Category: Uncategorized

Acoustic design

The concept of “acoustic design” majorly refers to a system of acoustic communication that is soundscape and tries to determine the way it functions. This paper seeks to provide information on acoustic design and how it applies to real life situations. The main aspects to be taken into consideration are the proposals by Barry Truax. The paper will majorly pick up some quotes used by Truax to explain what he is trying to pass across and how the same can be applied in life.

“The balanced soundscape is vulnerable to change just as it is to noise.”

In this quote, Truax is trying to put across the point that the forces which control sounds balance are prone to change. This is because there are situations such as change in population which bring about changes in the soundscape.

“Variety in the incoming information, however, must be balanced by its being understood as meaningful in order for communication to be effective.”

This is one of the quotes from Truax’s work. In this case, he is trying to bring into attention the fact that in order for communication to be effective, the intended information ought to be in order (Schafer, 1993). This is because too much unordered information is similar to too little information. This gives a clear impression that such information is useless to the brain.

“Environmental noise, as we have discussed already, is not only meaningless itself to the listener, but also obscures the information of other sounds.”

Truax is trying to put across the point that environmental sounds that are so high tend to reduce the degree of hearing. This means that reduction in listening makes it impossible for the listeners to hear the intended message.

Generally soundscape balance has to be altered in relation to changes taking place to make sure that communication is effective (Thompson, 2004). Information being passed on at the same time ought to be in order so that the listeners can understand the content. Rules and regulations have to be put in place as well to make certain that environmental noise is regulated for the purpose of avoiding disruption. Implementation of these strategies generally makes it possible for communication to be effective (Hirschkind, 2013).

References

Hirschkind, C. (2013). The Ethical Soundscape: Cassette Sermons and Islamic Counterpublics. Columbia: Columbia University Press.

Schafer, R. M. (1993). The Soundscape: Our Sonic Environment and the Turning of the World. United States: Inner Traditions Bear.

Thompson, E. (2004). The Soundscape of Modernity: Architectural Acoustics and the Culture of Listening in America, 1900-1933. Cambridge: MIT Press.

Approaches to Transnational Financial Reporting

(Author’s name)

(Institutional Affiliation)

Abstract

Transnational Financial Reporting is a complex and multi-faceted process that demands professionalism and high levels of liability by accounting professionals. The preparation and submission of financial statements across borders requires an approach from the most apolitical nature of expertise to prevent problems that can occur owing to lack of accurate financial reporting. Accountants and those in management positions need to devise the proper ways through which they can relay financial information to all users with the minimal amount of prejudice. Agreeably, the development of one set of financial statements to be used worldwide is the best option to ensure proper transnational financial reporting.

Key Words: Transnational Financial Reporting, Financial Statements, Foreign Users

Introduction

Financial statements refer to the statements of account that organizations prepare illustrating the financial operations of the organization. Accordingly, accountants and the management team need to develop financial reporting systems to ensure that all company stakeholders are aware of the organization’s financial activities. For companies that have decided to globalize their business operations, a transnational approach to financial reporting is required to ensure that the presented financial statements are understood by all users irrespective of their locations (Wutsemann, 2004).

This paper highlights five approaches to Transnational Financial reporting, illustrating the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. The paper also justifies the preparation of one set of financial statements based on worldwide accepted accounting as the best approach to Transnational Financial reporting.

Approaches to Transnational Financial Reporting

Economists and the international accounting committee have identified five main approaches to transnational financial reporting to ensure accurate accounting of financial statements in organizations. The first approach to transnational financial reporting is the correspondence of similar sets of financial statements to all company stakeholders in their various locations (Schroeder et al., 2010). With this approach, company accountants prepare a single set of financial reports with one common language and currency. The only advantage of using this approach is the reduction of the workload regarding the submission of financial statements to company stakeholders. The uniformity of financial reporting reassures stakeholders that the organization is providing accurate financial information. However, since this information is to be relayed to other foreign nations, the probability of misinterpretation of the financial records is high hence lack of trust by foreign stakeholders. The second approach to transnational financial reporting is the preparation of financial statements followed by translation of these statements into the different languages of the foreign nations’ users (Schroeder et al., 2010). This approach is advantageous because it limits the occurrence of financial misapprehensions by translation of the statements to a language that the foreign stakeholders can understand. However the process of translation is exasperating especially since organizations are required to translate these statements into various foreign languages that they may not be familiar with. Translating financial statements into foreign languages and currencies is the third approach to transnational financial reporting (Schroeder et al., 2010). This approach to financial reporting is much similar to the second approach with the additional translation and conversion of financial figures into the respective foreign currencies. Just as the previous approach to transnational accounting, this approach fosters proper communication of organizational financial activities across all nations thud reducing the probability of conflict in the workplace. However, the translation of both the language and currency does not ensure that users understand some of the accounting principles used for financial reporting, thus posing a disadvantage to the process.

Organizations also have the option of preparing different sets of financial statements as an approach to transnational financial reporting. This approach demands that one set of financial statements be prepared using the principal country’s language, currency, and accounting principles, and the others using the language, currency, and accounting codes of the foreign countries (Schroeder et al., 2010). Agreeably, this is the most tedious approach to financial reporting and most accountants are discouraged by the bureaucracy of the processes involved. Otherwise, it is a good approach since it fosters organization and accurate reporting of financial statements. Conclusively, the fifth approach to transnational financial reporting involves the preparation a single set of financial statements based on worldwide-accredited accounting principles (Schroeder et al., 2010). This approach implies the harmonization of accounting standards and principles across all nations for easier comprehension of the presented financial statements.

From a closer examination of the advantages and disadvantages of the five approaches, it is evident that the latter is the most favorable approach to transnational financial reporting in organizations. This is because this approach allows the institution of a harmonized accounting system, which further promotes promulgation of financial reporting to organizational stakeholders. Synchronization of accounting standards and principles prevents misinterpretation of the financial records, thus reducing the possibility of organizational conflict in the various regions. Additionally, this approach also curbs the problems associated with regional, political and environmental influences. The development of one set of accounting standards allows stakeholders to understand certain anomalies in the statements that are influenced by such external factors. This approach further assists organizations in convincing their respective financial bodies on what is to be done regarding company stocks and financial operations.

References

Wustemann, J. (2004). Legalization of Transnational Accounting: The Case of International Financial reporting Standards. Retrieved from: http://wp.bwl.uni-mannheim.de/fileadmin/files/Forschung/LegalizationofTransnationalAccounting.pdf

Acquisition by Seal Bidding

Abstract

There have been various methods by which companies buy most of if not whole, of the target company’s ownership stakes so that they may have full control of the firm that they target. Among is the method of seal bidding. The attainment is mostly made as part of the growth strategy of the company whereby it is more profitable to take over the operations of the existing firm and place as compared to increasing on its own. Acquisition can be unfriendly or in a friendly manner. The friendly acquisition is where the firm expresses the agreement to be acquired (Johnson T, 2007). Hostile is a condition in which the target firm does not have the similar agreement from the firm that is targeted and the process of acquisition requires to actively buy large stakes of the company that is targeted so that they may have the majority stakes. At times the company that wants to acquire often offers a premium on the market price of the target shares of the company so that shareholders are enticed to sell. Seal bidding is a method of acquiring that involves the competitive bids and the awards. The bids are unsealed in the public and awards given as well (Paula B. 2009)

Two ways can be used in the acquisition by sealed bidding.

Simplified Acquisition method

Two-step Acquisition method.

However, in acquisition by Sealed Bidding the following conditions have to be met.

a)      The there should be time to allow the solicitation, submission, and the assessment of the sealed bids.

b)      The awards will be prepared on the basis of cost and other factors that are connected to the price.

c)       Conducting discussions with the responding offertory concerning their bids is unnecessary.

d)       There exists reasonable hope of getting more than one sealed offer. With all these conditions, this paper mainly focuses on the procedures that are used acquisition by Sealed Bidding.

In Simplified Acquisition method there are numerous steps that care involved in the acquisition by Sealed Bidding. The steps are (Paula B. 2009);

A) Invitations for bids are prepared. In this, the requirements of the government are described clearly by the invitations they make. The requirements where the numbers of bidders are limited are prohibited.  All the documents are included in the invitation of well prepared potential bidders for the reason of bidding.  These documents are either attached in the invitation or included by the reference. The government should prepare the invitations for the bids and contract using the format below. This should be to the maximum practicable extent. As shown

It should contain the section, and the title.

Part 1, The schedule. There are eight steps taken here.

A Contract form/solicitation. This part contains;

Name, address, and the location here the issuing activity is situated.

The invitation for bids and date of insurance

Specified time for bid reception

The numbers of pages

Requisition or other authorities that would like to make purchases.

Requirements for the bidders to provide their identity.

Statement to be included by the bidders in the bids, and the address through which payments should be made.

B Services and their prices. It entails;

A brief description of the services or the supplies is given here. The description contains national stock number, title etc.

C specifications/ Descriptions

Any other description or the specifications that are needed in addition to the above section (B) to allow complete open and competition.

D Marking and packaging

It gives a provision of packing, making the requirements and preservation.

E Inspection and acceptance

The bids are inspected, acceptance, and the dependability requirements.

F Delivery and performance

Give specifications for the requirements for time, the venue and the method that will be used during the delivery process.

G Contrast administration data

Any accounting and appropriate data that is required and even the contract administration information are included here.

H Unique agreement requirements.

Clear statements of any special contract requirements that are missing out in the section in (I) (contract clause are included here.

 Second part

I Contract clauses

The clauses that the law requires are included here by the contracting officer.

Any other additional clauses that are missing in other areas.

Part three

J List of documents, exhibits and other attachments

The data, the title and the number of the pages care to be listed here.

Part four

K Representations, certificates, and other statement of bidders

Solicitation provisions that need representations, certifications or pr5ovition of other information by bidders are included here. instructions

L Instructions, conditions and notices to bidders

M Evaluation factors for awards

The price related factors that will be considered in the process of are evaluation of bids and contract awarding are identified.

B) The invitations of bids are made public. It then distributed to the respective bidders in order to make them public, they are posted in the open places, and by the use of any suitable means. This is done early enough to enable the bidders to get ready and submit their bids before they publicly open the bids (Johnson T, 2007).

C) Submission of bids takes place here. It is a condition that the bidders should provide the bids that are sealed and only to be opened at the time and the venue stated in the solicitation for the public opening of bids. They are submitted to be received in the office designated in the invitation for the bids. This should be done in time and should not be later than the time set for their openings. If they authorized then, a bid that is telephonic is communicated by telephone call to the designated officer. This shall be given consideration if and only if; the following conditions are met.

The considerations are authorized by the regulations of the agency.

The telegraph officer who got the telephonic bids makes a telephone call.

The designated office is send the telegram that formed the foundation for the telephone call is sent by the telegraph officer who got the telephonic bids.

The telephone call is received early and this should not be later than the time set for bid opening.

The bid in the telegram is similar to the bid that was received from the telephone call made by the telegraph officer.

Suppose all the above conditions are met but the bid is apparently low, the awards may not be made till the telegram is received by the designated officer. The bid is rejected suppose the designated officer does not receive the telegram within five days after it is received. However, some of the bids might be modified or withdrawn. The bids are received and safeguarded. All the bids that are got before the time set for their openings are kept secularly. If their invitations are cancelled, they are returned to the bidders. Precautions are taken to ensure for their safety. In any case there occurs an accident that any bid is opened by the mistake, the envelope is signed by the person who opened it and his/her position written on the envelope and then taken to the designated officer. He then write the reason for the opening on the envelope, the date and time that it was opened and the invitation for the bids number and finally puts his/her sign on the envelope. Before the bids are opened, the information regarding the bids care only made public to the government officials/employees. (Otieno J, 2006). When the bids have been sampled and submitted, enough care is taken to ensure that their discloser is prevented till they re opened in public. The envelopes that look like bids but the bidders cannot be identified are opened just for identification purposes then are returned.

D) Evaluation; this is the assessment that is given to the proposals. The ability to perform the task successfully is determined. There are numerous rating methods that are used in the evaluation process. This might also involve a combination of two or tree evaluation methods. This includes; adjectival rating or color, ordinary ranking and numerical weights. They are evaluated without consultation or discussions. Some bids might be rejected, or their openings postponed. They are evaluated on the basis of price, past performance, technically, cost information, and small business subcontracting.

Price or cost evaluation; the analysis of cost is performed. Te process of evaluation includes the analysis of cost realism to check where the government is able to make payments for the proposed efforts, the offer’s comprehension of the task to be performed, and their ability to perform the task. The information regarding the cost may be provided to the members of the technical evaluation team according to the procedures of the agency.

Evaluation on past performance; this is a clear indication that the company can perform the task successfully if they have a good record of previous performance. How the information is relevant, the origin of the information and data and its content, and the trends in the past performance are the best tool in the evaluation using the past performance.

E) Awards are contracted. Immediately the bids are publicly unsealed, awards are made with logical promptness to that responsible bidder who bid. Conforming to the invitation for the bids is an advantage to the government, giving a consideration to the price and the price-related factors that are incorporated in the invitation. It is dictated that after the bids have been opened, an award must be given to the respective bidder as dictated by the preservation of the integrity unless there is a good reason for the rejection of all the bids and cancel their invitations. The bids that do not conform to the essential requirements of the invitation for bids or the delivery schedule or alternatives that are stated in the invitation are rejected. When all the bids are rejected, the bidders are notified by the officer that all the bids are rejected and the reasons stated there after. This can only be done when they have not been opened or just before awards after they are opened. All the efforts are made to anticipate changes in any bid before the opening date is reached (Otieno J, 2006). This ensures that the bidders vary their bids and also aids in the prevention of unnecessary expose that they might have regarding their prices. All the invitations cannot be canceled fat the point when the bids have been opened. Awards are to be made on the initial invitation and extra quantity to be treated as new acquisition.  

If the bidders have not provided adequate information, then the two-step sealed bidding is used.

The two –step seal bidding

This is a combination of procedures that is designed to obtain the benefits of sealed bidding in cases where when adequate specifications are not provided. The purpose of this is to permit the development of enough descriptive and the unduly restrictive government requirements statements. The following conditions have to be given;

Step one entails the request for, the submission, evaluation process, and the discussion of the technical proposals if necessary (Jackson M, 2009).

The following are contained in the request;

Description of the necessary supplies or services.

Statement of intent to the two –step method

The technical proposal’s requirements.

Ways of evaluation,

The time of proposal receiving, the hour and the date.

Any information that fails to conform to the essentials of the request for the technical proposal is considered as being unacceptable. There may be a progress to the second step by the contracting officer to ensure enough price competition under the second step. The efforts and delay in order to make extra proposals acceptable is not accepted by the government. The contracting officer therefore requests the bidders to give further clarifications regarding their bids. Discussions may be arranged for this purpose. They proceed then to the second step (Lumpur K. 1989).

Second step

It involves the submission of the priced bids that care sealed. This is made by those who successfully submitted their technical proposals as in the first step. The bid that are submitted her are valuated and the awards are given. The procedure of bidding will be followed except that invitation for bids shall;

Be given out only by those offerors who submitted their proposals in the first step.

States that the bidder shall go bas per the specifications and the bidder’s technical proposal.

They are not synopsized through the government point of entry as an opportunity or publicly posted. There is no price that is discussed at this stage. The main reason for step one is to determine whether the services and supplies are acceptable or not as there is a clarification of queries that relate to the technical requirements.

  References;

Paula B. 2009, ‘Federal Acquisition: Key Issues and Guidance’ Management Concepts Publisher,

Otieno J, 2006,’Federal Acquisition Regulations System,’ US Independent Agencies and Commissions

Publisher,

Johnson T, 2007, ‘Government contract law: the desk book for procurement professionals’ American Bar Association Publisher,

Jackson M, 2009,’Methods of acquisition’, Kehata Co publishers.

Lumpur K. 1989,’ Investors’ digest, Issues 2-12′

Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange Publisher

 

Accuracy of Homemade and Web Based Weather Prediction

There are different methods of studying weather patterns and making predictions. One of these methods is the simple method which can be set up at homes, usually referred to as homemade weather station. The other station is the advanced scientific station that involves complex computer systems for have more weather items to study. Young scientists can understand meteorological lessons by understanding homemade weather stations in preparations to become professional weather men and women. According to the differences in the two levels of weather studies, the homemade weather stations are better in understanding basic meteorology (Castro, para.4). This makes them better learning stations for young scientists when compared to the web based forecasting used for professional forecasting.

In a homemade weather center that every young scientist comes across, various weather studying instruments that are used for different weather items are found. I have come across a simple weather station for young scientists, which has various weather reading instruments. Simple weather studies conducted in a homemade weather record rain, temperatures, wind, air pressure and humidity. To measure these weather items, scientists learn to record the amount of rainfall during a rainy day using a rain gauge. Temperatures are measured using a thermometer which may be in Celsius or Fahrenheit calibration. In determining wind patterns, a windsock used for measuring strength of the wind and a wind vane that determines the direction of the wind. A barometer may also be available in a homemade weather station to measure air pressure and a hygrometer as well for measuring humidity. In all of these homemade weather instruments, the scientist is supposed to take the weather readings and record them on a daily journal for all of the items.

For a young scientist to understand the advanced weather station, assistance is from a professional meteorologist is needed. From an interview with Elizabeth Gardner who is a forecaster at Wral Television in Raleigh, it was clear that accuracy of an advanced weather station is higher. Ms. Gardner explained that the homemade weather records are important for understanding weather but they cannot be relied due to their low accuracy. There are many human errors that arise from the collection of weather information. The simple instruments when compared to the web based weather instruments are also likely to have many errors. Ms. Gardner also explained that the advanced web based weather instruments apply computer systems that are very accurate (Coiffier, 3). Due to improvements that computers add to the recording and distribution of weather information, it is possible to get weather information from the internet. Websites giving weather information also collect their data using advanced instruments that are more accurate and with less errors. It is possible to obtain that information from websites such as HYPERLINK “http://www.weatherbug.com” www.weatherbug.com and HYPERLINK “http://www.weather.com” www.weather.com according to Ms. Gardner. The most important difference in the two weather systems as observed in homemade station and web based weather sites is the type of instrument used. It is also evident that accuracy distinguishes the two, with information from homemade station being less accurate than the web based information.

Works Cited

Castrol, Rae. “Homemade Weather Stations,” 2012. Web. ( HYPERLINK “http://www.ehow.com/about_5626306_homemade-weather-stations.html” http://www.ehow.com/about_5626306_homemade-weather-stations.html )

Coiffier, Jean. Fundamentals of numerical weather prediction. New York, NY: Cambridge University Press, 2011. Print

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Acquisition Contract Management

Introduction

Acquisition contract management requires the conduct of a market research in order to arrive at the suitable approach to acquiring, dispensing as well as supporting supplies and services. Source selection is a procedure of deciding who acquires the award of a contract action. It can be a simple procedure of discovering the least priced goods, or be a structured procedure of deciding the best value.

Best value in the procurement process refers to an acquisition process, which results in the greatest benefit to a customer in accordance to the specific contract requirements. The attainment of greatest benefit to the customers occurs through the assessment and comparison of certain factors, as well as the offered price. The Best value acquisition process allows flexibility in the selection process through tradeoffs which the agency makes by evaluating the cost and non-cost factors with the intention of awarding the contract to a contractor who will provide the agency the best value of their money.

The source selection procedure entails of a few basic steps that result in an award to the best value offeror. In the private sector, these basic steps are left to the individual owner’s freedom of choice but for the government sector, there are certain procurement rules and regulations that follow throughout the procurement process. However, the basic procurement process framework is similar in both private and government sectors. Below I will discuss the steps followed in the best value source selection.

Discussion of Steps

Step 1

Knowing the customers and their needs

The first step in the best value source selection requires that individual contracting personnel meet with the customer with a view to getting to know the client(s) and understanding their individual needs and requirements. Getting to know the client in this case is essential in that it enables the contracting team to determine the customer’s current needs as given by ongoing contracts as well as any future acquisition requirements of the customer in question.

The process of getting to know the customer and their individual needs increases the contracting team’s knowledge about the organization mission and goals of the prospective customer and also their values, objectives and priorities. The process therefore enables the contracting personnel to provide relevant business advice and support as necessitated by the prevailing business environment as well as the requirements dictated by the contract specifications.

The adoption of best value procedures in this first step creates an enabling environment for the contracting personnel in which they are able to recommend procedures that aim at matching the individual customer requirements to the goals of the organization at the lowest cost possible. Examples of customer requirements in this case include essential physical characteristics of the end product as well as functions to be performed in the course of contract performance.

Step 2

Evaluation criteria

The second step of the best value source selection consists of determining criteria to evaluate the proposed solutions to the customer’s requirements. Evaluation criteria consist of a set of procedures used to determine with certainty any strengths and weaknesses in the proposals submitted by individual offerors, how their approaches facilitate the attainment of specific customer requirements as well as aid in distinguishing the proposals offered by the contractors. These evaluation criteria help in selecting the contractor with the capacity to provide greatest value to the government. Examples of evaluation criteria include such things as cost, quality, the past performance of the contractor, expertise, personnel qualifications among others.

The adoption of best value criteria in this step is highly essential in the overall contracting process as it provides the basis for competitive elimination among contractors in the process of acquisition. Further, it also reduces the work on the part of the customer as regards the selection of the contractor with the capacity to deliver according to the individual contract requirements.

Step 3

Understanding the market or industry capabilities

Market research in the acquisition process is highly essential to the contracting personnel as it provides them with relevant information regarding existing products and services as well as technology relating to the acquisition process. The process also aids the contracting team to determine and evaluate existing market risks, opportunities, threats as well as development capabilities within the specific market that have the potential to affect the acquisition process. It therefore provides the team with the relevant data useful in designing appropriate technical and operational policies with a view to facilitating the delivery of best value to the customer in question. Further, market research enables the contracting personnel to evaluate the potential contractors according to their adaptability to changing market conditions thus aiding the customer in the selection process. The adoption of best value therefore increases the level of competitiveness and efficiency associated with the acquisition process, thus creating an enabling environment for the selection of the best contractor.

Step 4

Understand the business environment

Understanding the business environment during the acquisition process is critical in that it increases awareness on the variety of factors capable of affecting the process of acquisition by the government. It includes an examination of factors within the contractor’s environment as well as those of the customer. Such factors include market conditions, political factors, the legal community, contract clauses, and sources of funding, apparent authority, and steps in the acquisition process as well as the internal organization for contract management among others.

Understanding the business environment enables the contracting team to determine how each of the factors within the business environment will influence the process of acquisition by the government and the contracting party in question. It therefore facilitates the design of possible adaptability measures with the view to increasing the government and contractor’s ability to manage and cope with different scenarios as may be dictated by the business environment. The best value in this case aids the contracting team in selecting the contractor with the ability to meet the individual customer specifications given the potential risks and fluctuations presented in the prevailing business environment.

Step 5

Developing the acquisition plan

Acquisition planning refers to the process of documenting the plan needed to manage the overall acquisition process. It includes a description of the duties and responsibilities of the concerned personnel, as well as the procedure for their individual coordination and integration. The plan indicates milestones affecting the decision making process and also other factors that have the capacity to influence the acquisition process. These include business, market, management, and technical factors among others.

The acquisition plan consists of a statement of background and objectives, and a plan of action for the intended acquisition. The process of acquisition planning establishes criteria for the evaluation of the contracting process, thus enabling the measurement of the overall acquisition process. It also facilitates the implementation of corrective action to eliminate any deviations from the intended course of operation. Best value standards, therefore facilitate the implementation of an acquisition process that meets the individual client specifications and requirements as required.

In conclusion, the process of acquisition contract management is highly essential in determining the success or failure of a specific acquisition process. It involves conforming to a series of steps established with the view to aiding the selection of efficient contractors with the ability to meet individual customer requirements as per contract specifications. Any contracting team should therefore ensure that it invests the relevant time and effort not only needed to guarantee the successful implementation of an acquisition plan, but also ensure that it delivers value to the intended customers.

The Wall Street Journal

By: Bjorn Lomborg

June 16, 2017 10:36 a.m. ET

Environmentalists were aghast when President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris climate treaty, with some declaring that the very survival of our civilization was at stake. But is the Paris accord really all that stands between the planet and the worst of climate change? Certainly not.

This is not to deny that President Trump’s announcement was problematic. He failed to acknowledge that global warming is real and wrongly claimed that China and India are the “world’s leading polluters.” (China and the U.S. are the largest emitters of carbon dioxide, and the U.S. is the biggest per capita.) It was far-fetched for him to suggest that the treaty will be “renegotiated.” Worse, the White House now has no response to climate change.

But the global consensus about the Paris treaty is wrongheaded too. It risks wasting huge resources to do almost nothing to fix the climate problem while shortchanging approaches that promise the most transformative results.

Consider the Paris agreement’s preamble, which states that signatories will work to keep the rise in average global temperature “well below” 2 degrees Celsius and even suggests that the increase could be kept to 1.5 degrees. This is empty political rhetoric. Based on current carbon dioxide emissions, achieving the target of 1.5 degrees would require the entire planet to abandon fossil fuels in four years.

But the treaty has deeper problems. The United Nations organization in charge of the accord counted up the national carbon-cut pledges for 2016 to 2030 and estimated that, if every country met them, carbon dioxide emissions would be cut by 56 gigatons. It is widely accepted that restricting temperature rises to 2 degrees Celsius would require a cut of some 6,000 gigatons, that is, about a hundredfold more.

The Paris treaty is not, then, just slightly imperfect. Even in an implausibly optimistic, best-case scenario, the Paris accord leaves the problem virtually unchanged. Those who claim otherwise are forced to look beyond the period covered by the treaty and to hope for a huge effort thereafter.

The treaty commits nations to specific and reasonably verifiable (but nonbinding) cuts in carbon emissions until the year 2030. After that, nothing really is concrete, for a very understandable reason: Could you imagine a carbon-cutting promise made by President Bill Clinton being fulfilled by Mr. Trump? Could you see a Democrat in 2035 feeling honor-bound by policies set by Mr. Trump today?

Now ask the same sort of questions about every country that has signed the treaty. Rose-tinted hopes for the accord’s success rely on heroic assumptions about what tomorrow’s world leaders will do. If what we need is a carbon diet, the Paris treaty is just a promise to eat one salad today, pushing all the hard self-restraint far into the future.

History gives us cause for skepticism about overly optimistic forecasts, even over much shorter spans. In 1993, Mr. Clinton committed the U.S. to cutting emissions by 2000, but he ditched the promise seven years later. In 1992, the industrialized nations promised that they would lower their emissions to 1990 levels by 2000. Nearly every country failed. Before the Paris treaty, the Kyoto Protocol was sold as a key part of the solution to global warming, but a recent study in the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management shows that it achieved virtually nothing.

In the wake of Mr. Trump’s exit from the Paris treaty, there have been many claims that solar and wind energy will soon be ready to power the world. This also isn’t true.

Just 0.6% of the world’s energy needs are currently met by solar and wind, according to the International Energy Agency. Even with implementation of the Paris treaty, solar and wind are expected to contribute less than 3% of world energy by 2040. Fossil fuels will go from meeting 81% of our energy needs to three-quarters. The energy expert Vaclav Smil of the University of Manitoba puts it bluntly: “Claims of a rapid transition to a zero-carbon society are plain nonsense.”

Though there are contexts in which solar and wind energy are efficient, in most situations they depend on subsidies. These will cost $125 billion this year and $3 trillion over the next 25 years, to meet less than 3% of world energy needs. If solar and wind truly out-competed fossil fuels, the Paris treaty would be unnecessary.

On this issue, even the climate scientist James Hansen, who advises former Vice President Al Gore, agrees: “Suggesting that renewables will let us phase rapidly off fossil fuels in the U.S., China, India, or the world as a whole is almost the equivalent of believing in the Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy.”

Advocates of global carbon cuts fail to acknowledge the wider costs of subsidizing certain energy sources. A global pact in which governments promise to use more expensive energy ensures that the world economy will develop at a slower pace. This adds up to an immense expense: $1 to $2 trillion by 2030 and each year for the rest of the century, mostly in lost GDP growth. This represents $150 to $300 for every person in the world, every year.

More Essays from Review

The Charade of the Paris Treaty June 16, 2017

Why the U.S. Shouldn’t Blindly Follow Saudi Arabia June 9, 2017

Medical Care Means Mental Health, Too June 9, 2017

What Is It Like to Be Nice to Everybody? June 2, 2017

Growing Threats to the U.S. at Sea June 2, 2017

Taxpayers in wealthy nations may well ask whether this money could be better spent on schools, hospitals or care for the elderly. In developing countries with more immediate problems, there are definitely more productive ways to use the money. A global poll of almost 10 million people conducted by the U.N. finds that climate change is the lowest priority behind health, education, food and 11 other priorities. Work by the Copenhagen Consensus, which I oversee, has highlighted the many investments in nutrition, health and other areas that would help vulnerable communities much more than would any possible benefits from carbon cuts.

Acknowledging the Paris treaty’s flaws does not mean endorsing the Trump administration’s apparent intention to ignore climate change. Real progress in reducing carbon emissions and global temperatures will require far-reaching advances in green energy, and that will mean massive investment in research and development—an annual global commitment of some $100 billion, according to analysis by the Copenhagen Consensus. When green energy is economically competitive, the whole world will rush to use it.

The real misfortune for the planet isn’t that Mr. Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris treaty. Rather, it is that his administration has shown no interest in helping to launch the green-energy revolution that the world so urgently needs.

—Mr. Lomborg is the president of the Copenhagen Consensus Center and the author of “The Skeptical Environmentalist” and “Cool It.”

Acquisition of a Foreign Firm

1. As a CEO, you are trying to acquire a foreign firm. The size of your firm will double, and it will become the largest in your industry.  What does your firm do and what does the foreign firm you are trying to acquire do?  Where are the firms based?

My firm offers diverse financial services and it is located in Washington DC. In particular, it provides community banking services, brokerage and retirement services, wholesale banking, credit cards and customer services and internet services. The foreign firm that my firm is trying to acquire on the other hand is based in California and also offers wide ranging financial services to its clientele. In particular, it provides banking services, asset management, investment and corporate banking services and products as well as wealth management. Furthermore, the firm offers security services in three American states; Florida, California and Connecticut.

2. You are very enthusiastic about the opportunity to be a leading captain of industry and the associated power, prestige, and income.  (You expect your salary, bonus, and stock option to double next year).  However, you are troubled by the fact that 70% of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) reportedly fail.  How would you proceed?

Indeed, it can not be disputed that acquisition of a new firm impacts on the organization’s ideologies and practices in different ways. According to Miller (2008), most failures result from a lack of cultural cohesion. In this regard, cultural cohesion is a very important aspect that can make the resultant firm to either succeed or fail because of is influence on talent retention. In this consideration, I would proceed by attaining an in depth understanding of various cultural influences related to disciplines, beliefs and problem resolution strategies as well as practices of the foreign firm. In addition, I will critically analyze the synergies surrounding brands, physical assets and competencies with the aim of incorporating and retaining these in the resultant company. In this respect, Ghughan (2005) indicates that understanding and appreciating the various cultural underpinnings that anchor the preceding aspects is of paramount importance. As such, I would make efforts to understand the cultural aspect that are related to the above structural supports.

Most importantly, I would align my corporate strategy to the acquisition strategy. In particular, my corporate strategy seeks to enhance profits and maintain upward growth and development by providing high quality and diverse products. The main aim of acquiring the new firm is to diversify the service and increase economies of scale. Bridging any gaps between these two strategies would go a long way in enhancing performance and preventing incidences of failure. It would also be important for my firm to redefine its position in the market and work towards attaining its goals and objectives. Brunner (2004) cites that most companies that make acquisitions fail because they become over whelmed by the entire development and loose track of their corporate goals and objectives. Defining the position of my firm in the market after acquisition is a visionary measure that will enable the firm to develop a viable strategic direction. Further, this will prevent incidences of lacing undue emphasis on short term legal and financial issues at the expense of important corporate goals and objectives.

Also, it is worth appreciating that the resultant firm would be bigger and would pursue diverse approaches. It would be important to put in place distinct communication strategies and enhance organizational capacities with respect to human resource management, production, marketing and so forth. Effective communication strategies would ensure free information flow and enhance a learning culture n the organization. In addition, it would prevent communication related conflicts that strain relationships and undermine effective functioning in the work place. Building capacities on the other hand would be instrumental in ensuring quality production of products and services. In this regard, Miller (2008) posits that some companies fail because of various challenge related to organizational leadership and effective communication.

3. What institution-based issues would you encounter? Discuss.

There are various institutional based issues that my firm looks forward to encountering and which would impact in different ways on the performance and general wellbeing of my organization. To begin with, there is a possibility of legal issues especially considering that the firm to be acquired is located in a foreign country. In this regard, it is worth noting that the legal expectations of the California state might slightly differ from those of my home family. Also, the resultant firm is likely to b treated differently by the regulators and law enforcers because of the relative increase in output and assumption of a new status or position in the industry. These can affect production and the firm’s ability to meet goals and objectives. Particular areas of concern include increase in taxes as a result of increase in revenue and so forth.

Then, challenges might also stem from the issue of acceptability by the foreign firm. Acquiring it will have far reaching implications on its work force as they would be required to operate under new rules and regulations. Effectively assuming these can be problematic especially considering that some of their practices and processes differ considerably from those of my firm. Issues pertaining to morality and culture are likely to be problematic because of the varying beliefs and practices. These would directly affect performance as well as managerial behavior that are instrumental in providing guidance to the resultant company. Also, aspects pertaining to the credibility of the business operation are also likely to raise certain concerns. Credibility in this regard is defined in terms of the cohesiveness between organizational practices and corporate strategy, goals and objectives.

Also, the personnel of the acquired firm are likely to experience difficulties in assuming a new culture. In this regard, they would be expected to assume new practices, processes and align their beliefs and perceptions to new organizational goals and objectives. This can negatively impact on the organizational relationships and have far reaching impacts on the productivity of the company. This would occur especially when the respective personnel find it difficult to cope with the new work environment. It might result in loss of personnel that are important in maintaining quality production.

4. What resource-based issues would you face? Describe

There are various resource based issues that the company firm is likely to grapple with. To begin with, there would be need for more financial resources to cater for the increasing costs and expenses. The ability to handle this effectively requires an understanding of financial capability of the company. The company may also experience difficulties in accessing important complementary resources that may be financial, human or materials to maintain optimal production. This as the ability to affect its productivity as well as its capacity to cater for wide ranging processes. Then, the firm is likely to loose important human resources because of the changing work environment and other institutional changes. This can affect the quality of production significantly. The company will be expected to source for other resources to develop capacities of it personnel especially after redefinition of their corporate strategy, goals and objectives. Developing human resources will enable it to maintain quality production especially considering that it looks forward to assuming the top most position in the industry.

5. What are your managerial motives? Explain

There are various managerial motives for the acquisition of the foreign firm. To begin with, the aim of acquiring this firm is to increase my remuneration as the chief executive officer of one of the leading financial services companies in the region. Since the resultant company would assume market leadership, heading it is prestigious and would attract a higher salary package. The salary package will be aligned to the roles and responsibilities that I would be required to perform as a chief executive officer. In addition to salary increment, I look forward to being entitled to various benefits such as paid holidays, increased insurance packages, housing and so forth. This will enhance my quality of life as well as the life of my family. In his research, Ghaughan (2005) indicates that having responsibility in a larger firm attracts higher compensation. In the financial industry, it is widely agreed that most executives set their salaries by comparing with other managers in the industry.

Another motive for acquiring a foreign firm is to enhance my professional status. Compared to being a chief executive officer of a smaller firm, being the chief executive officer of a leading financial firm is more prestigious. In addition to increased compensation, this also attracts relative benefits that stem from mere association with top players in the financial industry. For instance, I would have a higher media attention that would enable me to recognize various opportunities in the industry. Another motive for acquiring this foreign firm pertains to the need to attain more power. Notably, the number of workers under my command would increase significantly. In addition, I would be in charge of more responsibilities. This implies that I would be more powerful and have a greater influence than what I currently have. In this regard, it should be acknowledged that power in the current corporate sphere is greatly determined by the status of an individual in the industry as well as the level of influence and the amount of salary.

Finally, another reason for acquiring the firm pertains to the need for empire building. This is instrumental in enabling me to attain a high degree of job security. According to Miller (2008), larger banking organizations are unlikely to be taken over than their smaller counterparts. Statistical evidence indicates that hostile take over culminate in loss of jobs especially for the management staff. Acquiring the foreign firm would increase my possibility of maintaining my job position as he chief executive officer of the company.

6. Do you possess hubris? Explain your answer

I do not posses hubris that constitutes over optimism in the evaluation of the acquisition. In this regard, I have taken practical measures to analyze the value of the foreign firm to be acquired as well as its performance in the industry. In addition, I have effectively evaluated the financial trends and made credible predictions based on previous as well as current trends. Although I have great faith in my capabilities, I also appreciate my weaknesses and the decision to acquire the foreign firm has not been directly influenced by this. The payment of this acquisition is reflective of an objective evaluation of all the necessary aspects as well as trends in the industry. In essence, the acquisition is driven by a great desire to increase shareholder wealth as opposed to other subjective reasons.

7. How would you ensure the success of your acquisition?

There are various measures that I would take to ensure the success of my firm. To begin with, I would review my corporate goals and objectives and align these to the organizational strategy. This will ensure that my firm focuses on attaining important organizational goals and objectives even after acquiring the foreign firm. Then I would take measures to reconcile any cultural inconsistencies after acquisition. Notably, the firms operate in different environments and are governed be varied regulations. Reconciling any cultural differences is imperatively important in ensuring optimal performance. This would include the need for compromise in order to accommodate any differences that would not significantly impact on performance. Before acquisition, I would objectively evaluate the value of the foreign firm in order to avoid incidences of over valuing that have the ability to affect the overall performance of the firm.

Then, I would analyze the legal aspects of acquisition and align all my practices to these. This will go a long way in preventing negative legal implications that undermine effective performance. Then, I would take timely measures in establishing viable relations with important regulator bodies in order to avoid unnecessary disruptions. Also, I would aim at retaining the human resource and enhancing their capacities through education opportunities as well as training. As compared to hiring other human resources, Brunner (2004) indicates that retaining human resources is less expensive. This is because the retained staff understands the processes and practices of the industry better than the new staff. This implies that fewer resources would be employed for capacity building. Enhancing their capacities on the other hand would aid in improving their performance and aligning these to the required global standards. Then, I would use my influence and power to source for sufficient financial resources from trusted investors to ensure effective and sustainable operation.

References

Brunner, R. (2004). Applied mergers and acquisitions. USA: Wiley

Gaughan, P. (2002). Mergers, acquisitions and corporate restructurings. USA; Wiley

Gaughan, P. (2005). Mergers: What can go wrong and how to prevent it. USA: Wiley

Miller, E. (2008). Mergers and acquisitions: A step-by-step legal and practical guide. USA: Wiley

Description:

This assignment is an individual work for the TURNITIN submission. The students are supposed to watch the play in the following link and answer the questions in Part 1 and Part 2. Prepare the assigned exercise individually.

Notes:

Type your answers in English into the boxes allocated;

Keep your answers short and clear;

Handwriting is not accepted;

The grading is based on the following criteria: comprehension, analysis, clarity, relevance and regularity.

The Link of the play:

War Horse – directed by Marianne Elliott – National Theatre – Act 01

???? Link: https://vimeo.com/689860887

War Horse – directed by Marianne Elliott – National Theatre – Act 02

???? Link: https://vimeo.com/689861115

PART 1: DRAMATIC ELEMENTS (40 pts)

Choose one Scene from the performance, mention the Act, Starting and Ending minutes from the videos.

Scene Grades

Act: 01 _______ / 5

From: 0:30 Minute To: 8:30 Minute Describe the SEVEN ELEMENTS of the chosen Scene from the performance.

Answers Grades

Plot in 1 line The scene opens in a somber tone where a war horse is brought to the stage as a war song is sung in the background before the same horse is taken to an auction where a drunk man buys it despite the better advise of his son. _______ / 5

Characters The War Horse (Joey), Arthur, Ted, Rose, Albert

_______ / 5

Dialogue Auctioneer to the bidders announcing the bid prices.

Arthur and Ted’s back and forth on the bidding price

Ted and his son Albert back and forth

Introduction of Rose into the ending of the scene _______ / 5

Acts and Actions The action begins as the war horse is presented for sale. There is a bidding war between Arthur, a respectable member of the community, and Ted his drunk brother. The latter uses mortgage money to purchase the foal.

_______ / 5

Conflict Conflict emerges between Ted and Arthur as they both want to get the foal.

Another conflict emerges between Ted and his son Albert regarding the decision to buy a horse.

Another conflict is seen when Rose is introduced into the picture.

_______ / 5

Directing

Instructions

(for the Scene) Lights fading in and out

Support characters entering the stage

A barricade formed by the support characters _______ / 5

Theme There is anger in Ted’s voice

Pain in Albert’s scolding of his father

And a desire for revenge between brothers

_______ / 5

PART 2: PERFORMANCE ELEMENTS (60 pts)

What is the DIRECTING STYLE applied in the performance? (Mention the Directing type and provide its short description)

Directing Style

Answers Grades

Directing Type Elliott is a creative artist who uses the translation approach _______ / 5

Description Marianne Elliott collaborates closely with her team of choreographers, lighting and sound designers, giving her productions a distinctively experimental feel. Her clever use of ensemble is complemented by sparse staging and the use of symbolic design elements. _______ / 5

Mention 2 Features of the Directing style that is applied in the performance:

Features

Answers Grades

Feature 1

The director makes necessary edits to the script as she sees fit _______ / 5

Feature 2

Ensures that the audience is engaged through comical breaks and laughter _______ / 5

Describe the features of the performance’s SCENOGRAPHY.

Scenography Elements

Answers Grades

Decorations and Props A wide, irregular projection screen, resembling a torn strip of paper, forming the focus of a design which is otherwise minimalist and transient

A maquette named Joey

A dark background

Guard rails held by supporting cast

_______ / 5

Light Concept Lighting follows a bright stage with a dark background that is faded to represent the mid 20th century. The characters have variations of dark brown clothes to show the contrast. _______ / 5

Sound Concept Sound is clear and original _______ / 5

Costumes and Make-up Costumes include old and ragged clothing that resemble the time period of the play _______ / 5

What is the ACTING STYLE applied in the performance? (Mention the acting type and provide its short description)

Acting Style

Answers Grades

Acting Type Classic theatrical acting

_______ / 5

Description Taking this technique means that the actors have read the whole script in great detail and have investigated their roles in great depth. They have developed a performance that is not just entertaining but also riveting because of the connection that they have established with their characters and the audience. _______ / 5

Mention 2 Features of the Acting style that is applied in the performance:

Features

Answers Grades

Feature 1

Understanding the mannerism and personality of the character _______ / 5

Feature 2

Creating a connection between actor and character he/she portrays _______ / 5

Submission Guidelines

Type in the answers in the allocated boxes in English. Handwriting and computer handwriting style is not accepted.

The name of the submitted Word file should be as follows:

Section Number + Assignment Number + Student’s name + Student’s ID Number.

To name the assignment’s Word file please follow the example below.

Ex: M1_A1_ Ali Mohamed_10001

Upload the Assignment 6 to the Turnitin submission link on Moodle.

Acquisition Of Literary Skills In ESOL Content Area

Students can benefit in learning both English and other subjects when the language is taught through content in combination with reading and writing instructions. Such a strategy ensures that the students are able to acquire both the language and the content. Combining both academic content area and the English language lessons ensures that there is no delay in studying other subjects especially for older students who feel their time is limited. Another reason that makes teaching language through content is that the language is easily acquired in its natural context. For example teaching language in biology or chemistry classes assists the students in grasping the vocabulary naturally since it is being used in its application. The students are able to understand the meanings and usage of words much better when the language is being used for its real life purpose. They will be able to focus better on the subject matter when the language is used in its academic content.

There are several techniques teachers can employ in helping ESOL students to develop proficiency in English in order to perfectly master content area subjects. In teaching the language, the teacher should recognize second language acquisition is a gradual process that is built on the student’s skills in his or her first language. The teacher should also provide genuine opportunities for students to apply what they have learnt in a friendly non-threatening environment. Another technique would be to ensure that the students are able to connect learned key vocabularies with the subject content. The structure and style of the English language might appear daunting to the students initially but this can be overcome by teaching text and sentence level grammar in their real context. It would also be quite helpful if students are taught the different features of language that are applicable in social and academic contexts.

Techniques that a teacher can use in language reading lessons should be aimed at ensuring the students develop competence in reading and writing in English. The teacher can find it helpful to use culturally relevant reading materials in class, connect the readings to the students’ backgrounds, and encourage them to discuss the readings in their cultural dimensions. This helps in achieving better comprehension among the students when the readings have some relevance to their lives. Other techniques include reading aloud, simulating content knowledge, and monitoring growth f both first ad second languages.

Writing in grammatical and comprehensible English is one of the major hurdles an ESOL student has to overcome. Acquisition of vocabulary and achieving syntactic competence is a gradual process that does not happen overnight. The teacher should thus keep in mind that students may not have properly mastered the sills and terminology used in the writing process which includes drafting, revision and editing among others. They should thus strive to provide support through provision of an environment that nurtures good writing, use of collaborative writing activities, promoting interaction and learning from each other, use of single response prompts for writing exercises, and offering clear and explicit comments on strengths and weaknesses of the student papers among others.

The increase in bilingual students makes it necessary for teachers to apply effective techniques and methods of engaging students in both language acquisition and in content area knowledge in order to succeed in their academic fields. The teachers on the other hand should be supported too to enable them work efficiently in promoting the success of their students.

References

American Federation of Teachers. (March, 2004). Closing the achievement gap: Focus on Latinostudents (Policy Brief 17). Retrieved January 26, 2011 from HYPERLINK “http://www.aft.org/teachers/pusbs-reports/index.htm” l “english” o “Click here to view this online resource” http://www.aft.org/teachers/pusbs-reports/index.htm#english.

Bernhardt, E. B. (1991). A psycholinguistic perspective on second language literacy. Reading inTwo Languages. AILA Review, 8, 31-44.

De Jong, E. J. (2002). Effective bilingual education: From theory to academic achievement in atwo-way bilingual program. Bilingual Research Journal, 26(1); 1-15.

Gándara, P., Rumberger, R., Maxwell-Jolly, J., & Callahan, R. (2003). English learners inCalifornia schools: Unequal resources, unequal outcomes. Education Policy AnalysisArchives, 11 (36). Retrieved January 26, 2011, from HYPERLINK “http://epaa.asu.edu/” o “Click here to visit this online resource” http://epaa.asu.edu/.

Menken, K., & Antunez, B. (2001). An overview of the preparation and certification of teachersworking with limited English proficient students. Washington, DC: NationalClearinghouse of Bilingual Education. Retrieved January 26, 2011, from HYPERLINK “http://www.ericsp.org/pages/digests/ncbe.pdf” o “Click here to review this online resource” http://www.ericsp.org/pages/digests/ncbe.pdf.

Name

Professor

Course

Date

Achieve your goals

Introduction

Individuals should learn to track their activities to ensure that they are on the right path to success. They should analyze their daily, monthly and yearly activities to discover their weaknesses and strengths. They should also find out about the activities of other people to make a comparison. Educational background is also a key to achieving goals. People should work hard at school to get grades that will enhance their lives. The analysis of my activities reveals how I will achieve my personal goals.

College skill and life skills are vital an individual’s life. The connection between the two helps an individual to set life goals (Carter, Joyce, Sarah and Richard, 23). Tracking daily activities in and outside school helps to determine strengths and weaknesses. Life does not always offer the desires of the heart (Corey and Marianne, 93). Through the analysis of strengths and weaknesses, one determines the best measures to take when life is not favorable. Involving friends when facing difficulties is also a vital strategy in achieving goals. Friends will help to enhance life skills and also assist in understanding difficult concepts taught in class.

Analyzing the stages of development also helps to achieve goals. The development stages enhance realization of an individual’s strengths and weaknesses. Visualizing about the future also helps in realization of one’s goals. This will help to determine whether one is still on the path to success. Writing down the plans for the day is form of motivation (Molloy, 8). It helps to realize the undone tasks.

Conclusion

Achieving goals is a challenge to many people. People should recognize their strengths and weaknesses to set achievable goals. Analysis of personal activities is also a way of determining the right path to success.

References

Carter, Carol, Joyce Bishop, Sarah L. Kravits, and Richard D. Bucher. Keys to Success: How to

Achieve Your Goals. Upper Saddle River, N.J: Prentice Hall, 2001. Print. Page 23.

Corey, Gerald, and Marianne S. Corey. I Never Knew I Had a Choice: Explorations in Personal

Growth. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole, 2010. Print. Page 93.

Molloy, Andrea. Stop Living Your Job, Start Living Your Life: 85 Simple Strategies to Achieve

Work/life Balance. Berkeley, CA: Ulysses Press, 2005. Print. Page 8.