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Abu Dhabi Company For Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO)

The ADCO (Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations) is an oil exploration company in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi founded on 2nd December 1971. It is one of the companies forming ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company). Its first discovery of oil for commercial purposes was in 1960 at Bab, but actual drilling and exportation started in 1963. It was first known as ADPC (Abu Dhabi Petroleum Company Ltd). In 1973 the government of Abu Dhabi emirates bought 25 percent of the company shares and increased them to 60 percent in the next year. The company was incorporated as ADCO in 1978 as stipulated in Law No. 14 for 1978 and starting from February the following year it was given the mandate to operate in the concession areas. The concession areas that it operates cover a distance of 21,000 km2. Its main operations include exploration, production, development, export and transfer of gas and oil from shallow coastal water and onshore oil fields. Currently it runs six oil and gas fields in Aab, Sahil, Bab, Bu Hasa, North-East Bab, and Shah. Its storage and shipping facility is located at Jebel Dhanna. The company in its 2012 report announced a daily production rate of 1,344,991 barrels in 1,217 oil wells in its concession areas. In the same year it reported that its number of employees totaled 5,879 (“Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations”, n.d).

Its operation is organized into five key blocks. These includes South east asset, Bab & Gas Assest, Buhasa/Huwala/BQ Asset, NEB Asset and Terminals, Pipleine & Oil/Gas Movements Operation Asset. Close to a third of the company total production output comes from South East Asset. This covers 7525 km2. It comprises of five key field including Asab, Shah, Sahil,Qusahwira and Mender. The Bab asset represents Bab filed. It accounts for 75 percent of the total non associated and associated gas produced by the company. Bu Hasa includes three major fields Bu Hasa, Huwaila, and Bida Al-Qemzan (BQ). 40 percent of the company daily production is generated by these fields. The NEB comprises of three productions filed including Al Dabb’iya, Shanayel, and Rumaitha. It accounts for 8 percent of the company production. The terminal, pipeline & oil/ gas movements operation asset, acts as the company door to international market. This asset is responsible for management of the main shipment terminal, Jabel Dhana as well as the company main pipeline network, which Is about 704 Kms (“Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations”, n.d)..

Top management at ADCO recognizes the importance of team work in fostering employees’ effectiveness and productivity. They have well developed clubs and recreation team to bring their employees together. The aim is to create a social and friendly working environment through the concept of ‘ADCO Family’. In order to manage different clubs in the organization, ARB-ADCO Recreation Board was established in 1997 and mandated with this responsibility. The goal of forming ARB and different clubs was to promote the spirit of teamwork and extend these values to the entire organization. The firm employees are able to meet and form stronger bonds. The ARB now is composed of many types of clubs including badminton, basket & volleyball, equestrian club, football, ladies club, marine club, socio-education, tennis, snooker, karate, bowling and squash. Each of these teams has its own history. For instance, the badminton club brings together people with shared interest. The team participates in competition with employees from other ADNOC subsidiary companies. Each year one of these companies is charged with the responsibility of preparing the tournament. The tournament brings together employees from different companies and their families.

Factors that can affect job design in this organization include those related to task like work practices and ergonomics as well as behavioral factors like availability of feedback. The organizational factors such as policies adopted by the firm for female employees and employee family members can all have an impact on the productivity. The company claims that it values workplace diversity and that its people comprises of people from different backgrounds. However, on closer look the company leadership is male dominated with males being appointed as the heads of its 24 governance bodies (ADCO Sustainability report, 2012). With the number of female employees employed by the company increasing absence of female in leadership position is likely to affect their productivity in the company. The company policy with regard to work from remote location is also another factor affecting job design. The company permits employees to work from remote locations through the extranet service provided by the firm. The company also employs some employees on contractual basis. As a result, it has different policies in treating these employees. For instance they do not enjoy similar employee benefits as those enjoyed by the permanent employees. These employees management is done by the contractors. Safety is a major issue affecting workers productivity in the oil exploration industry. Therefore, ergonomic consideration in the design of company facilities and tools being used is a major factor that can affect productivity. As indicated by its operation decentralization the company has a wide organization structure.

To improve ADCO and make its job design more efficient there it is important to review some of the policies. Top management should consider job enrichment opportunities in the firm. The firm should for instance eliminate factors that can lead to dissatisfaction in the workplace like absence of female on leadership positions. It should reconsider its administration and policy strategy to ensure that female voices are represented in the highest echelon. Addressing this can also motivate women because it will create room for them to improve their productivity because there is a possibility of moving upward. Apart from that the company should review the provision of working from remote location because this can lead to lower productivity. Fostering teamwork is better than giving employee an opportunity to work from remote locations. This is because it fosters employee innovativeness. The company should also take into consideration employee safety requirements when designing its facilities to improve productivity. Women in particularly are less disadvantaged because they do not have appropriate safety gear though the company is moving towards this direction. Lastly, due to its wide organization structure the company the company will require effective supervisory measures. This is to ensure that employees are getting timely and positive feedbacks with regard to their work. As the company like many other in Abu Dhabi pursue Emiratization strategy in the workforce (ADCO Sustainability report, 2012). Management should consider opportunities for mentoring and coaching for the younger employees entering in the workforce. They can also consider having a job rotation strategy where such employees are moved to different specialized jobs as opposed to staying in one to give them a broader perspective of the organization and stimulate their interest.

References

Abu Dhabi Company for Oil Operations (ADCO). About Us. Retrieved on Nov 21, from: http://www.adco.ae/En/AboutUs/Pages/default.aspx

Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operation Sustainability Report 2012. Retrieved on Nov 21, from: http://www.adco.ae/En/hse/Pages/Sustainability-Report.aspx

Business Ethics

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Business Ethics

The inclination is being a mark of a virtuous person to assume pleasure in moral obligation. In other words, it refers to whatever a person wants to do. The definition faced criticism from Emmanuel Kant, questioning its moral worth. Kant insisted that an individual acting subjectively on the grounds of duty at the hand of the contrary inclination shows a higher degree of moral worthiness. Kant also defined reason as metaphysical ideas that are pure independent of sensibility and understanding. According to Kant, people’s actions are governed by pure reason as opposed to religion. Some actions may bring about contradiction, but Kant insists that if one approves of a particular maxim should not lead to a disclaimer. In other words, there is no exception to one’s self. For example, if you decide to steal based on the fact that you are hungry, you approve of the maxim of stealing, and other people should always do that in similar situations. That brings about contradiction as not all people will agree on that maxim.

Hypothetical imperatives refer to the commands that people should always follow to achieve a specific goal. Hypothetical imperatives are mostly inclined to prudence rather than morality. In other words, people do things with less consideration to moral choice; instead, it is just a contingent in their desires. For example, someone who aspires to score good grades at school should always study, and if not, learning becomes an option. On the other hand, categorical imperatives (CI) are commands that people should always adhere to irrespective of their desires. They are moral obligations that people must follow as they bind all the people, and it does not matter whether or not one wants to be ethical. According to Kant, these obligations come from pure reason as what people presume right or wrong is knowable.

The first principle of CI is the universalizability principle. The approach state that people should always act based on the general rule without contraction. In other words, one should always be fair and not make an exception to his/herself in given situations. The universalizability principle demand people to always do things that they approve others to do in similar situations. According to Kant, the categorical imperative’s application always leads to a fixed moral truth, which is usable to all moral agents. Failure to adhere to those principles often brings about contradiction. Sandbu gives an analogy that involved him requiring a loan, and he is confident that he will be given the loan based on confidence that he will repay. He, however, has no plans to repay the loan.

Based on the categorical imperatives, his decisions to get a loan from someone is based on lies. The CI principles do not approve of the maxim of lying, which will lead to the lender being unable to make a rational decision. The lender is being robbed of the ability to make the right decisions to help Sandbu. CI disapproves of things like lying and deception since one will always be unable to make an autonomous decision on how to respond as such decisions are based on wrong information. In other words, Sandbu treats his money lender as a mere means to executive his objectives without any consideration of his lender’s goals and interests. Based on Sandbu’s argument, actions can be right if done based on our obligation’s inclination. The table (P. 145) indicates that it should be at least possible for its execution out of responsibility instead of a preference for moral consideration on an action. However, it does not necessarily mean that it is a prerequisite for action to be done out of duty to be regarded as right.

Kantian Company holds that people have rights or are rather preloaded with strategies for discussing which rights individuals have. Kant is more inclined to treat all humans as an end and not as a mere means. Things can be used as mere means, but when it comes to humans, that is somewhat different as people are ends in themselves. People are rational and autonomous; thus, they can set their objectives and work towards achieving them. People have always been used by others to achieve what they want but not as mere means. A company can use its employees to achieve its financial objectives but not as mere means. The logic behind that is, humans are not like any other things in the world; instead, they are governed by themselves. Humans can set their ends as well as make free judgments based on their rational wills. Humans are embused with an absolute moral; hence, they cannot manipulate or manipulate other autonomous agents for individual interests.

According to Kant, charitable giving is neither essential nor adequate for the conduct purposes of ethical business. It is evident that corporate social responsibility is somewhat an imperfect obligation in typical cases, and people’s discretion is entrusted with determining how, when, and where to discharge it. In general, there exist mere justifications to presume that anything else is applicable when it comes to business context. In other words, nobody can question an organization that it decided to engage in corporate social responsibility. Autonomy in the workplace holds that one is obligated to fulfil his/her perfect duties. It means that one should respect other people’s rights both inside and outside an organization. A Kantian workplace defines and gives much consideration to human dignity and rational autonomy working in that company. When it comes to job security, managers’ treatment of the company’s employees extends to what employees hold to their employment itself. Conventions concerned with the longevity of work by a given employee to an employee varies widely across institutions.

Autonomy is what constitutes a person’s freedom. Kant distinguishes rational morality actions that one does without contradicting with the universalization law. Rational agency predetermines a source of moral value, where all moral action gets its respective moral worthiness. Reasonable actions are subject to making unbiased choices based on wants and inclinations. People act autonomously based on their reason and free will. Alternatively, people may perform morally according to the categorical imperatives due to their willingness to be ruled by another’s law or, instead, a nonrational nature. In other words, not adhering to morality means acting against reason; thus, being unfree, in captive to an individual’s inclinations. The autonomy value often formats the categorical imperative principle called the formula of humanity. The precept demand people to “act in a manner that they treat humanity, whether themselves or that of any other, always at the same time as an end and never as a mere means.”

According to the mere means formulation, it is unacceptable to use other individuals merely as objects for their self-interests. It prompts people to pay ultimate respect to other people as autonomous choosers of their ends. By mere means, Kant does not hold that we cannot use other people to achieve our targets. It would turn to discredit many corporations as corporations require people to accomplish their goals, and so do people require corporations.

Enron company became recognized for corporate accounting fraud. It succumbed to bankruptcy after getting involved in a major scandal in 2001 following investors” realization of its exaggerated financial statements. The company officials were found guilty following the court trials and were charged with security fraudulent. The question still poses if the Enron officials were morally wrong for deception. Malcolm Gladwell particularly holds that Enron company was ethically wrong since they concealed their financial statements to the public in plain sight. Based on his argument, it was nasty reasoning as it involves two probable complications of interest. First, it can always not be the case for all participants to exercise autonomous choices to expose themselves to the probability of being held accountable. Such situations may result from tendency, desperation, and naivety. Secondly, both sides may consent to the likelihood of misleading information. However, the two analogies do not thoroughly embarrass Kant’s categorical imperatives. Based on Kantianism, the principle may accept that bluffing is certain circumstances presented by negotiations where allowance brings about a common ground to the game’s rules. More importantly, all the parties autonomously decided to take part in the game.

Categorical imperatives are commands that people should always follow irrespective of their desires. Enron company decided to manipulate their figures to get a competitive edge, which is morally inappropriate. Even though they later decided to speak the truth, their decision to conceal the truth for long made its shareholders not make their decisions autonomously. In the subprime mortgage issue, lenders actively participated in unethical practices by giving false information to the shareholders concerning mortgage portfolios diversities, not mention the applicants’ ability to service the loans. As time passed, the interest rates skyrocketed, and debts increased significantly. As such, it became impossible for the vast majority of the subprime mortgage holders to service their loans. The lenders also tricked the consumers through what they termed as “teaser rates” and deliberately ignored keeping proper loan applications’ adequate documentation.

It is wrong to induce false beliefs in the minds of the people as well as lying. However, when it comes to advertisement and marketing, companies overplay and rate highly of their products without considering how their customers feel. More often, some company’s advertisement practices bring about contradiction, and categorical imperatives hold that any moral action should not result in a paradox. During advertisements and marketing, companies should always employ categorical imperatives. Two principles that should govern marketers and advertisers are the universalizability principle and formula of humanity. Any business entity aims to make a profit. However, making profits is not all about hypothetical imperatives. In other words, business practices should be more inclined to morality than prudence.

In conclusion, marketing and advertising practices should put much consideration in moral worthiness and obligation. As such, they must satisfy the needs of the customers by offering them quality products. They should not use potential clients and old customers as their mere means to reap huge profits by providing them with some misleading information about their products. By adhering to Kant’s categorical imperative, the customers will autonomously make their decisions on their rational wills.

References

Sandbu, M. E. (2011). Just business: arguments in business ethics. Prentice Hall.

Beyonce Walton

English 1102

Final research paper rough draft

Dr. Navare

April 18th, 2020

Abuse and Covid-19

Abuse is to treat a person or animal with cruelty or violence, especially regularly or repeatedly. Abuse is something that happens on a regular basis and when the abuser starts going it is hard for them to stop because now this is how they get their anger out, putting their hands on someone beating them badly. The four main types of abuse are Physical abuse, Sexual child abuse, Neglect, and Emotional abuse. In the United States annually there are 700 thousand cases who are abused on a day to day basis. In 2015 approximately 1,670 kids died from abuse and or neglect in the United states. More than 50% are kids of the age of 18 and older. 90% of alleged abusers are related in some way to the victim.

When most people go through abuse they don’t tell anyone to try to get help. They just let it keep going and praying and hoping that it will get better and eventually stop. In the United states only 2.9 million cases are reported but yet not many get to go to court and get the abuser off the street. In this case for kids who are being abused physically there get away from it is school, and when it gets brought to the teachers attention that the child is coming to school with very traumatic bruises they have to file a dcfs report for someone to go into that home to see what’s really going on and also how long have this been going on. Send a social worker out and have the exam the bruises and see how they can help this child, either they need to get them out of the home and put them into foster care or have them go stay with another relative.

Maternity (Prenatal Care)

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Introduction

Getting pregnant is arguably one of the most desirable things for many women across the globe. It seems as if pregnancy cements womanhood in most women. However, it is worth noting that there is more to pregnancy than merely carrying it to full term. Women have to ensure that they do not suffer unnecessarily, and even safeguard their safety, as well as that of their unborn babies. This underlines the importance of prenatal care. My friend Mary has just discovered that she is pregnant or expectant, in which case she is in need of prenatal care. This paper is an effort to explain some aspects of prenatal care.

Well, Mary, Congratulations for the pregnancy. I am happy that you want to gain some understanding about prenatal care. Prenatal care refers to care that a pregnant mother receives from healthcare providers such as midwives or doctors in the course of their pregnancy. The prenatal care visits are meant to ensure that the developing fetus and the pregnant mother are strong and healthy (Lowdermilk et al, 2010). These regular checkups present an opportunity for you to learn the most appropriate methods you can manage or minimize discomforts that come with pregnancy, have any necessary testing, learn the warning signs, as well as ask questions that you may have pertaining to the pregnancy. In addition, prenatal care presents an opportunity for the physician to estimate the most likely birthing date, which would allow the healthcare providers to monitor the growth of the baby, as well as the pregnancy’s progress (Lowdermilk et al, 2010). In addition, it would allow for the scheduling of certain procedures and tests at the most appropriate instances.

Varied tests are carried out depending on the time of the pregnancy. At the first prenatal care visit, thorough examination is carried out and numerous tests conducted. The physician will ask questions pertaining to your medical history, as well as that of your partner and family. A complete physical examination is carried out with blood pressure, weight, pulse, breathing and height being measured. Two of the most crucial tests are ultrasound and Multiple Marker Screen. An ultrasound test allows the healthcare provider to take pictures of the fetus or embryo as it develops. This test may be used to find certain abnormalities, confirm the due date, show the placenta’s position, find multiple pregnancies, measure the cervix’s length, as well as show the size and position of the fetus (Lowdermilk et al, 2010). Ultrasound may be done alongside a blood test between the 11th and 13th weeks to screen for genetic birth defects. The Multiple Marker Screening, on the other hand, is done between the 15th and 20th weeks. During this test, your blood will be screened for birth defects such as spina bifida, and Down syndrome among others. In case there is a risk for developing birth defects, other tests may be offered (Lowdermilk et al, 2010).

The frequency of prenatal care visits depends on the risk posed by the pregnancy. If you are aged between 18 and 35 and are healthy, you will most likely be considered as having low risk of developing complications in the course of the pregnancy (Lowdermilk et al, 2010). In this case, you will be required to have the visit every 4 or 6 weeks for the first 28 weeks, once every two weeks from the 28th to the 36th week, and once every week after the 36th week until delivery. The frequency of the visits may be increased, in case the physicians think you are at risk of developing complications (Lowdermilk et al, 2010).

In conclusion, prenatal care is offered by healthcare providers to pregnant mothers to safeguard the health and strength of the baby and the mother. Its importance lies in the fact that it provides an opportunity for determining the date when the mother is likely to give birth, as well as safeguarding or ensuring the health of the baby and the mother. Various tests may be carried out during the visits including ultrasound and Multiple Marker Screening. The frequency of the prenatal care visits depends on the stage of pregnancy. Do you have any questions?

References

Lowdermilk, D.L, Perry, S.E., & Cashion, K. (2010). Maternity Nursing (8th ed.). New York: Mosby

Mission and Vision Statements

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Mission and Vision Statements

What is the company’s mission statement? What is the company’s vision statement?

In future When I complete my studies, I will be willing to work for many companies and organizations. Among them is the Walmart company, that involves itself in the activities of retail. Walmart is currently ranked first in the Fortune 500 companies of the world. Like most other successful organizations, Walmart company has a mission and vision statement, that guides its operations. To begin with, the mission statement of the organization states, “Saving people money so they can live better.” The organization uses The mission statement to attain its vision. Its vision statement on the other hand states, “To be the best retailer in the hearts and minds of consumers and employees.” The vision statement of an organization explains the goals that the organization hopes to attain its operations. therefore, it guides the strategies and other operations that the organization is involved in. The mission statement of the organization on the other hand states the means the organization intends to use in (Ferguson, 2016).

What role do these have on the way the business operates?

Both the mission and vision statements of the organization play a major role in the way business organizations operate. For the case of Walmart to begin with, its vision is to becoming the best retailing organization that both consumers and employees are aware of. This vision is the guiding statement through which its mission has been formulated. This is because the mission is intended to steer the organization towards attaining its vision. The mission concerns the organization being able to save the money of the people and thus improving their lives. Since it is through this mission that the organization can attain its vision statement, all the operational strategies and plans are based on the organization’s mission. Walmart organization, therefore, ventures on the activities that have the capability of reducing cost for the people and thus saving them money. When the organization can make people spend less for more valuables, it is highly likely to be considered the best organization in its field and thus by aligning the strategies and operation of the organization with the mission statement, it can attain its vision easily.

Do the company’s actions seem to align with their vision and mission statements?

As explained, Walmart is well known to be a significantly successful organization. Its financial stability has enabled the organization to be ranked first about the fortune 500 companies in the world. This implies that the organization is currently the company that has the highest revenues. All this success is brought about by the operations that the organization has been involving in. Its ability to have many customers that are loyal, who increase its sales implies that its actions and operations completely align with its vision and mission statements.

How might the mission and vision of the organization affect or guide you as an employee or manager in the company?

the vision and mission statement of the organization would be the basis through which I make decisions in case am a manager or an employee in the company. The mission of Walmart, for instance, shows that the organization intends to save money for the people. During the formulation and approving of operational strategies, therefore, I would ensure that the strategies accepted and utilized by the organization are only the ones that are likely to save money for the people. Both the mission and vision of the organization, therefore, would guide me completely whether as an employee or a manager of the organization.

If the company does not have a mission or vision statement, what might be the effect of that?

When a company does not have a mission or vision statement, it can have significant difficulties that determines its goals and purpose. there are many strategies that companies can use to attain benefits, hence it would be exceptionally difficult to conclude the most suitable strategies that align with the purpose and aim of the organization. Therefore, all organizations should aim to have mission and vision statements (Angelica, 2001).

References

Angelica, E. (2001). The Wilder nonprofit field guide to crafting effective mission and vision statements. Saint Paul, Minn: Amherst H. Wilder Foundation.

Ferguson, E. (2016). Walmart’s Vision, Mission, Generic & Intensive Strategies: Panmore institute. Retrieved from http://panmore.com/walmart-vision-mission-statement-intensive-generic-strategies

Mission Command

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Introduction

Mission command refers to the military command style. Mission command is the army’s command approach and control that empowers subordinates to make decisions. The technique also enhances decentralized execution that is appropriate to the situation at hand. The Commander gives subordinates a ‘mission’ or purpose in mission command. This ‘mission’ is a statement of the desired end-state, not how to reach that end state. The Commander delegates authority to the subordinate level and holds them accountable for achieving the mission by setting time-sensitive objectives (e.g., time and place) and measures. Subordinates decide how to reach those objectives within their means and capabilities. The Commander does not plan or manage for them and has no higher-level doctrines to impose on his subordinates. He provides resources, support, assistance and stays out of the way unless his subordinates require his help.

In military command, mission command involves a leader at some level of the chain of command, which shows failure in their duty. The principles of mission command are mission orders, risk acceptance, Commander’s intent, shared understanding, disciplined initiative, mutual trust, and competence. By applying these principles, commanders can command an operation with confidence. In the course of a discussion on doctrine, the Commander must identify the mission and the environment. The Mission Commander must also make a decision to accept or not accept risk. The Commander has to specify his intent so that all commanders will know how he wants them to conduct their missions. Thus, there is a need for clear and concise orders, even if they are no longer used formally (Rubel, 2018).

Principles of Mission Command

Mutual Trust

In mission command, the principle of mutual trust refers to the special relationship of trust and mutual respect between a commander and subordinate. The subordinate trusts the Commander to command competently and achieve success on their behalf (Mikaloff). It refers to an understanding between general and Commander that the Commander has complete authority and responsibility to command, direct and control all assigned or attached forces. The commanding officer has broad discretion to use their judgment, what we might call “the art of command.” The idea of mutual trust in mission command is at odds with the concept of hierarchy, organized with strict discipline. The degree of mutual trust varies depending on specific military leadership philosophies, including rank, maturity, experience, innovation skillset, contextual awareness, and so on. The South Korean soldiers had mutual trust in each other even though the army lacked the necessary equipment.

Disciplined Initiative

The principle of Disciplined Initiative refers to empowering adaptive and agile leaders in mission command. This principle focuses on the work to do in response to any given task or situation, no matter what obstacles present. The goal is not just a desired outcome but also strategic planning and leadership capabilities. This principle can only function when adopted as part of the culture or mission command manual and incorporated in the training regimen for all leaders. There must be an understanding that mission command means different things for different people to accomplish this. The most crucial factor is that it needs to make sense in relation to the current situation. This approach has proven relevant in wartime because it lessens hesitation from arbitrary decisions based on higher priorities, leading to increased efficiency and more success with fewer resources. According to the Garrett, poor leadership leads poor preparation.

Mission orders

The principle of mission orders in mission command is used in military organizations to allow the Commander to order subordinates to carry out specific tasks. There are two principles of mission orders: a. Mission command system b. Principle of mission orders. The principle of mission orders is the decision-making process that ensures that every task and every subordinate is focused on completing the missions as quickly, efficiently, and effectively as possible. There is a need for the principle of mission orders to ensure that subordinates understand roles and responsibilities and the objectives of the mission. The principle of mission orders also improves unity of command, simplifies command relationships, enhances situational awareness, results in self-sufficiency, and results in subordinates focusing on completing their role/responsibilities with minimal disruption. According to Garret, “On 30 June 1950, MG Dean received the order from Gen Walker, the Eighth Army commander,”.

Risk acceptance

The principle of Risk acceptance in mission command is a principle which states that the Commander of a military unit, responsible for military operations, should be responsible for deciding whether to take particular risks to accomplish the mission. The Commander who has accepted responsibility for a decision should not pass it on without very compelling reasons. This principle was one of General Norman Schofield’s life and career guiding principles. General Norman Schofield was born at Cowes on the Isle of Wight in 1881 into an upper-class English family with connections with royalty. He attended Harrow School and then studied modern history at Oxford University before training as an army officer at Sandhurst Royal Military Academy. He won many prizes, including Queen Victoria’s sword. South Korean army risked going to war without adequate equipment. This inadequacy led to the army compensating it with their lives.

Commander’s intent

The principle of Commander’s intent refers to a clear expression of an operation’s purpose and the desired end state of the military. This expression provides the staff with focus, supports mission command, and assists the subordinates in achieving the Commander’s desired results. At the operational level, ‘intent’ is a general statement describing what the Commander intends to do or wants to be done during a mission. The intent is not an order. It does not give any particular action but instead describes the operation that needs to be accomplished and leaves it up to subordinate units. The difference between intent and orders is that orders are explicit instructions on how something must be done and obeyed. In contrast, stated intentions remain within the scope of responsibility for each subordinate unit commander. LTC Smith needed adequate time to undertake reconnaissance of the terrain.

Shared understanding

The principle of shared understanding in mission command refers to the idea that the Commander must share an understanding with subordinates as to what is occurring in the mission. As a leader, you provide clarity and insight through your words to ensure your team can apply these same guidelines to their day-to-day operations. The principle helps leaders relay instructions in a way that inspires confidence and trust in the members of their team while also creating an intimate bond by having “one voice” among leaders and teammates throughout a mission (Pearce et al., 2021). These are two critical ways in which teams avoid confusion and continue operations without significant issues or errors along the way. Lack of shared understanding and coordination caused the fall of the South Korean army in various battles that they participated.

Competence

The principle of competence in mission command involves the capability of a unit’s leader to lead by their competence, without the need for detailed plans. The theory was developed during World War II and espoused by British military officer Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery. The principle is considered central to the success of every military unit in battle from then until now, as it provides clear leadership that would not be possible if teams had to be micromanaged constantly by officers on the ground. Competence in Mission command is most effective when commanders can exercise discretion and independence, with orders being given clearly on an “as needed” basis. This allows for better cooperation among staff members who can take the initiative in day-to-day activities with minimal guidance from above. North Korean army had a capable and competent leader that ensures provision of adequate equipment.

Command and Control

Elements of command

A command can be defined as the process by which someone or something gives a set of orders to others for a specific purpose or goal. There are different types or levels of command, but most fall into one category: strategic management. Strategic management consists of three types: business, system, and tactical. The main command elements are authority, responsibility, decision-making, and leadership. Other elements are essential, such as supporting the mission, achieving mission objectives, and performance. All these elements help make up the command structure in any given organization or group.

Elements of Control

Elements of Control in mission command are direction, feedback, information, and communication. The direction element involves defining objectives and ensuring the task force clearly understands those objectives. The element of feedback uses assessments and results to provide timely feedback to the military Commander on whether or not their plan is working as intended. Information is critical with this element as it helps manage resources and gives the Commander an accurate overview of what is going on within their mission area. And finally, communication ensures that they have all the critical information necessary for continued operations.

Command and Control as a Warfighting Functions

Warfighting Functions

Warfighting Functions refers to systems and tasks that enable a commander to synchronize and converge all elements of combat power effectively. The mission command functions are Planning, Direction, Support, and Training (Ploumis, 2020). For example, an Infantry platoon is tasked with searching and destroying an urban environment during warfighting operations. A commander of this platoon needs to make sure he has his maps updated with correct coordinates of the target building before engaging in armed conflict. He also needs to ensure his subordinate leaders know the current situation before deploying their troops into that area of operation. Once they have calmed any unruly civilians to any critical infrastructure outside the area, they will be entering. He coordinates air support for troops on the ground while ensuring no collateral damage to nearby buildings or lives on either side.

Tasks

Major tasks in mission command are command forces, control operations, establishing command and control systems, and driving the operations process. Command forces task to manage operational procedures, personnel, and resources. Control operations tasks are to plan and execute the operation with available resources. Establish command and control systems tasks are to develop systems that ensure commanders can easily exercise their authority during the procedure. Drive the operations process tasks are to establish priorities for an operation, synchronize operational actions across different lines of effort, employ all available assets for maximum effect, and coordinate or train subordinates on a particular skill set. These tasks are evident in the Task Force Smith; south Korea had uncoordinated operations and ultimately failed.

Command and Control System

Command and Control System in mission command involves people, processes, networks, and command posts. Military operations are not simple tasks to take on, especially when considering the many projects that need to be completed given any typical operation (Chen et al., 2021). The command and control system ensures that everything remains under control throughout any given operation. Task Force Smith displays the Principle of Command and Control System. It starts when the captain of a ship requests that an order be given to a subordinate. The subordinate will then try to follow the order by taking some action. If this is not possible, the subordinate will attempt to find another way of carrying out what was ordered in accordance with their professional judgment and experience.

Conclusion

Mission command is a military concept that focuses on “mission” rather than purely on “command. The founder created the concept to address problem areas in traditional military command structures. It has evolved to include many tenets of leadership, management, and strategy, to help fight as well as possible with a minimal loss of life and resources. The concept advocates that team members be given the full decision-making authority relative to their rank on accomplishing the assigned mission or goal. This is to increase initiative and flexibility and reduce the likelihood of inappropriate orders being given, according to the experience and expertise of each individual. The principles of mission command are vital to ensure success of any mission. Competent leaders are vital in any army since they ensure the army has everything they need to ensure they win a battle.

References

Burke, R. P. (2018). Command and Control: Challenging Fallacies of the military Model’s Research and Practice. International Journal of Mass Emergencies & Disasters, 36(2).

Matzenbacher, M. B. (2018). The US Army and mission command. Military Review, 2018, 61-71.

Mikaloff, M. R. S. School of Advanced Military Studies United States Army Command and General Staff College Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Pearce, A. P., Naumann, D. N., & O’Reilly, D. (2021). Mission command: applying military leadership principles to the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) crisis. BMJ Mil Health, 167(1), 3-4.

Ploumis, M. (2020). Mission command and philosophy for the 21st century. Comparative Strategy, 39(2), 209-218.

Rubel, R. C. (2018). Mission Command in a Future Naval Combat Environment. Naval War College Review, 71(2), 109-121.

Garrett, J. (2000). Task Force Smith The Lesson Never Learned. ARMY COMMAND AND GENERAL STAFF COLL FORT LEAVENWORTH KS SCHOOL OF ADVANCED MILITARY STUDIES.

Chen, X., Li, L., Zhang, W., & Li, L. (2021, December). Command and Control System in Intelligentized Warfare. In 2021 IEEE Conference on Telecommunications, Optics and Computer Science (TOCS) (pp. 951-954). IEEE.

Math 1101 Semester Project

Due: On 7/29/19 at 11:00 pm SHARP!

On iCollege Drop box

Instructor: Dr. M. Alexander

Student Name:_____________________

Student Panther ID: (last 4 digits) _________________

Turn in your project in the iCollege Drop Box with:

This cover sheet

The following pages with your answers on them

The excel print out that shows your work and supports your answers.

Semester Project

Part one (regression line or best-fit linear function)

The following table shows (for the years 1965 to 2000 and for people 18 and over) the total percentage of cigarette smokers, the percentage of males who are smokers, and the percentage of females who are smokers.

Percentage of Smokers

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Year Total Population All Males All Females

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

1965 42.4 51.9 33.9

1974 37.1 43.1 32.1

1979 33.5 37.5 29.9

1983 32.1 35.1 29.5

1985 30.1 32.6 27.9

1987 28.8 31.2 26.5

1990 25.5 28.4 22.8

1992 26.5 28.6 24.6

1993 25.0 27.7 22.5

1995 24.7 27.0 22.6

2000 23.3 25.7 21.0

1)Using Excel, draw a Scatter Plot and generate a regression line for the percentages of total population who are smokers versus time.

2) The Regression Line for the Percentage of total population who are smokers is (just copy the equation from your Excel spread

sheet , and attach an excel print out) :

______________________________________________

3) According to the model , the percentage of total population who are smokers in the year 2002 is:

__________________________________________________

Part two (quadratic function passing three points)

Use excel to find the quadratic function whose graph is a parabola containing the points (-2,1137), (2,1017), (3,1062).

The quadratic function is (attach an excel print out) :

__________________________________________________

Part three (best-fit quadratic function)

The table below gives the US population, in millions, for selected years.

EMBED Excel.Sheet.12

1) Create a scatter plot of the data points, with x equal to the number of years after 1960.

2) Create a best-fit quadratic function that models the data, using the number of years after 1960 as the input x.

The best-fit quadratic function is (attach an excel print out):

__________________________________________

3) Use the model to estimate the population of US in 2000. Is the estimate close to the actual population?

According to the model, the estimate of US population in 2000 is:

_______________________

4) Use the model to predict the US population in 2005.

According to the model , the US population in 2005 is: _______________________________

Turn in: The coversheet and these three sheets with your answers on them as well as the excel print showing your work (tables/graphs/equations/etc).

You do not need to turn in this page

How to Make a Scatter Plot and Regression Line (for users of Excel 2003 and before) :

Type your data into two columns side-by-side. Note The first column is always going to be on your X-axis by default

Highlight the data and select Chart Wizard from Insert Menu or the icon

Select XY (Scatter) from Chart Type.

Select the FIRST Diagram from the First Column (Scatter. Compares pairs of values) in the Chart sub-type

Click on Press and Hold to view sample of what you have made

Click on next to continue

Under Data Range; check Columns for Series in and click next

Under Titles,

Type in a title for your Bar Graph

Label both axes

Do not change anything under the Axes tab

Select the Gridlines tab and uncheck every box

Select the Legend tab and uncheck show legend

Select the Data Labels tab and ensure that no box has been checked and then click on next

For Place Chart; Select As object in to show both Data and Diagram

To include a Regression Line;

Right click on any of the plotted data:

Select Add Trend line

Under the Type tab select the appropriate type of graph your data fit

Under Options check Display equation on chart.

How to make a Scatter Plot and Regression Line (for users of Excel 2007) :

Type your data into two columns side-by-side. Note The first column is always going to be on your X-axis by default

Highlight the data and then “Insert “a Scatter Plot.

“Layout” to add title to your chart and turn off the legend and gridlines

To include a Regression Line,

Right click on any of the plotted data point:

Select Add Trend line

Under the Type tab select the appropriate type of graph your data fit

Under Options check Display equation on chart.

Business Friendly Governments

Name

Institution

Business Friendly Governments

Different countries have different procedures for registering a business. The longer the methods, the longer it takes to start the business. Stringent measures only bar prospective entrepreneurs from trading under a legally recognized entity. In turn, the country is denying itself income from taxes and duties that would have been paid by these businesspeople. The annual Ease of Doing Business report by World Bank ranks countries in the order of how easily a business can be started. I will, therefore, analyze the list by Hodgson CITATION Hod17 n t l 1033 (2017) and give opinions on why New Zealand made it to the top of the list, but Australia could not.

I am surprised to see Macedonia on the top-twelve list. It is a middle-income country, yet it has a better business registration process than first world countries like France, Germany, and China. A company only has to reserve a name and pay for a charter capital. I am also surprised to see Georgia on the list. It was just recently re-classified by the World Bank as a high-income country. It is not easy for financially strained individuals in such countries to start a business, but the ease in procedures has eased the task. I did not expect to see the US on the list since they have very stringent measures for non-citizens to start businesses in their country. Following the Brexit, UK also, in my opinion, may not have made a list, since they are withdrawing from the bloc trade. It, therefore, becomes hard for outsiders to engage in business.

New Zealand is ranked well than in Australia for many reasons. First, it has a conventional system for filing and paying taxes online. In Australia, one has to calculate their tax due or hire someone to do that for them. Information about avenues of paying taxes is not readily available. Secondly, the building regulations in New Zealand are straight forward and can be found online. Still, in Australia, the rules are amended annually by the Housing Industry Association in conjunction with the National Construction Code committee. Lastly, Australia has up to three steps to complete registering a business, and it takes around 20 business days to get an Australian Business Number. On the other hand, in New Zealand, it takes a single step and less than a day to complete.

Abstract and Detailed Outline of dissertation in improving logistic operations in the U.SPresented by

Institution

Abstract

Logistics in military involves generating, transporting, relocating or redeploying, and sustaining materials and personnel. The ability of United States to support this process depends on powers of its military. Effective logistics operations in the military make the country more flexible and gains advantage over other nations. The main objective of this research was to determine the role played by logistics in the U.S. Marine forces now and in the future. A successful logistics operation in the military requires qualified Logistics Marines who undergo massive recruitment exercise. The main issues that the study investigated are the cost of maintaining effective logistics, management of marine logistics, utilization of technology, and future recommendations. According to research by Ramey on the impact of logistics in U.S. Air force, availability of infrastructure provides a better avenue for the movement of goods and people in and from military bases. In addition, the study found out that more resources, in monetary forms, are needed to improve the state of infrastructure in military in days to come (Ramey, 1999).

The research was conducted in 4 marine bases in U.S. These were Barstow, CA, Bridgeport, CA, 29 Palms, CA, and San Diego, CA. The sample population for the research consisted of 100 participants, 25 from each marine base. Quantitative research methodology was used to collect data from the selected bases. Interviews were administered to participants followed by questionnaires. These two research instruments were thought to be most reliable because they allowed the researcher to yield consistent data and measure all variables (Phillips & Stawarski, 2008). Graphs and graphs were used to analyze collected data. These formed the best modes of interpreting useful information from the research that met the objectives.

The study found out that logistics play a major role in the military in U.S. U.S. military stands among the most advantageous militaries in the world because of high technology advancements. After analyzing the results, it was realized that technology played a key role in improving logistics in the U.S. marine bases. Bonds et al (2012) that formal networks within the military department play a major role in connecting various military centers across the country. In addition, the uses of informal networks such as social networks, online discussion groups, and chat rooms have the power of improving communication between soldiers. The following literature played a major role in establishing the main elements that would help U.S. marine improve their logistics. In addition, it was realized that military leaders who have established a foundation related to transportation, reallocation, sustainment, and redeployment of military forces experiences effective operations within their bases.

The study findings will play a major role in improving logistic operations in the U.S. technology forms the most important element in developing an effective logistics system in all sectors across the world (Rushton, Croucher & Baker, 2010). The research recommended that the nation should come up with a strategy of training logistics leaders in the military in order to come up with key competences that promote effectiveness. In addition, military logistics leaders should incorporate technology to facilitate improved logistic processes. Some of the recommended technology advancements included installation of high-speed communications, effective packaging techniques, up-to-date information system, and high-profile material-handling equipments. Finally, the study proposed a move by the government to purchase advanced space devices and tele-mechanisms for easier response to logistics processes.

Detailed outline

DECLARATION

ABSTRACT

ABBREVIATIONS

CHAPTER ONE: BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Purpose of the study

1.3 Statement of the problem

1.4 Objectives

1.5 Research questions

1.6 Assumptions

1.7 Significance of the study

1.8 Justification

1.9 Scope of the study

1.10 Limitations of the study

1.11 Delimitation of the study

1.14 Definition of terms

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW16

2.1 Impact of effective logistics in the military

2.2 Major improvements in military logistics today

2.3 How technology affects logistics

2.4 Military leaders and their contribution to logistics

CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

3.1 Research design

3.2 Location of the study

3.3 Population of the study

3.4 Sampling procedure and sample size

3.5 Research instruments

3.6 Data collection procedure

3.7 Methods of data analysis

CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS

CHAPTER FIVE: CONLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

REFERENCES

APPENDICES

References

Bonds, T. M., Peters, J.E., Daehner, E. M. et al,. (2012). Army Network-Enabled Operations

Expectations, Performance, and Opportunities for Future Improvements. RANDACorporation. Retrieved from:

http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/MG788.html

Phillips, P. P., & Stawarski, C. A. (2008). Data collection: Planning for and collecting all types

of data. San Francisco: Pfeiffer.

Ramey, T. (1999). Lean Logistics High-Velocity Logistics Infrastructure and the C-5 Galaxy.

RAND Corporation. Retrieved from:

http://www.rand.org/pubs/monograph_reports/MR581.html

Rushton, A., Croucher, P., & Baker, P. (2010). The Handbook of Logistics and Distribution

Management. London: Kogan Page.

ABSTRACTION IN BAYEUX TAPESTRY AND TRAJAN’S COLUMN

Student’s name

Instructor

Department of affiliation

Course

Date

Abstraction in Bayeux Tapestry and Trajan’s Column

All art is abstract at some point and this concept has always existed even in the beginning of the use of art. It is this same concept that McCloud extends and expounds for the reader to be able to understand it fully and from his perspective. Mccloud explains how comics work but also defines abstraction through his writing. On page 31 of the book, we can try to understand the abstraction from humans to more of the cartoon. This is because on this page the first photo looks more like a human being and as the comics continue discussing film critics and abstraction though the literal word is not mentioned here. Therefore they discuss the idea which abstraction is generally about (McCloud, 1993).

Therefore a definition can be derived from here and state that McCloud defines abstraction as the focus on an idea and not something real or tangible just like it is cartoons as stated in the understanding comic’s book. This makes life more interesting and as stated calls for further investigation. Therefore the definition of abstraction by McCloud can be said to be a concept that focuses on ideas just like it is in cartoons and does not focus on reality. Therefore from this book, I choose symbols that represent what is being talked about and which generally are ideas and no tangible evidence of what is being talked about (McCloud, 1993). Therefore in this case we can say that symbols are what represent abstractions because they are not tangible items that can have a definite shape. And this is clear in the understanding of comics as McCloud uses cartoons to show how this is.

In Trajan’s column, we learn about time and its relation to abstraction. This is because even though it might be true that emperor Trajan at the age of 19 lead people to war to conquer a kingdom by the name Dacians it is not fully comprehensible at this period and it makes it even harder to understand because there is no evidence towards that. The remains of the evidence have been watered down by acid rain and the long period of destruction which have occurred and therefore in these recent times this dies not to act as just history with evidence but rather it becomes abstraction which we have to try and understand because we cannot fully grasp how that time was like. We cannot fully understand the aspect of having a king who is 19 years old and we also cannot fully understand what the remains mean. Furthermore, there is a little more abstraction in the issue of having the Dacians being understood. In this, it is pure abstraction since we can’t fathom what kind of kingdom it was and what how their kingdom, as well as their leadership, looked like since it was cleared from existence and consumed by the roman kingdom at that ancient time. Therefore this helps us to understand abstraction even in a more clear and complex manner.

Even though the column still exists it has suffered a lot from the history of civilization and it remains a place of history and a place of abstraction because no matter how a person tries to understand this time in age it remains an idea in their mind and it does not exist anywhere in the current sphere of reality. Therefore this is the basic idea about abstraction that ideas exist in our minds and they do not exist in reality and therefore we have to represent them either in writing them or drawing them using symbols like McCloud does in his book understanding comics. He also dissects the idea very well not only in word but also in vision whereby as the cartoons and drawings talk about the abstraction he draws them looking more like human in the first photos but at the end of the page he makes sure they look more like cartoons and symbols rather than human drawings (Lancaster, 1999).

In Bayeux Tapestry we also learn of how ancient times and color affect our understanding and creation of images due to the abstraction of a concept. This is an embroidered clothe almost 70 meters long and 50 centimeters wide. Its main depictions are the Norman conquest of England and it dates back to the 11th century (Musset, 2005). Its main characters include; William, Harold, Wessex, and many more who were involved in the activities of the norman kingdom at that period in time. The cloth has seventy scenes and all these talks of that period when England was conquered. It is embroidered and not woven and therefore it can be said to not be typically tapestry but embroidery. This, therefore, helps us to understand abstraction even in a clearer manner because we have to feed our minds with the idea that this kind of thing and vent took place especially when it is supported by evidence which does not give us the real situation but only gives us symbols to help us make the mental images. Color also plays a great role in the whole of this because we get to see which colors they liked most and in the creation of mental images as we understand abstraction we are likely to make colored images (Musset, 2005).

Therefore in conclusion we can say that understanding comics is an essential part of understanding abstraction. However, abstraction can be understood better when there is a combination with other artworks like I have discussed above the Bayeux Tapestry and the defeat of the Dacians by the emperor of the ancient roman kingdom Trajan. These two give us insights and the ability to understand abstraction more clearly.

References

Gameson, R. (Ed.). (1997). The study of the Bayeux tapestry. Boydell & Brewer Ltd.

Lancaster, L. (1999). Building Trajan’s column. American Journal of Archaeology, 419-439.

McCloud, S. (1993). Understanding comics: The invisible art. Northampton, Mass.

Musset, L. (2005). The Bayeux Tapestry. Boydell Press.

Richmond, I. A. (1935). Trajan’s army on Trajan’s Column. Papers of the British School at Rome, 1-40.