied and 22% respondents are dissatisfied regarding Internet and GPRS connection. Here mean value of GP and Robi respondents are respectively 3. 15 and 2. 91 and the coefficient of variation are respectively 35. 64 and 40. 01, which indicate that GP is in a good position than Robi. 3. Location of the Service Center Table 15 shows that 40% customers are satisfied and 29% customers are highly satisfied 24% customers showed their neutrality regarding location of the servic e center of GP. On the other hand, 37% customers were satisfied towards location of the service center of Robi. Of whom 28% customers were neutral and 26% customers were highly satisfied. Table 14: Location of the Service Center Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone 29 40 24 7 0 100 3. 91 . 90000 23. 02 Robi 26 37 28 9 0 100 3. 80 . 93203 24. 53 Here mean value of GP and Robi to the customers satisfaction regarding location of the service center are respectively 3. 91 and 3. 80 and the coefficient of variation are 23. 02 and 24. 53 indicate that GP is in a better position than Robi. 14. Value Added Services Facilities Cell phone operators provide some value added services such as SMS, MMS, and VMS etc. which is very important to the customers. The Performance of Grameenphone and RobiTable 15: Va lue Added Services Facilities Options Highly Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Highly Dissatisfied Total Mean Value ( x ) Standard Deviation (SD) Coefficient of Variation (CV) Source: Field Survey, March-June 2011 171 Value 5 4 3 2 1 Frequency Grameenphone 10 45 36 5 4 100 3. 52 . 89307 25. 37 Robi 8 44 39 6 3 100 3. 48 . 84662 24. 33 Table 18 indicates that 44% respondents of Robi are in satisfied level and 39% are neutral in their opinion regarding value added services. On the other hand, 45% GP customers were satisfied and 36% expressed their neutrality.The mean value of customers’ response towards value added services of GP is 3. 52, which lies in satisfied category, while mean value of Robi is 3. 48 which lie in neutral category of customers’ opinion. The value of CV of Robi is lower than GP and it denotes that the customers’ opinion of Robi is less deviated than GP. In fine it can be said both the companies tried to reach their best position by offe ring various opportunities. Both the companies are staying a strong position. But their initial investment, customers, registration number of customers is different from each other.It is also seen that some of the customers are satisfied with the specific sectors of Grameenphone and some of the customers are satisfied with the specific sectors of Robi. Test of Hypotheses and Results Test of hypotheses and results have been presented in the below table 20 by the help of the statistical package SPSS version 16. 0. The interpretations of the hypotheses testing have been given after the table 20. Table 16: Paired Samples Test between Grameenphone and Robi Paired Differences Variables Mean 1. Network Coverage 2. Effectiveness of Network 3. Call Rate 4. Availability of SIM Card . 9000 . 83000 . 50000 1. 04000 Std. Std. Error Deviation Mean . 53362 . 05336 . 73930 . 07393 . 50252 . 05025 . 58465 . 05847 95% Confidence Interval of the Difference Lower . 48412 . 68331 . 40029 . 92399 Upper t df 99 99 99 99 . 69588 11. 057 . 97669 11. 227 . 59971 9. 950 1. 15601 17. 788 Sig. (2tailed) . 000 . 000 . 000 . 000 Cont. Table 172 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 Paired Differences Variables Mean 5. Low Price SIM Card 6. Solution of the Problems Related to SIM Replacement 7. Special Offer to the Customers 8. Free Talk Time & Bonus Facilities 9. Pulse Facility 10.Availability of Flexi Load/Easy Load Facility 11. Friends & Family Number Facility 12. Internet & GPRS Connection 13. Location of the Service Center 14. Value Added Services Facilities -1. 22000 . 25000 -. 89000 -2. 16000 -. 83000 1. 57000 . 00000 . 24000 . 11000 . 04000 Std. Std. Error Deviation Mean 95% Confidence Interval of the Difference Lower Upper t df 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 99 Sig. (2tailed) . 000 . 000 . 000 . 000 . 000 . 000 1. 000 . 000 . 001 . 103 .52378 . 05238 -1. 32393 -1. 11607 -23. 292 . 43519 . 04352 . 37322 . 03732 . 16365 -. 96405 . 33635 5. 745 -. 81595 -23. 847 . 58119 . 5812 -2. 27532 -2. 04468 -37. 165 . 77921 . 07792 -. 98461 -. 67539 -10. 652 1. 71451 21. 557 . 05640 . 32517 . 17240 . 08819 . 000 5. 591 3. 498 1. 647 .72829 . 07283 1. 42549 . 28427 . 02843 . 42923 . 04292 . 31447 . 03145 . 24288 . 02429 -. 05640 . 15483 . 04760 -. 00819 Table 16 shows that in case of the factor ‘network coverage’ the calculated value of t (11. 057) is greater than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That means, Ha is accepted. Regarding ‘effectiveness of network’ the calculated value of t (11. 227) is more than the tabulated value of t (1. 6) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That means, Ha is accepted. For the factor ‘call rate’ the calculated value of t (9. 950) is higher than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That is, Ha is supported. Under the variable ‘Availability of SIM card’ the calculated value of t (17. 788) is greater than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That means, Ha is accepted. In case of ‘low price SIM card’ the calculated value of t (-23. 292) is less than the table value of t (-1. 96) at 5% level of significance.So, H0 holds true. That means, H0 is accepted and Ha is rejected. The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi 173 Regarding ‘solution of the problems related to SIM replacement’ the calculated value of t (5. 745) is greater than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That is, Ha is accepted. Under the variable ‘special offer to the customers’ the calculated value of t (-23. 847) is less than the table value of t (-1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 holds true. That is, H0 is supported. In case of ‘free talk time & bonus facilities’ the calculated value of t (-37. 65) is less than the table value of t (-1. 96) at 5% l evel of significance. So, H0 holds true. That means, H0 is accepted and Ha is rejected. Under the variable ‘pulse facility’ the calculated value of t (-10. 652) is less than the table value of t (-1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 holds true. That means, H0 is accepted and Ha is rejected. For the factor ‘availability of flexi load/easy load facility’ the calculated value of t (21. 557) is greater than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That means, Ha is accepted. In case of ‘friends & family umber facility’ the calculated value of t (0) is less than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 holds true. That means, H0 is accepted and Ha is rejected. For the factor ‘Internet & GPRS connection’ the calculated value of t (5. 591) is greater than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That means, Ha is accepted. Regarding â €˜location of the service center’ the calculated value of t (3. 498) is greater than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 is rejected. That means, Ha is accepted.Under the variable ‘value added services facilities’ the calculated value of t (1. 647) is less than the table value of t (1. 96) at 5% level of significance. So, H0 holds true. That means, H0 is accepted and Ha is rejected. Summary of Findings †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ Grameenphone spent a large amount of money in the establishment year for the tower purpose and is doing better for the network coverage than that of Robi. Most of the customers of GP have given their opinion in favor of effectiveness of network. The customers of Robi perceived low call rate than that of GP. GP is in a strong position than Robi regarding availability of SIM card.It is found that the opinion of the customers of Robi is less scattered than GP i. e Robi offe r low price SIM card. GP is in a better position in providing solution of the problems related to SIM replacement than Robi. It is observed that Robi is in a better position than GP in providing special offers to the customers. The customers of Robi are enjoying more free talk time & bonus facilities than GP customers. 174 †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 It is found that most of the customers’ of GP and Robi are dissatisfied regarding pulse facilities.But in comparison between these two operators, Robi is in a better position. Flexi load facility of Grameenphone is more available than that of easy load facility of Robi surrounding the country. The performance of both GP and Robi are satisfactory regarding friends and family number facilities to the customers. It is found that most of the customers’ of GP and Robi are showing their neutrality regarding Internet and GPRS connection. But in comparison between these two operators, GP is in better position. The customers of both the operators are satisfied in case of location of the service center.It is found that the customers’ opinion of Robi is less deviated than GP in case of value added services. That is Robi provides more value added services than GP. †¢ †¢ Conclusion Quality of telecommunications service depends on both the telephone network and the supporting services. The first is known as ‘equipment and system oriented quality’ and the second as ‘people and process oriented quality’. Equipment and system oriented quality consists of activities directly related to the network while people and process oriented quality consists of activities provided over the telephone network or face to face (Yusuf and Alam, 2010).The quality of service of mobile telecommunications is usually measured in terms of some common parameters such as call completion rate, call drop rate, voice quality, percentag e of complaints resolved within a stipulated time and customer service etc. (TRAI, 2008, Sutherland,2007, Australian Communications and Media Authority 2008). Accessibility and connectivity needs to be further improved. This can be achieved through the upgrading of technological infrastructure as well as the lowering of the internet usage costs through mobile phones to a more affordable level (Mahmud and Chowdhury, 2010).The research has provided insights like what are positive and negative aspects of both of the operators. For instance, the total number of customers of Grameenphone are very high than Robi. Grameenphone Company spent a large amount of money in the establishment year for the tower purpose and is doing better for the network facilities. On the other hand, Robi is doing better in case of call rate, low price SIM card, friends and family number facilities, bonus system etc.Robi needs to improve its poor network coverage, problem related to SIM replacement, insufficiency of the scratch card and easy load facilities, lack of convenient location of the service center and discount facilities etc. On the other hand Grameenphone is in a better position in comparison to Robi. It is doing better in case of following services like network coverage, effectiveness of network, solution of the problem related to SIM replacement, reconnection and migration, availability of the scratch card and flexi load facilities, location of the service center etc.But it can not be said that its services is much attractive to the customers. It has some other problems like lack of limited friends and family (FnF) number facilities and lack of bonus system (Free talk time, SMS), high call rate, lack of special offers to the customers, lack of pulse facilities etc. If GP takes initiative to remove or reduce these drawbacks, then it will be more successful in the telecommunications industry of Bangladesh. The Performance of Grameenphone and Robi 175 RecommendationsRecommendation s for Grameenphone: The authors have suggested some recommendations for improving the performance of Grameenphone are as follows1. The authority of Grameenphone should reduce its higher call charge. At the same time, the reduced call charge should be applied for all operators, not only for GP to GP, but also from GP to other operators. 2. It should provide more friends and family number facilities with GP to GP and other operators. 3. The Company should focus more to the prepaid subscribers than the post-paid subscribers. 4. SIM replacement (in case of lost or damaged SIM) charge should be reduced. . Most of the value added services (VAS) are not friendly for general handset users. GP should take some steps so that general handset users get an opportunity to have that VAS. Recommendations for Robi: The following are the provided recommendations by the authors to improve the performance of Robi1. Customers have been switching to other operators as a result of their poor network infra structure. So, Robi should have quick expansion in network development all over Bangladesh if it wants to keep its customers to stay with it. 2. Time duration of easy load and scratch card should lengthen.Easy load facility should be made easily available. 3. Charge should be reduced than the existing charge to take a new SIM if it is either damaged or lost. 4. The privilege services of the customer retention scheme of Robi should be launched as soon as possible as ‘djuice’ of Grameenphone has already started to saturate a certain segment of the market through its ‘X-tra Khatir Card’. 5. The Value Added Services (VAS) department should be coming up with more ideas to entertain its customers. This department has its potential but should be using it to the full range to provide more useful services to customers’ needs. . Customer Care has turned out to be one of the most focused points in the telecom industry. Survey results show subscribers expect a l ot of it and would appreciate special care facilities. References Agar, J. (2003) ‘Constant touch: A global history of the mobile phone’, Journal of Service Marketing, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 21-27. Alam, M. J. , and Neger, M. (2009) ‘Measuring consumer attitude towards beautification products: A study on some selected brands in Bangladesh’, Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka), vol. 4, issue 2, p. 61.Australian Communications and Media Authority (2008) ‘Telecommunications Today’, Report 4, Customer Satisfaction, February. Balasooriya, A. F. , Alam, Q. , & Coghill, K. (2007) ‘Ownership, competition and regulation under privatization policy: the Sri Lankan experience’, International Review of Administrative Sciences, vol. 73, no. 4, pp. 611-628. 176 ASA University Review, Vol. 5 No. 2, July–December, 2011 Bolton, R. N. (1998) ‘A dynamic model of the duration of customers’ relationship with a continuous service p rovider: The role of customer satisfaction’, Journal of Marketing, vol. 21, no. 6, pp. 5-9. Camp, L. J. & Anderson, B. L. (2001) ‘Deregulating the local loop: The telecommunications regulation path less chosen as taken by Bangladesh’, International Journal of Technology, Policy and Management, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 100-114. Coldwell. (2001) The Practice of Management, 4th edition, New York: Harper & Row. Gupta S. P. and Gupta M. P. (2006) Business statistics, 11th ed. , New Delhi: Sultan Chand & Sons. Hasan, Mahmud. (2008) ‘Mobile phone operators in Bangladesh’, The Daily Star, 7 January. Heinonen, K. and Andersson, P. (2003) ‘Swedish mobile market: Consumer perceptions of mobile services’, Journal of Service Marketing, vol. , no. 1, pp. 33-36. Hess, D. J. (1997) Science Studies: An Advanced Introduction, New York: New York University Press. Khalil, M. (2000) ‘Ministerial support for mobile: Middle East Times’, Journal of Europ ean Business Management, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 54-81. Khan, M. A. S. (2003) ‘Privatization in the telecommunication sector: An overview of comparative Bangladesh situation’, The Bangladesh Accountant, 41:14 pp. 29-36. Luthans, F. (2002) Organizational Behavior, 9th edition, New York: McGraw-Hill International Companies Inc. Mahmud, K. and Chowdhury, S. M. R. 2010) ‘Prospects of mobile learning for digital Bangladesh’, Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka), vol. 5, issue 1, January-June, pp. 50-61. Mitchell, K. and Whitmore, M. 2003. Marketing Management: In Book-Location Based Services, Journal of American Business and Economics, 41(2):85-91. Rahman, M. T. (2010) ‘Making Teletalk a healthy competitor among the mobile phone operators in Bangladesh’, Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka), vol. 5, issue 2, July-December, p. 133. Silva, H. D. , & Khan, A. S. (2004) ‘Regulation and investment: Case study of Bangladesh’, WDR Dial ogue Theme Discussion Paper WDR 03111-33.Sutherland, E. (2007) ‘The regulation of the quality of service in mobile networks’, Info 9(6), pp. 17-34. Symeou, P. C. (2009) ‘Does smallness affect the liberalization of telecommunications? The case of Cyprus’, Telecommunications Policy 33 (3-4), pp. 215-229. TRAI. (2008) ‘Quality of service assessment: Report of survey for basic service (Wireline)’, Cellular Mobile (Wireless) and Broadband, New Delhi: TRAI. Wang, Y. , & Lo, H. P. (2002) ‘Service quality, customer satisfaction and behavior intentions: Evidence from China's telecommunication industry’, Info, vol. 4, no. 6, pp. 50-60. Yusuf, M. A. and Alam, Q. 2010) ‘The influence of regulatory environment on mobile phone service quality: The case of Bangladesh’, Annual Asian Business Research Conference 2010, p. 5. Web References 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. http://www. grameenphone. com/about-us (Retrieved on 11 August 2011) http://www. gr ameenphone. com/about-us/corporate-information/ownership (Retrieved on 11 August 2011) http://www. btrc. gov. bd/licensing/operators/mobile_operators. php (accessed on 11 August 2011). http://www. robi. com. bd/index. php/page/view/98 (Accessed on 12 August 2011) http://www. robi. com. bd/index. php/page/view/99 (Accessed on 12 August 2011).

Heroism and cowardice in the Odyssey Essay

The most respected and venerated social group in Homeric times was that of the heroic warriors and kings. These were the people who lead their armies into battle and won accolades for their valor or courage displayed on the battlefield. The cowardly on the other hand, were subjected to strong prejudice. Their existence was considered a burden on the earth and they were ignored and ridiculed by everyone. This is evident in the Odyssey when Homer describes the incident of Elpenor’s death. â€Å"There was one called Elpenor, the youngest of the party, not much a fighting man and not very clever. This young man had got drunk and gone to sleep on the roof of Circe’s palace. Roused in the morning by the bustle and din of departure, he leapt up suddenly, and forgetting to go down the ladder and take the proper way down, he toppled headlong down the roof. † As is clear from this description, Elpenor’s death was never much of an issue for Odysseus or his crew, who laughed it off and ignorantly left his body unburied in their haste to go to Hades, because stupid and cowardly Elpenor was not worth mourning for. However the unparalleled sorrow expressed at the deaths of Agamemnon and Achilleus was justified because they were great heroes who deserved to be lamented. Elpenor’s body was only buried when he himself reminded Odysseus to bury him lest he (Odysseus) incurred the wrath of the Gods, at leaving a human corpse unburied. The suitors on the other hand were considered fine men in their own right-handsome and brave. It was only their wanton misuse of Odysseus’s property in his absence and their disrespectful attitude towards Penelope that turned many of the Gods against them. The suitor’s willful insolence directed at the property and wife of an absent man was seen as an act of cowardice and thus excited the wrath of the Gods. The suitors in truth were no more than mere cowards as was evident when they tried to make truce with Odysseus in the following lines-â€Å"So spare us, who are your own people. And afterwards we will make amends to you by public levy for all the food and drink that has been consumed in your house. † Thus they truly deserved their end and there were to be no tears shed in their memory because their cowardly acts had subjected them to an ill-fated end. Homer thus defines a hero not only to be handsome and brave but also god fearing, hospitable and one who never takes unfair advantage of others, especially in their absence. This is also evident in the Iliad when Paris’s abduction of Helen in Menelaus’s absence seals both his fate and that of his homeland- Troy. Odysseus is the only character in the Odyssey who thus comes closest to the ideal of the ‘hero’. He is strong, handsome, brave, and also intelligent and witty. In Homer’s world, no hero is complete without being endowed with the gift of intelligence and astuteness. Odysseus displays his acumen on many occasions-the encounter with Polyphemus the Cyclops and Circe, just to name a few. Odysseus also seems to be the master of deceit as is evident from the countless tales of trickery he tells people in order to avoid detection. In Homer’s eyes, this treachery on the part of Odysseus is justified as he is only trying to protect his own interests without harming anybody else’s. However despite these heroic qualities, Odysseus fails to live up to the ideal of the true hero. In the final conflict with the suitors, Odysseus thinks nothing of shooting a whole quiver full of arrows at unarmed men but his knees go weak the minute he sees the defenseless acquire some form of defense. This is evident from the following lines: â€Å"when Odysseus saw them putting on armour and brandishing great spears in their hands, his knees quaked and his heart failed him. † Odysseus also disguises himself as a beggar instead of appearing in his original form before the suitors because he is scared of their numbers. But despite his infrequent acts of cowardice the Gods still support him and help him in his endeavor to rid his house of the suitors. This is because the very idea of his returning home after twenty years to restore his house and rescue his wife is very heroic and thus the means by which he achieves this end can be ignored. One cannot also help but think that it is more of the Goddess Athene’s help than Odysseus’s courage and bravado, which ultimately wins the day for him. This is evident from the following lines: â€Å"the six did as he ordered and threw with all their might. But Athene made the whole volley miss. † Athene herself made the suitors’ aims miss, but rather partially helped Odysseus’s lances meet their targets. Hence the impartial help of the Gods was the main reason behind Odysseus’s success. But this supernatural aid can be seen as a reward for past bravery and suffering on the part of Odysseus and as a punishment for cowardly insolence on part of the suitors. Hence the theme of cowardice and bravery plays a big part in the Odyssey. The book does take a certain amount of interest in the fate of the cowardly, but its primary focus rests with the heroic. Even the Gods favor the brave over the cowardly. The Gods take a supreme interest in the death of the heroic be it through noble (e. g. Achilleus fighting on the battle field) or poor means (e. g. Agamemnon killed by his wife and her lover) but as long as the cowardly are given a decent burial, the Gods don’t care about them and their name is never mentioned in their premises. (E. g. Elpenor’s death) People who have behaved in a way not suiting their status are also condemned to a coward’s death (e. g. : the suitors) and the Gods do not lament their end.

Views of Marx and J.S.Mills on Accumulation and Crises Essay

Views of Marx and J.S.Mills on Accumulation and Crises - Essay Example Karl Marx In his theory of surplus value, Marx asserts that the working class or the proletariat exchange their labour for wages with the capitalist class or the bourgeoisie. Unlike in slave and feudal societies where goods were produced for consumption, in capitalist economy, commodities are produced for exchange in the market with the value of exchange being money. Since labour is also exchanged for wages, it is also regarded as a commodity and social relations assume mysterious form of relationship between things concealed by a veil of money. The labourers are alienated from the means of production and produce goods for the capitalists which they in turn exchange to get a profit. However, if workers are productive, they produce more than they would have produced in a normal working day but all the profit realised goes to the capitalist as labourers receive only the normal wages. This is what Marx referred as surplus value of labour (Eatwell and Milgate 2011, p. 192). According to Marx, the surplus value in feudal societies is consumed while in capitalist societies, surplus value is reinvested to produce more surplus value. He referred to reinvestment of surplus value as accumulation of capital (Callinicos 2011). However, the motive for accumulation is not greed but a result of social mechanisms which result in competition between many capitals and a capital that does not reinvest itself is pushed out of the market. As observed by Eatwell and Milgate (2011, p. 195) capitalist production involves circuit of capital from money and commodity. The money is used to produce commodity which is then sold for money used to produce more items. However, difficulties may arise when converting commodity to money because money need not be turned immediately to commodity hence sale and purchases are separated. The seller can hoard money if the investment is not yielding enough profits hence breaking the cycle and therefore, the possibility of crisis is inevitable. In the cr isis theory, Marx asserted that the origin of crisis is the systemic elements of capitalism as a mode of production and basic social order (Callinicos, 2011). These factors include: full employment profit squeeze, underconsumption, and tendency of the rate of profit to fall. In feudal societies, a crisis occurs due to underconsumption but in capitalist societies, it is based on the law of tendency of the rate of profit to fall. As xxx observes the tendency of the rate of profit to fall is due to increased labour productivity which makes demands on the constant capital such as machinery or raw materials. As a result, amount of constant capital grows relative to variable capital leading to higher composition of organic capital and consequently low profit. The value of constant capital according to Marx does not depend on original cost of labour time but labour time for reproducing it hence it diminishes as labour productivity grows leading to low profit. In his study, Marx asserts tha t permanent crises does not exist as indicated by Smith and Malthus in their analysis that overproduction leads to permanent reduction in rate of profit. He believes that a crisis is a transitory stage of capital accumulation and therefore short-run effect. In the process of capital accumu

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Does religion cause war - Research Paper Example A major example of this is the Crusades which were expeditions of Christians in Europe during the 12th and 13th centuries for the recovery of Israel (Wiegand, 2011). Although the frontline issue of the Crusade is to rescue the Holy Land of Israel from its perpetrators and for other countries to be converted into the Christian religion; it doesn’t change the fact that this movement caused violence and struggle toward its enemies. They thought that it is appropriate to force people to convert into their religion (Wiegand, 2011). Another recent event which is speculated to be caused by conflicts with religion is the bombings of the World Trade Center (Poole. 2011). Regarding these thoughts, the big question is, does religion really causes war? In this paper, some cases and articles, which relates the concept of religion and war, will be discussed and try to answer the question if the prime mover for the development of war is religion, or is it something else behind it. Religion can be defined as set of beliefs concerning the cause and nature’s purpose of the universe, or the practice of religious beliefs (Poole, 2011). In the definition, the word â€Å"belief† is the key word for religion relies on what people believes in. The religious belief is the basis for the everyday living of a certain individual or group of people. Religious beliefs are the main factors which influences the decision-making and principle an individual have. Hence, many people have the notion that religion is one of the major causes of war. However, I think that this is not always the case for different interpretations and views of several form of religion do not always go about conflict and hence is not always a predisposition to the formation of war. Religion has been entailed in the formation of war since its creation. There are many form of religion which is practiced in the world today. Some

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Frankl Narration of the Concentration Camp - Essay Example The introduction of the story whereby he relates the initiation with a lot of shock in the camp, the experience and adapting of the camps duties and routine and lastly he explains of the reactions of the deformity and mental anguish liberated. Frankly explains this by incorporating the ideas of the experience he persevered while he was working in a harsh condition. According to Frankl, a good life can only be attained if an individual finds the meaning of life and maneuvers over the hardships of life. He emphasizes that there are also three methods or ways in which an individual can find the meaning of the life. The first is changing the personal challenges into achievement, then establishing a need or work and finally encountering and experiencing something.Frankl never admitted the divine revelation of the bible and he argued that the salvation of mankind is through practicing the love among other peoples. Frankly accepts the fact that he wrote the book to strengthen his wife’s faith and make her see things in the perspective of reality not necessarily faith and believe as others do.Frankl was prominent in showing how those who suffer should control themselves and see the positive value of nature and not to rely on the mere faith and believe. He tries to show them how after suffering they can control their inner soul which is unlike th e lords' teachings in the bible. This portrays his character as a man who differed with the lords teaching and thus he could be compared with a pagan. In the theory of logotherapy, Frankl tried to explain that life is composed of challenges and struggles which are bad and good but a person should have motivation and courage toward being the victor. He also argues that an individual should fight against the blocks in life and derive the meaning of life through overcoming such suffering.

STROKE Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

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Final Exam MGT 123 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

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Organizational Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Organizational Analysis - Essay Example This strategy comes into play whenever any organization has a certain aim or objective to reach as otherwise the entire strategy becomes an ineffective one. This strategy is used in order to be incorporated in the entire strategic planning model. For any company to be competitive, efficient and at par with the market, it has to be able to scan the internal and the external environment at that results in the fulfillment of the corporate aims. This analysis would allow the organization, to have valuable information resulting in the matching of the firm's resources and its capabilities to the sort of competition that exists in the market in which that company is operating and functioning in at present. For all companies in the present times, this tool has become highly important as it results in the strategy formulation and selection. The above diagram depicts all the four aspects which make up this analysis framework and which are used in order to scan the environment as well. The company that would be analyzed for the purpose of this paper would be done in a manner which would allow its internal and external factors to be highlighted while at the same time looking at the best possible strategy that could be used by this organization in order to achieve its corporate aims and all. Hill, T. & R. Westbrook (1997). The company that would be analyzed would be the ALDI which stands for Albrecht Discount; a discount supermarket chain which is based in Germany. It would be viewed in terms of the different areas which make it one of the biggest supermarket chains of Germany. This organization operates on a global level and delivers world class services to its global clients. This organization falls within the commercial sector which has recently had had to take a severe hit due to the recession and yet this particular organization has remained strong and steady enough-it even managed to score highly on the list of top companies operating within the European region proving that his chain has the strength which has allowed it to gain a good and strong position in the market despite such a strong setback. This organization's business services are made up of the provision of a range of goods which are available at discounted prices. The global strength of this organization can be gauged from the fact that it has over eight thousand stores worldwide and almost a new store opens up in Britain every week. The strengths of this supermarket have been this very ability to deliver quality services to a wide range of clients who have access to a number of in-house products and the outside products are unusually quite limited in number... The fact that this organization has always stressed on maintaining a low price policy which has allowed it to keep itself on its toes and hence, the ability to sustain itself during one of the worst financial scenarios to have ever existed. The innovative ideas such as having weekly special offers on more expensive products and by having a wide range of stores has translated into a strong and confident clientele. The ability of this chain to listen to the customer and value the feedback, efficient

Historiographical perspectives of the Cold War Essay

Historiographical perspectives of the Cold War - Essay Example While the explanations of the origins of the conflict in academic discussions are complex and diverse, several general schools of thought on the subject can be identified. Historians commonly speak of three differing approaches to the study of the Cold War: "orthodox" accounts, "revisionism," and "post-revisionism." Nevertheless, much of the historiography on the Cold War weaves together two or even all three of these broad categories. The first school of interpretation to emerge in the U.S. was "orthodox". For more than a decade after the end of the Second World War, few U.S. historians challenged the official U.S. interpretation of the beginnings of the Cold War. This "orthodox" school places the responsibility for the Cold War on the Soviet Union and its expansion into Eastern Europe. Thomas A. Bailey, for example, argued in his 1950 America Faces Russia that the breakdown of postwar peace was the result of Soviet expansionism in the immediate postwar years. Bailey argued Stalin violated promises he had made at Yalta, imposed Soviet-dominated regimes on unwilling Eastern European populations, and conspired to spread communism throughout the world. From this view, U.S. officials were forced to respond to Soviet aggression with the Truman Doctrine, plans to contain communist subversion around the world, and the Marshall Plan. U.S. involvement in Vietnam in the 1960s disillusioned many historians with the premises of "containment", and thus with the assumptions of the "orthodox" approach to understanding the Cold War. "Revisionist" accounts emerged in the wake of the Vietnam War, in the context of a larger rethinking of the U.S. role in international affairs, which was seen more in terms of American empire or hegemony. While the new school of thought spanned many differences among individual scholars, the works comprising it were generally responses in one way or another to Williams' Apple man landmark 1959 volume, The Tragedy of American Diplomacy. Williams challenged the long-held assumptions of "orthodox" accounts, arguing that Americans had always been an empire-building people, even while American leaders denied it. Following Williams, "revisionist" writers placed more responsibility for the breakdown of postwar peace on the United States, citing a range of U.S. efforts to isolate and confront the Soviet Union well before the end of World War II. According to Williams and later "revisionist" writers, U.S. policymakers shared an overarching concern with maintaining capitalism domestically. In order to achieve that objective, they pursued an "open door" policy abroad, aimed at increasing access to foreign markets for U.S. business and agriculture. From this perspective, a growing economy domestically went hand-in-hand with the consolidation of U.S. power internationally. "Revisionist" scholars challenged the widely accepted notion that Soviet leaders were committed to postwar "expansionism". They cited evidence that the Soviet Union's occupation of Eastern Europe had a defensive rationale, and that Soviet leaders saw themselves as attempting to avoid encirclement by the United States and its allies. In this view, the Soviet Union was so weak and devastated after the end of the Second World War as to be unable to pose any serious threat to the United States; moreover,

The decline in United States power in the 1970s was illusory. Discuss Essay

The decline in United States power in the 1970s was illusory. Discuss - Essay Example presidency of Richard Nixon was shattered as evidence of insidious corruption cane to light and threatened to destroy the power of the once great office. The Cold War continued to drain resources away from other domestic programs, while the price of gasoline and inflation took an economic toll on the public. Still, the United States has been able to survive the onslaught of the problems of the 1970s. The period was marred by a world misperception of our nations vulnerabilities that contributed to an image of a weakened state around the world. World power is the elusive ability that some nations have to persuade countries to agree with their policy, even when it might not be in their own best interest. Power is a perceptual construct that is gained through respect and held by deference. Power can only be granted by a country or a leader that considers themselves a subordinate, and has respect sufficient enough to show deference to the world power. Note that legitimate power must be granted; it cannot be taken or seized. Jackson (2007) states that, "most of the time states cooperate with each other more or less routinely, and without much political drama, for mutual advantage" (p.26). In most situations, states are on par with each other as power is a secondary concern. Power is only gained by framing the world leader in terms of superior economic, military, and political might. These are the pillars that support the power structure and will continue to gain respect until the factors erode and the states no longer have a m otivation to cooperate. A downturn in the economy, a failed foreign war, and corruption in government can all reduce the perception of the power held by the United States. Wealth is a defining characteristic of a country that holds power and it gains the worlds respect from nearly all corners. Since the 17th century states and nations have drawn a significant part of their perceived power from their economic and financial prowess. The United

Domestic Contract on International Laws and Customs Essay Example for Free

Domestic Contract on International Laws and Customs Essay Addressing International Legal and Ethical Issues Simulation Summary In January 2007, CadMex developed a technique for the quick manufacture of some medical agent. Gentura also developed a technique called ProPrez, which is an anti-diabetic agent. Gentura is located in Candore, which is a dictatorship. CadMex decided to go into business with Gentura that would give them global marketing right to ProPez. The contract needs to have measures in place to protect CadMex interest concerning property rights and potential dispute. There are issues that are involved in resolving legal actions against a foreign business. One issue that is involved is the legal system. When dealing with a case, they may want to finish the case quickly rather than handling it with quality. Doing so may lead to evidence not being analyzed. Another issue may be the different laws between the two countries. Not having any written documents may also be another issue if contracts are done over the phone. Some practical considerations of taking legal action against a foreign business based in another country are whether they have patent law and trademark laws. Factors that could work against CadMex decision to grant sublicensing agreements would be the lack of patent rights and the fact that they did not go through the proper court process in Candore. When local customs and laws conflict with customs and laws of an organization, operating abroad the local law and customs should prevail because that is where the contract was based. The host country should have manufactures rights. For example if the United States and China goes into a contract in regards to Chinese traditional attire and there is a dispute, the Chinese should win because it is a part of their tradition and the United States assumed the risk. The issues in the simulation compares to the issues discussed in week one in terms of law, ethics, and different ways to dispute, as well as litigations. Companies should resolve domestic and international issues differently by honoring domestic and international laws and customs. Before entering into contracts both parties must agree to all the terms and ensure that the country’s legal system support those terms. Domestic contracts should be written and be on an individual basis. International contracts need to be translated if necessary and should include patent laws where possible. References Contemporary Business Law 1. (2011). Retrieved from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu//aapd/vendors/tata/UBAMSims/business_law1/intl_legal_etical/business_law1_intl_legal_ethical_frame.html Melvin, S. P. (2011). The legal environment of business: A managerial approach: Theory to practice. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.

Campaign Strategy Of Prithvi Narayan Shah

Campaign Strategy Of Prithvi Narayan Shah As a sound strategy is a pre-requisite to successful campaigns, the strategy that Prithvi Narayan Shah (PNS) planned and pursued during his unification campaigns (1742-1773 A. D.), can be assumed vital to his great achievement creation of modern Nepal. Indeed, PNSs campaign strategy envisaged employment of all state means/ tools/ instruments including saam, daam, danda, and bhed. Moreover, PNS (1723-1775) conceived of and implemented the strategy of mass mobilization for national campaign well before Napoleon Bonaparte did in 1790s. In that sense, PNS changed the feudal character of war into national war during his unification campaign. Studying PNSs unification campaign strategy can, therefore, be meaningful and insightful for the students of strategic studies and policy makers of the present Nepal that is experiencing unprecedented upheavals, chaos, and uncertainty in its history. Aim and Scope of the Paper This paper aims at highlighting the strategy/ policy, which PNS pursued during his campaign of uniting the Baisi, Choubisi, and Malla principalities. This paper is based on the general interaction and talks, seminar presentations and interactions, and data/ information available in the books and articles. Further, for ease of understanding, PNSs strategy has been analyzed here in terms of Christopher Laynes contemporary definition of strategy: Grand Strategy à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ is the process by which a state matches ends and means in the pursuit of security. In peacetime, grand strategy encompasses the following: defining the states security interests; identifying the threats to those interests; and allocating military, diplomatic, and economic resources to defend the states interests. In other words, PNs unification campaign strategy is analyzed here as the function of his ends (national purpose), threats, means, and ways/ courses of action, (Limbu, R. D.). General Situation of the Subcontinent when PNS became King of Gorkha When PNS became the king of Gorkha in 1742, the whole Indian subcontinent was facing turmoil politically, socially, economically, and strategically. While the Mughal Empire was undergoing disintegration, the Marathas in the West, Haidar Ali in the South, and the British in part of Bengal were expanding their territories, (Stiller, L. F., 1968). In Nepal during this period, several petty principalities loosely called Baise Rajyas and Choubise Rajyas ruled the Karnali and Gandak basins respectively. Gorkha was just one of the Choubise Rajyas. During this same period, while the Malla kings ruled the Kathmandu Valley divided into three kingdoms, a number of autonomous Kirati provinces under the nominal rule of Sen Kings existed in the region east of Sunkoshi River to the present border of Nepal. The general strategic scenario in Karnali, Gandaki, Bagmati, and Koshi Basins was as follows:- There were too many states confined to a limited space. The average size of a state was not a viable political entity. The big principalities Jumla, Palpa, Mackwanpur, and Vijayapur contained about 20,000 houses each; and the rest had about 600 to 8000 houses each. The yearly income of even the richest one was limited to a few thousand rupees. Except Jumla, Piuthan, Palpa, Tanhoun, Mackwanpur and the three states of the Nepal Valley, none of them could be called a state even in a limited sense, (Regmi D. R.). In theory, though all the states owed their allegiance to the Moghul Emperor at Delhi, each state behaved as a sovereign one. Every minor issue gave rise to conflict among them. General anarchy and misrule prevailed throughout the region. The peoples were forced to live in abject poverty and misery. The entire region was vulnerable to internal and external threats, (ibid). Unification Campaign Strategy of PNS The campaign strategy/ policy of PNS has been analyzed in terms of, (1), his purpose/ core interests, (2), major threats, (3), major means/ resources available, and, (4), ways/policies pursued. Purpose and Objectives of PNS Not every historian agrees that national unity was the ultimate purpose of PNS. However, some historians argue that having understood the strategic vulnerability of the then existing principalities to growing threats from the south, PNS invaded, conquered, and united them into a single kingdom. To this school of thought, creation of a strong and united kingdom out of the weak and divided principalities was the ultimate purpose of PNS. In this paper, this understanding has been assumed to be the sovereign purpose of PNS. Achievement of this purpose entailed invasion and capture of at least the Kathmandu valley and the Choubisi principalities. Threats To realize his purpose, though PNS did not have to confront any threats from Tibet/ China, he faced numerous threats from the Baisi, Choubisi, and Malla states, and external powers. Moreover, he had to negotiate several challenges that came from within his own kingdom. Threats from Mir Kasim (Nawab of Bengal) and British East India Company The Malla kings of Kathmanu valley and the Sen kings controlling Mackwanpur, Sindhuli, and eastern Terai region of Nepal maintained good relationships with Mir Kasim and the East India Company. For preserving and furthering their national interests, these powers preferred status quo in Nepal. As PNS captured Nuwakot (1744), Mackwanpur (1762), and Sindhuli (1767), and invested these states for the invasion and capture of the Kathmandu valley, the interests of Nawab and the Company happened to clash with that of PNS. Interference from Nawab PNSs conquest of Mackwanpur attracted the attention of the Nawab and the Company, both of which understood the strategic importance of Mackwanpur maintaining lucrative trade with Kathmandu valley and Tibet. Moreover, both of these forces coveted the natural resources of Nepal assuming that Nepal possessed precious gold mines and gold, which actually came from Tibet in return for the minting of coinages used in Kathmandu valley and Tibet, (Regmi, D. R.). Initially, the Nawab sent a small detachment in 1762 to test the strength of Gorkhalis. However, the Gorkha force wiped out this contingent in no time. Following this defeat, the Nawab dispatched a big force under Gurgin Khan. In the ensuing battle (1762/ 1763), which carried on for more than a week, the Gorkha force routed the expeditionary forces completely, (ibid). Interference from East India Company In 1767, the Company, decided to send an expeditionary force under Captain Kinloch to break PNSs siege of the Kathmandu valley. Kinlocks forces suffered from ignorance of the mountain terrain/ weather, the peculiar fighting methods of Gorkhal soldiers, and lack of adequate preparations. Consequently, the expeditionary forces suffered humiliating defeat at the hand of Gorkha forces, (Stiller, 1968). Threats from Baise and Choubise States No formal military alliances existed for the maintenance of balance of power among the Baise states. In theory, though the Jumla king had the right to interfere to maintain the balance of power among the Baise states, no effective means existed to enforce this right. Consequently, no interference came from the Baise states during the unification campaign of PNS, (Hamilton, F. B.). However, a crude system of balance of power existed among the Choubise states, which tended to maintain equilibrium among them. For Gorkha, the immediate neighboring states in the west, and south-west included Lamjung, Tanhu, and Palpa. Parbat and Kaski, located immediately further west. Aware of the implications of expanding Gorkha kingdom, these states formed some sort of security alliance against PNS. The major alliances were as follows, (Stiller, 1995):- Palpa Alliance. Included Palpa, Jajarkot, Ghiring, Rising, Gulmi, Argha, and Khanchi. Lamjung Alliance. Consisted of Lamjung, Tanhun, and Kaski. Malebum (Parbat) Alliance. Comprised Parbat and Galkot. Bhirkot Alliance. Included Bhirkot, Nuwakot (west), Paiyun, and Garahun. Piuthan Allaince. Consisted of Piuthan, Isma, Musikot, Khungri, and Bhingri. Manpower Problem While Gorkha had 12,000 households, (one household could have an average of four to five family members), its immediate neighbors Lamjung, Kaski, Tanhu, and Palpa had approximately 8,000, 8,000, 12,000, and 24,000 households respectively, (Stiller, 1995). The kingdoms of Kathmandu valley had bigger population. Manpower-wise, therefore, Gorkha was not in a favorable position to invade and conquer any of those kingdoms, which often formed alliance to defend their homeland. Scarce Finance and Material Resources and Logistics Support Compared with the kingdoms of Kathmandu valley, Palpa, and Mackwanpur, Gorkha possessed neither adequate material resources nor reliable sources of revenues. Gorkhas resources could be substantially augmented by the revenues from the captured lands. Nevertheless, initially Gorkha had to suffer greatly from the strain of scarce material resources and logistics required for supporting its sustained offensive campaigns, (Stiller, 1995). Tough Terrain Difficult mountainous terrain definitely favored the defenders, not the invader. Conventionally, an invader in mountainous terrain requires more than three times the strength of the defender. Means/ Resources Available Leadership and Command History has testified, An army of stags led by a lion is better than an army of lions led by a stag. The most important factor in the victorious campaigns of tiny Gorkha kingdom was the outstanding leadership/ command PNS and his field commanders provided for the troops, (Hamilton, F. B.). These commanders commanded their troops by example from the front, which was essential to successful campaigns in those days of close quarter-battles. Intelligence PNS had wisely invested, established, and maintained an effective intelligence system eye, ear, and brain of the state on which others state tools were dependent. In the Choubisi region, he deployed his secret agents to every important place. These agents were active in sowing the seeds of discords among the rulers and elites to ensure that there was no concerted action against Gorkha, (Regmi, D. R.). With the promise to provide birta and other incentives, PNS bought support of many courtiers and several wealthy families of Kathmandu valley. Further, a large number of clever Brahmins were employed in Kathmandu on espionage missions. These agents engaged themselves in subversive activities creating splits and confusion in the Valley, (ibid). A man by the name of Kirtirajananda Upadhya helped PNSs war effort from inside the city of Patan. This man was tasked to subvert people of Kathmandu and Patan in concert with his uncle and cousin in furtherance of Gorkhas interest, (ibid). Moreover, PNS amply paid the local priests and religious leaders who were secretly helping him from Patan and Kathmandu courts. Later, they received free holding of lands. In the beginning, PNS used even the Gosain traders, (ibid). In the Kirat region, PNS employed the local Brahmins of the Dudhkosi basin as his main agents. Harinanda Pokhrel was employed in subverting the nine hundred thousand Kirati people and in helping the Gorkhali to capture Chaudandi and Bijayapur. Others who were employed included Balkrishna Joshi and Birbhadra Upadhya whom PNS rewarded later, (ibid). The diplomatic missions and others deployed overtly and covertly in various important centers of India and Tibet operated as his external intelligence agents. The means of communications in those days was letters or individual agents/ contacts. Political/ Diplomatic Understanding the sensitive geo-politic/ geo-strategic location of Nepal, PNS said, This country is like a gourd between two boulders, (Stiller, 1968). Aware of strategic implications involved, PNS restricted the foreign traders from entering Nepal. His Dibyopadesh also shows an appreciation of the necessity of maintaining balanced relationship with the immediate neighbors. Overtly and covertly, PNS had established various missions in important centers outside Nepal. At one time PNS deployed Vrihaspati Pandit to Purnea, Kirtimali to Patna, Vaikuntha Upadhaya to the place of Nawab Sujaddaula, and Dinanath to Calcutta. In Lhasa, PNS had posted a man named Rajgiri. British sources corroborate this information, (Regmi, D. R.). He selected the best diplomats, (Stiller, 1968). Realizing the strategic implications of British dominance in Tibet, PNS persuaded the Tibetan authorities not to permit the entry of English goods into Tibet, (Regmi, D. R.). However, PNS never used force against the external powers. He preferred negotiation. He counterattacked them only when they interfered with his campaign. In Dibyopadesh PNS compared Lamjung, Gorkha, and Kathmandu valley with Garuda, snake, and a frog respectively. It meant that as long as its western border remained vulnerable to Lamjung, Gorkha could not capture Kathmandu valley. To secure his western border, PNS adopted the most opportunistic real politic of divide and rule. However, this instrument failed him strategically to expand his territory in the west. However, in case of some of the Baise states he succeeded to separate them from the Choubisis, (Regmi, D. R.). Army The most important means/ instrument PNS employed throughout his campaign was his Army, which consisted of several companies, each with about 100 gunmen. This Army comprised both regular and irregular soldiers. Towards the end of his regime, PNS had a minimum of fourteen companies, or about twenty-five hundred men, (Stiller, 1995) PNS made use of rabble soldiers as well. The regular soldiers called tilinga handled guns and daggers based on the situations. The irregulars also handled different type of weapons and were well trained as the regular soldier. Besides, there were men who used only Khuda and Khukuri, (Regmi, D. R.) The Company was commanded by a Subedar (officer) under whom there were six Havildars and as much Huddas. The latter two were junior officers, (ibid). The Subedar used to be the most trusted man with reputation of achievements in four or more battles. He appointed his junior officers, Havaldar and Hudda, based on their battle performance. Only the most courageous would get promotion. (ibid). Every capable individual Brahmin, Kshatri, Baisya, Sudra castes, and others could serve in the Army in different capacities, (ibid). Many believe that PNSs army was an inclusive one. However, the spirit of Dibyopadesh does not support this idea of inclusiveness. Recruitment in the Army was done only from certain castes Khash, Magars, Gurungs, and Thakuris, and important command appointments were assigned to those close to the King, (Stiller, 1968). Moreover, Brahmins were not recruited as soldiers, (Regmi, D. R.). Other Chubise states also had their armies recruited from the same indigenous materials. Foreign mercenaries were employed in Jaya Prakash Mallas Army. What made the Gorkha army more effective than others was the leadership, command, and incentives received from PNS, who shared his vision as well as risks of war with his troops and provided jagir to each soldier. Economic Means Sound logistic support base is essential to successful military campaign. Moreover, offensive battle in mountainous terrain is much more expensive than the defensive one. Sustained military campaign like the one undertaken by PNS was very costly. Conventionally, it was not possible for PNS to raise and sustain an army strong enough to simultaneously hold the Choubisi alliance in the west and successfully invade and conquer the kingdoms in the east. Moreover, threats from the rising powers of India were also to be catered for. However, PNS invented the system of jagir (land assignment) to resolve the bulk of his financial problem. To every man who served in his army, PNS assigned a jagir, which satisfied the peoples innate aspirations for economic security, wealth, and social prestige, (Stiller, 1993). Further, early capture of fertile valley of Nuwakot (1744) and then Mackwanpur (1762) helped him economically in the invasion of Kathmandu valley. Once he captured the rich and fertile Kathmandu valley and controlled the lucrative trade with Tibet, PNS had no major problem to finance military campaigns against the ill-equipped and divided Kirati regions. Ways/ Policies It can be safely assumed that all the ways/ policies PNS pursued were based on the sound intelligence appreciation of the prevailing situation including the capabilities, limitations, and intentions of the opponents the Malla, Choubisi, and Baisi kingdoms, and the external powers. PNS had invested wisely in overt/ covert intelligence missions for gathering intelligence required for pursuing appropriate policies. Depending on the prevailing situation, PNS pursued all forms of policies saam, daam, danda, bhed in isolation or combination to achieve his purpose. Political/ Diplomatic Appreciating the sensitive and vulnerable geo-political location of Nepal, PNS sought for and maintained a friendly diplomatic relation with East India Company and Tibet/ China without any harm to national interests. However, he presented no opportunities, which provided the foreign powers an excuse to penetrate Nepal. Similarly, PNS tried his best to prevent the British from gaining an access to Tibet, (Regmi, D. R.). PNS pursued the divide and rule policy among the Malla, Choubisi, and Baisi Rajas. Particularly, he resorted to sustained policies including saam, daam, danda, and bhed, to keep the Kathmandu valley rulers and western neighbors Lamjung, Tanhu, Palpa, Mackwanpur, Kaski and Parbat weak and divided so that they would not forge alliance against Gorkha. Further, with the issuance in 1773 of Royal Charter (Sanad) that ensured some special rights including the Kipat system for the Limbu-Kiratis, PNS brought Pallo Kirat under his domination without fighting even before the ruler in Morang was defeated, (Regmi, D. R.). Military To ensure self-motivation, dedication, and loyalty of troops, PNS shared his vision with his troops. PNS appealed, motivated, mobilized, involved and employed the general mass in national war of unification. PNS required his field commanders to command the troops in battles by personal example and ensured fair administration of rewards and punishment. PNS always ensured that he was not forced to fight battles simultaneously on more than one front. He ensured sustained economic blockade and envelopment of Kathmandu valley, and systematic tightening of the noose/ ring before the main attack. He conducted protracted subversive operations before, during, and after the military campaigns. Whenever possible he tried to win the battles through negotiation without bloodshed. As regards the powerful East India Company, he resorted only to the defensive war. When forced to fight, PNS pursued offensive defense along with guerrilla warfare by exploiting the advantages of mountainous terrain and weather. He countered numerical and technological superiority of East India Company and Nawab of Bengal, by deliberately creating space for drawing their forces deep into the difficult mountainous terrains (e.g. offensive defenses against the expeditionary forces of Mir Kasim in Mackwanpur and East India Company in Sindhuli) to decisively counterattack at a favorable place/ time and destroy them in detail. Economic PNS adopted the system of jagir to reduce the financial burden of costly war. He encouraged/ appealed to the mass for voluntary donation/ assistance in cash and kinds for his campaigns. PNS conducted sustained economic blockade of the Kathmandu valley. He borrowed money from the traders like the Gosains and the very rich local people such as Harinanda Upadhya Pokhrel, Balkrishna Joshi, and Birbhadra Upadhya of Kirat region, (Regmi, D. R.). He discouraged imports of foreign materials and encouraged indigenous industries and production and, preferably promoted trade with Tibet including continuance of minting of silver coins for both Tibet and Nepal. Cultural PNS avoided interference in the indigenous cultures and traditions. His Dibya Upadesh depicts Nepal as consisting of chaar jaat, chhatish barna. PNS encouraged local culture for winning the hearts and minds of the people, (Regmi, D. R.). He accepted and worked with the existing regional cultural, social, and fiscal institutions. He required his governors/ commanders/ officials to do the same, (Stiller, 1993). Other Policies/ Ways Mass Mobilization of Population and Resources To make up work force and resources shortages, PNS ordered general mobilization of the entire Gorkha population including the tailor and band-player, the cobbler, the blacksmith, and the sweeper. The idea of war of national unification motivated the entire citizens of Gorkha irrespective of castes and sects. All the youths aged 16 and 30 years were freely recruited into the army and large stocks of arms were distributed. These youths were given weapons training by some experienced Hindustani experts, (Regmi, D. R.). Thus, PNS changed the character of war from feudal to national. Justification of Means by Ends For PNS any means or ways was fair in war. In several cases, ethical/ moral values found no place in the means he employed to win his war, (ibid). Superior Organization and Technology Sustained battle experiences taught PNS to improve his military organization including the intelligence. PNS also introduced firearms and European discipline in his Army, (Hamilton, F.). He made best use of firelocks, which until his time were totally unknown among the Choubisi Rajas. The superior organization and firepower of Gorkha troops armed with muskets completely outmatched the organizationally weak Kiratis armed with bows and arrows, (Stiller, 1995). Moreover, PNS utilized the services of a master mechanic (Shekh Zabbar) in making matchlocks and gunpowder, which was lacking in the Malla rulers though they also possessed the latest weapons, (Regmi, D. R.). Offensive Battles Two of the most important objective ingredients of combat power are firepower and maneuver power. PNS fought offensive battles characterized both by firepower and by maneuverability, while his opponents fought static defensive battles, stuck to particular terrain, (Regmi, D. R.). Consolidation of States Earlier, the kings of Nepal would distribute their newly won territories among their relatives as favors/ honors. However, when his brothers sought same sort of favors, PNS absolutely refused. To him, a state would not remain a state when it was split. PNS treated Nepal as a garden in which all peoples of all religions, castes, and groups deserve to live together in harmony and peace, and with dignity, (Stiller, 1993,). Conclusion PNS succeeded in realizing his purpose, because it was understood, endorsed, and supported by the people, and his strategy was based on ground reality, ingenuity, and innovation. Some of the vital aspects of PNSs campaign strategy were: clear understanding and realization of the sensitive geopolitical location of Nepal, clarity in the national purpose, communicating and sharing of national purpose with the people, understanding and treatment of Nepal as a secular nation-state consisting of Chaar jaat, chhatish barna, encouragement of the local cultures of the indigenous peoples, concept of inclusiveness and mass mobilization for national campaigns, and selective/ appropriate employment of available means saam, daam, danda, bhed depending on the situation. Indeed, the wisdoms reflected in PNSs unification campaign strategy more than two centuries ago can still be valid and relevant to the conception and formulation of present Nepals security strategy/ policy. Ranadhoj Limbu Former Brigadier General, Nepal Army

Motivational Interviewing in a Multicultural Setting

Motivational Interviewing in a Multicultural Setting Motivational Interviewing in a Multicultural Setting Lawrence, Massachusetts is a city rich in cultural diversity and heritage. The Latino population alone boasts seventy three percent and continues to grow (Brown et al, 2013). This brings unique challenges to the therapeutic setting that relate directly to Latino cultural values. There are also challenges that Latinos face that are correlated to substance use. Literature states that Latinos are more likely to binge drink and use drugs more heavily (Franklin Markarian, 2005). Lawrence also has a very young Latino population, resulting in the highest proportion of the population being under five and eighteen years old in Massachusetts (Jaysane Center, 2002). This is imperative to note in a city that reports a high level of substance use among youth. Of many of the challenges that Latino’s face with substance use, they are one-third less likely to enter residential treatment in the state of Massachusetts (Caroll et al, 2009). This illustrates a community that has a great need fo r substance use treatment, yet is currently having that need unmet. As a social work intern, I will have the opportunity to practice with Latino clients and families within my community through in home therapy services. Therefore is vital, as a social worker, to better know the Latino clientele within Lawrence and the distinct factors that might set them apart from other clients within therapeutic settings. Latinos in Therapeutic Settings Latinos represent a very diverse group each having a unique history of social, political, and economic factors that have caused their migration into the United States, or their families migration. This diversity continues to manifest across ethnicity, race, generations, language, but especially nationality. Many Latinos identify first and foremost by their country of origin and will often differentiate, â€Å"I am Puerto Rican† over the official â€Å"I am Latino†. However, though individuals hold this diversity ascribed to their subgroup, many Latinos share core cultural values that are based on mutual experiences such as migration history, access to education and employment, as well as socioeconomic status. Due to acculturation and other psychosocial stressors, language, and poverty, Latinos may be particularly vulnerable within treatment and treatment organizations (Caroll et al, 2009). These shared experiences can impact communication styles such as the willingness to disclose sensitive information which in turn impacts the clinical setting as traditional therapy models often assume direct disclosure from the client. This creates a dysfunctional environment in which Latino clients, ones that do not follow Westernized norms, risk finding therapy to be invasive and opposing with their core cultural values. Therefore it is vital for social workers to consider cultural differences within the clinical setting. Mental health services among foreign-born, monolingual Spanish-speaking Latinos remains low when compared with bilingual Latinos born in the United States (Anez et al, 2008). This is because mental health providers are challenged to develop cultural and Spanish friendly services that will effectively address the needs of a diverse Latino community. Substance Use Factors Substance use is a significant problem among Latinos, who represent the largest ethnic minority group in the United States. However, treatment-related disparities have been identified as being relevant to Latinos. Specific factors that have been identified as contributing to these disparities include the following: cultural and language barriers, poverty, stigma, the lack of bilingual and bicultural staff, and the lack of treatments that are receptive to Latinos’ needs (Anez et al, 2008). The necessity for trained professionals who have the ability and empathy work with the distinct needs of Latinos is great within the therapeutic process. These noted discrepancies are of great concern because it is well documented that Latinos â€Å"†¦ have increased morbidity and mortality rates, high incidences of suicide, school dropout, alcohol use, illicit substance use, and HIV infection (Anez et al, 2008).† Regardless of an apparent need for mental health services very few members of the Latino community actually seek professional help. It appears that these services are not considered to be a primary source of support. In fact, fewer than one in eleven Latinos contact mental health specialists, and often seek services from a primary care provider first (Anez et al, 2008). This illustrates a client group that is currently at an unmet need for alcohol and drug use treatment. Latino clients might have a reason; clients frequently complain that they feel abused, intimidated, and harassed by non-minority personnel (Sue, 2006). Latinos as a group are largely marginalized within greater society; it does not help to do so within the therapeutic setting. Many social work theories originate from a monocultural standpoint, when social workers unconsciously inflict these standards without regard for other cultures, they may be engaging in cultural oppression (Sue, 2006). Social workers must enter the therapeutic setting aware of their own prejudices in order to learn and grow from them. Latino Youth in Therapy Lawrence reports a high level of substance use among youth. In 2002, a survey was conducted within the city which collected the responses of 2,206 high school students resulting in respondents revealing that the majority of substances used are alcohol (52.9 percent), inhalants (39 percent), cigarettes (25.2 percent), and marijuana(19.9 percent) ( Jaysane Center, 2002). The reported substance use rates among Lawrence youth can increase the risk of dropping out of school for many, as the drop-out rate of high school within the city has been very high in current years. Rates as much as fifty percent of high school classes dropping out between their freshmen and senior years have been reported ( Jaysane Center, 2002). There have been a number of factors attributed to the drug use of Latino youth. For example, the role of the family has been identified as being the most important component of addiction treatment for the client. It has been shown that parent’s attitudes, and the u se of drugs, play a key role in the drug use behavior of twelve-seventeen year old Latino youth ( Franklin Markarian, 2005). Adolescents in particular have a potential ambivalence when it comes to quitting substances. However Latino youth also share an additional cultural ambivalence attributed with the Latino identity. Motivational Interviewing in a Multicultural Setting Motivational interviewing (MI) is a client-centred counselling approach that uses certain techniques in order to produce motivation to change among ambivalent clients (Miller and Rollnick, 2013). Latinos can be considered ambivalent clients as a result of cultural and systemic factors that are experienced collectively as a group. Ambivalence in this sense can be defined as needing to make a change, but seeing little to no reason to do so (Miller and Rollnick, 2013). MI has been found to be highly effective in the treatment of substance use disorders. However, many Latino’s do not seek needed treatment for substance use. There have been a number of cultural values that have been reported to affect the therapeutic relationship to varying degrees; the three most prominent being personalismo (personal relationships), respeto (respect), and confianza (trust) (Anez et al, 2008). MI is a therapeutic model based upon respect and trust as it is a collaboration which honors the clientâ €™s experiences and individual perspectives. Latinos have also been reported to work towards engaging in pleasant conversational exchanges, and to avoid unpleasant ones, often trying to avoid conflict. MI permits the integration of these cultural values within the therapeutic setting, as it also avoids argumentation within the therapeutic relationship. This method differs from other more challenging styles that might advise a client about changes that need to be made, instead MI creates a more cooperative therapeutic setting where the Latino client’s internal motivation is drawn out and explored. This means that the counselor is not leading sessions or dictating the client in anyway. Instead the counselor’s role is to guide the client, listen to the client, and offer knowledge when needed. This method is ideal when working within the Latino community, especially when most therapeutic approaches have shown to cross with their core identity. Clients are experts on th emselves; no professional can know them better than they know themselves (Miller and Rollnick, 2013). If the counselor has the ability to show the Latino client their support of the clients personal expertise, it can create a positive relationship and rapport within the therapeutic setting, and in turn creates a catalyst for change. Motivational Enhancement Therapy Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) has been proven to help individuals resolve ambivalence around engaging in treatment as well as stopping substance use. The approach persuades change quickly through motivational methods. Research found on MET methods suggests that its effects depend on the type of drug used by participants as well as on the goal of the intervention. For example, MET has been used successfully with people who are addicted to alcohol and who want to reduce their problem drinking (Caroll et al, 2009). Brief motivational interventions (BMIs) such as this have also been identified as being particularly effective methods when working with Latino adolescents who have substance use disorders, in fact, â€Å"Brief motivational interventions (BMIs) have been identified as particularly promising for use in efforts to reduce or eliminate adolescent [alcohol and other drug] use problems (Cordaro, 2012)†. The client-counselor relationship and the counselor’s ab ility to engage with the Latino adolescent, has also been found to be a key factor within the motivational therapeutic setting. First impressions count as the initial therapy session appears to be significantly correlated to the client’s dropout from the intervention (Cordaro, 2012). In summary, the ability for the counselor to build rapport with the client from the first session is one of the most important factors when working with the Latino community, in particular with youth. Client Approach This coming fall I will begin an internship providing in-home therapy services with Lahey Behavioral Health in Lawrence, Massachusetts. I will unquestionably have the opportunity to work with Latino clients and families within the community. When working in family systems, I might come across a situation in which a client within that system might have a substance use issue that needs to be addressed. When addressing the substance use issue with either an adult or an adolescent, the first impression and rapport is extremely important during the initial session, as it has been shown to be linked to successful client engagement. My focus for motivational interviewing would rely on building a positive and strong relationship with my Latino clients so as to build enough trust to persuade towards change talk. It is important for me to note that Latino clients hold an admiration for older adult’s that is attributed to the life experience and a general perception that their wisdom hol ds significant value, younger generations are taught to respect their elders and greet adults with a courteous â€Å"Senor† or â€Å"Senora† (Anez et al, 2008). Pretending my client is significantly older than I am I would approach therapy in the following way. First I would begin by asking the client how they would like to be addressed, this would provide the client the ability to structure a conversation around names or nicknames that their friends or family call them, or possible formal titles such as â€Å"Senor† or â€Å"Senorita†. It is also important for me as to be able to address the client respectfully, and to take a careful note of pronunciation. I would structure questions around cultural values, such as being a buena genta (likeable person), family values, respect, trust, and personal relationships (Anez et al, 2008). . In terms of being a likeable person, I could structure a question such as, â€Å"How important is it for you to be viewed a s someone who is likeable?† this shows me the importance that the person holds on their image and how others view them. I would also be interested in knowing how the client interacts in interpersonal relationships outside of therapy; this can be achieved by asking, â€Å"When you are first getting to know someone, what helps you feel comfortable?† or â€Å"What does it take for you to develop trust with someone?†. This can help me gain an understanding of the client’s strengths, stressors and coping mechanisms. I would also ask, â€Å"How do you handle conflict?† or â€Å"â€Å"Can you tell me about a moment when your trust was broken?† This can give me an understanding of how the client handles and copes with hard situations, or if the client has a resistance to talking about hard situations within a therapeutic setting. I would further ask the client what their expectations of trust are within our therapeutic setting, summarizing the sessi on with a shared agreement using the values of trust put forward by the client. This shows the client that I value trust and the client as an expert. Over the course of many sessions I would continue to understand the client’s value system as well as where they stand in terms of change talk. Open-ended value questions would give me an insight into what really matters to the client. I would ask the client what they value the most in life, which can sometimes help to be a motivation for change. This can especially be motivating if the client values their family, a child, being employed or having an education. Once the client has reached the point of talking about their values, I would spend time using a number scale in order to help guide conversation around where my client is in terms of changing, making sure to have all documents used with the client translated if fits the clients need. The clients identified goal during this time might be to reduce the amount of the substance used. Once a goal has been identified and set with the client, I would continue to guide the client into conversation with questions such as how life was like before drug use; questions about the future, as well as what advantages and disadvantages are in terms of their current drug use patterns. I would summarize that session with a collaborative treatment plan that the client feels is realistic for them, and will continue to check up on how the client is doing with the treatment plan during each following session, making additional adjustments along the way and talking about the process. Summary The community of Lawrence, Massachusetts is home to a large proportion of Latinos and the population continues to grow, bringing with them unique challenges especially pertaining substance use and therapy. Latinos drink and use drugs more heavily, a trait that often cascades to younger generations. Latino clients are in need of substance use help, however they are less likely to enter treatment, leaving the need largely unmet. As a social work intern, who will be conducting in-home therapy for families within the city of Lawrence, it is my responsibility to ensure that the cultural values of my clients are integrated into the therapeutic setting. As a Latina social worker, clients might not be as resistant to my therapeutic methods as they might to a non-Latino social worker. As a Latina, I understand and share many core cultural values with Latino clients. Because of this, I might have the ability to build a stronger rapport, one that is essential during the beginning stages of the client-counselor relationship. However, I do not speak fluent Spanish. In fact I only have the ability to speak a limited amount of words, and a few phrases. This largely limits my ability to work with clients who are predominantly in Spanish speaking households, as I am not bilingual. There is also the possibility that I might be looked down upon because I do not speak Spanish, as if I have betrayed my culture and heritage. It is important for me to be aware that these opinions exist, and to notice that they might come up during counseling sessions. If they do I would do my best to redirect the questions back onto my client in a calm and collected manner. In general, MI is the best approach when working with Latino clients as it has been proven to work with ambivalent clients as well as clients with substance use disorders. MI also fosters an environment that is inclusive towards the cultural values of Latinos, and fosters the collaborative therapeutic process between the client an d counselor. When the cultural values of the Latino community are taken into consideration, it fosters change, and retains client engagement within therapy. References Aà ±ez, L. M., Silva, M. A., Paris Jr., M., Bedregal, L. E. (2008). Engaging Latinos Through the Integration of Cultural Values and Motivational Interviewing Principles.Professional Psychology: Research Practice,39(2), 153-159. Brown, N., Chesbro, T., Lee, D. H., Puza, H. (2013). Lawrence, Massachusetts Greenway Plan. University of Massacusetts, 1-50. Carroll, K. M., Martino, S., Ball, S. A., Nich, C., Frankforter, T., Anez, L. M., et al. (2009). A Multisite Randomized Effectiveness Trial of Motivational Enhancement Therapy for Spanish-Speaking Substance Users.Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology,77(5), 993-999. Cordaro, M., Tubman, J. G., Wagner, E. F., Morris, S. L. (2012). Treatment Process Predictors of Program Completion or Dropout Among Minority Adolescents Enrolled in a Brief Motivational Substance Abuse Intervention.Journal of Child Adolescent Substance Abuse,21(1), 51-68. Franklin, J., Markarian, M. (2005). Substance Abuse in Minority Populations.Clinical Textbook of Addictive Disorders, 321-339. Jaysane, A. P., Center, M. P. (2002). The Community Context of Health in Lawrence, Massachusetts.Lawrence, MA: Merrimack College. Miller, W. R., Rollnick, S. (2013). The Spirit of Motivational Interviewing.Motivational Interviewing:Helping People Change(3rd ed., ). New York, NY: Guilford Press. Sue, D. W. (2006). Principles and Assumptions of Multicultural Social Work Practice.Multicultural Social Work Practice. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.